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The Beauty and Destructive Power of Friendship
Beautiful and Terrible Things follows a twenty-nine-year-old woman who manages a bookstore who meets a quirky man, and takes a chance stepping out of her comfort zone and making new friends. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
First, I decided what age group I wanted to dig into. I was bothered by the stereotype of Millennials as self-indulgent, unmotivated and entitled. That does not describe my daughters or their friends at all. So I decided to feature a more realistic cast of Millennials in my novel.
I also liked this age for my characters because people on the cusp of 30 are grappling with major life decisions about marriage, children, careers, etc.
Once I had the age down, my goal was to depict both the beauty and the destructive power of friendship by building a cast of characters that reminds readers of New Girl, Friends or The Big Bang Theory. Making the lead character, Charley, an introvert with borderline depression gave me lots of room to explore that concept and show her personal growth. And quirky Xander was the perfect foil for her, one capable of pulling her out of her self-imposed social isolation.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
Emotionally, my six main characters bring very different sensibilities to the table. My guideline was simply to make them as real as possible. Morally, my goal was to present differing views on difficult subjects. For example, the friends spar over the issue of undocumented immigrants. But most important for a story featuring six individuals of varied race, heritage, gender identity and sexual orientation was to be sensitive to how I depicted them.
I was fortunate to have the guidance of many sensitivity readers on the cultural, race, mental health and immigration aspects of the book. I even got feedback from a Filipino artist, who matches one of the characters!
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
First, that we don’t always do what’s best for us, sometimes because we don’t see it, sometimes because we don’t want to see it, and sometimes because we acknowledge it but for some foolish reason think it might, against all odds, work out differently.
Second, that in trying to do right by one person, we sometimes hurt another. Such is the case when Jessica, in Beautiful and Terrible Things, makes a major sacrifice to help pull Charley out of her depression, but her actions end up hurting another loved one in a very tragic way.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
My next novel, 101 Ways to Screw Up a Kid, is about the toll that secrets take on a family. It features a (hopefully) loveable curmudgeon similar to Elizabeth Zott in Lessons in Chemistry. And I’m co-writing a true crime memoir, which is a bit different for me. It’s a highly compelling story about how a rape victim and the investigating detective work together to catch the suspect, and then fall in love years later. I’m working on securing agents/publishers for both.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram
Inspiration Comes From All Over
Replacement Parts is a collection of short stories featuring a cast of characters struggling with personal demons and societal expectations in small-town America. What was the inspiration for your collection?
This book was so many years in the making, it’s difficult to say the direct inspiration. Part of it is pulled from stories I hear from people around me. Veterans told me their war stories, inspiring a piece in the collection. My neighbor is a police officer and told me details about his night shifts. Friends and students who worked in group homes for troubled kids told me some horrific, as well as funny, tales. Each turned into a story in the book.
Also, part of it was from when I taught in a small town where the main source of employment, a factory, was shut down, affecting the community, which became the inspiration for the town of Dexton in the book.
Another was the fact that I published each story independently, threw them into a manuscript, and a writer friend noticed the stories had similar characters and plot points. So, instead of feeling like a one-trick pony, there was potential for a linked collection following a novelistic arc between the characters over several years/generations.
Then there’s just living in Iowa, with its turbulent weather—floods and droughts, blizzards and tornados—and endless landscape, as well as it’s working class roots, that informed the backdrop of every sentence.
Do you have a favorite story in Replacement Parts? One whose characters especially resonate with you
That’s a tough one—but I’d have to say my favorite story is Birmingham House, the third story in the collection. It takes place in a teenage group home and is told in 10 scenes, each narrated by a different character—each with a distraught past so that every vignette moves to a quick climax. Some characters established earlier in the book reappear in the home. Others are introduced for the first time, only to arrive again later in the collection. The setting really spoke to me: these stories of kids with traumatic backgrounds, all struggling and acting out, which on the surface makes them look like ‘bad’ kids. So finding the heart and humanity behind these facades was an inspiring experience.
As for characters, I love Geoff, a young boy who appears late in the collection and befriends a new girl suffering from cancer. I admire his innocence and big heart. But my favorite character is probably Hannah—she was the first character I framed the collection around—she’s tough and funny and vulnerable, so I let her guide the book by kicking it off in the first story, reappearing several times throughout, and finally ending the book.
I find that authors sometimes ask themselves questions and let their characters answer them. Do you think this is true for your characters?
It’s true, as I write I have no answers, just questions as I discover things—but I don’t know if there’s ever any answers either. In fact, when I feel a story is close to offering a moral, advice, an answer to a big question, I often veer away from this impulse in order to open up more questions by the end—so hopefully the reader will walk away pondering the story, wrestling with it, as opposed to feeling one way about it.
