Blog Archives
The Concept of a Chimera
Split is the story of a boy born with genetic chimerism who faces bullying, identity crises, and the fear of following in his father’s footsteps. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
In early 2019, while at the pediatric cardiology office, I learned about a patient who was a fetal chimera. The patient learned about her diagnosis from an astute clinician who observed slight left vs. right-sided physical differences. I had read about chimera patients within the medical literature, but had never read about a protagonist with a chimera diagnosis. However, the scenario seemed perfect for a nature vs. nurture coming-of-age story.
I imagined my protagonist, a chimera, with left vs. right-sided physical differences, but most importantly, those differences aligned with traits he observed within his parents. Families often discuss the physical features of children, such as eye color, a pointed or rounded chin, or hair color, that are passed down through each generation. In my own family, my son is a near replica of when I was a child, and my daughter looks nearly identical to my wife. Those physical traits could serve as a constant reminder of the genetic differences between his left and right sides, creating the feeling that he had two different identities. Whenever he looked in the mirror, his two different colored eyes would stare back. If his mother were passive and his father was violent, it would give the protagonist reason to worry about which side might dominate their identity.
I began searching the literature, reading about various case reports, and watching an episode of CSI and All My Children, where each utilized a chimera as a character. I even discovered that the singer, Taylor Muhl, had recently told the world she was a chimera. The more I read, the more I decided to leverage the chimera diagnosis to highlight a nature vs. nurture theme. I then built the story around the concept of a chimera. I created Ethan, the protagonist in SPLIT, with heterochromia, or different colored eyes. Most physical differences in a chimera are subtle, but two different colored eyes would undoubtedly cause Ethan to be ostracized in school and bullied.
Is there anything from your own life included in the characters in Split?
There isn’t much from my own life that is included in the characters for Split. However, I did grow up on a beef farm outside of Saratoga, New York, and would often get lost playing in the corn fields!
What is it that draws you to write Teen and Young Adult fiction?
I think exploring how adolescents develop into adults is fascinating. There are so many influences between friends, family, genetics, and environment, that all have some impact on the development of who a person will become. Split explores this idea in a new and different way with the use of a chimera.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently working on a story about action vs indifference. When confronted with a dangerous situation, the historical adage was always fight or flight. However, I think there is a growing cohort who no longer flee but watch and record the event on a phone or mobile device. I’m not sure when this will be finished, as I am currently only half way through a first draft.
Author Links: Goodreads | Website
The Unassuming Vector
Xavier Ndukwe’s The Unassuming Vector follows the extraordinary journey of Gaston, a gifted child whose brilliance thrusts him into a world far larger and darker than his young mind can comprehend. The novel begins with a stunningly vivid scene of a ten-year-old prodigy lecturing professors on Egyptian hieroglyphics, then spirals into tragedy as a mysterious organization called Treftax shadows his life, culminating in the loss of his parents and his reluctant induction into its secretive ranks. What starts as a story about genius quickly evolves into a layered exploration of power, corruption, and destiny. The plot bends science, philosophy, and conspiracy into a narrative that feels both intimate and global. It’s a coming-of-age story wearing the clothes of a thriller.
I admired how the author wrote Gaston not as a flawless genius but as a lonely, grieving boy who thinks faster than he can feel. The writing hit me hardest when it slowed down, when Gaston stared at his father’s books, or when the chaos of Treftax’s marble halls clashed with the silence inside him. There’s a sharp intelligence in the prose, but it never turns cold. Some scenes lingered long on exposition while others, especially the moments of emotional breakthrough, ended abruptly. Even so, the story kept me curious, always nudging me to think about how ambition can twist into manipulation and how brilliance can become a burden.
What surprised me most was how the book’s ideas snuck up on me. Beneath the polished science-fiction surface lies a meditation on grief and control. Treftax isn’t just a villainous institution, it’s a mirror of society’s hunger to shape talent for its own ends. I caught myself wondering how much of Gaston’s journey was about survival and how much was surrender. The dialogue felt natural, and the moral tension felt real, especially when Gaston started questioning the motives of those who claimed to protect him. Ndukwe’s tone is calm, almost cinematic, and that made the darker turns hit harder. The ending, though abrupt, left a lingering ache that I couldn’t shake.
I’d recommend The Unassuming Vector to readers who love smart, character-driven stories that question power and destiny. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys mysteries with a philosophical twist, something between The Da Vinci Code and Ender’s Game. The book left me thinking about how genius can isolate, how institutions consume the individuals they praise, and how some stories don’t end, they just change direction.
