Blog Archives
Genuine Faith
Posted by Literary-Titan

With Mercy’s Eye follows a gay actor several months after his husband is killed in an accident, who is left navigating grief, spiritual trauma, and identity while trying to hide his sexuality from his Christian producer. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Some stories take years to develop. Others arrive overnight. With Mercy’s Eyes was a bit of both. I knew years beforehand that God was directing me toward writing a Christian fiction book whose main character was gay. I had no idea how God was going to help me work with that particular combination of factors. All I knew was that He was pointing me toward writing this particular story. That nudge came quietly at first—a few times here and there. But eventually, God’s direction became louder and clearer, letting me know it was time to start writing.
As for the setup specifically, most of it I knew from the outset. I knew the main character’s name, his profession (actor), and where he lived. From the moment it was time to start writing, I also knew what the opening scene would be. There was no wondering or having to build it from the ground up. It was just already there, waiting for me to write it.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
As a writer, I have one personal baseline. I choose to show characters the same respect I would show a stranger. For me, that means I don’t write scenes involving personal hygiene that wouldn’t be performed in a public setting. It also means I don’t write sexually intimate moments or the lead-up to those moments 99.99% of the time. And it means there are situations where I don’t convey a character’s personal thoughts for more than a few moments at a time.
As a Christian, I look to God and the Bible for guidance on how to handle any given subject, theme, or incident.
This book shows God’s quiet working in our lives and how He can use even the most awful of experiences and circumstances to bring us to Himself. To honor that truth, I chose to portray both Christians and non-Christians in a genuine, true-to-life way. For the Christian characters, that means the faith contained in this book is an everyday faith that works into all aspects of life. It isn’t a faith that only shows up at the dinner table or when something bad happens. It’s always there, and it’s the foundation for the choices and actions of multiple characters in the book. For the non-Christian characters, that means no one is stereotyped or unnecessarily vilified. There is one character who behaves horribly throughout the entire book. That person has reasons for what they do, and there are consequences for their actions. But they aren’t the only character who makes mistakes or hurts others.
While I wrote With Mercy’s Eyes, there were several very personal moments that needed to be explored. Whenever that was the case, I kept the goal of the story in focus throughout that entire scene. I also chose not to elaborate on details that did not serve the overall goal. Many times, that also meant I had to stop mid-paragraph, or even mid-sentence, and hand my words over to God. Because I was not enough for that scene, but God was.
For example, there is a moment in this book where a character loses a child. First, I chose to leave a clear content warning at the start of the book that marks the chapter containing this moment. Second, I chose not to force the reader to remain in that moment for an extended period of time. Third, I chose to focus on elements that directly serve the scene and the book’s goal. There is a brief, but in no way detailed, description of the deceased child and how the parent responds to what they observe. These moments are not for shock value and are never treated as such.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
This is a book about redemption, God’s love, and genuine faith. It’s also about taking a hard look at how we view both others and ourselves. Too many of my fellow Christians hold to an “us vs. them” attitude when it comes to people who live in same-sex relationships. There’s also a tendency to shy away from talking with someone who identifies as LGBTQ. So, With Mercy’s Eyes asks, “What if my fellow Christians could see one of ‘them’ in a different light?”
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it out?
I have a novella about church hurt that will be published this December as part of a 3-novella collection titled Every Voice Heard. It follows a woman who works at a big-box retail store during the months directly following her departure from the church she’s attended her entire life. When she visits the last church on her list of prospects, she discovers her new employee is the pastor.
To get updates about my novella and the collection as a whole, stay tuned to my Instagram @dtill359 and sign up for my newsletter at dtpowellwrites.com.
Author Links: Goodreads | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Six months after struggling actor Lane Harris lost his husband in a tragic accident, he lands a movie role guaranteed to put him on the Hollywood map. But one producer holds the power to shut down his shot at stardom—and she’s a Christian. If she finds out he’s gay, it’s over. Lane is careful not to say too much around her.