Also, by doing this, you can explore the complexity behind people. For instance, Carl is a character who appears several times throughout the book—and may be the most unlikable character. So, he was fun to write, and it gave me the responsibility to find his humanity—try to understand why he does certain things most would find ugly.
Same with Geoff, who is maybe the most likeable character—how can his innocence be a problem? He’s a ‘good kid’, but he makes mistakes, refuses to stand up for a friend—and how often do we all fall into that fear?
So some easy answers I want to complicate. And some questionable characters will hopefully become easier to identify with by the end.
Can fans look forward to more fiction works from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Short stories are my passion. But I’m trying some new things—at least for me—when it comes to style, structure, and adding more humor my writing.
And I’m working on a novel based on three points of view, based on a family suffering loss. Plus, there’s comic book museums, and conservative Christian high schools, and new-age retreats, and road trips, and Ouija board séances, and….in other words, it’s a bit of a crazy mess right now—but also a fun work in progress.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website
The local sheriff searches for a missing girl while trying to reconcile with his estranged daughter. A returning soldier, haunted by violent visions, finds his hometown no longer feels like home. When a girl loses her mother, she forges an unlikely family with a mysterious drifter and a man claiming to be her father. Within a center for troubled teens, intersecting narrators get caught in purgatory between the past and future. And in the title story, a child befriends a sick classmate, forcing the boy to pick sides in a school that shuns weakness.
In Replacement Parts, a debut collection by Marc Dickinson, we witness a recurring cast of characters as they navigate their way from adolescence to adulthood. Intimate in nature but novelistic in scope, these twelve linked stories span the generations, each replacing the next until everyone is finally forced to face their own dark history.
Learning Should Be Fun
Our Dinosaurs: Discoveries, Distinctions, & More takes readers on a journey through the prehistoric period to explore the age of dinosaurs and make the science of paleontology accessible to children and adults alike. What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write this book?
I always had a fondness for dinosaurs as a little boy, and when Julie and I were discussing our next educational book to follow “Our Planets: Moons, Myths, & More,” I suggested we do a book about these ancient creatures. At first, Julie wasn’t as excited as I was, seeing the idea as a mammoth project, but she was equally excited as me when our research began.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
We had several goals. First, we wanted to share dinosaurs that really don’t make it into the spotlight. Second, we always want to present information or find connections that perhaps haven’t been thought about or presented yet. Third, we always want to make a fun and entertaining presentation. Learning should be fun.
Did you discover anything surprising in your research of this book?
Yes, quite a bit. There is a diversity of dinosaurs, especially in their size, and there are discrepancies regarding each species. In the end, we reconciled this as paleontology is a living science, and by that we mean it is an ever-changing, ever-evolving science, as new information is found almost daily. We may never know all the truths about dinosaurs, but we know a heck of a lot more today than we did in 1676 when Robert Plot described the first dinosaur bone.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be published?
Julie and I are constantly working on books and since the publication of “Our Dinosaurs: Discoveries, Distinctions, & More” we’ve published our third children’s fantasy poetry book, “The Enchanted Faerie Realm, Too Volume 3,” a pair of ABC children’s concept books offering nutritional information entitled “Fruitabet: the alphabet one fruit at a time” and “Vegetabites: the alphabet one veggie at a time,” also “Ho’oponopono: Words to Forgive and Love, ”Illusion, The Lighter Half, Volume 4,” and “Slag & Other Worthy Things.” Oh, and “Monster Me ABCs: My First Look at Understanding Me,” a concept book about emotions with tips for parents on helping children de-escalate when their emotions run away.
Still, this year, we plan to publish the second book, “The Literary Hedgehog” in our Hedgerow Series, which includes book one, “The Poetry Mouse,” published in 2022, and maybe one more children’s book this year, too. Regarding my writing, I have two poetry books slated for publication, one in December of this year, “New Year’s Frost” and one in January 2025, “Beyond This Realm.” I’m also working on my first fiction novel. Julie’s writing a YA version about understanding emotions and has a MG supernatural vampire story coming out later this year. Next on our educational list of books to write? It just might be “Our Periodic Table,” and I wonder what fun spin we’ll put on it.
Julie L. Kusma Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Instagram | Website
Derek R. King Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Instagram | Website
Dive into the prehistoric world of “Our Dinosaurs: Discoveries, Distinctions, & More” and embark on an extraordinary journey through time. From the dawn of Earth’s formation to the twilight of the Mesozoic Era, this captivating book offers a panoramic view of the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous Periods, where giants once roamed and ruled.
Uncover the mysteries of Paleontology as you explore the fascinating realms of Saurischian and Ornithischian Dinosaurs. From the fearsome predators of the Theropoda and the colossal herbivores of the Sauropodomorpha to the majestic Ceratopsia, formidable Ankylosauria, and graceful Ornithopoda, witness the incredible diversity and distinctiveness of these ancient creatures.
