Blog Archives
Hunting Demons
ShadowBane follows twins bound not only by blood but by their role as formidable demon hunters who each are taking on the role of demon hunting for different personal reasons. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The original inspiration was a nightmare I had where Demons were attacking our home. It was really intense, really frightening. I woke up to my dog howling and growling at the door. I checked the whole place, thinking maybe someone had tried to break in, but everything was fine. When I came back to bed, my dog sat sideways on my chest, staring alertly at the door for about an hour. He’s never done that before or since.
It was really unsettling, and it had me wondering if there was any stock in the nothing that animals can sense otherworldly entities. I don’t believe in that stuff, but I thought it might make a cool story. So the original idea was “a guy and his dog hunting demons,” and that eventually transformed into “two twins and their pet tiger hunting demons in feudal Japan.”
Shura and Jin may be twins, but they have unique personalities. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I definitely enjoyed writing Jin more. I had a lot of fun with his and Wallace’s dynamic (once he stops being such a jerk), and I liked peeling back the layers of his surly personality over the course of the novel. I love anti-hero characters, and Jin was no exception. He’s got this weird honor code where he can do some terrible things in pursuit of his goals, but his goals are noble and he pursues them even at great personal risk. He’s weirdly selfless. I can’t help but root for the guy like that, hoping he can both achieve his goals and change for the better.
Shura was more difficult to write because I had to step further outside my own experiences. As someone who has spent her life being constantly overlooked, underestimated, and dictated to, she’s built up a lot of resentment for the very society she’s trying to rise up in. She’s cunning and ambitious, but she also is insecure about her place in the world and her ability to achieve her goals, all the while feeling this immense pressure due to her lineage. It’s a powerful mix of fears and driving factors, and it took me a while to distill it all into a clear, consistent worldview that also evolved throughout the narrative. It was a challenge, but I’m glad I took the time to work through it.
What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
So much research… I read two books about the cultural significance of the yokai (non-human beings in Japanese folklore) just to get a feel for it, then combed through a list of hundreds of yokai to find the ones I wanted to represent in the novel. I also had to do a ton of historical and mythological research, everything from creation myths to major wars to tiny details like the proper way to hand over a weapon, honorific usage, or the differences in men’s and women’s kimonos.
Then I worked with a translator to create all the names (places and people) and in-world terms. I followed real Japanese naming conventions for locations and any fictional terms have a real meaning in Japanese. For example, Shikōken, the bloodline from which Shura and Jin are descended, translates to “supreme sword.” It was a ton of work, and although I took some creative liberties when I felt it better served the story, I tried to faithfully portray the spirit of feudal Japan and pay due respect to a truly fascinating culture & period of history.
Where does the story go in the next book and where do you see it going in the future?
Well, I won’t want to spoil too much, but if ShadowBane is the story of Shura and Jin operating as a duo and being driven apart by their own choices, the sequel will explore how they function once they can’t rely on each other. You get a glimpse of that in ShadowBane, and it takes a heavy toll on both of them. Amidst a full-scale war, things get pretty dire, and then there’s that ominous prophecy hanging over their heads…
A Schism of Souls will be a trilogy, and I have the ending all planned out, even if the minor details haven’t worked themselves out yet. To say much about the third book would heavily spoil the second, so I’ll just say that Book 2 sees some major plot threads resolved. If you had a lot of questions in ShadowBane, the sequel will see them answered.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
One womb, one soul, two fates. One will rise. One will fall.
Shura and Jin are the last of a divine bloodline, operating at the bloodiest fringes of society where they wield might and magic against the demons they are sworn to destroy. For Shura, it’s the only way to restore honor to her lineage and claim her rightful place in the world. For Jin, it’s a matter of begrudging duty—and escaping the influence of the three kings vying for control of the continent.
In their pursuit of the sadistic cult behind the demons’ resurgence, the twins find themselves hunted by an ancient demon harboring a blood vendetta, and are forced to set aside past grudges and seek the kings’ alliance. When Shura discovers a chilling prophecy, she fears that even her newfound allies may not be enough to stem the rising tide of shadow.
Even the palest chance of victory will come at a brutal price. But the prophecy never foretold whose fate would settle the debt: Shura’s or her brother’s.
Lost or an Adventure?
Coco Lost in Miami follows an adventurous fluffy little dog who gets lost in the city and makes a new friend with an energetic lady. What was the inspiration for your story?
