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In Their Darkest Moments
Above the Ashes follows an angry and vengeful witch who has been confined to a tomb for over 300 years and is unwittingly released by a vampire. What was the initial idea behind this story, and how did that transform as you wrote the novel?
I’ve always been fascinated by vampires and witchcraft. Anne Rice’s novels were some of my favorites, and throughout the years for Halloween I’ve dressed up more than once as an undead. I also had several books on witchcraft that I used to study. I found the real history enthralling and wanted to learn more. Since both of these topics had always interested me, I desired the idea to merge the two into my story. I wanted to cheer for the characters, cry with them, and experience the challenges of being in their shoes.
Sybil is a fascinating character. What scene was the most interesting to write for that character?
The most interesting and difficult scene to write for Sybil was when she confronted her first descendent in that quiet neighborhood in Salem. Sybil was an old woman and newly awoken from her 300-year slumber. When finally facing the reality of her first attempted murder, I wasn’t sure how the scene would go. Would there be multiple people at the house, a single occupant, or perhaps her victim wasn’t even home at the time. I also wondered how much of a struggle there would be, and how many bystanders would be hurt or killed. This was Sybil’s big moment, and her nonchalant thoughts about not knowing, or even caring, if her victims were alive afterwards shows just how dark her prior trauma had left her.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Everyone has choices to make between right and wrong, even blood-drinking undead or vengeful supernatural beings. Defined by our actions, normal humans can be just as cruel as the foulest demon. It’s our choices—at the right time and place—that truly expose our spirit and show what we are capable of. I wanted Sybil and Marcelo to suffer in their darkest moments and show readers that even flawed individuals can still do the right thing.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Sybil and the direction of the second book?
Things actually get worse for Sybil in the second book! Numerous challenges await her and Marcelo. New characters are introduced, both allies and enemies, as they struggle over control of a growing darkness. The sun and moon deities come into play, adding another layer of complexity and danger. And in the middle of it all, Sybil and Marcelo try to carry their relationship amidst endless turmoil.
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Above the Ashes
In Above the Ashes, Alexander Fernandez introduces Sybil Cotterill, a resilient witch who narrowly escapes the horrors of the English witch hunts, only to be thrust into the infamous Salem trials. After using her magic to cheat death, Sybil’s freedom is snatched away by a mysterious force that entombs her for centuries. When she awakens in the modern world, she’s driven by a thirst for vengeance. However, Marcelo, the vampire who unknowingly frees her, complicates her dark mission. As her interactions with Marcelo deepen, Sybil faces an unexpected internal battle—will she stay true to her path of destruction, or will Marcelo’s influence lead her to reconsider the darkness she’s embraced for so long?
This novel is a gripping blend of historical fiction and supernatural elements, a combination that will instantly appeal to fans of dark fantasy like myself. Fernandez’s strength lies in his ability to create immersive settings, transporting the reader from the ominous streets of 17th-century Salem to the mystic landscapes of Peru. His vivid descriptions make each scene feel alive, whether you’re experiencing the brutality of a witch trial or the supernatural tension that hums through the narrative. Sybil is a complex, deeply flawed character whose relentless desire for revenge feels all too human, while Marcelo brings a new layer of conflict to her journey. Their relationship is charged with emotional tension and raises the stakes on every page. Fernandez’s masterful weaving of historical events with paranormal lore grounds the supernatural in a world that feels believable, particularly with his detailed portrayal of the witch trials. These scenes are gripping, invoking genuine fear and empathy for Sybil’s plight. Her quest for vengeance is palpable, but Fernandez also leaves room for introspection, making us question whether her unyielding need for retribution is justified or if it’s simply destroying her from within. The emotional stakes are high, and as a reader, you’re torn between wanting Sybil to succeed in her quest and hoping she finds some form of redemption along the way.
At the heart of this novel are themes of survival, trust, and the thin line between vengeance and redemption. Sybil’s evolution from hunted witch to powerful sorceress parallels Marcelo’s own struggle with his vampire nature, giving their connection emotional depth beyond simple romance. Their shared mission to navigate a world filled with demons, magic, and betrayal keeps the tension high, but Fernandez also adds moments of humor and lightness, balancing the darker tones of the story. The pacing is spot on, keeping readers hooked from the opening page until the very end while leaving them eager for more.
Above the Ashes is a strong start to what promises to be a captivating series. Fernandez’s writing is rich with detail, and his characters are multi-dimensional, making this world of witches and vampires come alive. Fans of dark fantasy and supernatural stories will find this a must-read. It’s a book that deserves a place on your bookshelf, especially if you enjoy stories that challenge characters—and readers alike—to confront their own darkness.
Pages: 235 | ASIN : B0D3YQK5S2
LITERARY TITAN 