Blog Archives
Luciana’s Finest Hour
Luciana’s Finest Hour is a whimsical and heartwarming tale set in the medieval land of Knowhere, where a clever young girl named Luciana teams up with her sneezy pet dragon, Diego, to rescue her wrongly imprisoned father. The story blends fantasy, humor, and an empowering message about courage and resilience. As Luciana enters a dragon derby disguised as a boy, she defies expectations, faces down bullies, and ultimately wins the race and her father’s freedom, proving that true grit isn’t bound by age or gender.
What immediately stood out to me was the book’s tone; it maintains a sense of playfulness without veering into excessive silliness, which is a difficult balance to achieve in children’s literature. I found myself chuckling when Bottlemy, Luciana’s dad, starts belching uncontrollably every time he tries to blow glass due to Balthazar’s ridiculous cabbage spell. That kind of humor is silly, yes, but it’s also smart. Kids will laugh, and adults will appreciate how it ties directly into the plot’s larger theme of time gone haywire. The imagery is fun and vivid. I could practically hear the burps and see the bulging, broken hourglasses falling apart.
Luciana herself is a wonderfully drawn character; she is determined, brave, and real. I loved that she wasn’t perfect. When Luciana crashes into the snow following yet another underhanded tactic by Conrad and his companions, she momentarily loses hope and says, “I give up.” The moment resonated deeply because it captures a universal feeling of defeat that many readers, regardless of age, can relate to. But then Diego nudges her, and she finds her resolve again. That moment felt honest and powerful without being heavy-handed. I was cheering when Diego finally sneezed fire and melted the snow blockade. It was an epic moment that gave me goosebumps.
The final act was genuinely touching. When Luciana wins the race and her father is freed, it’s a payoff that feels earned. Even Balthazar’s apology and the king’s choice to make both him and Bottlemy “co-timekeepers” wrapped things up in a way that emphasized forgiveness and working together. I liked that it didn’t make the villain cartoonishly evil. He made a mistake, admitted it, and got a second chance. That’s a great lesson for kids (and adults, too). And Luciana’s line at the end, “Papa, it’s our time,” was the perfect close.
This book would be a hit for kids around 7 to 11, especially girls who love dragons, clever inventions, or stories with heart and humor. It’s also a great read-aloud choice for parents who want something that’s fun but not fluff. There’s action, a strong female lead, and a healthy dose of quirky charm. Luciana’s Finest Hour definitely lives up to its name. I had a blast reading it, and I think a lot of other readers will too.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0F1GZNS29
The Bonds of Siblings
The Dream follows a girl with the unique ability to communicate with animals who has a dream sending her and her brother on a dangerous quest. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Great question. Breakfield and Burkey wanted to create a fantasy for young people, hoping it would increase their interest in reading. We added games at the end of the print version to reinforce the learning aspects of reading. For a portion of the story, we used the foundation of a First-Place award we earned for our One Act play.
Your characters are wonderfully emotive and relatable. Were you able to use anything from your own life to inform their character development?
We are delighted you enjoyed our characters. We invite anyone reading this story to share their favorite character and why. Rox was particularly taken with the dragon. Yes, we pulled from our youth when imagination drove playtime. Memories of interactions with our siblings helped frame the relationship between Destiny and Valerian. Characteristics of our respective children are also woven into the relationship. The strong bonds of siblings will withstand any obstacles.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One aspect we felt was important is following your dreams to help make them a reality. Another is helping others without thinking of what it might give you. Too often, young people today ignore a problem or situation where their involvement could make a positive difference. We hope the young readers will discover other positive elements from The Dream.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
The Dream is a stand-alone story, and we do not currently envision it as part of a series. However, we have some ideas for other stories targeting this age group that we are keeping on hold for now. Our next project will be aimed at the young adult audience, with the final installment of our Enigma Heirs Trilogy, titled Enigma Jewels, set to be released in the spring of 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Destiny has a gift. Her brother, Valerian, believes in her but still must protect her. Her confidence is unshakeable, and her heart is pure. To protect her, Valerian must accompany her on the quest.Will Valerian’s devotion to Destiny overcome his doubts?
When will he see the dangers along the journey as opportunities?