When an alcohol-fueled tryst with his co-star ends in humiliation, and his landlord hands him an eviction notice, Lane looks for someone to talk to. He finds a confidant in the Christian producer. After a night of too little sleep and not enough coffee, he lets slip his sexual orientation. Instead of a verbal flogging, the woman recounts recently losing her own husband.
The only Christians Lane knows condemn him upon learning he’s gay. But this one is different. She doesn’t embrace his sexuality, but instead of treating him with disdain, she offers compassion. Christians are supposed to hate people like him. So, why doesn’t she?
– – – – – – –
With Mercy’s Eyes by D. T. Powell is an issue-facing Contemporary novel for adult churched Christians. It addresses homosexuality and same-sex attraction from a Biblical perspective without falling into the trap of the extreme responses we too often see from modern churches. It holds similar views to Jackie Hill Perry, Becket Cook, Rosaria Butterfield, and Christopher Yuan.
Share this:
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
- Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket
- Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
- Click to print (Opens in new window) Print
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
Posted in Interviews
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, christian, Contemporary Christian fiction, D.T. Powell, ebook, fiction, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, lgbtq, literature, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, story, trauma, With Mercy's Eyes, writer, writing
Distractions
Posted by Literary_Titan

Focused for Purpose is a Christian inspirational guide that combines scripture, personal testimony, and spiritual coaching to help readers cultivate a mindset of intentional living for God. Why was this an important book for you to write?
This book was written first as a help to myself, with the hope that it would also help someone else. In all honesty, I was the focus for writing this book. In chapter five the topic was ‘Distractions,’ which are primarily designed by the enemy to pull you away or delay the God-given purpose for your life. In my book, I mentioned how the Holy Spirit guided me through the scriptures and advised me that not only will writing this book help me but anyone who reads it as well who may be battling with distractions. Let’s face it, distractions is not a new or unfamiliar territory that the enemy uses. We have all faced this struggle at some point in our lives. One of the scriptures used in the book is found in 1 Corinthians 10:13, which says, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: This means there is nothing new under the sun that you experience, that someone else has not gone through or will go through. I always want people to know that they are not alone on an island by themselves; and God is always ready to guide you out of whatever circumstance or situation you may find yourself in. God will provide a way of escape, but it is up to us to take it.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
The hardest thing to write about, I would say, is admitting to the fact that after being born-again for over fifty years, I still could have an issue with distractions. I would think after being saved for all these years I would have had this battle well fought. But let me tell you, the moment any one begins to think you have any area in your life taken care of or think that you have somehow arrived because of your many years of walking with God, let me tell you to stop right there. Never boast of where you are in your relationship with God, if you do, this may be your biggest distraction of all. The enemy (Satan) would love for us to think we got this, he wants us to relax in our prayer time, and to slack off from reading God’s Word. I always say, we need to be in the habit of repenting and asking God for forgiveness every day. There is not one day that goes by in a 24-hour period, that we do not either say, do, or think something in a way that does not meet the standards of our Holy God. The problem with some may be that they fail to be honest with God. When you fail to be honest, or come clean with God; you are then opening yourself to succumb to whatever distractions the enemy brings your way. If you cannot be honest with God in the quiet times of prayer, then you will never be free. In John 8:32, it reads, “And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” This is one of the reasons why I give scriptures throughout my writings. Any book can be a help or an encouragement to whomever chooses to read them, but it is only the Word of God that will have the truth and the power of God’s anointing to set you free.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
In this book, I shared what I know has helped me through the years, and that is having a solid foundation in the principles and guidelines from the Word of God. This has been a bedrock for my journey as a believer of Jesus Christ. Whether you have been taught this early in life or in your later years, whenever you are a doer of God’s Word it will help you in whatever you set out to do. To be frank, nothing else can give you the direction that is needed for you to have a life of abundance where you receive the satisfaction that will last throughout your lifetime. Jesus came that we might have life and that we would have it abundantly. The key word here is ‘might,’ which means it is available but you must surrender your life to Jesus, to receive it.