Pages: 377 | ASIN : B0DL2CGFWT
Stories of Real Soldiers
That Such Men Lived follows a young German Jew who finds himself thrust into the chaos of WWII, dealing with grief and loss, and coping with anger and his own fears. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Both of my grandfathers served in World War II. As a sixteen-year Air Force veteran myself, I wanted to highlight the kinds of sacrifices that the men of this era went through. Given the prevalence of stories from this time in American history, I chose to focus on lesser-known aspects of larger campaigns, and I tried to bring the stories of mostly unknown soldiers to the forefront. It was Bruce Henderson’s book, Sons and Soldiers, that led to my focus on a protagonist like Johannes.
Can you share with us a little about the research process that went into putting this book together?
After deciding to write a book about World War II, I read as much as I could about the subject. I read books like The Iron Sea, by Simon Read, The Rifle, by Andrew Biggio, and The Last Battle by Stephen Harding. However, it wasn’t until I read Sons and Soldiers that I knew I had my story. After that, it was a matter of narrowing down the focus, and for that, a big help (probably the biggest help) was Four Stars of Valor by Phil Nordyke. I wanted to get the details right and highlight the stories of real men. In my historical notes within the book, I provide more details, but I’ve tried to ensure that the stories of real soldiers are included in That Such Men Lived.
How were you able to capture Johannes Schmitt’s thoughts and emotions?
I’ve been writing for a long time, and often as you write a character, they kind of begin to tell you their thoughts and emotions. Johannes was probably the most difficult for me to understand. His story went through a dozen different iterations before I developed enough of a relationship with him to understand his motivations. Despite the book being about 90K words, I probably wrote close to 200K before I finished. Spending that kind of time with someone (even someone fictional) helps you gain insight into their mind.
Can we look forward to seeing more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
That Such Men Lived was something of a departure from my normal writing, which focuses more on Medieval and Ancient history. I’m currently working on the fourth book for my series, The Crusader Chronicles, which follows the story of a thief-turned-knight during the First Crusade. I don’t yet have a working title, but I’m hoping to finish that up by the end of the year, with a potential early spring release.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
—General George S. Patton
Seventeen-year-old Johannes Schmitt can do nothing but watch as the Gestapo murders his father in his own home.
Forced to flee Germany, Johannes is torn from the girl he loves and the mother he swore to protect, boarding a ship to America with nothing but a suitcase, a broken Star of David, and the weight of survivor’s guilt. He arrives alone, enraged, and powerless to help those he loves.
That is, until he’s finally drafted into the US Army.
From there, Johannes is sent to the most unlikely of places: the top-secret Camp Ritchie, where he and fellow Jewish immigrants learn advanced interrogation techniques and German order of battle, strategies that promise to change the tides of the war. From the burning streets of Briedheim to the secretive Camp Ritchie to the very walls of Hitler’s Fortress Europe, Johannes must navigate a journey haunted by the past as he tries to keep his honor intact.
In this evocative retelling of the real-life German-born Jewish immigrants known as the Ritchie Boys, That Such Men Live is a gritty and emotional story of sacrifice, war, and maintaining hope when all seems lost.
Must: Becoming the Person You Are Meant to Be
Stephen Rue’s Must: Becoming the Person You Are Meant to Be is a powerful self-development guide that blends memoir, psychology, and motivation into one steady climb toward self-discovery. The book unfolds in three parts, Exploration, Implementation, and Integration, walking readers from personal reflection to purposeful action. Rue doesn’t just talk theory. He builds each idea from his life: the trauma of losing his stepfather, the pain of abandonment, the struggle of self-worth, and his long road to forgiveness. His “Must Mindset” is the core concept, the inner conviction that becoming your best self isn’t optional; it’s necessary. Rue mixes practical strategies with deeply human storytelling, making his lessons feel lived-in and real.
I admired how Rue handled pain without drama. His voice is calm and steady, but it carries weight. I found myself pausing often, thinking about my own limiting beliefs. The simplicity of his writing keeps the ideas grounded. He pulls in research from thinkers like Carol Dweck and Brené Brown but never lets it turn academic. I liked how he invites you to ask questions about your life, right there on the page, as if you’re part of a workshop. At times, the reflection prompts felt heavy, but in a good way; they make you stop scrolling through your day and actually think.
Emotionally, the book hit me hardest when Rue described forgiving his father. That scene, holding his father’s ashes and realizing he could no longer be angry, stuck with me. It’s rare to see that level of vulnerability in a self-help book. Rue’s writing sometimes drifts toward the inspirational-speech style, but it’s balanced by sincerity. I didn’t feel like he was selling me motivation; he was sharing hard-earned peace. The pacing allowed me to sit with his thoughts instead of rushing to the next “tip.”
Must isn’t just about becoming successful; it’s about becoming whole. I’d recommend this book to anyone standing at a crossroads, especially those who’ve felt broken or stuck for too long. It’s for people who want practical tools but also crave meaning behind them. If you’re willing to be honest with yourself and do the work, Rue’s words will meet you where you are and nudge you toward who you could be.
