Blog Archives
Alienation and Isolation
The Blackened Yonder: Planar Lost: Book One follows a village priest and woman involved with a group practicing forbidden magic. Each faces internal conflicts and moral quandaries, leading them to form an alliance against the evil in their world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I take a lot of inspiration from events in nonfiction that I read. Although I’m not religious myself, I find it interesting to write characters like Father Latimer and explore struggles of faith and moral conflict. For Athenne, I’ve read many stories over the years about people who joined terrorist or hate groups and regretted it, and I thought introducing such an element into a fantasy setting might be interesting to write about. That is not a commentary on the rightness, wrongness, or morality of any of the characters in the story, since such labels are relative to perspective, but it’s what initially led me to write that story. I also try to inject a little bit of myself into all my characters, for better or worse. I’ve never participated in a violent radical organization, of course, but I’m often conflicted!
The world you created in this novel is brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you wrote?
I’ve been working on the world of the setting since around 2013 and have a large document of lore that goes into extensive detail about everything in the setting. That’s primarily for my own personal reference. I draw much inspiration from real things in history. For example, I adapted elements of the system of matrilineal inheritance in the setting very loosely from historical and some isolated contemporary cultures, and certain places in antiquity. I try to fill in holes and gaps in things like laws and customs as I write, especially if it might cause a problem for the consistency of the story. My editor sometimes says no one will care about certain small nuances, but I do.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Initially, I wasn’t going to include any elements of romance in the series whatsoever, but eventually, it did come up for certain characters where it felt natural. Mostly, I wanted to emphasize the messiness of life, the variability of individuals, and the importance of friendship, friend love, and other non-romantic social bonds, especially between genders. Another important theme is loneliness, and the sense of alienation and isolation most of us often feel in life.
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
The second book is already available on Amazon. I’m hoping to release the third book and a prequel of sorts at some point in 2024. There’ll be four books in the series in total, excluding the prequel story. The second novel continues the Undeath event described in the first book and introduces many new villains and characters. In fact, many readers’ favorite character is introduced in the second book. She’s a side character but plays an important role in much of the story. The second novel features more action and fantastical elements, and I think the third book and prequel take that even further. I don’t want the books to be all action all the time, because I feel that can be boring, so I try to strike a decent balance.
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When dark forces empty a village overnight, only the ravenous undead remain. Garron Latimer, the village priest, flees to the capital seeking salvation.
Far south, Athenne joins the underground Saints of Aetheria to ignite revolution and unleash forbidden magic. But their ambitious agenda demands a terrible price.
Torn between duty and defiance, Garron uncovers secrets that test his faith. Plagued by doubt, Athenne questions the Saints’ righteousness, knowing betrayal could destroy her.
Do You Believe in Magic?
In Do You Believe in Magic?, the first book of Jim Melvin’s The Dark Circles Trilogy, young readers are introduced to Charlie Magus, a 13-year-old boy who stumbles upon a mystical waterfall in South Carolina that serves as a portal to the enchanting realm of Pacchann. This discovery launches Charlie and his friends into a world where magic and danger are intricately intertwined, and a prophecy highlights Charlie’s significance in this new world.
Melvin’s narrative style is a standout feature of the novel. His rich, descriptive language paints vivid scenes, making it easy for readers, especially tweens, to immerse themselves in the story. This clarity is crucial for younger audiences to navigate the plot’s complexities. Some might initially find the pace slow, but this deliberateness is a testament to Melvin’s thorough world-building, ensuring every detail contributes to the story’s overall progression. As the plot unfolds, it transforms into an absorbing journey that maintains reader engagement through to the end. Though aimed at a younger demographic, Do You Believe in Magic? Has a universal appeal. As an adult reader, I found the narrative’s depth engaging. The characters, including Charlie, Virgil, Zola, and Garrick, are crafted with relatable and likable qualities, anchoring the fantastical elements in a relatable human experience. The novel’s use of pop culture references and occasional authorial asides may divide opinion, but they add to the authenticity of a genuine young adult reading experience.