Another point discussed was knowing your circle. I found this to be an important help that can have an impact on how you are influenced. Your circle can influence you in a positive or negative way. This is why you must be diligent in how you maintain the right associations that can help or hinder the outcome for what you want for your life.
I mentioned also the importance of protecting your heart, and committing your ways to the Lord. Protecting your heart is really where it all begins. Our heart is where our life is shaped, it directs our decision making. When we guard our heart by protecting what we see, hear, and allow in our thoughts, we can better control its effects before it produces wrong or negative actions.
Lastly, we must not leave God out. In Proverbs 16:3, (NLT) it reads, “Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.” Here, we see the importance of including God in all we do. As I mentioned in my book, there are many who care nothing about God, and have no desire to include or acknowledge Him in any of their ways, and some of them have plenty of life’s treasures, but are not satisfied nor have the peace that passes all understanding. I will be the first to tell you, that even when you commit your ways to the LORD, this is not a guarantee that everything you do will go your way, sometimes it goes the opposite of what you wanted or thought it should go. But when your trust is in the LORD, you can rest in knowing that God has your best interest in mind and will work all things together for your good (Romans 8:28). Trusting God comes with a peace that the world knows nothing about nor can they take it away from you.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from Focused for Purpose?
The one thing that I want readers to take away, not only from this book, Focused for Purpose, but every book I write; and that is the importance of having a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ before they leave this earth. This is why I place in the back of every book, the ‘Prayer of Salvation,’ so it is available to anyone who chooses to receive Jesus Christ, but may not know how to go about it or what to say. But to answer the question regarding, Focused for Purpose – I would want readers to be clear on the reason why they were created; and that is to give God the glory with their living. When you do this, God will guide you in the direction that will lead you into fulfilling your God-given purpose.
Author Links: GoodReads
Every person at some point has dealt with distractions where it became the enemy to their focus. Distractions can become the stumbling block that prevents you from fulfilling your purpose. However, when we guard our heart, as Solomon speaks about in Proverbs 4:23, we begin to recognize the importance of what God has called us to do.
In this book, Focused for Purpose, I want every reader to know that God has already equipped you with the ability to finish the good work that He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6). Therefore, live your life to glorify God, and He will guide you in the direction necessary to fulfill your purpose.
Share this:
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
- Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket
- Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
- Click to print (Opens in new window) Print
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
Posted in Interviews
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, christian, ebook, Focused for Purpose, goodreads, indie author, Jacqui D. Williams, kindle, kobo, literature, nonfiction, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, religion, self help, Spiritual growth, story, writer, writing
Focused For Purpose
Posted by Literary Titan

Jacqui D. Williams’ Focused for Purpose is a Christian inspirational guide that blends scripture, personal testimony, and spiritual coaching. At its heart, this book is about living intentionally for God, discovering the reason we exist, staying focused on it, and filtering distractions through the lens of faith. Each chapter feels like a heartfelt conversation, meant to help readers realign with God’s plan and rediscover their purpose with practical encouragement and biblical truths.
One aspect of Williams’ writing that stood out to me is her clarity and sincerity when addressing the concept of purpose. From the very beginning, she states it unequivocally: “Your purpose is to give God the glory.” There is no ambiguity, no unnecessary elaboration, just a direct and powerful truth. It’s a bold approach, and one that feels both honest and refreshing. Williams does not merely present abstract ideals; she offers her own experiences, including times when she was uncertain about her calling. Even in moments of confusion, she remained committed to keeping God at the center. That level of humility is deeply moving. Her reflections on individuals returning to the altar particularly resonated with me, prompting personal introspection on how easily we tend to complicate what is, at its core, a simple and profound truth.
