Blog Archives
Generational Curses
Daughter of the Boricua follows a young Puerto Rican woman whose family is cursed, and they must rely on each other to work through the challenges the curse brings. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
The inspiration is my own family. I come from a long line of strong and powerful matriarchs and an interesting lineage. I am directly related to Hernán Cortés and Isabella Moctezuma.
I heard many stories growing up about hardships and racism they faced so my books are loosely based on real experiences and stories.
Did you create an outline for the characters in the story before you started writing or did the character’s personalities grow organically as you were writing?
I allowed my characters to grow organically. I had a very loose outline but tried to be true to each character and what I believed their values were.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wanted to talk about taboo subjects such as sexual exploitation of women, abuse, racism and slavery. I wanted to understand the indigenous and conqueror’s point of view and explore generational curses real and imaginary.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I will be working on the last book in the trilogy Songs of the Boricua and anticipate it being completed fall of 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
”Oh, powerful god, I ask you to avenge my people. I ask that the next daughter of Hernán Cortés and her seed be cursed.”
With that, he closed his eyes, and destiny was set in the stars above him.
Daughter of the Boricua continues the saga of the award-winning book, Song of the Boricua, and follows the story of Puerto Rico, told through the lives of three generations of women.
Liani; a Taino torn between her loyalty to her people and her love for a Spanish officer.
Isabella; direct descendent of Aztec princess Isabella Moctezuma, cursed as her grandmother was.
Josephine; daughter of Isabella, afraid to love, but finding herself caught between love or career.
Are they cursed? Will they succeed or will their lives converge and end with the storm of the century?
Doesn’t everyone have a shadow?
Lily follows a Duban girl who is born without a twin, this is considered bad luck by her people. Her father is forced to take extreme actions to hide her secret. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
There’s something magical about a shadow. Isn’t there? I remember trying to trick mine when I was little and loved when Peter Pan’s shadow went off on its own. I wanted to know more about it. So, I wrote my own story, and it began with a little girl being born with a shadow.
Lily is born cursed through no fault of her own and must live with a dark shadow. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
What we see as a taboo or a curse, Lily sees as normal. She’s a little girl with a shadow. Doesn’t everyone have a shadow? They do, but not like Lily’s. But are rumors more dangerous than reality?
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
There’s a crossover for a character from my previous novel, The Immortal. When I began writing Lily, I didn’t know it would happen. But when the time came to introduce a certain character, I was delighted to find the crossover fit perfectly, filling in a question from my previous story. “What happened to Stacey?” Read Lily to find out.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m writing in Kindle Vella. Gena is the latest serial I’ve completed and it’s also a crossover. I also have several short stories posted under the story The Sunken Duck.
Author Links: GoodReads | TikTok | Facebook | Website
Cover by OliviaProDesign
Art by Teresa Guido
Edited by Whitney’s Book Works
Narrated by Anthony Lund
Appropriate But Also Funny
Bag O’ Goodies is a collection of short stories and poetry, sometimes real and sometimes pure fiction, covering a wide variety of topics. What was the inspiration for writing this collection of works?
I was a big fan of the movie “Creep Show” that showcases short stories by Stephen King.
I find the title of this collection interesting. How did you decide on the title of this book?
I love the format, and when I went about writing my own book of short stories (and poems) I wanted it to have a title that was both appropriate but also funny. “Bag O’ Goodies” fit the bill.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Themes of a man in his mid-30’s, to include childhood-type stories, wild tales about joining clubs, substance abuse, love, social issues, and pure fiction. I wanted to showcase a variety of themes and scenarios in the stories.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
The next book is “Line Rats.” It’s a sequel to my debut novel “Cape Henry House.” I’m aiming to have it done and hopefully published by the end of the year! Stay tuned.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
The Reluctant Detective
Ruby Roy and the Murder in the Falls follows a woman professor who finds her boss dead and must discover who is behind the murder before more people die. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
The protagonist, Ruby Roy, and the story is loosely based on me and my background as an Indian American assistant professor in a university in upstate New York located near the Falls. However, I must note here that Ruby is a more exaggerated and far more exciting version of me. And of course I should clarify that thankfully there have been no such macabre deaths at my university! There are a few other similarities between me and the protagonist. My dad is a diplomat like Ruby’s. I’m married to a French-Canadian man like Cleo in the novel. And just like Ruby, I have two beautiful cats, Million and Nobel
Dr. Ruby Roy is a fun and energetic character with a strong personality. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
I would pitch Ruby Roy in the following way: if Miss Marple were younger, plus-size, clumsier, and risk-averse, she would be Dr. Ruby Roy, the reluctant detective of my novel. Ruby is intelligent, kind, and cheerful, yet goofy, absent-minded, and cowardly, and often finds herself in hilarious situations quite accidentally. I wanted to make Ruby relatable to most individuals who dream of being an armchair detective from the comfort of their homes but often fear the dangers associated with the actual job. She represents an imperfect individual, an educated, young adult of mixed race, struggling with her weight and anxieties, her doubts and fears, as she struggles with her own weaknesses while trying to do the right thing.
