Blog Archives
New Aquatic Friends
Daisy Meets the Dolphins follows a loveable little dog who goes on a boating adventure and meets some bottlenose dolphins. What was the inspiration for the main character’s traits and dialogue?
Daisy Meets the Dolphins was created for our 25th wedding anniversary, on that day we all took a day trip to an near by island called Rathlin Island not far from Ballycastle, a coastal resort in Northern Ireland.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to create an adventure book with Daisy meeting her new aquatic friends from the ocean, filling it full of heartwarming hugs to bring to life the power of connecting with different cultures and the joys of friendship with others regardless of where they are from. I hoped to use this book to spark meaningful conversations and inspire kindness in children.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
To explore the world through the eyes of Daisy? When writing, staying true to yourself and letting your heart guide you is essential. After all, there are so many stories and adventures we want to share! With every paw step we take, I wanted to ensure my readers felt they were right there with us, experiencing every wag of the tail and sniff of the nose that Daisy takes. I wish for every reader to handle all the emotions and see all the pictures in their little minds as we embark on this journey together. Woof! Says Daisy…
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
Each book is unique and very different as we explore the world and write another Daisy story.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Join Daisy, Blue and friends on this sunny, fun-filled day, as they laugh, play games by the ocean… and create another magical Daisy story!
The Adventurers and the Underground River
Bea and her brother Chris eagerly anticipate a castle tour of Portugal with their cousins, Tony and Daniel. The quartet, accompanied by their witty avian companion, Jack the Crow, set off on a guided exploration of fortresses, keeps, and monasteries. Alongside the primarily elderly tourists, Bea and her family soon discover that a particular pair of middle-aged women seem to harbor ill intentions toward the children. As their journey unfolds, the young Adventurers uncover a perilous scheme while investigating Portugal’s historic castles. Finally, at nightfall, the foursome finds themselves fighting for survival within the enigmatic stone halls of an ancient monastery.
The Adventurers and the Underground River by Isabel Ricardo is the second book in this mysterious and entertaining series. This exciting story can be read as a standalone book or after reading book 1 because the author provides ample backstory to familiarize readers with the main characters. The four cousins—spirited Bea, intellectual Chris, composed Tony, and witty Daniel—are instantly endearing, as is their loyal friend, Jack the Crow. The vivid portrayal of Portugal’s history, from battles and warriors to noble kings and sagacious monks, is thoroughly captivating. The tale of Queen Inez and King Pedro is particularly enchanting, demonstrating the author’s ability to weave engaging historical elements into an action-packed narrative. Echoing the timeless charm of Hardy Boys and Bobbsey Twins mysteries, this adventure is laden with exhilarating action and enlightening historical content. With mild language and the presence of firearms, the story is an ideal choice for readers aged 10 and up who appreciate intelligent, intrepid heroes collaborating to save the day. The thrilling conclusion leaves ample opportunity for future escapades in this world.
The Adventurers and the Underground River is a riveting young adult novel that takes middle-grade readers on an unforgettable adventure. This engaging tale is a valuable addition to any home library, perfect for those who cherish classic, lighthearted mysteries reminiscent of a bygone era.
Pages: 210 | ISBN : 1949868850
Cherry’s Big Wish
Today is a special day for Cherry the mermaid as she celebrates her birthday and wishes to make new friends. With a burst of magic, Cherry is transported to Fizzheart, a wondrous fairyland where she meets four new fairy friends who each possess unique magical talents. Together, they embark on an unforgettable adventure where Cherry is transformed into a fairy, and they spend the day learning about each other, playing games, and having a great time. However, Cherry is reminded of her birthday party with her mermaid friends and the need to return home. Will she find the magic within her to make her way back home?
Cherry’s Big Wish is a captivating children’s book that takes young readers on a magical journey, teaching them that they possess the magic within themselves to achieve their dreams. Author Céline Beckner tells a fast-moving story that is filled with charismatic characters and charming creatures both under the sea and on land. The plot is highly imaginative and presented in easy-to-understand language that is suitable for early elementary school children to read independently or as an enchanting bedtime story.
The illustrations in this fantastic children’s book are striking and colorful, capturing the reader’s imagination on every page. Each character is expertly drawn and looks as if they could be straight out of a Disney animation. The characters are diverse and unique in their own way, bringing a sense of diversity and authenticity to the story.
Cherry’s Big Wish is a delightful children’s book that follows a charming mermaid on an exhilarating adventure where she discovers new friends, learns about herself, and has fun while doing it. I highly recommend this spirited children’s book to anyone looking for a magical fantasy adventure.
Pages: 30 | ISBN: 1999167813
Molly Shipton: Secret Actress
In Molly Shipton: Secret Actress by Sheri Graubert, readers are transported to an era devoid of modern conveniences such as electricity and running water. Set in a time when women’s abilities and contributions were often underestimated, despite having a reigning queen, the novel provides a vivid portrayal of the societal constraints faced by women during that period.
