Category Archives: Interviews
It Was Aliens
Arkfall follows a man who once stopped an ancient interstellar war with the help of a sentient artifact and is now drawing the wrath of alien beings who see themselves as keepers of the timeline. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration came from blending real-world mysteries with speculative science. Ancient structures like the Great Pyramid and global myths of “gods descending from the stars” became the perfect springboard to ask: What if those myths weren’t myths at all, but remnants of a forgotten war tied to humanity’s survival? I wanted to merge that sense of hidden history with the tension of hard science fiction—alien technology, cosmic timelines, and the consequences of tampering with forces beyond human comprehension.
When creating Adam Freeman, did you have a plan for development and character traits, or did it grow organically as you were writing the story?
Adam began as a planned paradox: a brilliant scientist grounded in logic and reason, yet carrying alien DNA that ties him to the unknown. His hybrid nature demanded a constant push and pull—between wanting to live an ordinary human life and being forced into extraordinary responsibility. While I outlined his key arcs early, many of his traits—his doubts, flashes of humor, and raw humanity—emerged organically as I wrote. In many ways, Adam surprised me as much as he surprised himself, especially in how he wrestles with the choice between destiny and free will.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
At its core, Arkfall wrestles with themes of identity, choice, and the cost of knowledge. I wanted to explore how humanity might respond when confronted with undeniable proof of ancient alien intervention, and how individuals reconcile personal desires with cosmic-scale responsibility. The tension between science and spirituality runs throughout the story, as does the idea that progress often comes with sacrifice. Most of all, I wanted to ask: What does it truly mean to be human when you are more than human?
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?
Arkfall is the sequel to The Ark of The First Gods. I look forward to having both novels published in the near future, they are currently with my literary agent who is shopping them with publishers.
Author Website
Percolating
Shadows of Truth follows a retired investigative reporter and his homicide detective girlfriend as they embark on an Alaskan cruise, who wind up investigating the suspicious death of a passenger in the cabin next to them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had been considering the cruise ship scenario for a while. The thought of being trapped with a killer on board a cruise ship in an intense storm seemed like it could create some excitement. My wife and I joined family members on an Alaska cruise in 2024, and I was fortunate enough to tour the ship, including the bridge and other parts travellers don’t normally get to see. The plot for Shadows of Truth all came together at that point.
Jake and Dani are both interesting characters bringing a unique perspective to the case. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
Shadows of Truth is the fourth book in the Jake Scott Mystery Series. Each book stands alone, but the characters evolve, and Jake and Dani’s relationship has progressed throughout the series. I enjoy writing about them both and developing their relationship. I especially enjoy writing about Jake as he’s a bit old school, and definitely not your typical six-pack stud hero. He’s great with Dani’s daughter, Emilie. To me, he’s about as average as someone can be, but he’s intelligent and has a curiosity honed by years as an investigative reporter. Sometimes, he’s invited into Dani’s cases, and other times, he inserts himself. Together with Dani, he slowly but steadily solves the case.
What was the hardest part about writing a mystery story, where you constantly have to give just enough to keep the mystery alive until the big reveal?
For me, the hardest part is dropping clues and inserting misdirection without tripping myself up. I tried plotting my books, but I find the characters go where they want to anyway. Still, I have to plot to some extent to ensure I don’t drop a clue or plant misdirection that creates a hole in the storyline. After thirteen books, I’m still looking for the perfect combination of plotting and flying by the seat of my pants. I think I’m getting closer.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Jake Scott and the direction of the next book?
I just finished Shadows of Truth for release on September 15, so I don’t really have a solid direction for the next book yet. My wife and I always say when I finish writing one book, the next one is percolating. That’s the stage I’m at now. It’s percolating. I will say that Jake will undoubtedly find himself in trouble again, somewhere, somehow.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Retired investigative reporter Jake Scott thought he was finally leaving the dangerous world of crime behind. But when a passenger is found dead on the balcony next door during his much-needed cruise vacation with his homicide detective girlfriend, Dani Perez, and her daughter, Emilie, Jake realizes that danger is never far away. As Dani’s instincts tell her that the death was not just a case of natural causes, the couple delves into a web of secrets and deceit linked to a powerful high-tech company. But as they draw closer to the truth, a violent storm hits, throwing the ship into chaos and putting their lives in danger. With time running out, Jake and Dani must race against the odds to unravel the mystery and stay alive.
