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Capacity for Greatness
Answering the Human Question: A Gnome’s Essays On Mankind is a story that imagines a world where humans coexist with mythical creatures like gnomes, elves, and dwarves. This is an intriguing setup for a novel that is high in social commentary. What was your moral goal when writing this novel, and do you feel you’ve achieved it?
Our goal with Answering the Human Question was to explore cycles of imperialism, oppression, and humanity’s will to triumph over adversity through a rich fantasy lens. At its core, we wanted to inspire readers to hold faith in humanity and themselves and to keep moving forward no matter what challenges life brings. Through this story of mythical creatures and humans living side-by-side, narrated by an immortal being who observes humanity across centuries, we aimed not only to entertain our readers but to also encourage reflection.
Through the Gnome’s musings on humanity’s resilience, contradictions, and potential for greatness, we invite our readers to see a mirror of their own lives, with echoes of history woven throughout. While the message is ultimately uplifting, we also emphasize caution. As seen in both the story and in our own history, such triumphs often come at a significant cost.
While it’s ultimately up to readers to decide if we’ve achieved our goal, we believe that by staying true to these themes and letting the story unfold authentically, we’ve come close to realizing this vision.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
One of the most fascinating aspects of the human condition—one that lends itself well to fiction is our capacity for resilience and reinvention. Humans are remarkably adaptable, and exploring how characters respond to adversity—whether they bend, break, rebuild, or some combination of such—remains endlessly compelling. From our point of view, this very human trait is at the heart of stories that ask what it truly means to be human.
Another interesting facet that makes for some powerful storytelling is our ability to dream and imagine a future beyond our current circumstances. Characters who grapple with visions of a better world or who dare to push the boundaries of what is possible often lead to stories filled with wonder, hope, and transformation. Such a trait is not limited to personal ambition, it is about confronting fears, learning from failures, and still daring to reach further. At the same time, these aspirations carry the weight of personal sacrifice and unforeseen consequences, reminding us that pursuing progress and success often demands caution and discernment.
Finally, and perhaps most obvious and most significant in the novel, is our paradoxical relationship with time—that is our awareness of mortality yet longing for permanence. We humans are often driven by the desire to leave something behind, to matter, despite the inevitable end. That urgency in turn shapes our passions, our choices, and our relationships. Across fiction, it remains one of the most poignant aspects of ourselves to explore and thus makes for stories that feel both deeply personal and universally resonant.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes we consider central to the book are humanity’s conflict with nature, capacity for greatness, and will to overcome adversity as well as the enduring legacy of those we hold dear. These themes are deeply significant because being history nerds, we’ve seen countless examples of them throughout human history. From our biblical fall from Eden to our evolutionary struggle to dominate the natural world, humanity’s rise to where we are now in spite of the odds is an inspiration of its own; as such, these themes continue to resonate, connecting to many on a personal level, making the story poignant and relevant.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Indeed, we are excited to share that we have several ideas for follow-up stories within the universe of Master Gnome, with one already in progress! This next project is shaping up as a memoir from an ensemble cast of mostly new characters, each offering their own perspective as they navigate the trials of a wartime era. Through their lives and reflections, we’ll delve deeper into the world and its history, exploring the impact of the conflict and the choices people make when confronted by upheaval and uncertainty. We hope it brings readers a fresh perspective on the themes we began exploring in Answering the Human Question and offers an even closer look at resilience and courage in times of hardship.
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To aid in their decision, they summon a Gnome to give testimony. He is the only Elderkin to have witnessed and chronicled humanity’s rise, observing them since their first steps nearly ten thousand years ago. His essays, later compiled into a single text, distill those millennia—from humanity’s humble beginnings in the Stone Age to the brilliant and terrifying present.
“Answering the Human Question” is a tale that chronicles the rise and fall of empires, ages of dark lords and heroes, and the birth of ingenuity in the face of strife—and its consequences. Will Mankind falter and submit to a hostile world, or will it dare to dream of a better one?
Ulterior Motive
No Stone Left Unturned follows Stone and his companions as they search for a missing child across North and Central America. What inspired the story’s setup, and how did that help you create the ending?
More and more, we have heard of human trafficking globally, quite often, children being abducted. With my cast of protectors, the question would be, “What would you go through to get your child back?” Politics seem to get in the way of immediate actions, especially when the theatre is international in scope, so many agencies get involved (I left a dedication to these heroes). So, at the end of the book, when the Secretary of State gets shot by an armed assailant, our antagonist makes a call for Raines and the team to get involved to protect the President. Is there an ulterior motive?