Like all of our other dog books, Coco Lost in Miami was inspired by a true story. Our family dog, Nemo, disappeared one day during a family party, and Mr. Luna left the party to search for him. He was looking all over for the dog, but he was nowhere to be found. We all had a hard time sleeping that night thinking about his whereabouts, but thankfully, a nice lady found him and reached out to us the next day.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator TranDang?
It’s always a pleasure collaborating with TranDang. We love her art style and the way she brings our stories to life. We’ve worked together on a few other picture books from our catalog. She always seems to amaze us every time.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
It was important for us to share both sides of the situation in the book. We wanted to show the family desperately searching for their beloved Coco, and we also wanted to show Coco safe and sound traveling throughout the beautiful city of Miami with an exciting rescuer and companion. If you have ever lost a pet, you know exactly how stressful it can be. At that moment, all you can do is search relentlessly, hope for the best, and have faith that there will be a happy ending.
I find a problem in well-written stories in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?
It’s quite possible. You just never know what big city Coco might get lost in next. Stay tuned.
Author Links: Website | Instagram | Book Review
The Immigrant’s Wife
J.B. Harris’s The Immigrant’s Wife masterfully weaves a poignant tale set in the early 1900s, following the life of Anna, a 19-year-old American girl who falls in love with Charles Patrinos, a Greek immigrant. Their love defies societal expectations, inciting disapproval from Anna’s family and friends. In an era marked by rampant xenophobia, their relationship exemplifies the classic struggle of star-crossed lovers. Anna’s decision to choose love over her upbringing thrusts her into a world of harsh consequences, forcing her to constantly reaffirm her love for Charles while drawing on her inner values for strength.
The novel is not just a story of romance; it delves deep into themes of sacrifice, betrayal, and resilience. Harris has crafted an emotionally charged narrative that resonates on multiple levels. The novel explores the profound impact of loss and the way it can erode both mental and physical well-being. Anna’s character transformation is particularly compelling. From a sheltered young girl, she blossoms into a strong, determined woman who must navigate a world devoid of familial support. Her journey of self-discovery and survival makes her an inspiring protagonist, and her resilience leaves a lasting impression. What sets The Immigrant’s Wife apart is how it examines the dual nature of love—its capacity to both uplift and devastate. Harris does not shy away from showing the emotional toll of difficult choices. Furthermore, the novel shines a light on the immigrant experience, capturing the harsh realities immigrants faced during a challenging period in American history.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the novel is its personal connection to Harris’s own family history, infusing the story with authenticity and emotional depth. This personal touch elevates The Immigrant’s Wife from a mere historical novel to a deeply affecting exploration of love and identity. It is a heart-wrenching read that lingers long after the final page, leaving readers with much to reflect upon.
Pages: 393 | ASIN : B0C63KGNXF
The Royal Order of the Last Coin
In Royal Order of the Last Coin, Joyce Burton Crawford embarks on a captivating journey through her family’s past, unearthing a hidden chapter that reaches back to the 13th century. This compelling narrative blends themes of service, courage, faith, romance, and moral conviction, all centered around the birth of the De Burton legacy. Crawford masterfully intertwines history and storytelling, crafting a narrative that feels alive with emotion and depth.
Rather than a straightforward recounting of historical facts, Crawford reimagines events through a unique blend of fact and fiction. Her writing defies the conventions of traditional historical works, transforming what could have been a dry retelling into an engaging and emotionally resonant story. She doesn’t simply list events; instead, she adds touches of humor and moments of romance that draw readers in, making history feel fresh and relatable. Narrated from the perspective of her ancestors, the book unfolds in third person, giving each character their own voice and allowing their stories to develop with nuance. This narrative choice brings the past to life, giving readers an intimate view of the lives, struggles, and convictions of those who shaped the De Burton legacy. Despite the centuries between them, these ancestors feel vivid and immediate, their experiences unfolding naturally through Crawford’s careful and concise prose. Joyce’s writing is clear and accessible, ensuring readers can easily follow along as she guides them through her family’s rich history. She sets the stage from the outset, explaining her purpose and providing context for what is to come. Every scene and event is described in meticulous detail, making the story not only easy to follow but deeply immersive. The reader is transported into the world of her ancestors, experiencing the weight of their decisions and the significance of their faith. While the pace occasionally slows during more detailed sections, these moments offer readers time to reflect on the deeper themes at play—faith, legacy, and personal duty. Crawford isn’t merely recounting her ancestry; she’s capturing the essence of the values that shaped her family, particularly their unwavering devotion to God.