Enemies, Both Foreign and Domestic
Is MAGA a Terrorist Movement? is aimed squarely at readers curious about the movement’s nature and implications, and is loaded with political weight and moral complexity. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I have taken the Oath of Office multiple times: as an enlisted soldier and officer in the US Army, and again as a federal police officer and federal agent. Everyone who works for the federal or State government swears this oath. It is a solemn promise to defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, both foreign and domestic.
Donald Trump and every member of the government have taken this oath.
I saw firsthand, as an agent, how fellow law enforcement officers were openly violating this oath and promoting the hateful ideals of MAGA, including acts of terrorism. So, when I retired, I knew the fight to protect my fellow Americans was far from over …
MAGA presents a severe internal threat — they’re the most dangerous foes the United States has ever encountered.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
A tremendous amount of effort was needed, not only from me but also from many professionals who supported me—legal counsel, editors, an illustrator, fact-checkers, beta-readers, and others. From start to finish, working tirelessly, I finished it, my first book ever, in less than a year. Looking back, I realized it was basically a new full-time job for me.
I started this project and my writing career by gathering everything I could find about MAGA and Donald Trump supporting fascism. I copied and pasted freely, with no regard for copyrights, trademarks, or plagiarism. I aimed to create the most thorough “book” on the topic possible. It was a great catharsis, but it felt empty without taking any action.
Needless to say, that first “version” will never be published. Too bad, it was a really comprehensive book on its own.
I didn’t plan on becoming an author when I retired. However, after writing this “book,” I realized that I truly enjoyed writing and being an author. I showed what I had created to friends and family, and overwhelmingly, they thought it would be great if I wrote a book about the dangers of the MAGA movement to our democracy and freedoms.
So, I decided to write my first actual book on that same topic.
Starting fresh, I followed all the rules—and then some. As I previously mentioned, that is when I spent a small fortune to ensure everything was legal, followed all copyright laws, avoided plagiarism, and had everything checked for accuracy. I knew my book would be scrutinized by my enemies in MAGA. So, I had assembled a small team of editors, legal counsel, fact-checkers, an illustrator, and others. When I finished, I had a book I believed could help defend the Constitution and our democracy from the fascist movement called MAGA.
So far, the negative reviewers of my book have not only shown their pro-MAGA bias, but they also haven’t proven any fact-checked detail to be wrong. Those reviews are worth reading in the review section of my book on Amazon©, alongside the more thoughtful reviews.
That’s when I realized something else: simply publishing it wasn’t enough. I had to go out and talk about the book and the anti-fascism movement. That’s when my activism as a full civilian truly began. This is far more than just selling my books as an author; it’s a duty and a calling to defend our freedoms from MAGA. I will stand against all enemies, including MAGA, to protect our Constitution and my people.
What are some important ideas you wanted to share in this book?
The two main points are that MAGA is actively working to continue taking over our government—for the most part, they already have—and that they will have complete control unless we, as a nation of free citizens, actively work and vote to stop them.
Unfortunately, the MAGA movement has persuaded enough Americans to support them, leading to their takeover of the US and many state governments. That’s why I’ve written my sequel, Defeating MAGA, which will be published in September 2025.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Is MAGA a Terrorist Movement_?_
I hope it provides them with insight into how I was right to predict MAGA would rise to power unless we stopped them. It was intended to motivate action, including encouraging people to vote to protect their democracy and stop a fascist movement and a man who seeks to be a dictator.
Unfortunately, these efforts failed, and now we have institutionalized fascism in our country.
My hope now is that both this book and my sequel, Defeating MAGA, will help readers recognize the alarming rise of MAGA fascism that currently dominates our federal government.
In my new sequel, I will discuss more about how we got here, how they (MAGA) are indisputably fascists, how they are breaking the Constitution and our laws, their threat to our freedoms, and, most importantly, things we all must do—in any way we can—to stop the fascists in power. We need to restore liberal democracy and remove fascists from our country—wherever they are.