The section on distractions resonated with me on a deeply personal level. Williams explores how effortlessly we allow people, busyness, and excessive commitments to divert our attention from what truly matters. Her candid discussion about the importance of saying “no” without guilt served as a sobering reminder of the necessity of boundaries. It was both illuminating and affirming. She effectively illustrates that distractions are not inherently negative; rather, they often reflect a misalignment of priorities. The example of Jonah powerfully underscores this idea: God did not revoke His calling despite Jonah’s initial disobedience. That message was both challenging and reassuring, reminding readers of the enduring nature of God’s purpose in our lives.
Williams speaks candidly about the significant impact our relationships have on our mindset and personal growth. Her tone is gracious and respectful, yet unmistakably firm in asserting that the people we surround ourselves with can either propel us forward or hold us back. What I found particularly compelling was her thoughtful balance between spiritual accountability and personal responsibility. She does not encourage blame, but rather urges readers to make intentional, discerning choices about their influences. Her guidance is delivered with both warmth and conviction, much like a trusted mentor offering honest insight with a genuine desire to see others succeed.
Focused for Purpose is not just for Christians trying to figure out their life’s calling. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt lost, overwhelmed, or like they’re just spinning their wheels. I’d especially recommend it to women of faith who crave both encouragement and a nudge toward discipline. It’s a soulful, practical, deeply personal book, and it’s clear Jacqui D. Williams poured her heart into every page. If you need a reminder that your life matters and you’re made for more, this one’s worth reading.
Pages: 96 | ASIN : B0FCTHR59Z
Share this:
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
- Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket
- Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
- Click to print (Opens in new window) Print
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
Posted in Book Reviews, Five Stars
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, christian, ebook, Focused for Purpose, goodreads, indie author, Jacqui D. Williams, kindle, kobo, literature, nonfiction, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, religion, self help, Spiritual growth, story, writer, writing
With Mercy’s Eyes
Posted by Literary Titan

With Mercy’s Eyes is a raw and emotionally charged novel that follows Lane Harris, a gay actor navigating grief, spiritual trauma, and identity after the sudden death of his husband, Stephen. Set against the backdrop of Hollywood and faith communities, Lane’s journey unfolds through a string of gut-wrenching losses, unsettling confrontations, and tentative spiritual rediscovery. Powell doesn’t flinch from heavy themes—suicide, sexual assault, domestic violence, and faith-based rejection—and she handles them with a steady hand and an unwavering desire to show the heart of God without watering down the pain of real life.
Powell’s writing is lyrical and fierce and filled with dialogue that feels lifted straight from a real argument or heart-to-heart. There’s a deep, aching sadness in Lane’s life that never feels manipulative or preachy. His grief is suffocating, but it’s honest. The way Powell lets faith trickle in, not with neon lights or loud salvation moments, but through quiet, broken interactions, is powerful. I don’t often find Christian fiction that’s willing to sit with the tension and not rush to a clean ending, but this one does.
A few of the side characters, particularly the ones in conflict with the main cast, didn’t feel as fully developed as I hoped. And some of the redemptive turns happened a little faster than expected, especially after such heavy events. Still, maybe that’s intentional. Life has a way of offering hope at unexpected times. As for the spiritual themes, not every reader will interpret them the same way, but Powell approaches them with grace. She gives her characters room to question, to stumble, and to search, and that openness is something I appreciated.
With Mercy’s Eye is messy and brutally honest. But if you’ve ever struggled with feeling outside the reach of grace—especially within Christian circles—it’s a healing balm and a challenge. I would recommend With Mercy’s Eyes to readers who aren’t afraid to have their worldview shaken a bit. To those who’ve been hurt by the church. To those who want to believe in mercy again, even if it comes through tears.
Pages: 564 | ASIN : B0F2SQXC8M
Share this:
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
- Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket
- Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
- Click to print (Opens in new window) Print
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
Posted in Book Reviews, Five Stars
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, christian, contemorary, D.T. Powell, ebook, fiction, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, story, With Mercy's Eyes, writer, writing
Be Your True Self
Posted by Literary_Titan

The Alternate World follows a thoughtful and quietly bold teenager, as she transitions from junior high to a prestigious New England boarding school, who learns what it really means to follow your own path, even when it hurts.