Can he learn to communicate with the animals like Destiny?
Join the quest to find out how to reach goals with the help and cooperation of others. Helping others can change the outcome. You may go faster by yourself but travel further with valued friends.
The Dream
The Dream, written by Charles Breakfield and Rox Burkey, is a spirited young adult fantasy that follows siblings Destiny and Valerian as they venture beyond the safety of Settlefore’s walls in search of a deeper truth, spurred by Destiny’s vivid dreams. Their journey takes them through enchanted forests, encounters with mythical creatures, and challenges that test their bond and courage. The story combines elements of adventure, imagination, and personal growth, all while exploring themes of destiny, trust, and transformation.
I found the writing style engaging, though at times overly descriptive. The authors excel at creating vivid settings, like the forest paths and the towering figure of Soarant the dragon, which feel alive and magical. However, I felt some dialogue was overly explanatory, pulling me out of the moment. I appreciated the humor sprinkled throughout, particularly Valerian’s grumbles about Destiny’s whimsical dreams and her growing ability to communicate with animals. The ideas in The Dream shine when the characters confront moral dilemmas. Destiny’s insistence on helping the wounded Tusker, despite the danger, demonstrates her pure-hearted bravery. This moment reminded me how even small acts of compassion can ripple outward. Conversely, Valerian’s reluctance felt relatable—who hasn’t second-guessed a big decision when safety was at stake? The balance between his pragmatism and her optimism drives much of the story’s emotional depth. By the end, the tale wove itself into a thoughtful reflection on courage and change.
The Dream is a delightful read for young adults who enjoy fantasy adventures with heartwarming lessons. It’s particularly suited for readers aged 14 and up who value stories about self-discovery and the power of dreams. While it occasionally stumbles in pacing and dialogue, its imaginative world and endearing characters make it a journey worth taking. I’d recommend it to fans of The Chronicles of Narnia or Howl’s Moving Castle. Let your imagination run wild with this enchanting tale!
Pages: 51 | ASIN : B0DLYPDLGM
The Aftertime
The Aftertime by L.L.H. Harms uses a magical healing knife as a powerful symbol, weaving a tale rich with struggle and history. The story moves between 18th-century Virginia and the present day, exploring the deep and complicated friendship between a Monacan boy and an English boy. Against the backdrop of English colonization, Harms paints a vivid picture of Monacan society and culture, showing us the trials these 12-year-old boys face as their lives collide. With careful attention to the customs and language of the Monacan people, the author brings to life the difficulties of cross-cultural bonds and the painful choices that come with loyalty to one’s heritage.
Harms addresses themes of conflict, morality, and cultural understanding, delving into the devastating impact of colonization on Indigenous communities. Yet, the novel also highlights the connections that can form when people from different backgrounds choose to find common ground. These themes resonate throughout, making the story not only historically significant but emotionally compelling. Nathan’s perspective was especially moving for me. His fear of the dark woods felt raw and relatable, giving his character a genuine vulnerability. As he wrestles with his fears and learns to face them, Nathan’s growth shines through. His protectiveness toward his family and his quiet empathy add layers to his character, making him feel both wise and deeply human. I admired how he navigated the tension between his evolving sense of self and the demands of his new life. On the other hand, Zack was a burst of energy and charm. His spontaneous storytelling, like the tale of the white deer, kept me captivated. He felt sweetly youthful, his rapid-fire thinking and fierce devotion to his family making him unforgettable. The writing style impressed me with its introspective and emotional depth. Harms uses rich imagery that makes the themes of the book come alive. I could almost feel the forests, sense the tension, and hear the whispers of the past. However, the pacing wasn’t always consistent. At times, the narrative lingered too long on small details, slowing the flow, while some emotionally crucial moments seemed to rush by too quickly. Even so, the author’s genuine respect for Native American culture was clear throughout. Harms invites readers into an often-overlooked world, offering an enlightening perspective on the effects of colonization.
The Aftertime is a beautifully written, thought-provoking novel that gives a voice to important cultural and historical themes. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate stories filled with emotional and cultural nuance. If you’re looking for a book that honors Indigenous traditions while exploring complex friendships and moral dilemmas, this one should be on your reading list. Harms has created a tale that stays with you, both haunting and hopeful.
