Blog Archives
Stealing Glass
Stealing Glass, by Liv Strom, is the enchanting introduction to the Tales of Bones and Roses series, weaving elements of magic, royalty, and survival into a richly textured narrative. The story opens with Vanya, a character determined to secure freedom for herself and her sisters from the clutches of Kirill. Their plan relies on executing one final heist, leading them into a maze of ever more complex schemes.
The narrative is imbued with a spiritual and mystical aura, particularly highlighted by Strom’s vivid settings—like the haunting image of trees adorned with bones, a tribute to the departed, which, rather than macabre, is portrayed as a serene and sacrosanct space. This backdrop serves as a poignant reflection on themes of loss and remembrance, resonating deeply with readers. Vanya’s internal conflict about communicating with her deceased mother adds a personal layer to her quest, enhancing reader empathy and engagement.
Strom skillfully balances the elements of action, desire, and the fantastical, making Stealing Glass a captivating journey. This novel will particularly appeal to enthusiasts of fantasy and romance, offering a fresh and spirited take on the genre that is currently capturing the imaginations of many.
Pages: 401 | ASIN : B0CHVYH5Q2
DARK REALMS: Servants of the Wheel Series- Book 4
In DARK REALMS: Servants of the Wheel Series- Book 4, Beth Schluter continues the enthralling Servants of the Wheel series, immersing readers in a universe teetering on the brink of war. As foreboding tensions rise, the diverse inhabitants of Gardia and the Outer Worlds—including Fae, rock giants, centaurs, dwarves, and humans—realize that unity might be their sole chance against the impending darkness. The novel intensifies as these alliances face the threat of Rehemol, a demonic force threatening all that is just and fair. With magic waning, the question looms: can it be rekindled, or will darkness prevail?
Schluter’s narrative excels in world-building, evoking comparisons to epic sagas like The Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones. Yet, despite its grand scale, the story ensures a personal touch, offering intimate, meticulously crafted scenes amidst the broader chaos. For newcomers, the initial complexity of the series may require some effort to navigate, but persistence rewards the reader with rich, engaging prose and dynamic dialogue that drives the narrative swiftly forward.
The depiction of inter-racial tensions and alliances enriches the plot, providing a textured exploration of conflict and camaraderie. Those drawn to action-packed sequences will appreciate the climactic battles marked by strategic uses of magical weaponry and powers. Beyond the strife, the novel also delves into themes of friendship and the stark contrasts between stark good and deep-seated evil, showcasing the series’ ability to expand the boundaries of the fantasy genre.
Dark Realms: Book 4 is not merely a continuation but a deepening of the Servants of the Wheel saga, offering both high-stakes drama and moments of unexpected alliance that will delight fans and newcomers alike.
Pages: 371 | ASIN : B0CW1PX1ZB
Sophie Sparrow Wants to Be a Flamingo
Sophie Sparrow Wants to Be a Flamingo, authored by Andrea Hyatt, explores the whimsical tale of two avian friends, Sophie and Sullivan. The narrative unfolds as these two birds engage in a delightful conversation about their dream identities, with Sophie aspiring to emulate the elegance of a flamingo and Sullivan wishing to embody the strength of an American Bald Eagle. Their story takes a turn when Sophie learns about Miss Sapphire, a new neighbor rumored to possess magical abilities. This element introduces a sense of wonder and anticipation as Sophie contemplates the possibility of her wish being granted.
Hyatt’s storytelling is notably effective in illustrating a common childhood phase—envisioning oneself in different roles or identities. The character of Sophie, in her yearning to transform into another bird, mirrors the imaginative minds of children who often dream of being someone or something else. This narrative subtly conveys the message that while aspirations and dreams are important, embracing one’s true self is equally, if not more, valuable.
The illustrations by Nicholas Child are a standout feature, adding a vibrant and engaging dimension to the book. Every page is adorned with colorful and imaginative artwork, some intricately detailed, which significantly enhances the storytelling experience. These illustrations not only complement Hyatt’s narrative but also serve as an engaging visual treat for young readers.