This first installment sets a high bar for the trilogy with its captivating storytelling and promise of adventure and enchantment. Melvin captures the quintessential experiences of tween life, from self-discovery to social challenges, making it relevant and enjoyable for its target audience. Do You Believe in Magic? is an engaging entry into fantasy for middle-grade readers and those who appreciate immersive, magical worlds.
Pages: 272 | ASIN : B0C5LBJV6F
Chaos Ascending: A Feast of Betrayal
Chaos Ascending: A Feast of Betrayal, by R.C. Vielee, emerges as a compelling dark fantasy novel, intricately weaving themes of internal conflict, fate, and the interplay of parallel universes. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and spiritual turmoil, the story unfolds in a world teetering on the brink of collapse. The protagonist, Reyne, is thrust into a treacherous journey through the Void to Evidar, grappling with the burdens of deception and destiny while evading assassins. His story is a reflection of the broader narrative: the struggle of Tartica under Chancellor Tomelai’s oppressive rule and the looming threat of the Devil’s Blacksmith.
Reyne’s character is deftly portrayed, and his inner turmoil echoes the larger societal decay and the tension between conformity and rebellion. This complexity lends him a relatable depth, particularly in his struggles with moral ambiguity and trust, mirroring the human inclination to adapt for survival.
Mithany’s character complements this dynamic, offering a poignant exploration of guilt and honesty amid a web of deceit. The antagonist, known as the Devil’s Blacksmith, injects a palpable sense of dread into the narrative, embodying the despair and dangers lurking within the story’s universe. The juxtaposition of Evidar and Tartica skillfully illustrates the perpetual battle between darkness and light, resonating with the complexities and dualities of real life. Vielee’s novel is notable for its meticulous attention to detail and the seamless integration of sophisticated themes, especially the exploration of physics elements. The characters are crafted with depth and nuance, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the reader.
Chaos Ascending is more than a fantasy novel; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition set against a richly imagined world. A highly recommended read for anyone seeking a compelling dark fantasy that will remain with the reader long after the last page is turned.
Pages: 609 | ASIN : B0CTGJW7Y4
The Scars of War
Trial of Roses follows a young man with a dream to learn magic and protect his homeland. To achieve his goals, he must overcome his enemies and personal demons. What inspired the setup of your story?
I was very much inspired by work such as My Hero Academia and you could say in general the genre of teenagers or young adults in a school type setting but with superpowers or magic involved. I have never done a story like this before so I thought it would be an interesting direction. On top of that I wanted to explore a few of the minor characters from the very first Pantheon book and this seemed like an excellent way to not only flesh them out but flesh out the entire Mystic Order as well. What started as just a short intro chapter turned into a whole little book to itself.
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?
That is an excellent question! I was very much inspired by the works of young adult fantasy books. There are many that are very famous such as the Harry Potter series. The idea of a school for magic was a very entertaining and endlessly interesting idea to explore. However, I knew it would need to have a distinct flavor to it and so immediately I decided to give it a higher stakes sort of feeling where students can and will die. Moreover, it would be set in its own distinct world that was separate from what we call the “real world.” On top of that I wanted to tie in the culture of the Sebelian people themselves. What started as a very simple story about a young teenager learning how to cast spells turned into a much deeper story about fighting personal demons and even coming to terms with the toxicity of one’s own culture. I find that the protagonists in this story must deal with the sins of the past that have led to scars on their own psyches. Some of them rise above it while others are consumed by it. It is why the trilogy itself is called the Law of Might, a concept which was discussed in many Pantheon books but is really delved into here.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
There are many themes in this book that I wanted to touch on. Many are expanded upon in the follow-up books to Trial of Roses. The number one focus for me was the power of culture in a society. It is something every civilization has, otherwise it would not be a civilization at all. I wanted to show that even though a few things in the book would be frowned upon in our society, maybe even seen as barbaric, for the Sebelian people such things are the expected norms. Even when culture is self destructive, it has a tendency to live on.
