Al Ana’s Curse follows a young man and his friends who set out to unravel the mystery behind the eerie occurrences linked to the river and the ancient demon, where they come face to face with evil. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

Al Ana’s Curse draws inspiration from the timeless allure of folklore and the universal human fascination with the unknown. The narrative was born from a desire to explore how myths and legends shape our understanding of the world, both past and present. By setting the story against the backdrop of a mysterious river haunted by an ancient demon, it taps into age-old tales where nature is intertwined with supernatural forces, challenging protagonists to confront forces beyond their comprehension. This setting allows for a rich tapestry where suspense and intrigue can flourish as readers are drawn into a world teetering on the edge of reality and myth. Moreover, by focusing on a young man and his friends, Al Ana’s Curse emphasizes themes of friendship, courage, and discovery as they navigate this perilous journey together. Through their eyes, audiences can experience the thrill of adventure while pondering deeper questions about fear, tradition, and human resilience in facing darkness. In essence, this setup not only provides an engaging plot but also invites readers to reflect on how ancient stories continue to resonate within contemporary contexts.

The supporting characters in this novel, I felt, were intriguing and well-developed. Who was your favorite character to write for?

Aedan quickly became my favorite character to write for, as I drew inspiration from my oldest son, Shawn, mirroring his hairstyle all the way down to his attitude. Through this character, I aimed to motivate readers by offering actionable steps and thoughtful reflections on any struggles they may face in their lives. He is designed to encourage readers on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, inspiring them to embrace their strengths, confront their fears, and make meaningful changes toward a more fulfilling life.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

In crafting this book, several themes emerged as vital touchstones that demanded exploration due to their profound relevance and impact. One of the central themes is the resilience of the human spirit, a concept that resonates universally and inspires readers to overcome their own challenges. By creating narratives that highlight perseverance amidst adversity, this book aims to instill a sense of hope and determination in its audience. Another critical theme is the quest for identity and self-discovery—a journey every individual undertakes at some point in their life. By looking into the character’s personal growth and transformation, readers are encouraged to reflect on their paths and embrace change with confidence. Additionally, the theme of interconnectedness underscores how our lives are intricately linked with those around us, emphasizing empathy and understanding in our interactions. Through these themes, this book not only entertains but also provides valuable insights into life’s complexities, urging readers to ponder their own experiences deeply.

Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?

Al Ana’s Curse is the inaugural book in my exciting new series, The Legends of Folklore. This supernatural thriller promises to immerse readers in rich folklore, with the second book continuing this enchanting journey. It introduces an intriguing new legend, offering fresh perspectives that entertain and empower readers with practical strategies for overcoming life’s challenges.

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In the small Northern Michigan town of Cheboygan, a group of courageous friends set out on a thrilling quest to unravel the mystery surrounding a string of bizarre occurrences that leaves its residents in a state of fear and paranoia. Haunted by nightmares and pushed to their limits, they must confront their innermost fears as they come face-to-face with evil, whose malevolent presence threatens to engulf Cheboygan in shadows. Confronted with their deepest fears and the looming darkness, the friends must lean on their unbreakable bond to save themselves and protect their beloved town from impending doom.