This book, with its strong theme of self-acceptance and identity, resonates well with its intended audience of 6 to 8-year-olds, effectively imparting an important life lesson. Hyatt has done a commendable job in crafting a narrative that is both enjoyable and educational. Sophie Sparrow Wants to Be a Flamingo is indeed a delightful read that is likely to captivate its young audience and leave a lasting impression on them.
Pages: 44 | ISBN: 978-1035825813
The Belt of Chaos: A Teen’s Quest to Free a Kingdom Held by Time
In The Belt of Chaos, Shan Shan Nie transports readers the familiar streets of modern-day Boston to a fantastical realm where time stands still. This young adult fantasy centers around Sasha Ears, a teenage photography enthusiast faced with a pivotal moment in her life. Distraught over her parents’ impending decision, a simple phone call unexpectedly whisks Sasha away to an alternate dimension brimming with magic.
In this new world, Sasha allies with Bulkee and Sye, two enchanting creatures. Their mission is to locate the prince of AmaReegon, whose destiny is mysteriously linked to Sasha’s. The narrative weaves adventure, mystery, and a subtle romance through its pages, presenting Sasha not just as a protagonist but as a loving daughter and sister, which marks a notable shift from the archetypal fantasy hero.
The novel excels in its vivid storytelling, capturing the essence of a journey marked by self-discovery and the resilience required to save not only her family but also an entire realm. Amid a backdrop where time is irrelevant, Sasha’s urgent quest against it to safeguard her loved ones adds a layer of irony and tension. The landscapes are challenging, the creatures whimsical, and the romantic nuances with the prince enhance the tale’s charm. The ambitious scope of the plot in The Belt of Chaos introduces a broad tapestry of themes, which occasionally leaves some areas lightly touched upon. This breadth invites readers to eagerly anticipate further exploration and richer development in these fascinating aspects of the narrative.
The Belt of Chaos offers a delightful escape, rich with imaginative details and a heartfelt journey, inviting readers to traverse magical realms alongside Sasha and her extraordinary companions. I recommend this tale to anyone seeking a unique blend of adventure and mystery.
Pages: 360 | ASIN : B0CWH784F2
Ambiguous Motivations
In The Ember Reach, a young woman encounters an angel while trying to navigate an eerie world inhabited by the undead. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Prior to writing the first book, I had the overarching four-part series planned, start to finish. The angel in question already existed in the lore as a being who aids the “lost,” a broad and important term in this world. I had no direct inspiration for that scene, but Biblical tales I heard as a kid of angels mysteriously helping people, like with Lot’s family, probably factored in subconsciously. Any mythological celestial intervention intrigues me, especially when there are ambiguous motivations involved.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
I originally conceived the setting around 2012 while dabbling in creative writing. I’ve always enjoyed brainstorming ideas for worlds and fictional histories. My editor proposed a basic hierarchy for the primary church featured in the series, which I later named the Matrian Church. Real ancient and modern cultures broadly inspire the setting; secluded tribes, Greece, Rome, China, Japan, the Middle East, wherever. I think grounding worldbuilding in actual history helps everything fit together in a reasonable way.
To avoid inconsistencies and retcons while writing, things I worry about, I created a guide for the Planar Lost world. As I add new material, like my recent expansion on the origin of elves, I update the guide. After a few years of work, the document’s a couple hundred pages long and has become an invaluable resource.
Do you have one character you especially enjoy writing for?
I most enjoy writing chaotic characters like Aitrix and Fausta, reported reader favorites. Their unpredictability lets me take them to darker places than might be appropriate for most of the characters. Fausta was a unanimous favorite in book two among my beta readers and features prominently in book three. Aitrix is the central character of the prequel I’m working on as well.
Can readers look forward to a third installment in the Planar Lost series? Where will it take your characters?