Another topic that lingers in the background of these young characters is the lasting scars of war. In this particular way I was inspired by All Quiet on the Western Front, a certified classic in the war genre. I was reminded of the opening scene I read back in high school. The German students are in the prime of their life as they exit the education system, and a sa crescendo to this stage of their lives, their teacher of all people sells war to them like one would sell a movie ticket to a potential customer. In a similar fashion, the young characters in this book are enraptured by the idea of serving their country just as their fathers, mothers, and siblings did in the past War for Sebelian Liberation. This need to honor sacrifice and live up to family names is what drives these characters forward and sometimes into disastrous consequences. Jingoism is a force that is still around to this day and permeates many societies, especially the American one. I found it very important to make sure this issue was looked at through many different lenses as the story progressed.
When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
Luckily I was able to release the entire Law of Might trilogy very close together! This was no easy feat as the story progressed and went from one short novella into a small trilogy that was more or less self-contained but still tied to the main Pantheon series. In the follow up story, Trial of the Lake, Sinhar will finally start learning how to work with magic and what it entails if he cannot keep up with the rest of his classmates. Just beneath the surface of all this, however, lies another battle. The Mystic Order has been around for generations and like any institution that has been around for that long it is riddled with its own secrets. Not only is there the threat of ostracization for those who do not fit within the mold of society, but there are also the secrets of those who now hold power and what they did to achieve it. The sequel will introduce new characters but will also explore ones who had minor roles in the main series and are more fleshed out here.
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The Law of Might novella trilogy serves as a prequel to the Pantheon series but also stands entirely on its own. Fans of adventure, fantasy, and horror will rejoice. Check out the series that has readers enthralled and coming back for more:
The Kings Death
The King’s Death, a sequel to The King’s Assassin, is a fantasy novel that invites readers into the intricate and perilous world of Illician Sillik. Following his initial triumphs over the dragons of Ynak and the forces of Peol, Sillik’s quest for power intensifies. Ed Cannon skillfully weaves a narrative where Sillik forms strategic alliances with Aceon’s fliers and Salone’s schools, leveraging existing connections to fortify his position.
Sillik confronts a series of formidable challenges in this richly imagined universe, including battles with monstrous schula and other dark forces. The narrative accelerates as he endeavors to obtain crucial artifacts vital for countering the impending demonic threat. Amidst these external dangers, internal strife in Illicia brews, leading to a coup that adds a layer of political intrigue and tests the resilience of Sillik’s allies. Cannon’s world-building is exceptionally detailed, immersing readers in a realm where mythical creatures, looming wars, and strategic alliances influence the fate of nations. The characters are depicted with depth and complexity, elevating the story beyond a mere fantastical adventure to a nuanced, character-driven saga. The novel’s considerable length and narrative complexity are indeed aspects of its charm. Cannon’s intricate descriptions and the expansive plot are akin to an invitation for readers to immerse themselves fully in a richly crafted world. This dedication of time and attention is not just a commitment but an opportunity to savor a multi-layered story that unfolds gradually, delivering a deeply gratifying and enriching reading experience. The depth and detail within The King’s Death are not merely elements to be navigated but treasures to be discovered, enhancing the overall enjoyment of this captivating fantasy journey.
The King’s Death excels in maintaining suspense and weaving a compelling tale that combines exceptional world-building with well-crafted characters. Its appeal extends to enthusiasts of fantasy literature who relish diving into elaborate plots and detailed universes. While its length might be challenging, it’s a rewarding journey for those who engage with its intricacies. This novel is highly recommended for readers seeking an enthralling fantasy adventure.