Pages: 564 | ASIN : B0FN993723
The Powers Within: Mystical Beings
Keona thought her life was perfect and ordinary. She is a clinical associate by day, a devoted mother, whose her world revolves around her two sons, Kenai and Kenmoni. Whispers, strange sounds and shadows, and a chill that is hinted that something is beyond her reach.
The darkness and demons arrive.
A demon enters her home, and Keona unleashes powers that she never knew she had, being able to manipulate earth, water, and air. She notices that her quiet life is shattered by a world hidden from view, filled with evil beings that feed on fear. Kenai and Kenmoni are starting to awaken their powers as well.
Now, they are in a battle that they thought they would never be in. Keona, Kenai, and Kenmoni are faced with a harsh truth: demons that walk the earth, and only those with spiritual powers can defeat them. As they wrestle with their newfound gifts, they discover a destiny where they have to protect humanity from darkness and beckon those with spiritual gifts to stand in their truth and not be ashamed of what they have been blessed with.
Can an ordinary family master their powers to save a world that is on the brink of a spiritual war?
Snoodles in Space: Escape from Zoodletraz
When Droodle the Poodle and Doo Doo Kidoodle tied the knot, they shattered the biggest rule on planet Zoodle: no pets allowed! As punishment, poor Droodle finds himself locked away in Zoodletraz, a prison from which no one has ever escaped. The question that drives the story is irresistible: can Droodle outsmart his captors and return to his beloved Doo Doo Kidoodle?
From the very first page, what stands out most is the comic book format. Children’s literature rarely embraces this style, making Snoodles in Space a delightful exception. Its layout instantly captures attention, not only from young readers but also from parents and educators seeking something fresh and visually engaging. Even reluctant readers will be drawn in, eager to follow the wild adventures of this eccentric cast.
Steven Joseph brings remarkable depth to his characters. In just a few panels, each one comes alive with personality and charm. Readers quickly form connections and root for them as if they’ve known them for ages. This emotional resonance, achieved through vivid details and playful dialogue, ensures that children will feel immersed in the world of Snoodles, Zoodles, and beyond.
The story also shines in its portrayal of community spirit. Whether celebrating victories or lending a hand in tough times, the inhabitants of Zoodle remind young readers of the value of kindness and cooperation. Through these moments, Joseph subtly imparts a lesson: helping others, no matter your age, shapes you into a compassionate, well-rounded person.
Andy Case’s illustrations elevate the story even further. His dynamic art bursts with energy, color, and imagination. Presented in a comic-book style, each page feels alive with detail and movement. The unique character designs and bold hues keep the reader’s eyes dancing from panel to panel. It’s the kind of book that invites you to linger and explore every corner of the artwork.
Snoodles in Space: Escape from Zoodletraz is a story that entertains both children and adults alike. With its clever concept, lively illustrations, and heartfelt humor, it’s a comic adventure that will have readers laughing, learning, and turning pages long past bedtime.
Pages: 80 | ASIN : B0FMKSM2CK
Introducing Lovecraft to Children
Cats of Ulthar: A Tale Reimagined follows a family of cats on the eve of returning home, where a father recounts to his children the tale of their grandfather, which begins as a bedtime story and becomes a dark memory of captivity, vengeance, and rebirth. What inspired you to reimage the famous H.P. Lovecraft story?
I have been a graphic novelist for over twenty years. The majority of my work has been reimagining Lovecraft for a new generation; largely introducing Lovecraft to children. It started with Howard Lovecraft and the Frozen Kingdom. That story spawned two other books in the series and three animated movies from them. My latest book before “Cats”, introduced children to Lovecraft’s character Herbert West. I’m honored to state that my work has been featured in the Chicago Tribune and Rue Morgue magazine.
What intrigues you about the horror and paranormal genres that led you to write this book?
Horror has intrigued me since I was young. It touches on the most primal, darkest side of humanity. I wrote Cats of Ulthar because I loved the original story, but also because it allowed me to delve into modern-day themes that the original did not. This story, wrapped in a bedtime story, deals with questions over modern-day authority, the line between freedom, and what we call “a pitchfork mob”.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Honestly, the final scene. This is a bedtime story, but the young cubs never hear what truly happens because they fall asleep. The father reveals he would never tell them the ugly side of this story because he wants to protect them from the ugliness of the world. It rang true to me as a natural protective moment coming from a parent, but that parent also wishes to unburden himself as an adult and relieve himself of some of the ugliness in the world.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I just finished a futuristic short story about A.I. It defines comfort as a prison. It was inspired by seeing people turning to A.I. to make their lives easier. Slowly watching society turn to A.I. for the “comfort”, or an easy way to create “art”, or even book a vacation, haunts me deeply because I do not see it ending well. I also am fleshing out a graphic novel that is most definitely horror. I can’t predict when the next book will be released because creating stories in this form takes many people, but being a graphic novelist has been my passion for many decades, and I will never stop creating.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
LITERARY TITAN 