Blog Archives
UNTIL I HAVE NO MORE TO GIVE: A Hiram Robinett Novel of the Civil War
Until I Have No More to Give by Curt Robinette is a compelling work of historical fiction that brings to life the story of Hiram Robinette, a Union survivor of Gettysburg who later served in the Freedmen’s Bureau until his death in 1868. The novel offers a raw and honest portrayal of the Civil War and post-war America, effectively teaching, entertaining, and moving readers with the poignant tale of Hiram’s life.
Hiram Robinette is presented as a fully realized person with dreams, aspirations, and a deep sense of duty that drives him throughout his life. Curt Robinette’s skillful narrative makes the Civil War feel real, as he explores the inner conflicts of those who lived through it—questioning the righteousness of the war, grappling with its moral implications, and seeking the true meaning of good amid such turmoil. The novel underscores the complexity of the era, showing that while slavery was indeed a great evil, it was not the focal point for many who fought. By emphasizing the humanity at the core of this historical period, Curt Robinette has crafted a must-read for any Civil War scholar. As someone who has studied the Civil War extensively, I found Until I Have No More to Give to be a refreshing and insightful addition to the genre. Curt Robinette has a knack for capturing the complexity of the era through the eyes of a man who, despite his physical and emotional scars, continues to fight for what he believes is right. The novel is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring importance of justice.
Until I Have No More to Give is a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction that goes beyond the battlefield to explore the personal and social ramifications of the Civil War. It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate character-driven narratives with rich historical context. The novel’s emotional depth and historical insight make it a worthy addition to any Civil War enthusiast’s bookshelf.
Pages: 355 | ASIN : B0D7HN4614
Do You Believe in Miracles?
Magical realms in literature captivate the imagination by offering boundless possibilities, and Charlie Magus is the hero who brings this novel to life. Do You Believe in Miracles? by Jim Melvin is the third book of the Dark Circles trilogy. It follows 13-year-old Charlie Magus, who stumbles into a hidden realm within the forest, changing his world forever. Once a shy boy, Charlie becomes a mighty wizard with extraordinary abilities. While life continues normally in his everyday world, the fantasy realm is on the brink of a colossal war. Charlie’s magic could decide the outcome, but he faces a tough choice: remain in the world of mortals or reside forever in his newly discovered world.
Melvin’s talent for creating vivid, immersive descriptions pulls you into the magical world he’s crafted. Each scene is rich with detail, making the fantastical elements feel real and immediate. From the intricate spell work to the majestic landscapes, the book’s visual splendor is truly impressive. The way Melvin paints these images with words makes the fantasy realm come alive. You can almost see the shimmering magic and feel the atmosphere of each setting. This ability to create such a vivid world adds a layer of depth to the story, enhancing both the action and emotional moments. The book is a visual feast that keeps the reader engaged and invested in the adventure. Melvin’s writing style ensures that the fantastical elements are not just decorative but essential to the story. The detailed imagery helps to build a rich, immersive experience that draws you into every aspect of the narrative. The magic and settings are described with such clarity that they become an integral part of the story, making each moment feel both epic and personal.
Do You Believe in Miracles? captured my heart with its exceptional visual and narrative artistry, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.
Pages: 360 | ASIN : B0D1NQL25T
The Inevitability of Change
The Panids’ Children follows the four remaining Panids as the older mentors struggle to keep the two children safe and prepare them for the war that is on the horizon. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wanted an opportunity to detail key historical events through the memories of the remaining Panids and explore the consequences of their past actions for the next generation. Placing the two younger characters in the company of the more experienced Panids also gave me the writing opportunity to explaining the history of this world the lore and principles of its ‘magic’. The looming war provided me with the opportunity to contrast continent wide events with the comparatively minor struggles of individuals.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from and how did it change as you were writing?
It started with a map and a wish to learn more about the places I had drawn. I wanted to create a world that had a rich history, geography and society to act as a foundation for inspiration when righting about events and characters. The continent of Koa has had a surprising impact on the development of characters and the series of events that are detail in the series of books. Over time it’s become a character in its own right.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I’ve always been interested in the passage of time and its impact on places and people. The entire series of books looks at the inevitability of change, for good and bad, and how the past often returns to influence and affect present events. In terms of characters, I was interested in writing about a villain who ends up a victim of the events he sets in place and the journey of the supporting character who becomes the unwilling hero of the series.
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
There are currently five books in the series with two more on the way that will draw it to a close. Book two begins to explore the repercussions of events in book one and how the characters come to terms with them while facing yet another challenge from the past. I’ve also began writing a series of prequels that takes the reader back in time a thousand years before book one and details the genesis and rise of the Panids.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
100 years have passed since the Great War. Only four of the once mighty Panids remain, the Panids’ Children have become myth and the Field’s Cap limits the ability of the Orders and their Talents. The continent of Koa is at peace but the past has not been fully laid to rest.