In many contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
Definitely! Someone asked me how I knew about teenage problems, and I told them that I was a teenager. I have also provided literacy consulting for middle schools and high schools over the past few years to understand teenage problems in 2025. The main character, Eve, has similar characteristics and traits to me (both as a teenager and present day).
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Authenticity, uniqueness, being your true self, and knowing your true self were the important themes to explore in this book.
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?
Interestingly enough, we wrote this book as a stand alone title; however, it’s set up to be the first book of a series as well. I’ve heard from readers that they are interested to learn even more about Gina, the keeper of the alternate world. The other piece is the fact that anyone who is true to themselves at any age can be tapped into the alternate world for a variety of reasons, so you never know what could come next.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Websiter | Instagram
Every decision is ultimately determined based on two choices-one that comes from following your heart and one that comes from following your head. So, what prevents people from achieving their own hopes, dreams, and desires?
Eve Thompson enters a New England boarding school for high school where she and her classmates are presented with an array of everyday life choices and decisions faced by teens. Will each student take the most common route or the road less traveled? There is no right or wrong answer, but only one choice leads to the path that represents your true self.
What if a world existed where people could be their authentic selves without judgement-where life choices are entirely up to you and what’s best for you. What are you going to choose to do? Welcome to The Alternate World.
Share this:
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
- Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket
- Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
- Click to print (Opens in new window) Print
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
Posted in Interviews
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, christian, christian fiction, coming of age, contemporary fantasy, ebook, fantasy, goodreads, indie author, Kathryn Starke, kindle, kobo, literature, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, religious, story, teen, The Alternate World, writer, writing, young adult.
Dead Men Walking a Stairway to Life
Posted by Literary Titan

Walter Thomas’s Dead Men Walking: A Stairway to Life is a raw and deeply personal appeal to Black men and their communities to rise from spiritual death into a life of purpose and redemption through Christ. Blending biblical scripture, social statistics, historical analysis, and testimony, Thomas focuses intently on the crisis of fatherlessness, Black-on-Black violence, and the erosion of the Black family. Anchored in his own devastating loss—the murder of his daughter by a young Black man—the book channels grief into a passionate call to action rooted in faith, responsibility, and communal healing.
Reading this book stirred up a mix of emotions in me. There were moments I felt deeply moved, especially when Thomas speaks about his daughter or when he recalls his father’s advice. There’s an urgency in his voice, steady and strong. He doesn’t mince words. He lays the problems bare—fatherless homes, cycles of violence, spiritual emptiness—and he puts it back in our hands to fix it. The writing is unpolished at times, full of repetition and raw edges, but it’s also heartfelt. It’s not about eloquence. It’s about impact. I could feel the pain behind the words, and more importantly, the hope that things can change.
What stands out most is Thomas’s honesty and how directly he speaks to the reader. He doesn’t sugarcoat the issues. He leans heavily on scripture and spiritual transformation. His message is clear: nothing changes without turning back to God. Whether he’s referencing Priscilla and Aquila, Martin Luther King and Benjamin Mays, or the Moynihan Report, he ties every thread back to this idea of responsibility—spiritual, familial, communal.
This book is for someone who needs a wake-up call. It’s for fathers who’ve lost their way, sons who feel like no one’s looking out for them, and communities tired of watching their boys die too young. If you’re open to faith-based reflection, willing to face hard truths, and looking for a message that comes straight from the soul, Dead Men Walking is worth your time.
Pages: 94 | ASIN : B0DS3QT1V2
Share this:
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
- Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket
- Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
- Click to print (Opens in new window) Print
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
Posted in Book Reviews, Four Stars
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, christian, Christian church leadership, Christian inspirational, Dead Men Walking a Stairway to Life, ebook, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, story, Walter Thomas, writer, writing
The Alternate World
Posted by Literary Titan

The Alternate World is a coming-of-age story that follows Eve, a thoughtful and quietly bold teenager, as she transitions from junior high to a prestigious New England boarding school. What begins as a classic high school journey soon spirals into something much more surreal: Eve is recruited into a mystical realm called the “alternate world,” a place reserved for people who have stayed true to themselves despite societal pressures. Through friendships, first love, personal boundaries, and identity, the book delves into what it really means to follow your own path, even when it hurts.