It is worth noting that over the years, there have been very few fictional female detectives—especially women of color—in the mystery genre who have been celebrated and given as much love as a Holmes or a Poirot. It is also rare to find a female sleuth who makes you laugh, not because she lacks the mental prowess to solve cases akin to a Clouseau, but due to the odd and humorous situations she finds herself in.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wanted this novel to be inclusive and honest with the underlying themes of love, kindness, and empathy for all. And I believe this is at the core of what makes this story relatable for people from all walks of life. It was also important for me that this book brings joy and happiness to readers, especially after the struggles we have all seen and faced during the pandemic.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m currently working on the second book in the Ruby Roy mystery series titled “Ruby Roy and the Hawaiian Mystery” which should be ready for release sometime next year. I also have an idea ready for the third book which is tentatively titled “Ruby Roy and the Fishy Affair in Kolkata.” So, for those who have enjoyed the first Ruby Roy mystery, there’s a lot more on the way.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | Website
Dr. Ruby Roy is a twenty-nine-year-old, goofy, warm, and absent-minded professor in her third year at Baron University, located a few miles from the Falls. A plus-size woman of mixed Indian and Canadian roots, and cursed with an overactive imagination stemming from watching too many Bollywood and Disney films, Ruby is struggling to make her mark and stay out of trouble. It doesn’t help matters that she keeps stumbling into a series of embarrassing incidents, even as she desperately tries to keep her superiors in the College happy. Unfortunately for Ruby, things take a turn for the worse when she discovers her Chair’s dead body in his office. But who could have killed him? And why? Suddenly all the Poirot, Marple, Sherlock Holmes, and Father Brown books she loves reading seem to have come to life as she finds herself in the middle of a real-life murder mystery. And with the murderer on the loose, no one is safe. With the help of her husband, Cleo, her very own Watson, Ruby tries to solve the mystery before she is next on the killer’s list!
This Earth-shattering Mystery
The Brink follows an archaeologist who discovers a cave painting that could shatter the worldwide religious order and becomes the target of a sinister organization. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
It has been years since I last wrote a book. I finished a trilogy so I was content on that. You never really know what will inspire you until the moment happens. For me I was watching a very intriguing history show and the thing absolutely captivated me. I knew right then and there that I had to somehow write a book with these shocking revelations about history that few of us know about. Luckily, I already had an ideal character in place from my previous trilogy who was perfectly suited to tackle this earth-shattering mystery.
Vince Ramsey is an intriguing character that I enjoyed following. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
I created this character over a decade ago. As a Christian myself, I wanted someone who knew everything about the Bible but was also just as comparable to a James Bond or Indiana Jones character. Vince Ramsey is that guy. He’s no-nonsense, gets to the root of the problem, and solves it without letting anything get in his way. He’s my ideal type of hero and I can’t wait for readers to get to know him on his latest journey. They’ll get a chance to see how he operates in order to solve cases with dire end-of-the-world implications, not always by the book but he gets results.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
A lot of the time as I write, I learn right alongside the characters and just as the readers do as the story unfolds. I have a handful of notes but never try to predetermine or force and preplan every scene. I have a general outline of course, but I like to keep the story spontaneous and fresh for the benefit of the reader, and hopefully let a natural progression flow. Like Stephen King once said, “Sometimes a book writes itself.” Themes I explore in this book are just what the readers will experience, a lot of obscure history that blows the lid off every textbook I ever read!
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
Nothing in the works as of yet, but then again, like I said before, you never know what will come along and inspire me. I usually write one book every 2-3 years and that’s been the trend so far and I hope that continues. I only write when the mood strikes me. Many thanks to all the readers out there for their unwavering support! In a crowded field it never goes unnoticed and it can make a world of difference for any author!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter
When a young archaeologist discovers the earliest known cave painting hidden deep within the heart of Africa, she suddenly becomes the target of a sinister organization. They will stop at nothing to keep the truth hidden, knowing it could shatter the fabric of religious order worldwide and rewrite history as we know it. In comes Vince Ramsey, Israel’s top investigator and biblical scholar for matters like these. He must not only protect the archaeologist as they embark on a dangerous journey through Europe’s most iconic ruins—but he must help her find a mystical relic with ties to an ancient royal dynasty—one so powerful that it ruled the continent after the fall of the Roman Empire. Can they be the ones to solve a mystery for the ages—or will history repeat itself—once again?
*For fans of James Rollins, Clive Cussler, and Preston & Child
A Deep, Dark Psychological Reason
Bullets and Bustles follows an ex-bounty hunter who tries to create a normal life when her world is upturned by a mysterious stranger. What were some sources that informed this stories development?
Emma’s highly proficient, confident, female bounty hunter persona came from watching Clint Eastwood in the spaghetti westerns he’d made in the distant past. Her angst came from one of the characters that had captivated my interest when I watched the old movie version of The Magnificent Seven. The character’s name was Lee. He was a professional gunfighter who’d lost his nerve. I find that I get a lot of my ideas from movies.
Emma Tombs’ character is intriguing and well developed. What were some driving ideals behind her character’s development?