I’m nearly finished with book three, The Faceless Man, and the prequel I mentioned, Kravae: Betrayal of a Mage. I hope to release both of those sometime in 2024, a month or so apart. Book four, The Vile God, will conclude the main series.
The Faceless Man brings back a major character and introduces new villains, with leading and side characters assuming new roles and encountering greater hardships. A beta reader loved book three and said it “never lets you get bored,” which is terrific to hear. It’s got more action and magic and a lot of character development that I hope people who enjoyed the first two books will appreciate.
I have many more stories left to tell in the setting, but for now, I’m pushing to complete what I’ve already begun!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
In a city overrun by the ravenous undead, Karis, a troubled investigator, endures a terrifying struggle for survival.
Hundreds of miles north, Sister Amun faces a grand conspiracy that plunges the capital into chaos.
To expose the truth behind the undead plague, Karis must contend with sinister and strange entities. Meanwhile, Amun navigates political turmoil, dark magic, and betrayal that threatens to destroy everything she knows.
A Special Character
Gargoyle’s Spring follows a lonely witch banished for her misguided magic who schemes with her best friend to transform a gargoyle into her boyfriend. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
The idea came to me one evening while I was completing a paint-by-number canvas of a witch and a cat while listening to Taylor Swift. The scenes of a clumsy witch and her familiars came to mind instantly. It took me a little longer to figure out the MMC. I kept juggling between a Gargoyle or Reaper. I finally decided on both, but they would each get their own novel.
Ibis is such a relatable character. Is there anything from your own experiences reflected in her storyline?
Oh, I’ve been known to be clumsy, but I can honestly say that I have never unleashed havoc in a library. Final answer. However, Ibis is a special character. My aunt’s name was Ibis and my great-grandfather’s name was Heliodoro. It was my way of honoring them and a few others in the book.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently working on a paranormal Ghost stand-alone. I am hoping to have it done for May and the second installment of The Veil’s series following Gargoyle’s Spring will come out this Summer. I also have the second Martini Girl Bar book, Forever Luna, coming out July 17, 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
He is a Gargoyle. One without a past. One with an unknown future. One with a bestowed name. Oliver. What kind of name is this? After being summoned by witches and brought into a strange world, he is cursed by those same witches. What kind of curse, some may ask? A stone-sleep curse. One that sends a Gargoyle into total darkness that is beyond sleep. Beyond reality, until he hears her voice. A voice calling him forward, bringing him back into the bizarre world surrounded by scriptures, scrolls and unusual animals. His fate lies in the hands of the enchanting clumsy witch, who breaks his curse.
What happens when a magic spell goes wrong in all the right ways?
It Is Ok to Fail
Madam Hitch’s School for Witches follows a struggling witch who can not seem to master even the simplest spells or enchantments, so she returns to Witches School. What inspired your story?
The women in my life in particular my mom inspired the character of Ms. Witch. She had a knack for failure but she never gave up. She sadly passed away from pancreatic cancer but was always after me to do something with my art. I like to think she would be very proud of the book and get a chuckle out of the similarities.
What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your characters?
So much pressure is put on children to succeed and to win. I wanted to create a story that shows children it is ok to fail. We all do, but good things happen when we keep trying and don’t give up.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to use hand-drawn illustrations, and I wanted the book to have an old-school feel. Again, the theme of failure and that it’s ok to fail, just don’t give up. Another idea is that when you use your talents and gifts to do good things, you truly never fail.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, this is the first book in the series. I have three stories planned and just finished the second book. You will get to see more of the castle and meet a fun new character. Something unexpected happens in the second book. Ms. Witch has to face a couple of new obstacles.
Author Interview: Goodreads | Facebook | Amazon
Poor Ms. Witch. She had failed again. Failed at the simplest of evil tasks! She failed at casting spells. Failed at enchantments. Why she even failed at taking over a kingdom. What kind of witch can’t even take over a little itty bitty kingdom. It was no use. She was going to have to just throw in her hat. There was only one thing should could do now. Go back to school! She would be joining two other witches at Madam Hitch’s School for Witches. Will she and the other students have what it takes to be a real witch?