Royal Order of the Last Coin is more than a historical account. It is a deeply personal exploration of legacy and faith, a heartfelt story that will resonate with readers interested in family history or tales of moral conviction and strength. Crawford’s work is a testament to the power of storytelling to bring the past to life, making it an enriching and memorable read.
Pages: 214 | ASIN : B0B3JW932M
Nurse Florence®, What is Type 2 Diabetes?
In Nurse Florence, What is Type 2 Diabetes? by Michael Dow, students Condi, Jean, and Sonia embark on a lunchtime discussion about the future of the planet, sparked by a lesson on climate change. Their conversation takes a curious turn as they ponder whether a disease could affect the human body in the same way climate change impacts the Earth. Their curiosity leads them to Nurse Florence in the cafeteria, where they receive a thorough, yet gentle, explanation of type 2 diabetes, its symptoms, and its effects on the body.
This latest installment in the Nurse Florence series once again delivers valuable health information in a way that is both engaging and accessible. Before reading this book, I, like many others, had heard of diabetes and knew people affected by it, but I struggled to grasp exactly what type 2 diabetes is and how it impacts the body. Through the ever-inquisitive trio of Jean, Condi, and Sonia, I gained a clear understanding of the disease in a manner that was easy to digest. Nurse Florence carefully explains the signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes, shedding light on the factors that can contribute to the progression of the disease over time. She also provides practical advice on managing diabetes, emphasizing the importance of working with healthcare providers to adjust diet, exercise, and medications as needed. Diabetes can indeed be a daunting topic, but Nurse Florence’s approach is reassuring. She highlights the many ways to manage the disease and encourages readers to take proactive steps in protecting their health. The illustrations by Tim Kaney further enhance this message, portraying Nurse Florence with a warm and compassionate demeanor. Her calming presence, combined with the clear, informative content, makes the complex topic of type 2 diabetes approachable and less intimidating.
Designed for readers aged 7 and up, this book is a valuable tool for both parents and educators who want to teach children about type 2 diabetes in a non-threatening way. Whether read independently or together, Nurse Florence, What is Type 2 Diabetes? continues the series’ mission to educate and empower readers, one step at a time. This latest entry is a testament to the series’ enduring quality and importance.
Pages: 154 | ISBN : 1312585994
Leave of My Duty
In Leave of My Duty, Mallory is a devoted single mother trying to rebuild her life after the tragic murder of her husband. She’s focused on raising her three children in the quiet town of Piper Falls, determined to keep things steady and simple. But when the enigmatic and strikingly handsome Griffin Erickson returns to his hometown to care for his ailing father, everything changes. Drawn to Mallory in ways he didn’t expect, Griffin’s playboy past begins to fade as he sets his sights on something more meaningful—winning Mallory’s heart. Their undeniable attraction sparks a whirlwind romance, but the question remains: can they truly overcome the shadows of their pasts, or will old wounds threaten to tear them apart?
Leave of My Duty is an exciting blend of romance and passion, written with a fast-paced, engaging style that pulls the reader in from the start. Mallory and Griffin’s chemistry ignites quickly, carrying their relationship forward at a breakneck pace that fills each chapter with fiery emotion. Their steamy connection is palpable, making their love story both thrilling and intense. Told from the alternating perspectives of Mallory and Griffin, the reader is given an intimate look into their minds—into the way they perceive each other, their insecurities, and their growing desires. As their romance blossoms, unforeseen threats begin to surface, adding an element of suspense that keeps the narrative tense and unpredictable. Lamers cleverly balances romantic tension with character development, allowing both leads to grow and evolve throughout the story. The rapid progression of their relationship leaves little room for deeper exploration. From the moment they meet, things move swiftly—perhaps too swiftly—leaving readers wishing for a bit more time to see their connection grow organically. Despite this, their romance is undeniably captivating. The story not only explores their relationship but also delves into their connections with family and friends, offering a richer emotional landscape.
Fans of modern romance will find Leave of My Duty an enjoyable and satisfying read. With its mix of passion, suspense, and a touch of mystery, Lamers delivers a love story that sizzles against the backdrop of small-town life, offering readers a fast, fun, and immersive romantic escape.