I wanted to present Emma as both a victim of abuse and a perpetrator of murder, in her own right. At the start of the story, Emma is destitute. Her only gift is her skill with a gun. She initially becomes a bounty hunter out of necessity, pretty much in order to survive. But, she chooses to remain in this lucrative profession far longer than she needs to. There’s a deep, dark psychological reason for her puzzling behavior, but Emma doesn’t know what that is until she falls in love with the young, enigmatic J.D. In essence, J.D. holds a mirror up to Emma’s face and forces her to see herself as she really is. With J.D.’s love and support, Emma is able to confront her demons and begin the healing process, replacing hate with hope.
What are some challenges to writing short stories that you enjoy overcoming?
The challenge of making the story flow smoothly while incorporating all that I need to in order to give each of the characters depth. I’ve learned not to sacrifice story substance for word count.
Do you have other short stories available that fans can dig into?
I have a short story, titled The Mortal Vampire, in The Mystic Desire Anthology by BVS, that is currently available on Amazon.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook
It includes contemporary, historical, fantasy, and even outer space romance, Cowboy Desire offers fourteen stunning short stories.
These fourteen authors provide a range of sweet to sexy stories all with a Western cowboy theme. They feature strong men and women battling the weather and dangerous terrain, here on earth and in outer space.
The collection is as diverse as the authors who wrote them. Here’s a chance to discover new talented authors and the characters they create. Within these pages, there are blends of tender, often moving, thought-provoking and downright sexy stories.
A Special Sweater
Eddy is creative and enthusiastic about knitting. After making a pot holder decides he will knit a sweater. He starts by looking at designs in a magazine, then he draws up a plan. Unfortunately, he hits roadblocks towards his goal. His family thinks this project is too much for him and that he can’t get the right yarn and needles to make a project this large. Rather than giving up, Eddy finds ways around these problems and never gives up on his vision. Even when it takes him months to complete the project, he keeps going and finding solutions to every problem he encounters. In the end, Eddy is proud of his hard work and dedication; nothing anyone says will diminish his happiness.
A Special Sweater by children’s author Tuula Pere is a heartwarming children’s book about dedication and determination. Eddy learns to knit, and even when everyone around tells him making a sweater is too much work or trouble, he refuses to give up. Instead, he makes the best of the supplies he is given, even if they are not what he needs or wants for his vision. The ability to adapt to his situation and the make the best is a valuable lesson that children can learn from.
I love how Eddy keeps going, takes every obstacle, and finds a way around it. So many books have things work out easily. This one really showcases how important a good attitude is to turning something into a magical experience. When things don’t work out how he wants he adjusts his vision and perspective to see the project through.
A Special Sweater is an inspirational picture book that will show children that they can achieve their dreams even when there are obstacles in the way. They will learn that having a good attitude is key to finding a way through challenges in life. This is an excellent book for families and classrooms to have.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B09K6M3CHL
True Love Never Runs Smoothly
Fire & Magic is book two in The Younglings series. What were some new ideas you wanted to explore in this book that differed from book one?
Stakes are higher in Fire & Magic. The Younglings are under attack, and have some major trials and tribulations to deal with, as well as normal teenage life. The joie de vivre that teenagers have is inspiring. But most teens can experience many difficulties in their day-to-day lives, and—like Shadows & Magic—I feel this book is the messy, real deal. I wanted to show The Younglings mature and grow, and watch their bonds of friendship develop and strengthen. Would you give your life to save a friend?
I’ve also introduced some interesting new characters, into Fire & Magic.
Love is a huge thing for teens, and some unexpected relationships develop. Of course, true love never runs smoothly, and we have several relationship issues. Will they be resolved? You will need to read the book to find out.
Eve and Quinn have matured in this book. What were some obstacles in this book that you felt were important to defining their characters?
For Quinn, as a half-demon, he is constantly worried about becoming evil, and as a result, his self-confidence suffers. Can an angel truly love a demon? In this book, we watch him grow in confidence, and trust that Eve loves him unconditionally. As for Eve, she is a feisty, strong female lead, and this develops throughout the book. A badass half-angel who won’t tolerate BS.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I think the final chapter. As well as being sensual, without being explicit, the coming together of Eve and Quinn is beautiful on so many levels.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website
Stranded spirits, rogue vampires and demons are bad enough, and now merciless witch hunters are stalking Millie.
Eve’s angelic blood is like a siren call—one a tenacious vampire tracker cannot ignore.
Are things for the Keepers about to turn messy?
It’s hard to know who’s the good guy and who’s the enemy. Monsters don’t always have claws or fangs, and they’re not always in the shadows. Sometimes they hide in plain sight.
Can the Keepers protect their own?
Praise from The Younglings: Shadows & Magic
“Author Helena Craggs expertly crafts a brilliant young adult novel and navigates the reader through first loves, sexuality, friendship, and familial unity.” (Literary Titan)
“Craggs’ ability to pull me into the world she created and keep me turning the page and second guessing myself was just brilliant. If you love supernatural books. This is a must from me.”
“Whether you are into demons, angels, vampires, witches, or werewolves – or merely just teens being teens – this book ticks all the boxes.”
LITERARY TITAN 