What inspired the relationship that developed between the characters?
Raines, the oldest of the team, comes across as the big brother, leader, or father figure. He has dealt with all members of the team in different ways. Cameron is his equal in fighting, Michael is his son and accomplished in his own right, and Sara is a solid female component to the team, for which Raines shows much respect. He is also sensitive to the fact that she and Cameron have a child together and misses the family bond. Serina, a new member, compliments Sara.
Where do you see your characters after the book ends?
Ahhhh, with an overwhelmingly positive response to this third installment, they will all continue in book 4, The Ghost and Stone. It picks up where this book leaves off.
What is the next book you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it?
The Ghost and Stone will be out late next Spring and feature plenty of action.
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The characters’ emotional journeys take center stage amid the high-octane martial arts action and suspense. As the pressure intensifies, their vulnerabilities and insecurities come to the forefront, testing their resolve and pushing some to confront their pasts. The relationships between team members deepen as they rely on each other’s strengths and support to navigate the treacherous path ahead. The tension rises with each revelation as the story hurtles toward its climax.
Control Spark
Simon Carr’s Control Spark plunges readers into a whirlwind adventure that begins with heartbreak and ends with an epic battle for Earth’s survival. After being dumped by his girlfriend, Nigel invites his friend Sandra on a preplanned escape to Egypt. What should have been a simple getaway transforms into a pulse-pounding odyssey when Nigel, on a whim, buys a seemingly harmless trinket at the airport. That innocuous purchase draws him and Sandra to the enigmatic Whackowiki pyramids, where a hidden, ancient power known as the ‘Control Spark’ alters the course of their lives forever. Suddenly imbued with the astonishing ability to manipulate matter, Nigel becomes a magnet for forces far beyond his understanding. Alien civilizations, each with their own agendas, soon descend upon Earth, determined to seize the Control Spark. What follows is a frantic struggle as Nigel must defend his friends, navigate the treacherous waters of international diplomacy, and ward off a looming extraterrestrial invasion. Humanity’s fate hangs in the balance, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Carr’s ambitious exploration of scientific concepts and alien cultures stands out as a highlight. The narrative boldly tackles complex theories, yet the writing remains accessible and engaging. The scientific elements, which could easily have overwhelmed the story, are deftly handled and surprisingly easy to grasp. Furthermore, the diversity of extraterrestrial civilizations is nothing short of mesmerizing. Each alien race is crafted with remarkable attention to detail, boasting unique physiologies, societal structures, and motivations that bring the intergalactic conflict to vivid life. The novel’s global perspective offers a breath of fresh air. Unlike many science fiction tales that default to a US-centric approach, Control Spark unfolds across international landscapes, with countries from around the world playing pivotal roles. Carr paints a realistic picture of how nations might truly band together in the face of an existential threat, adding a layer of authenticity to the unfolding crisis.
Control Spark still delivers an exhilarating ride packed with action and thought-provoking ideas. Sci-fi enthusiasts who revel in tales of alien intrigue and grand scientific concepts will find much to appreciate. This novel demands the attention of adult readers ready for a story that’s thrilling, ambitious, and unafraid to imagine the unimaginable.
Pages: 396 | ASIN : B0DFDT534V
The God Frequency
The God Frequency by Douglas Hemme pulses with energy, blending science fiction and high-octane action in a story that grips and entertains. Antwan, a passionate ham radio operator, makes an electrifying discovery: technology that taps into a frequency beyond the known laws of physics. Fascinated and eager, he pulls geophysics student Lauren into his orbit, soon joined by radio astronomer Dr. Daniel Sullivan. Dr. Sullivan names this breakthrough “The God Frequency,” setting off a storm of interest and danger. As shadowy forces race to seize control of this powerful technology, the stakes are clear: in the wrong hands, The God Frequency could spell catastrophe for humanity. Antwan, Lauren, and Dr. Sullivan, aided by an unlikely ally, must prevent that from happening.