I didn’t expect this book to get under my skin the way it did. The writing is deceptively simple. It reads like a diary, a direct, honest voice that made me feel like I was sitting across from Eve at a coffee shop, hearing everything firsthand. The author nails the teen voice without making it whiny or dramatic. The opening chapter that describes the ninth-grade dance was spot on. The little details, like the boutonnieres, the whispered gossip, and that tense moment when Rachel ends up ditching the afterparty plan to hang out with the wrong guy, those parts felt painfully real. Starke has a gift for showing how a single night can change everything for a teenager.
When Eve meets Gina, a mysterious woman in a pastel pink dress who basically ushers her into a parallel life, it hit me hard. There’s something powerful about being seen and celebrated not for what you’ve achieved, but for the quiet moments when you choose yourself. The scene where Eve tells her boyfriend Matt she’s not ready to sleep with him, and then gets initiated into this hidden society for staying true to her boundaries, gave me goosebumps. It’s not a preachy moment. Instead, it’s empowering. This book doesn’t shame teenage choices, but it celebrates agency in a way that feels fresh and affirming.
One of the things I found interesting was how the story kept a quick pace, even with significant events like Jennifer’s unexpected pregnancy. The plot didn’t linger too long, which gave the book a snappy, forward-moving rhythm that kept me turning pages. Even in the more dramatic moments, the focus stayed on Eve’s journey and growth, which I really liked. And while some conversations, especially between Matt and the girls, had a slightly polished feel, they still helped move the story along and kept the tone consistent with the book’s style. That said, the central friend group, Erin, Ellie, Maggie, and Annie, was portrayed with a striking sense of realism. Their dynamic captured the emotional complexity of adolescence, complete with the bittersweet drift that often accompanies growing up. The winter break dinner scene especially stood out; beneath the laughter and familiar exchanges, there was an unmistakable undercurrent of change.
By the end, I didn’t want to leave either of Eve’s worlds. I wanted more of Gina, more of the portraits in the mansion, more glimpses of what’s possible when we live our purpose. If you’re someone who’s ever felt torn between who you are and who people want you to be, The Alternate World is for you. Teen readers will relate. Adults will remember. And anyone who’s ever made a hard choice and wondered if it was worth it, this story gently says, yes. Yes, it is.
Pages: 240 | ASIN : B0DL8D41ZS
Share this:
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
- Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket
- Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
- Click to print (Opens in new window) Print
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
Posted in Book Reviews, Five Stars
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, christian, christian fiction, coming of age, contemporary fantasy, ebook, fantasy, goodreads, indie author, Kathryn Starke, kindle, kobo, literature, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, religious, story, teen, The Alternate World, writer, writing, young adult
As Long as We’re Alive, Problems Will Arise
Posted by Literary_Titan

Pandora’s Box follows a 14-year-old boy who discovers he is a demigod like his late mother. His life has become a whirlwind of magical schools, ancient mythologies, and adventure while he tries to prevent evil from taking over the world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My son was my inspiration. When I became a mother, a new fear was unlocked: what will become of my child if I am not here tomorrow? I wanted to write something that could speak to him, nurture him, and entertain him, while leaving him with the values I hope I will have the time and support to instill in him.
The MC’s name is my child’s name: Liam. His mourning is built on my biggest fear.
The chaos the MC faces is nothing but the chaos of life. We tend to think our problems are the biggest in the world—and for us, they are. But it’s important for children to see that everyone has problems, which, to them, feel just as big. As long as we’re alive, problems will arise, and that will be true for everyone. The realization of this fact gives them a sense of belonging, helping them step out of the victim mentality and see problems for what they really are: opportunities for solutions and growth. I was careful to reflect that on each and every page.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from and how did it change as you were writing?