Pages: 242 | ASIN : B0D4VWFWGT
A Little Boys Blues
A Little Boys Blues, just twelve years old, carried an unusual weight of blues. He couldn’t articulate his feelings with words, but when his fingers danced across his guitar strings, everyone understood. Navigating life through conversations with old friends, new acquaintances, siblings, and neighborhood characters, he moved through his days gathering wisdom and sharing just as much through his remarkable talent. Life’s complexities—relationships and our place in the world—aren’t easy to unravel at any age. Yet, Little Boy learns that the right people can ease the journey, especially when communication happens soul to soul.
A Little Boy’s Blues, a three-act play by Stacy Lamar King, explores a multitude of adult themes through Little Boy’s eyes and his myriad interactions. Roaming the city with his ever-present guitar, affectionately named Wanda, he discovers that music’s universal language touches people in ways words never could. The talent and melodies within him create a healing magic for himself and others. The story is a rich tapestry: part parable veiled in riddles, part imaginative fantasy, and part straightforward dialogue. Little Boy’s world, and those who inhabit it, prove far more expansive than the pages might suggest. Interpersonal relationships and family bonds, especially between father and son, thread through every interaction in the play. Reflecting on his own father’s absence, Little Boy finds solace among various father figures and supporters. As he navigates the many forms of love and the sting of loss, he must learn to process these complex emotions. The music residing deep within his soul offers comfort, yet the blues that have settled in him are not easily lifted. Little Boy’s joys and sorrows unfold openly, allowing readers to journey alongside him as time progresses. The play’s duality is one of its most compelling aspects. It is both deeply relatable in its depiction of everyday life and profoundly intricate in the depth of its themes. By the conclusion, Little Boy emerges as a friend whose future we are deeply invested in and earnestly hopeful for.
A Little Boy’s Blues is a poignant and deeply moving play that resonates on multiple levels. Stacy Lamar King weaves a narrative that is both simple and profound, capturing the essence of life’s complexities through the innocent yet wise perspective of a twelve-year-old musician. This work stands as a touching exploration of the human spirit, making it a must-read for anyone seeking depth and authenticity in storytelling.
Pages: 102 | ASIN : B0859MCDQP
Mirror Tree
In Mirror Tree, the second book of AnneMarie Mazotti Gouveia’s Drifters Realm series, readers are plunged back into a world of magical intrigue and high-stakes adventure. This fantasy tale centers around four siblings – Life Giver Roe, Sorcerer Ori, Tamer Theo, and Storm Catcher Tora – each gifted with a magical backpack and bound together by a destiny far greater than they could have imagined. The story unfolds as the siblings race against time to decipher an ancient prophecy predicting a devastating uprising and war. Their journey is fraught with challenges, from unlocking a mysterious box to facing the enigmatic Ghost of Ruin. As they delve deeper, they uncover family secrets that are intrinsically linked to their quest for the Shadow Stone and Mirror Tree, elements crucial to the salvation of their mystical world, Drifter’s Realm.
Gouveia’s skill in weaving this tale is evident on every page, making the reader’s journey alongside the characters deeply engaging and remarkably vivid. The characters themselves are a highlight of the novel. Each sibling is intricately crafted, with distinct personalities and voices that leap off the page. This deft characterization ensures that readers are not just observers but participants in the story, feeling every triumph and setback as if they were their own. Gouveia skillfully portrays the siblings’ journey through varied landscapes – from dense forests to arid deserts, mysterious caves to treacherous swamps – all while they grapple with the blurred lines of morality in the face of imminent peril.
The artwork accompanying each chapter in Mirror Tree is a delightful bonus, enriching the reader’s experience. These illustrations provide a visual depth to the narrative, making the magical world Gouveia has created even more immersive. While the series is ostensibly aimed at a younger audience, the sophistication and allure of the writing are bound to captivate adults just as easily.
Mirror Tree is a must-read for anyone seeking a fantasy series that is both absorbing and emotionally resonant. The anticipation built in the first book finds a satisfying continuation in Mirror Tree, which not only meets but exceeds expectations. Gouveia has crafted a world that is as enchanting as it is relatable, making this book a standout in its genre and a joy for readers of all ages.