Hemme crafts a narrative that seamlessly intertwines scientific intrigue with adrenaline-fueled suspense, evoking the feel of Michael Crichton’s novels or the nail-biting intensity of the Mission Impossible films. The pseudo-scientific concepts, pivotal to the plot, are presented in an accessible and engaging way. Hemme’s skill lies in his ability to simplify complex ideas without sacrificing the story’s pace or excitement, allowing readers of all backgrounds to grasp the mysteries of The God Frequency. Yet, as crucial as the technology is, it serves more as a catalyst for the relentless action that dominates the novel’s latter half. Antwan’s invention, while scientifically intriguing, becomes a springboard for Hemme’s pulse-pounding sequences, where extremists, spies, and foreign operatives close in. The author expertly orchestrates these moments, painting scenes with cinematic clarity and infusing each confrontation with snappy dialogue and palpable tension. As the action escalates, Hemme keeps readers on edge with cleverly executed twists and a cast of well-defined characters whose motivations and growth keep the story grounded. The chemistry between Antwan, Lauren, and Dr. Sullivan makes their fight to protect the technology feel both urgent and personal. Their journey is as thrilling as the stakes they face, each scene crackling with energy and suspense.
In the end, The God Frequency stands as an exhilarating sci-fi adventure, perfectly suited for fans craving a mix of speculative science and heart-racing action. Hemme leaves readers hopeful for more stories set in this vibrant, danger-filled universe.
Pages: 181 | ASIN : B0DF1B3RS8
Talent Show Troubles
Talent Show Troubles follows the adventures of King Crush Sir Turtletin at Turtle Beach. Readers get a front-row seat as he stresses out about an upcoming talent show. It’s a big journey filled with a bunch of funny attempts at discovering his talent, from instrument disasters to croaking that scares off imaginary frogs. Eventually, it all leads up to an epic dance number that totally saves the day. It’s a cute and playful children’s book that’s easy to dive into, perfect for a lighthearted read.
I found the humor in this book to be charming. There’s this quirky and self-aware vibe that makes it enjoyable for both kids and adults who appreciate a good laugh. The writing is simple but effective. The whole part where he polishes his dancing shoes “until they were shimmering more than the stars in the night sky” had me grinning at how seriously he took his newfound talent. The humor and warmth of the storytelling really won me over.
King Crush Sir Turtletin feels the pressure of expectations. Everyone thinks the king should have all the answers. So when he admits, “I know I’m the king and I’m supposed to always know what to do in every situation, but I have a problem,” it feels relatable. The author cleverly captures the struggle of living up to what people expect of you. Yet, there’s something heartwarming about how he eventually finds his strength in dancing, especially with a little help from his family. His son teaching him to dance made me smile, and I loved how the book emphasized learning new things with the support of loved ones.
This book is divided into short, easy-to-read chapters, making it perfect for young readers just starting with chapter books. Each chapter flows smoothly into the next and is packed with playful humor and engaging adventures that keep kids entertained without overwhelming them. The simple language and fun, relatable story make it a great choice for building confidence in early readers.
Talent Show Troubles is a delightful picture book for kids and anyone who enjoys a good chuckle. I think it’s especially great for families, teachers looking for a fun story to share, or anyone needing a dose of feel-good vibes.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0DHY53MQV
Dissolution of the Status Quo
Cargo Hold 4 follows eight scientists exploring a dwarf planet and collecting samples who accidentally bring aboard an unseen entity that is now trying to escape the cargo hold it is trapped in. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The idea came to me one day while I was walking. In my mind’s eye, I saw, and heard, something pounding on this huge yellow metal door, making these enormous welts. Cargo Hold 4, those were the words in my head. I let it simmer, the concept refusing to leave. Eventually, I just gave in, needing to find out about this hell-raiser in Cargo Hold 4.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
Not any character in particular, really, but more the entire crew. It was challenging from the standpoint of imagining scientists committing their lives to a mission that most of them would not return from. That set up a dynamic that wouldn’t be present in most situations, especially given that they could be in space for fifty years, and only ever encounter one another for the rest of their lives. I know most writers like to go to cryogenic stasis for space travel, but there was no story in that. I wanted to imagine what the crew interaction might be like if they remained awake, and the potential for conflict, intimacy, disagreements, and so on. Then, of course, the slow dissolution of the status quo they had established over the first five years when this entity makes itself known. It really was terrific fun playing with this scenario.
You flawlessly blend Science Fiction and horror in this book. How did you go about blending the two genres without disrupting the story?
Thank you! For me, I guess, the fusion was organic, inevitable. The nexus of the genres met in the same place; with the entity in Cargo Hold 4. Through the unknown idiosyncrasies of outer space, I found the potential for this life form, which leads to quite horrific events. Yet I didn’t want the usual “monster” with the unquenchable lust to kill humans for no reason. The life form had to be something incredible, unimaginable, with a complex intelligence beyond human comprehension.