From the start, Cali and Aran’s apprenticeship with the Naddier Order of Talents doesn’t go well. Their mentors Carrick, Merren and the Panid Kellim find themselves caught up in a struggle to keep Cali safe as the remaining Panids’ Children emerge from hiding to attempt her capture.
At the same time, the disgraced Talent, Varin, is manipulated into attempting a quest that will have devastating and far-reaching implications. Events are further complicated by the deluded UruIldran Emperor, Segat, who drags all of Koa into a second war fought by Talents and the once redundant technology of powder weapons.
With events spiralling out of control, Carrick and Merren struggle to keep Cali and Aran safe, form new alliances and fight in a war 100 years of peace have ill-prepared them for. As Segat’s unstoppable legions advance, Kellim must seek out The Beholder and learn more about the return of the Panids’ Children, unravel the mystery of Varin’s quest and come to terms with revelations about his own past and the disastrous legacy of the Panids.
Kintsugi
Asayi: An Autistic Teen’s Journey to Topple a Shogun in Medieval Japan follows an autistic teen on a journey to challenge the oppressive regime and find her tribe and love. What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
In Asayi – An Autistic Teen’s Journey to Topple a Shogun in Medieval Japan, the main character, Asayi, presents as mute. She understands what is spoken to her and can copy text, i.e., ink Japanese characters, but in book one, she is illiterate.
So Asayi has a rare skill, but is hampered by her lack of literacy. Not being able to speak is a severe disability in a culture that is with obsessed with perfection. That is why Nabui constantly repeats that the Shogun “had given him a defective gift” when Yoshinori Ashikaga arranged for Nabui to marry Asayi after her father’s death. The Shogun felt that the daughter of the late Chief Scribe needed to be placed in Nabui’s household since he was the next Chief Scribe. Asayi’s “defectiveness” led to beatings, rape and other cruelities in Nabui’s household. It was not until Yoshinori’s successor, Yoshimasa, came to power that the obsession with perfection came to be a bit dispelled. Yoshimasa introduced the art of “kintsugi” in the 15th century wherein broken porcelain was repaired with gold welding to restore its wholeness and utility.
While life has many struggles, the disabled in Medieval Japan suffered through more struggles than the average person. Had Asayi not been connected through her Chief Scribe father to the power circles, she would have no doubt been killed as a child or used as a household slave. As it was her father kept her condition a secret from the court during his lifetime. Asayi’s humanity is affirmed as she learns to communicate with others by drawing. Thus Asayi adapts to her limitation and uses her prowess with the brush to have a voice.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Certainly, I wanted to touch upon the norm of perfection held by the aristocratic class and present its impact on an autistic young girl. I also wanted to touch upon the severe restrictions on the lives of women in this period as they were ruthlessly governed by fathers, brothers, and husbands. When I asked a friend of mine who I worked with to teach me Japanese, he told me that I needed to learn the language from a woman. I then discovered the Japanese language spoken by women was like a different language, filled with many honorific words for males that the women were to use in conversation with men!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
In my next book I will be covering the theft of the Imperial Regalia from the Northern Court. Controlled by the Ashikaga family for generations by the Southern Court, which was the province of the emperor. The regalia consisted of a sovereign sword, a many-sided mirror, and some gems. Whoever possessed these objects had the mandate to reign, and they were coveted by each Court. Asayi goes underground to recover these objects, so another adventure lies ahead.
Author Links: Website | YouTube | GoodReads | Librarything
Layers of nuance unfold: the vulnerability of an autistic young woman in a merciless time period; political unrest, physical survival, secret identities, and finding one’s tribe and love while facing injustices and revolts that are just as real as today’s inequities and discontents.
The underdogs prevail in this remarkable medieval Japanese saga replete with true to life characters, political and personal sagas, and the enduring Asian cultural icon: the ghost.
We Are All Human
The Coffee Traveler follows a young boy from an Amazon rainforest’s Tupi Guarani tribe who embarks on a journey of personal growth and the quest for purpose. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The Coffee Traveler was influenced by my own childhood memories, which are a lot like Kauê’s life. Like him, I had to figure out who I was and what I was here to do while dealing with the weight of my cultural background (always being an outsider) and how nature shaped my growth.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
The characters fight to find themselves, where they came from, and where they fit in. Moral standards in different cultures make right and wrong unclear. This allows the creation of characters by showing how conditions, feelings, and connections affect choices. It deepens stories and makes readers consider their ideals.