My inspiration comes from the books I grew up with. I’m a huge Star Wars fan, which is why you’ll see a mix of Sci-Fi and Fantasy in my work. I also love The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, and I read a lot of Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes as a child—this helped me develop my approach to building suspense, planting clues, and leading characters (and readers) toward discoveries.
Role-playing games have also been a major influence. I spent years as a Game Master for Vampire: The Masquerade and Dungeons & Dragons, which shaped my multi-perspective storytelling, worldbuilding, and rule-setting for magic and power. RPGs also helped me focus on character growth, much like players leveling up through campaigns.
Brazilian folklore played a big role in my childhood—it was mandatory in school and deeply woven into our culture. This sparked my curiosity about other mythologies, particularly Nordic folklore. Beyond that, I have a very poetic way of describing emotions, which comes from my younger years when I wrote poetry, competed in poetry contests, and attended poetry events as early as 12 years old.
On top of that, I love Greek mythology, Egyptian history, and the original versions of the stories that Disney adapted—many of which were quite dark in their European roots before being softened for children. That’s probably why my writing naturally leans toward darker themes.
Honestly? My writing style hasn’t changed much while writing. What has changed is my awareness of how readers perceive my published works, which influences what I choose to emphasize or tone down in future books. Since I haven’t read anything published in the last 20 years, my writing style remains uninfluenced by modern trends—it’s purely shaped by the stories I love.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Self-discovery, the concept of character (discerning good from bad), cause-and-effect (accountability for our choices), and inner power were all central themes. I wanted to show that having flaws doesn’t make you incapable of achieving great things—nor does it automatically turn you into the villain. It’s important for teenagers to develop a fair sense of self rather than viewing themselves through extremes of “good” or “bad.”
Faith in something bigger also plays a key role. Throughout the trilogy, I touch on difficult topics, even taboos like suicidal thoughts, in hopes of helping young readers recognize that the voice telling them they’re not enough doesn’t come from them—and that they can (and should) break free from it.
Can you tell us more about where the story and characters go after book one?
Without giving too much away—because surprises are half the fun—the second and third books take the characters much deeper into the prophecy hinted at in Pandora’s Box. Relationships will evolve, secrets will come to light, and the stakes will grow far beyond what they imagined. You’ll see characters like Liam, Ada, and others struggle with even more challenging situations, both magical and personal. Also, expect to see new realms, powerful antagonists, and the consequences of choices made in book one. It becomes a story not just about stopping evil, but about understanding yourself and the cost of standing for what you believe in.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website | Trilogy Website
Liam Hale gets a posthumous gift from his late mother, Bree, on his 14th birthday. It’s a holographic message that turns Liam’s life upside down: According to a projection of Bree, Liam is a demigod (as Bree had been), will attend a magic school, and will take over his mom’s role as keeper of the Seven Wonders (Earth and six other dimensions).
He will have to be “initiated” before claiming the keeper’s throne within 90 days, or the resultant fight for the position will trigger an intergalactic war (“It’s too much power”). As if that weren’t enough pressure, Liam must also complete Bree’s mission of finding “the Pandora’s Box,” an artifact that will restore the balance between good and (currently rising) evil. Luckily, he’s got help: His allies include his best friend Ada, mage student Benji, and perpetually bickering witch-twins Zac and Zoe.
With mythological creatures, a magic school, and dimension-hopping adventures, Liam and his friends must uncover the secrets of The Pandora’s Box before darkness takes over.
Share this:
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
- Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket
- Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
- Click to print (Opens in new window) Print
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
Posted in Interviews
Tags: action, adventure, author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, christian, coming of age, dark fantasy, ebook, epic fantasy, fiction, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, story, teen, The Pandora's Box, Time Travel Fiction, Wizards & Witches Fantasy, writer, writing, young adult








