www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Friday, July 3, 2015 | 16 Author hopes to make Lasting Impressions with re-release of thriller An Oakville author is putting a fresh spin on an old story. After writing his thriller novel Lasting Impressions in 1993, John Schlarbaum took the book to the Oakville Public Library and asked them to carry copies on their shelves for three months. Attached with the book was a questionnaire to give feedback on the storyline and characters and to help Schlarbaum in the editing process of his novel. "I think the idea of getting a book in the hands of avid readers and then receiving their honest thoughts back in one week was ahead of its time," Schlarbaum said in a media release. "It was a new concept that was met with a great deal of enthusiasm. Finally, these book lovers could make their opinions known to the author immediately." Schlarbaum began reworking Lasting Impressions, which he began writing in the 90s. The thriller tells the story of a drifter who causes havoc with the good residents of Lasting, a small rural community. A young man with a horrifying past, the main character, Dale Hawks, is continuously ghting his inner demons to stay in control of the world he's created for himself. "In 1991, I was 25 years old, working as a television eld director/writer and reading novels that involved characters dealing with paranormal or psychological issues that were out of their control," said Schlarbaum. In 2005, Schlarbaum formed Scanner Publishing and also published two short stories. Working as a private investigator at the time, he began writing a series of mystery novels involving the characters P .I. Steve Cassidy and newspaper reporter Jennifer Malone. "With each new novel, I believe I've become a much better writer. Over the years, I've also surrounded myself with people who read preview copies and give me their feedback," Schlarbaum said in the release. "As I did back in 1991, I continue to value reader's suggestions because the ultimate goal is to release the best book possible. Using my newfound skills for pacing and character development, I thought it would be the perfect time to revisit Lasting Impressions." Schlarbaum is now re-releasing his novel, more than two decades in the see Reworked on p.17 Author John Schlarbaum holds the original and reworked copies of his novel Lasting Impressions. | submitted photo Beauty & Spa ModelS Still needed! You could end up with a brand new look with a value of over Model Search Candidates must be willing to have a recognizable change in haircut, color, or both. For further information email Bob at bobrshop@bellnet.ca College Park Plaza 1534 Queensbury Cr. (Upper Middle Rd East & 6th Line) 905-338-6465 | www.bob-r-shop.com New style, New life, New you 905-582-3933 Oakville Place Lower level, Next to Sears (Walk-ins and Appointments) $250.00 for frEE!