Discover where dinosaurs are now and unravel the tales of the pioneering dinosaur hunters who traversed uncharted lands in the 1800s and 1900s, laying the groundwork for modern paleontological discoveries. Meet the trailblazers of today who continue to unearth new fossils and push the boundaries of our understanding of the prehistoric past.
Packed with mesmerizing artist representations, engaging activities, and some coloring pages, “Our Dinosaurs” offers an immersive experience for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages. This book is sure to spark your imagination and ignite your passion for these ancient marvels.
Beyond the Bukubuk Tree: A World War II Novel of Love and Loss
Set against the tumultuous backdrop of New Guinea in 1941, Beyond the Bukubuk Tree, by Loretta Goldberg, is a masterfully crafted tale of heroism, sacrifice, and hope amidst the terrors of war. The story centers on two compelling characters: Jake Friedman, an idealistic young Jewish doctor from Melbourne, and Alex Whipple, a Catholic veteran of the First World War with a troubled past. Both men are posted to Lark Force, an under-resourced battalion defending the port town of Rabaul, and both carry secrets that haunt them. Jake is tormented by guilt over the death of a colleague he believes he caused, while Whipple struggles with memories of his chequered past in post-war Paris. Their relationship deepens as they face the impending Japanese invasion, leading to a desperate retreat through the jungle. This harrowing journey tests their courage and will to survive, with Jake facing the ultimate trials of bravery and Whipple battling his desire to live.
Author Loretta Goldberg’s meticulous research and rich narrative bring to life a lesser-known battle of the Pacific War. The novel explores themes of love, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit against overwhelming adversity. The characters are deeply complex and vividly portrayed, making their struggles and growth profoundly affecting. Beyond the Bukubuk Tree stands out not only as a gripping war novel but also as a poignant love story. The relationship between Jake and Whipple is sensitively and beautifully developed, set against the chaotic and dangerous backdrop of war.
Goldberg’s lyrical prose immerses readers in the tropical paradise of Rabaul, capturing both its beauty and its peril. The novel’s authentic portrayal of historical events, emotional depth, and character-driven narrative make it an unforgettable read. Readers will be captivated by the detailed descriptions, the intense battle sequences, and the touching moments of tenderness and connection. It’s a book that not only entertains but also offers a profound reflection on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of war’s horrors.
Beyond the Bukubuk Tree is an absorbing and satisfying read that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who picks it up. Loretta Goldberg has crafted a remarkable novel that combines the best elements of historical fiction and romance, making it a must-read for fans of both genres.
Pages: 395 | ASIN : B0D4MH8D63
Elven Blood: Volume 1 of the Vellhor Saga
Elven Blood, the first volume in Mark Stanley’s Vellhor Saga, is an enthralling tale of forbidden love and epic fantasy. In a world fraught with ancient enmities, chaos erupts when Gunnar, the dwarven throne’s heir, falls in love with Anwyn, an elven exile. As external forces threaten the realm, Anwyn and Gunnar navigate a web of hostile alliances and betrayal, striving to avert war, destruction, and sorcery while pursuing their illicit love.
Mark Stanley demonstrates remarkable storytelling and world-building skills, crafting a vivid and immersive fictional universe. His descriptive writing style effortlessly brings to life the diverse and intricate settings, making it easy for readers to visualize each scene. Stanley’s use of figurative language enhances the narrative, painting chaotic scenes and complex environments with precision and depth. The plot explores several compelling themes, including forbidden love, longstanding enmities, and emotional turmoil. The romance between Gunnar and Anwyn is central to the story, adding a layer of intensity and passion that drives the narrative forward. The characters are well-developed and unique, each contributing to the story’s richness. The protagonists’ journey together showcases impressive character development, while the supporting cast adds depth and quality to the tale. One of the standout features of Elven Blood is the inclusion of a glossary and a map at the beginning of the book. These additions provide valuable context and enhance the reader’s understanding of the world Stanley has created, making the experience more engaging and enjoyable.
Elven Blood by Mark Stanley is a captivating start to the Vellhor Saga, offering a blend of romance, fantasy, and adventure. Stanley’s exceptional world-building and character development make this book a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and intricate love stories. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an immersive and thrilling read.
Pages: 250 | ASIN : B0D73WRBP7
Temple Made: Profiles in Grit
Temple Made by Ronnyjane Goldsmith is a compelling narrative of greatness and resilience, chronicling the stories of thirty alumni from Temple University. Through personal anecdotes and detailed accounts of their accomplishments, Goldsmith explores the diverse and remarkable achievements of these individuals in sports, music, politics, medicine, art, photography, fashion, business, and more. From Daniel Aaron’s rise from a rough upbringing and foster care to becoming a leader in cable subscription sales through door-to-door marketing, to Walter Bahr’s pivotal role in the U.S. national soccer team’s historic 1950 World Cup victory against England, the book is brimming with inspiring tales.