Otherwise, our democracy will collapse soon.
Author Links: BlueSky | Website
American democracy is being attacked by the extremist right. It isn’t hypothetical—it is happening right now!
Is MAGA a Terrorist Movement? explains the danger of the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement and why it should be considered a terrorist organization, using indisputable facts. Author Russell K. Jack—a former US Federal Air Marshal who spent years inside the government, working alongside MAGA supporters—has decades of experience in detecting, deterring, and defeating terrorism and criminal activity.
You will learn, through factual evidence and Russell’s vast experience in the Department of Homeland Security:
Who, and what, is MAGA?
What do they really want?
How are they achieving what they want?
How do you defend yourself, and your rights, from their fanatical followers?
What is the plan, that you can help with, to keep MAGA from taking away American freedoms?
Documentation of MAGA’s actions, a guide to refuting their arguments, and a plan to stop them.
All in one book.
Nothing Is Ever Black And White
A Game of Masquerade follows a time-traveling professor who goes back in time to London in 1888, where he ends up working with Scotland Yard to find a serial killer, all while avoiding any alterations to history. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have always had a huge interest in stories involving time travel. There’s something fascinating about someone experiencing history firsthand – being brought face to face with the people who are living it as present day. It’s quite a different scenario than simply picking up a book and reading about the past. Suddenly these people are real and no longer a footnote in history. But stepping into history means there is a risk of altering established events – if you change one thing then what happens to the future you expect to happen?
Another enduring fascination of mine is the mystery surrounding Jack the Ripper. Even if his identity had been discovered, the brutality of his crimes would still engender interest, but the fact that he was never caught, maintains the mystery which invites endless speculation and gives a writer the chance to think outside the box.
What intrigues you about this time period enough to write such a thrilling period piece?
The East End of London in the 19th century is a rich character all its own! The hardships – how people survived such a tenuous existence, the opportunists preying on the vulnerable, the attitudes of the time – there is so much detail that the story takes on a life of its own. Introducing Jack the Ripper into this already volatile setting is like striking a match in a powder keg igniting fear, intolerances and anger in an already-turbulent sphere. It is both a shocking and fascinating study.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
I believe that, more often that not, nothing is ever black and white. In the case of my novel, Jack the Ripper has his reasons for killing which can never be condoned, yet these reasons have left damaging psychological scars. But it is his choices, made of his own free will, which creates the monster. It’s an interesting element to explore and makes for great storytelling.
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?
The novel is a stand-alone piece however the protagonist, Professor Orlando Delbrotman’s story, has not finished and I have some ideas as to his fate! I have sketched out some thoughts and will take the Professor to another time in history long before the 19th century. It will take time to write, but it will be time well spent so please stay tuned!
Author Links: GoodReads | TikTok
But what if there is more to this mystery than meets the eye? What if the identity of the murderer is more than
human? A fugitive from another world who joins forces with Scotland Yard is soon to discover that past and future
events have created a monster, which ignites fear and outrage on the streets of the East End.
To stop the murderous rampage in 1888, Professor Orlando Delbrotman must solve one of the most brutal mysteries of the 19th century…without changing history…
Be Kind and Do Good
Amber Luna My Bright Light weaves together the stories of two teenage girls navigating the challenges of middle school, family expectations, and their own self-doubt. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
I have three young adult children. As I watched them grow up, I remember feeling so grateful that each of them had genuinely good friends. As they became teenagers, I was impressed by how my children handled some tough situations with those friends—whether it was helping them through a personal problem, forgiving them after a petty fight, or walking away when a friendship became unhealthy.
During those moments, I often wondered: Would my life as a struggling teen have been different if one of them had been my friend? Writing Amber Luna My Bright Light was my way of giving myself that friend.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Friendship—having a good friend or being a good friend—is at the heart of this story. Kindness, helping others, personal growth, and gratitude are all key themes woven into the story as well. When I was writing Amber Luna, I wrote myself a note and read it every time I sat down to write. It said, “Not every act of kindness comes with applause or an award. Often, our best intentions go unnoticed. Be kind and do good anyway. You have the power to change one person’s life, and the ripple effect of your kindness, the light you shine, will multiply in ways you may never see.”