Stories of people who face their concerns, overcome obstacles, and develop from them are inspiring and relevant. Relationships also shape our lives. This is why love, friendship, betrayal, and conflict are excellent topics for studying human interaction.
Cultural and environmental variables provide dimension to stories because our histories and settings impact our identities and perspectives. Finally, finding purpose through love, employment, adventure, or self-discovery is a universal topic. Fiction that teaches characters and readers about living a meaningful life can be very educational. These human traits help readers think about their lives and keep them interested in the story. Great fiction comes from the range of human experience, with its ups and downs.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The Coffee Traveler explores many deep themes that shape the story’s look at the human experience. Symbolizing the search for identity and change, Kauê’s trip shows how personal trauma and growth can change a person’s sense of who they are. Through Kauê’s tattoos and Caíque’s teachings, cultural heritage is also stressed, showing how important it is to understand and respect one’s roots as a key part of personal growth. Morality and its effects are at the heart of Kauê’s story, as his actions make you think about how complicated right and wrong, guilt, and why you make the choices you do are.
Kauê’s change into a hunter shows the theme of survival, both physically and emotionally. It’s a symbol of resilience and the inner power needed to get through a new world. The story’s relationships show how delicate the balance is between connection and isolation, as the characters fight with their needs for closeness and self-discovery. The way power works, especially in Nick’s case, shows how ego affects people and what real strength and leadership are. Another important theme is how nature and human relationships are linked. Caíque’s lessons stress the strong links between the natural world and community ties.
Along with these issues, the idea of male identity in modern society is very important. There is more and more talk about masculinity, often in terms of societal expectations and cultural changes. Men today often feel stuck between traditional roles and new social norms, which can cause an identity problem. This battle is a lot like Kauê’s journey as he tries to figure out who he is in a world where ideas of what it means to be a man are becoming more fluid and up for debate. Also, the novel makes a point of commenting on the larger talk about what it means to be a man in today’s society while telling a story of personal and cultural change.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
People kept telling me the story was dramatic and emotional. Readers relate to Kauê’s inner struggles and changes. Many didn’t expect the Amazon jungle and Tupi Guarani society story to have relatable identity and growth elements.
The adventure and rich culture hook readers in, but Kauê’s voyage frequently appeals to them personally by reminding them of their struggles. I’m thrilled that my writing about universal issues like meaning and human complexity resonates with people from all backgrounds. This gives me hope that stories may unite people and help them understand others, proving that we are all human despite our differences.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
The conflict between his Indigenous heritage and modern society marks his journey as a nuanced exploration of identity. Focusing on character depth and thematic exploration, the story delves into Kauê’s transformation from a naive boy to a mature adult.
Shattered
Shattered, Inspired By True Events by Jenell M. Jones, M.ED., is a powerful memoir that delves into the author’s personal journey of accepting the unchangeable and learning to tolerate the harsh realities of life. Jones’s raw and honest account of her experiences resonates deeply with readers, making this more than just one woman’s struggle—it’s a source of inspiration for anyone facing life’s challenges. Through her story, Jones invites readers to reflect on their own paths toward peace and healing, sharing how her decision to adopt a young girl, with the hope of transforming both their lives for the better, led to an unexpected and challenging journey.
The central theme of survival and endurance is poignantly portrayed in Shattered. Jones vividly illustrates the unexpected anguish that life can bring and demonstrates remarkable strength and resilience in the face of trauma. Her journey toward healing and self-discovery is both encouraging and uplifting, leaving readers with a powerful message: if she can overcome these obstacles, so can they. The book’s emphasis on perseverance and courage makes a lasting impact, reminding us all of the importance of endurance in our own lives. Jones’s storytelling is graphic and emotionally resonant, pulling readers into her world and making them feel the weight of her struggles. She skillfully conveys the unwanted efforts and sacrifices she made in her pursuit of inner peace, creating a narrative that is both relatable and deeply moving. The systemic critique woven throughout the book is another notable element. Jones’ experiences highlight the often-ignored flaws in the child welfare system, particularly how it handles children with traumatic backgrounds. Jones’ frustration with the system is palpable, and she effectively uses her personal story to advocate for better practices and more compassionate policies. This book serves as both a memoir and a critical commentary on a system that is in desperate need of reform.
Shattered, Inspired By True Events is a gripping and authentic memoir that will resonate with anyone who has faced life’s unexpected challenges. Jones’s courage in sharing her regrets and her raw emotions is a testament to the human experience, reminding us of our shared vulnerabilities. I highly recommend this book to everyone, as we all, at some point, must navigate the unforeseen changes life throws our way.
Pages: 210 | ASIN : B0C5CPY345
LITERARY TITAN 