Pages: 177 | ASIN : B0CQ8VV4CG
Frizzy Lizzy
Frizzy Lizzy, a charming children’s book by Liz Leonard, takes readers on an adventure with Lizzy as she navigates a weekend filled with biking, hiking, and unexpected turns. During a hike with her father and sisters in search of a hidden lake, the family finds themselves lost, and it’s Lizzy’s resourcefulness, with just a pocketbook and a snack, that becomes crucial to their adventure.
This book engagingly highlights the resilience and ingenuity of children. Its vibrant illustrations are a visual delight, offering young readers a feast for the eyes and complementing the narrative beautifully. Initially, one might assume the story centers on Lizzy’s frizzy hair, yet it unfolds into a deeper narrative about Lizzy adjusting to a weekend with her father, hinting at the complexities of a separated family. The portrayal of the stepmother character, depicted as somewhat irritable, opens a conversation about the diverse dynamics of blended families, an increasingly common reality in today’s society. The rhyming scheme of the book adds a light-hearted and enjoyable rhythm to the story, making it an accessible and enjoyable read for its young audience.
Frizzy Lizzy offers more than just an entertaining story; it subtly weaves in themes of family, adaptability, and the joy of outdoor adventures, making it a thoughtful addition to a child’s reading collection.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CGS18L2N
The World of Fae and Magic
Bobbin and the Magic Thief follows a shunned faerie who sets out on an adventure to rescue her best friend, who has been kidnapped by a human. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve always loved fairytales, and often wondered about the many variations the Brothers Grimm collected before writing the versions that most people know today.
If there had been many variations around a particular tale, was there some grain of truth to it? What would it have been?
I started thinking about Rumpelstiltskin. What if he wasn’t the one spinning the gold? What if he was just an opportunist?
Somewhere in the mix, I started wondering why there weren’t many tales about faeries and spinning or cloth production. Fae are often either mischievous or helpful in stories, and I’m sure I would have appreciated some help spinning all the thread needed for making cloth for everything from clothing to sails for ships.
So I created Spindle Faeries and decided to play with different tales involving spinning or clothing, starting with Rumpelstiltskin.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I tended to fall in love with each new character as I wrote them, but I truly adore the pixie clan. I’ve started writing some short stories about some of them.
Bobbin was probably the most challenging. Being the main character, she carries the story and I wanted to pace her growth, but my creative mind kept wanting to play with the other characters. Staying focused on her was sometimes difficult.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Bobbin has often felt like a misfit or outsider, even when she’s trying very hard to fit in. It’s something I can personally relate to. When she finds and accepts the friendship of others who accept her as she is, her unique qualities come through. It makes her personality shine and allows her to be the brave person she is.
I also tried to really ground the story in a historical period. Yes, it’s the world of fae and magic, but most faerie and folk tales take place in a primarily medieval time. So I did research on the 14th-16th centuries in Europe to get a good sense of place. How flax would have been spun, what kind of food and plant life might be around. I took some literary license, but I feel the research helped to make the story much more textural and real.
Can you tell us a little about where the story goes in book two and when the novel will be available?
The next book, Bobbin and the Stolen Thread, will be a twist on The Emperor’s New Clothes and takes place following the main events of this book, but before the epilogue. Bobbin and her friends continue their adventures, traveling further north in Rose Valley. The Magic Thief doesn’t make a direct appearance in this one, but the mischief he causes is still the root of the problem. I’m hoping to release it at the end of 2024 or early 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | SpindleSpark | LoreWeaver | Amazon
Bobbin is losing everything. Abandoned by her mentor and banned from her trade, the young Spindle Faerie’s best friend is now gone. But when she discovers the thief’s true intentions, she is compelled to disobey faerie law or risk losing her friend forever.
Hoping to stop the nefarious plot, Bobbin joins forces with unexpected allies. But the greed for magical things soon places all their lives in peril.
Can Bobbin succeed in saving her friend and ceasing the thief’s mischief, or will her failure result in the end of the Spindle Faeries?
Bobbin and the Magic Thief is the first book in the faerie tale retelling adventure series The Spindle Faeries.
LITERARY TITAN 