Pages: 326 | ASIN : B0CZ5CGG3Y
Relatively Sane
Your Biggest Fan follows a 53-year-old AP Literature professor writing to a pop music idol whose music resonates with his life and he feels she is the only one who really understands him. What inspired the original and fascinating idea at the center of the book?
I think our culture demands far too much of its celebrities. We don’t just rely on them for entertainment; we want them to raise our children, tell us which breakfast cereal to buy, and provide psychological support for all our emotional needs. So while other books have certainly been written about celebrity obsessions, I wanted to add this layer to the discussion–it’s not just that we idolize celebrities too much; we demand that they be responsible for making our lives fulfilling, even though they obviously have no power to do so. In terms of the whole English teacher thing: I’m an English teacher myself, and some of our current pop stars are supremely literary—especially the amazing pop star my novel happens to be based on. So it’s not much of a stretch to imagine a slightly loopy English teacher who is convinced that said pop star is speaking to him on such an elemental level.
What research did you do for this novel to ensure that you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
I listened to an absurd amount of music! It’s funny to think of this as “research,” because the word conjures up images of dusty old libraries or science labs. I did most of my “research” in my car on the way to work—blasting my stereo at top volume! If only research could always be so much fun….
Is there anything about the narrator that came from yourself or your life experiences?
I like to think of myself as a relatively sane human being, and my narrator is clearly not. But other than that, he’s my doppelganger, my double. He’s a different version of me, just one that happens to be a little more bonkers.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
If YOUR BIGGEST FAN becomes a runaway bestseller, I was toying with the idea of writing a novel about an author who becomes such a huge celebrity that people are always stopping him on the street, asking him what breakfast cereal to buy or hitting him up on advice about how to raise their children! But in all seriousness, as anyone who has read my first novel can tell, I’m a huge fan of unreliable narrators. I’ve started working on my second book, which features a narrator who is even loopier than the one in YBF. Still plugging away—stay tuned!
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Your Biggest Fan is the debut literary work by Jeremy Rosenholtz, a dark and often hilarious metafictional fable about celebrity obsession, growing older, and the search for meaning in a world where the glamor of pop culture can be incompatible with the harshness of everyday life.
Glintborn Fools
J.L. Knight’s Glintborn Fools introduces readers to four teens from the quiet town of Colville, Washington, whose ordinary lives are thrown into chaos. Aria, whose life is ruled by an autoimmune disease, Sorin, a football player burdened by his looks and the wealth of his father, Michael, a teammate desperate to escape his low-class circumstances, and Claire, Sorin’s kind-hearted, popular cheerleader sister, are all forever changed after a mysterious light fills the night sky. Each gains newfound abilities: Michael discovers a sentient metal, Claire begins to see auras, Aria is miraculously cured and can perceive a shimmering dust, while Sorin starts to question his family’s secrets. As they adjust to their new powers, they stumble upon deep-rooted truths that threaten not just their town, but potentially the world itself. And amidst it all, a vampire with a thirst for blood lurks in the shadows.
This book was a captivating read that kept me hooked from the very first page. The action kicked off early and never let up, pulling me deeper into the unfolding mystery. I especially loved the small-town setting. There’s something thrilling about epic, fantastical adventures happening in the most unsuspecting places. Even Seattle makes an appearance, serving as home to a powerful vampire faction. The range of mythical creatures in this world is phenomenal, hidden elves, deities, dragons, and fauns, all navigating a tense coexistence. Knight masterfully weaves these elements together, creating an intricate mystery that entices you to keep reading, always leaving just enough unanswered to lure you into the next book. The villain is particularly well-written, dark, and complex, evoking pure hatred, which only heightens the drama. At first, I was intrigued by how easily Claire accepted the strange events unfolding around her. What I initially thought might be a bit too convenient in the story soon revealed itself to be a clever narrative choice. The other characters even acknowledge her calm attitude, turning what seemed like a simple reaction into a thoughtful and deliberate plot point. Although the pacing starts off at a rapid speed, it soon finds a comfortable rhythm, striking a perfect balance as the story progresses.
If you’re a fan of young adult fiction brimming with angst, magic, and sentient metals, I highly recommend Glintborn Fools. Knight has crafted an engaging page-turner, setting the stage for what promises to be a fantastic series. I’m already eager to dive into the next installment.
Pages: 243 : ASIN : B0CWFDM6WQ
LITERARY TITAN 