The story follows the journey of Molly and her younger sister Juliet, who, having lost their family and home to the plague, find their way to Stratford. Seeking liberation from the limitations imposed on them as women, the sisters disguise themselves as boys, allowing them to explore their passions for singing, acting, and playing the lute without hindrance. As the plot unfolds, Molly and Juliet struggle to survive on the streets, eventually making their way to London, where they have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of theatre.
Brimming with energy and a zest for life, the author’s voice resonates through each character, offering a captivating and fast-paced reading experience. Rich in detail, Molly Shipton: Secret Actress masterfully incorporates elements of suspense as the risk of the sisters being discovered looms throughout the narrative. The novel serves as a powerful reminder of the rewards of pursuing one’s dreams despite the odds. This exceptional novel boasts inspiring characters, a Shakespearean flair that is both entertaining and poetic, and a focus on the resilience of women in the face of societal constraints. The novel delves into the complex dynamics of Molly’s relationships, offering authentic portrayals of love and camaraderie.
Throughout the story, the female characters demonstrate defiance against their lack of rights, each in their own way. With an engaging plot that is both witty and adventurous, Molly Shipton: Secret Actress is a delightful exploration of the power of determination and the human spirit.
Pages: 311 | ASIN: B0BD2N6Q6R
Witches Could Be Clever
Winifred the Wonder Witch follows a whimsical good-natured witch who uses creative problem-solving in different situations to help herself and others.What was the inspiration for these stories?
The inspiration to write ‘Flying Santa’ and ‘Winifred the Wonder Witch’ was my granddaughters. When they were small I told them many stories, and these were the two that resulted in a book.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
I thought that witches in many stories had ‘a bad rap.’ I wanted to show that witches could be clever, kind and helpful – like many other heroes.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Winifred is an excellent problem solver. From Winifred, children could learn how to be smart, kind, and help those in need. She also knows how and when to involve others in her projects.
Will there be more stories about Winifred the Wonder Witch, and when will they be available?
There may be more Winifred books, but only if ‘Winifred the Wonder Witch’ proves to be popular.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
In the second story, we meet the princesses who want to save the dragons; because ‘there aren’t many dragons left in the world.’ Winifred, as she does in ‘Flying Santa,’ comes to the rescue in her inimitable, dramatic and exciting style.
This Disturbed View Of The World
Malketh and the Undead follows three young knights on a journey who encounter a villain that wishes to reclaim the land for himself, and he brings an army. What was the inspiration for your story?
I much wanted to have a more classic bad guy (with some explanation) for this book. That way the youth would have an easy time rooting against. I wanted it to be a little tragic, like it didn’t have to be this way. So, I layered in Malketh as a person who has a filter that he put on everything that he listened to and took in. His subjectivity doesn’t allow him to take in the truth so he gets this disturbed view of the world and it affects his actions.
As a secondary part, I wanted to explore the protagonists a little more. The first book set them on a journey. So, it was more about the places they were going and who they were pursuing. Here, we get a little more insight into the three.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing or did it come out organically as you were writing?
Since I was going with the undead, I wanted it to feel urgent and a bit scary. In that way, I had a definite tone laid out. I had a direction as well, but I never want to control this too much in my storytelling. It may crimp some great ideas.
What was your process in writing the characters interactions to develop the bond they have?
I use real people as inspirations. That way I can make my characters more consistent. Then, I make them converse quite a bit. I find that dialogue makes reading easier for youth as it gives them more natural breaks. That devise becomes the vital way on which they relate.
In this book, I gave my main characters something for which to compete. That brought out there true natures. So, I put that in the earlier chapters, to create some connection between the readers and the three.
What future adventures do you have in store for Raven Romda and Ravai?
It’s funny. I already have a third book written, but I am actually evaluating right now whether I should put it out next. So, I am in the middle of writing two more. The hesitancy comes from what I would like to address. Where magic will be allowed in the kingdom is a big question, since it had been outlawed and is making its way back in to fashion. I also have to start to do more than hinting at my multi-book story arc. In my mind that is the actually story with these books being sub-stories. The first of the three books that I am finishing is a story about a rebellious town using magic. I employ multiple villains pitted against each other so that the plot is a little unpredictable. The second book is about three former mentors of Raven, Romda and Ravia coming back and having a less than positive impact. I’m growing fonder of this one because it will have many colorful characters in it, and will give a look into the life inside kingdom. The third book has about one-third of a nearby town going mysteriously missing. This has a twist or two in the plot and helps detach somewhat from the traditional epic fantasy themes.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Amidst the boredom, Ravai asks, “Why does no one talk about villains from the past?”
Romda reasons, “What would be the point?”