The individuals in the book faced numerous challenges and discouraging situations, yet their lives were profoundly impactful. One particularly striking story is that of David Goodis, whose big break came after enduring continuous disappointment and rejection. His journey, like many others in the book, serves as a powerful message to persist in the face of obstacles and strive for excellence. Goldsmith excels at compiling information from various sources to create a highly enlightening and engaging book. The inclusion of opinions and quotes from the alumni themselves, as well as insights from other writers like Andrew Nette, adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. A standout perspective is provided by Ralph Rucci, who emphasizes the importance of not following trends and developing a personal point of view. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy stories of great achievements and historical narratives. With its multiple protagonists and diverse backgrounds, the book offers themes that resonate with a wide audience, including ethical healthcare practices, passion, depression, the struggles of making a living as an artist, and overcoming naysayers.
Goldsmith’s stories underscore the power of giving everyone a fair chance to prove themselves, regardless of their origins. Temple Made exemplifies this, showcasing the successful alumni from various races, cultures, and countries. This book is not only valuable to students and alumni of Temple University but also to anyone seeking inspiration to achieve greatness, make a significant impact, and learn successful practices across different industries.
Pages: 163 | ASIN : B09G8N6MPM
The Monarchs
In a world where large-eyed, psychic children are tested in laboratories each Sunday, life is far from fun. Amidst the ruins of democracy and bombed-out cities, Samuel Helen embarks on a journey to a magical sanctuary, accompanied by a playful girl with unconventional pacifist tendencies. His quest is not only to save the girl he loves from a comatose state but also to escape the relentless rebels on his trail. Mark Sabbas’ The Monarchs is a mesmerizing tale set in a chaotic yet magical and spiritual futuristic dystopia.
The book offers an intense emotional and mental journey unlike any other. Samuel’s reflections and dreams seamlessly blend with reality in a mind-bending narrative that keeps readers guessing from start to finish. The Monarchs is filled with brilliant surprises and compelling clues. Just when Samuel’s troubles seem to be over, unexpected attacks keep readers on edge, fearing for the protagonist’s life. The villains are ruthless, willing to go to any lengths to achieve their goals. One of the book’s standout features is its impeccable world-building. From rich stories of past destructions to a deadly rebellious group and dystopian tyrants experimenting on children, Sabbas creates a vivid and immersive universe. The narrative smoothly integrates themes of black magic, the third eye, telekinesis, telepathy, love, empathy, friendship, enmity, and energetic healing. Fans of psychic and spiritual themes will find much to enjoy in this novel.
As an admirer of artistic novels, I appreciated the author’s ability to describe mesmerizing scenes and weave therapeutic words. The Monarchs offers a thrilling adventure that excellently blends magic, danger, and love. This addictive, masterfully crafted world should not end with one story. I eagerly await its sequels, as Mark Sabbas has given readers a taste of a treat they didn’t know they needed.
Pages: 460 | ASIN : B0CTHRFGKB
Cauldron of Wrath
When Malcolm Hendricks questions his ability to lead the FBI’s Southern California Joint Terrorism Task Force, he is unprepared for the extreme challenges that await him. Lebanese terrorists, organized, ruthless, and determined, have committed an unthinkable act. Smuggling two nuclear devices into the United States via Mexico, they aim to execute a grand plan that threatens not only the country but potentially the entire world. Hendricks finds himself in a frantic race against time, as death looms ever closer to an unsuspecting group of workers at a crucial drilling site.
Terrence Poppa’s Cauldron of Wrath is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller that takes readers on a gripping journey from beyond the Mexican border to Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park. The stakes are high, with the potential destruction of the United States hanging in the balance. The plot is meticulously developed and paced, creating a palpable sense of desperation as law enforcement and terrorists engage in a tense cat-and-mouse chase.
The FBI’s use of spy movie-esque tools adds an edge to their efforts, but the terrorists’ cunning ensures that the outcome remains uncertain, heightening the suspense at key moments. The plot’s plausibility is commendable, though I feel it does have a distinctly United States-centric perspective. While this focus is understandable given the setting, the global implications of the terrorists’ plan present an opportunity to escalate the stakes further, which sometimes feels underexplored. The characters driving the narrative largely fit into clearly defined roles of heroes and villains. However, there are instances of moral ambiguity, with some characters’ arcs aiming for emotional depth, and I believe this occasionally detracts from the overall momentum of an otherwise riveting story.
Cauldron of Wrath is a compelling thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Its high-stakes plot, well-matched adversaries, and relentless pacing make it a standout in the genre. This book is particularly well-suited for fans of action-packed narratives and those interested in espionage and terrorism-themed stories.
Pages: 318 | ASIN : B0D755SY35
LITERARY TITAN 