It was just as important for the story to convey that we all have doubts and insecurities. No one has all the answers, but with time and experience, we gain knowledge and the courage to step into who we’re meant to be.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes! I’m currently drafting the sequel to Amber Luna My Bright Light (working title: Mari’s Light Burning Bright). The story follows Mari’s healing journey, showing that tending to our mental health is rarely a straight line. It has ups and downs, and at times it may feel like there’s no destination. But it’s in the process of seeking answers, taking small steps forward, and learning from the people who come into our lives that helps us discover our strength and our light.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website
Amber’s bold, colorful style and quick wit make her stand out—but underneath, she’s a whirlwind of doubts, hiding a secret talent she’s too afraid to share. Mari, quiet and cautious, is carrying far more than just her bags. She’s struggling under the weight of guilt, expectations, and trauma she hasn’t been strong enough to face—yet.
They’re both 13. They’ve both just finished eighth grade. And they’re about to meet at Camp Evergreen, a summer camp in the middle of nowhere. As their unlikely friendship grows, their differences don’t keep them from discovering something they’ve both been missing— the freedom to be themselves.
Told from two perspectives, Amber Luna My Bright Light is a tender and empowering story that reminds us that finding yourself isn’t about changing or conforming but remembering who you’ve always been. Sometimes, it takes borrowing someone else’s light to see your own. And the bravest thing you can do is let it shine.
Seeing Their Own Potential
Through a series of rhyming questions and whimsical illustrations, What Would You Do? encourages kids to dream big, take chances, and believe in themselves. What was the inspiration for your story?
I have always had a problem with confidence which led me to have a very difficult time growing up. When I write, I am really talking to myself and I know a LOT of kids deal with the same feelings. I want to help them overcome their lack of self-esteem and believe in what they are capable of. Children are amazing and have so much potential! They just need to see that in themselves and believe they can be anything they want to be!! It’s literally painful to grow up with feelings of insecurity and you end up hiding in a shell and never really being the person you’re capable of being. They miss so much joy and enthusiasm for your dreams. I want to help them instill in themselves belief in who they can be.
Your childrens book shows kids that their dreams are possible to achieve as long as they are willing to believe in themself. What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I intentionally created the diversity of the characters in the book to show that no matter who you are, where you live or what your circumstances, there are other children throughout the world that have the same feelings. Knowing that can sometimes help a child to not feel different and have a comfort in knowing that they’re not alone in their feelings. A lack of confidence makes a child feel very lonely and want to keep to themselves. By creating a “universal” story, it will hopefully open their eyes to see that other children have the same feelings which, though it may be long distance, it creates a feeling of community.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I love the scene with the dragon and the boy fighting from the wheelchair, rather than on a white steed, and then taking the dragon home for a pet! Again, it shows no matter what your circumstances, anything is possible if you believe in yourself!
What story are you currently in the middle of writing?
I actually have several that I’m working on. I keep getting different ideas so I have to stop what I’m working on to write down a new idea that popped in my head. They all approach the same subject but each with its own unique storyline. What Will You Do? will probably always be my favorite because it helped me overcome my fears “of not being good enough.” I pushed past my doubts and looked in the mirror and said “I believe in me!” It’s a GREAT feeling and I want every child that reads my books to experience that same feeling!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
No matter who you are or where you live, everyone has the same thing in common…dreams, dreams that may seem impossible. “What Would You Do?” shows that they are possible as long as you’re willing to believe in yourself. Our fears hold us back but one thing is true, our happiness lies just outside our comfort zone. So keep dreaming, believe in you and make those dreams come true!
So many things
in the world to try.
If you’re afraid
they may pass you by.
The pages of this book
will show you the way
to overcome your fears
so start reading today!
A Letter Home
Soos Creek: A Celebration of Place is a collection of essays about a stream just outside Seattle, sharing with readers the trails, wildlife, geology, and weather of this little-known place, and building a case for why the ordinary is often extraordinary, if you are paying attention. Why was this an important book for you to write?