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it?
I actually have several books in the works. Some are finished and in the editing stage, with others I’m still working on; a dystopian SF trilogy with a fair amount of horror, and a couple of magical realism love stories I’m also very excited about, though not sure how my SF Horror “fans” will react. That’s always a risk, I guess, changing things up when the “story” takes you in different directions.
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The Adamantine Jewel
The Adamantine Jewel by Jeffrey Scott Pears is a thrilling supernatural adventure that sweeps readers into a world balancing on the brink of catastrophe. When an unstoppable, flesh-eating virus threatens humanity with extinction, David Thoreau, a university professor and former U.S. Marine, races against time alongside his brave eighteen-year-old daughter, April. Their mission? To track down a mythical healing stone known as the Adamantine Jewel. The stakes are impossibly high, and the journey is nothing short of epic, involving dangerous conspiracies, mystical forces, and the wisdom of ancient cultures.
The writing in The Adamantine Jewel is a mixed bag. There are moments of taut, breathless action where the prose shines. It grabs you and doesn’t let go, mixing humor with suspense. Yet, there are times when the narrative feels overly descriptive, bogging down scenes that would otherwise fly by. David’s philosophical musings, while intellectually intriguing, sometimes pull away from the story’s tension, making me wish the author would just get back to the action. Nevertheless, these reflective pauses do add a layer of depth, even if they occasionally feel misplaced. Character dynamics are where Jeffrey Scott Pears really excels. David’s relationship with April is authentic, heartwarming, and bittersweet. You can feel the weight of their shared grief over the loss of April’s mother, making their banter and mutual support all the more touching. Some secondary characters, like Serenity Adler, felt underdeveloped despite the potential for complexity. I wanted more from her, especially given her sudden departure to India and the emotional stirrings she awakens in David. The book’s plot brims with intrigue and cinematic energy. From high-speed chases through West Hollywood to the mounting horror of a global pandemic, the stakes are palpable. Pears does a fantastic job weaving real-world fears with mystical elements. The sudden, brutal encounter with the CDC authorities at David’s home made my heart pound, while the philosophical lecture on death during his university class left me contemplative. Yet, I couldn’t help but feel that the pacing wavered in some areas. The narrative jumps from action-packed scenes to quieter moments without always maintaining momentum, leaving me both exhilarated and occasionally restless.
The Adamantine Jewel is a gripping ride that delivers on suspense, family drama, and metaphysical reflection. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy thrillers with a spiritual twist, especially those curious about ancient cultures and myths. If you’re looking for a thoughtful adventure that keeps you thinking while keeping you on edge, this book is worth the read.
Pages: 266 | ASIN : B0DHPMNXBR
Protective Instinct
Joy York’s Protective Instinct stands out with its sharp and captivating storytelling. The narrative pulls readers into a whirlwind of suspense and action, where each plot twist defies prediction, keeping them breathlessly turning pages. Every scene pulses with energy, expertly crafted to leave readers on edge, immersed in an atmosphere brimming with danger and intrigue.
The characters shine in their complexity. Morgan Skylar, a tough and resourceful kindergarten teacher with survival instincts hidden beneath her seemingly innocent demeanor, brings a dynamic and relatable strength to the story. Sebastian “Bash” Bartoli, the self-absorbed crime fiction writer, must grapple with his own shortcomings as he’s thrust into peril far removed from his life of privilege and literary fame. Their evolving relationship adds an emotional layer to the tension, especially as they’re forced to rely on each other when the bullets start flying. York’s deft characterization extends even to the secondary players like the powerful Fontana family, whose tangled web of secrets keeps the stakes high and the reader guessing. The chemistry between Morgan and Bash is palpable, growing convincingly amidst the chaos. Their journey from mistrust to mutual reliance, underscored by hints of romance, is seamlessly woven into the thrilling plot.
Protective Instinct moves far beyond the average suspense thriller; it’s a masterful blend of high-stakes drama, unexpected revelations, and deeply engaging characters. York delivers a story that hits every mark for fans of thrillers infused with emotional depth and relentless action. If you crave suspense laced with intensity and character-driven surprises, Joy York’s novel is a must-read.
Pages: 287 | ASIN : B0CPDQ8MCL
LITERARY TITAN 