There is a point. Even though villains may be defeated, they may still be around, waiting in the background ready to resurface once again. From the rubble and debris in which he was buried, Malketh has returned. Presumed dead, he now rises with a fury. His rage is fixed on what he believes belongs to him, the entire kingdom.
Malketh was not always like this. Once known as a mage of incredible knowledge and aptitude, he had admiration and opportunity. He started to investigate ancient and intentionally abandoned magic. That investigation became his downfall. When his mechanizations went wrong, Malketh was expelled from the kingdom.
Malketh has returned to the kingdom … different. He is back with an entire army … an entire army of undead soldiers!
Raven, Romda and Ravai are thinking, maybe hoping, that their hardest task is behind them. However, they will be blindsided by this coming force for which they won’t be ready. Their banter will soon be replaced by a call to action. And, action will come a-plenty.
How do you defeat an army with three people? Raven, Romda and Ravai will have to face this new challenge, and rise up like Malketh and the Undead.
A great story for the fantasy loving youth, this adventure will appeal to those who like action and humor in an easy reading environment. Following their adventures in The Dark Beast, this second book in the Raven, Romda and Ravai series raises the stakes in a continuing journey of the three.
A Huge, Epic Tale About Hawaii
Islanders: The Pacific Chronicles (Book 1) follows a brother and sister who, while on a hike, develop magical abilities and make new friends. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My brother and I knew we wanted to capture what it was like to explore the tropical forests, grassy hills, beaches and lava fields of the Hawaiian Islands so that was the core and heart of the story. Quickly we realized that so much of what we discovered as adventure when we were kids was a combination of our imaginations and the education about Hawaii we had received. My wife and daughter are very much Kilikina — a fascinating combination of both reserved and natural leaders. People are drawn to them and frequently they both wonder why, but the rest of us around them know. Kaimana is a combination of both my boys: more outgoing, impulsive and energetic. And finally, my brother and I had always longed for a huge, epic tale about Hawaii that involved the rich history, mythology and lore that we thought was so amazing, but we never could find it. So as adults, we decided to write it.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
We wanted to capture the age, perspective and experiences as a pre-teen and teenager would. The book is intentionally less descriptive and detailed in its world-building and more observational and theatrical because that’s how most kids that age see the world. They’re engaging with it, not necessarily taking in every aspect of their surroundings to remember and describe it later as adults most likely would. Also I have ADHD so it was morally important to me that this is not a boring series. We are committed to being sincere and authentic with our portrayal of our home State while also taking many creative and exciting liberties that keep kids (and adults) with a wide array of attention spans fully engaged all the way through. We promise if you or your children read these books they will learn far more about Hawaii than you would expect, and have a blast the whole time.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The biggest theme in this book is a positive association with what it means to defend what is right and good. We believe if kids are entertained, made to laugh, emotionally connect with and understand the value of respecting and protecting indigenous plants, animals, ecosystems, history and mythology/legends, they will naturally do what all kids do when they love something: defend it. To abruptly shift gears, many people don’t realize Hawaii has an unique and powerful culture that values quick banter and jokes even in many of the most formal or serious settings. The Menehune, animals and sea creatures all have that local-style sense of humor and reflect Hawaii’s real-life culture. We want kids to come away having experienced some of what makes Hawaii so special. And lastly, a major theme throughout every book is that we promise you won’t know what is coming next almost the whole time. Try us. If we’re wrong, let us know and we will absolutely give you a refund.
Can you tell us what the second book will be about and when it will be available for fans to purchase?
This is the first time this information will have been made public. Book 2, Kaimana (the older brother) steps into a critically supportive role and we will be first surprised then fascinated as an 11 year-old girl executes an incredible wartime leadership role defined by her compassion and command of a complicated large-scale military defense. It’s been wild to capture but I absolutely believe that is what would happen if my daughter was put in the same position. The bad guys are very bad, the good guys are good, but nothing comes easily and there are loads of surprises alongside many, many laughs. We’ve incorporated the native Hawaiian language, food, authentic historical armor and weapons (scaled down for animals) and military tactics. Several ancient Hawaiian myths are retold and integrated in a way that builds into a huge, epic, never-before-seen original tale. I’m also crushed to say: a character we met in book 1 won’t survive to the end of book 2. One thing to note: as a father of four with a fifth on the way, we will keep this and the subsequent books appropriate for all ages. If you enjoy Islanders and submit your email on our website, we’ll send you the first few chapters of Book 2 shortly!
Mākaha: The Pacific Chronicles (Book 2) will be made available on digital and softcover on May 15th, 2023 and is available for digital pre-order now at this link. Mahalo Literary Titan for your thorough and gracious review and excellent interview questions!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Guided by a quirky and silly duo from a mythical race of tiny people, the siblings soon learn they have been chosen to help protect their island and way of life from a great evil. Are they up to the challenge?
LITERARY TITAN 