As my parents aged, they stopped traveling. When I realized they would never again visit me at my home the Pacific Northwest, I found that I wanted to continue to share with them small details about my life as it unfolded 900 miles away. So each chapter of the book became something like a letter home, describing in great detail some small event in my natural surroundings, attempting to create a vivid sense of location and presence. At some subconscious level, I suppose I was aiming to magically transport my parents here.
Your book blends several writing styles to share your message. What were some key ideas that were important for you to share?
I wanted to show what new understandings can open up when we take the time to notice fine details in the natural world, particularly details that change seasonally. I also wanted readers to share my personal surprise and delight with small new discoveries that are possible every day.
The writing in your essays is artful and creative, giving readers a feeling that they are sitting and having a conversation with you. Was it a conscious effort to write in this fashion, or is this style of writing reflective of your writing style in general?
Adam Rapoport, a now-retired editor for GQ and Bon Appetit magazines, was extremely influential in my development as an author. He had a wonderful conversational style, expansive curiosity, and a gentle, often gently self-deprecating humor that made for delightful reading. In the two decades that I regularly wrote editorials for a medical journal, I practiced creating a similar narrative voice. It seemed to me this would be the best writing style for the Soos Creek project as well.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when is that book due out?
After Soos Creek was completed, and during the Covid lockdown, I wrote my first book of poetry (Mirror to the Clockwork Sky: Poems of Nature and Science–also available at Amazon Books). Now I am working on a second book of poetry, tentatively titled Thermal, which will explore global warming, temperature extremes, and phase changes. I hope to have it completed by August 2026.
Author Links: Amazon
Healing and Honesty
In A Journey into Manhood from the Path of an Idiot, you share with readers your reflections on childhood, family dynamics, and your personal growth. Why was this an important book for you to write?
This book was deeply important to me because I believe it’s vital for young boys and men to understand that making mistakes is part of life—and that it’s okay. Growth comes from acknowledging those mistakes, learning from them, and moving forward with purpose. My own life has faced challenges in every area imaginable, but through accountability and embracing my past, I was able to turn my struggles into stepping stones for success. Sharing this journey offers hope and encouragement to others who might feel trapped by their circumstances, showing them that change is possible and that their past does not define their future.
What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
The most challenging part was opening up about the death of my nephew. My editor suggested I start the book with something compelling that would grab readers’ attention, but I hesitated because I had always hidden that pain. Confronting that loss forced me to face what I had been running from for years. Writing about it was emotionally challenging, but ultimately, it was a necessary step toward healing and honesty—both with myself and my readers.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger?
I wish someone had told me not to fear success. Growing up, I found failure easy to accept because no one expected much from me. When success did come, I struggled to believe I deserved it or that I could overcome my mistakes. If I had known that success was attainable and that I was worthy of it, I might have approached life with more confidence and a greater belief in my potential.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your experiences?
I want readers to see that no matter how many mistakes they’ve made, they can still achieve greatness. The key is to look past those errors and recognize the inner strength and goodness within oneself. Everyone has talents and a purpose—they just need to embrace who they are and keep pushing forward, helping themselves and others along the way.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The title of this book could have been written backwards, and it would still have conveyed the same meaning. From The Path of an Idiot to A Journey Discovering Manhood is the story I never thought I’d have the strength or the literacy skills to tell. This book is my truth—born from anger, shaped by confusion and survival, and ending in transformation. I wrote this for the boy I used to be: lost, unloved, and misunderstood. I wrote it for the man I was becoming—reckless, hardened, and trying to find meaning in a world that never gave me a blueprint for manhood. And I wrote it for every person who has ever wondered if redemption is still possible.
Through raw reflection and hard-earned lessons, I open the door to my past from illiteracy, juvenile detention, and gang involvement to the struggles of fatherhood, faith, and forgiveness. This isn’t a polished tale of overnight success. It’s a testimony of stumbling, standing again, and finding purpose on the road I once thought would destroy me.
If you’ve ever felt broken, overlooked, or counted out, I hope this book reminds you: the journey may start in darkness, but it doesn’t have to end there.
This is my journey. These are my lessons. This is Manhood, revealed.
–Carandus T. Brown Sr.
LITERARY TITAN 