Self-Discovery and Personal Growth
Shamera follows a young male apprentice who must quickly master his magical arts to save the kidnapped Great Verazslo before evil takes over the land. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup of Shamera was inspired by the classic battle between good and evil. A theme found in many mythologies and folklore across different cultures. I wanted to incorporate this eternal struggle into a vibrant, imaginative story. It takes place in the background of a young apprentice’s urgent mission to become a master of his magical powers. This character’s journey symbolises the transition from naivety to wisdom. The concept of a ticking clock adds urgency to the story. The protagonist must save Verazslo before evil triumphs, mirroring the pressures we often experience in our own lives. We are familiar with the need to overcome challenges before time runs out. The setup, therefore, is not just a plot mechanism but a reflection on broader human experiences and the perennial fight against darkness both within and outside of all of us.
A lot of time was spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
In crafting the characters for Shamera, the paramount factor was authenticity. The metamorphosis of an adolescent’s journey from naivety to his inherent potential for greatness. This was crucial in ensuring readers could connect with, understand, and even see part of themselves in this character. It was important to find a balance between the relatable struggles he faces in his quest and the challenges that young people face today. This would help them identify their own strengths, weaknesses, fears, and desires.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Shamera explores several pivotal themes that resonate with both the fantasy genre and the human condition. The story revolves around the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery and personal growth. As he faces the challenges of his destiny, he learns about his strengths, weaknesses, and the importance of making choices. Another important theme in the story is the duality of nature. It explores the contrast between light and darkness, good and evil. This contrast is seen in both the world as a whole and in individuals’ hearts. The story also emphasises the importance of mentorship and community. It shows how our relationships with others can guide and shape us, giving us the strength to overcome seemingly impossible challenges. The importance of standing up for what is right aiming to inspire readers to reflect on their values and the impact of their actions in the world. Shamera aims to provide more than just a fantasy getaway. It also serves as a reflection of the eternal battles and victories of the human spirit.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
My first book in the Shamera trilogy laid the groundwork for a sweeping and captivating saga that dives into the essence of magic, adventure, and the timeless struggle between light and dark. As I weave this series, I find the layers of the narrative and the depth of the characters growing richer, with the second instalment set to propel Shamera’s story to unprecedented levels. I want to keep the core twists and turns of the first book’s conclusion a mystery to maintain its thrill. However, I can assure you that the sequel intensifies Shamera’s quest significantly. He will face new, unexplored challenges that test him both in the physical realms of his world and in the inner recesses of his being. The adversities are tougher, the obstacles more formidable, and the insights gained more profound. Echoing the intricate narrative style of the first book, the sequel intertwines hidden truths and local legend, crafting a narrative that is as intellectually stimulating as it is entertaining. This fusion of fantastical elements with the nuances of myth lends a distinct character to the story, urging readers to reflect on the fine line between legend and reality. Having completed the manuscript, I am now deep in the editing phase, dedicated to refining every detail, from the evolution of the characters to the complexity of the plot. My goal is to deliver a sequel that not only lives up to but also exceeds the expectations set by its predecessor, offering an experience that is both immersive and emotionally stirring. With the release expected this summer, the next instalment in the Shamera trilogy is shaping up to be an exciting progression of a story that has already captured many hearts.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Following the kidnapping of the Great Verazslo, he must quickly learn his magical art. He needs to seek out the Elvenii before the Blood Moon has waned and give them the crystal shard for its protection. However, there are evil forces who want the crystal for themselves and will stop at nothing to get their hands on it.
When the destructive Sorceress begins to ravage the region, Shamera is sent on a quest to an unknown land. He must decipher an encrypted map and search for a mysterious weapon, to help defeat the evil Sorceress in battle.
The fate of the Second Realm rests on Shamera’s young shoulders.
LITERARY TITAN 