Pages: 558 | ASIN : B07VS6CJGP
Trial of Roses: A Dark Epic Fantasy Novella (Law of Might Book 1)
Trial of Roses, the inaugural installment in Joshua A. Landeros’s The Law of Might prequel trilogy, introduces readers to Sinhar, a young warrior with aspirations to join the Mystic Order. This pursuit is not just a personal ambition for Sinhar, who has been shaped by a lifetime under the specter of war, but also a commitment to safeguard his homeland. The narrative, which can be enjoyed independently or as a precursor to the Pantheon series, navigates the perilous trials Sinhar must endure, where the prospect of survival is uncertain.
Landeros masterfully creates a world brimming with magic and mystery, captivating the reader in a realm where every decision holds the weight of life and death. The novel skillfully draws one in with its initial chapters, setting a tone rich in promise and excitement. As the story unfolds, the focus shifts more towards advancing the overarching plot, a move that aligns with its role as a prequel. This narrative choice, while occasionally placing the characters in the backdrop, adds to the anticipation of how these characters will further develop and influence the world in the broader context of the series. The balance between character growth and plot progression is a delicate dance, and Trial of Roses intriguingly sets the stage for future explorations in this enchanting universe. This book is an engaging read, particularly for those seeking a fantasy novel that is both accessible and rich in story and lore. Landeros’s talent as a storyteller is evident, and there is a genuine intrigue to see how Sinhar’s journey evolves in subsequent books.
Trial of Roses is a captivating novel that is perfect for readers who love to explore the world of dark fantasy. Its intricate storyline and rich historical context make it a compelling read. The author, Landeros, has skillfully woven together a tale that is both imaginative and thought-provoking, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what he has in store for them in his future works.
Pages: 131 | ASIN : B09NZDQYYP
LOY and Beyond
LOY and Beyond, authored by Todd David Gross, marks a compelling sequel to his initial work, LOY: In the Forests of the Mind. Blending elements of science fiction, fantasy, and philosophical musings, this novel invites readers into a post-apocalyptic world where the Rehloy tribe, endowed with unique abilities, thrives amidst nature and spirituality. This tranquil existence is threatened by the Ontarans, a technologically superior civilization intent on expansion.
Set in a world ravaged by unknown forces and devoid of modern technology, LOY and Beyond skillfully navigate the complexities of two contrasting cultures. The narrative unfolds through various viewpoints, including a sensitive child, a transformed mother, and a Shaman on a quest. As the Ontarans seek to dominate the land and its formidable creatures, they unearth something simultaneously valuable and dangerous, culminating in a critical first encounter. Gross’s narrative prowess shines in this sequel, surpassing his debut novel. His skill in character development and world-building seamlessly merges dystopian science fiction with fantasy, creating intriguing and novel mythos.
The juxtaposition of the spiritual Rehloy and the technologically driven Ontarans enriches the plot, offering insights into the cyclical nature of civilizations. Character interactions are the heart of this novel. Gross crafts intricate character arcs, guiding readers through their journeys of power shifts and self-discovery. These characters serve as conduits to explore themes of humanity, spirituality, and the symbiosis between all life forms, presenting a thoughtful fantasy narrative that encourages reflection on our relationship with nature and the ramifications of our actions. The novel maintains a balance between philosophical exploration and a gripping storyline. The pace is well-calibrated, blending suspense and action with contemplative moments, resulting in a deeply engaging reading experience. Gross’s immersive writing style and robust world-building ensure that readers remain captivated.
LOY and Beyond stands as a testament to Gross’s storytelling capabilities, offering vibrant narratives, thought-provoking themes, and memorable characters. While it is beneficial to read the preceding novel for a fuller experience, this book independently appeals to a broad spectrum of fiction and science fiction enthusiasts.
Pages: 448 | ISBN : 1737942623
A Post-Magical Society
In Dawn of Chaos, a woman who possesses the unique ability to control an ancient weapon sets out to dethrone a nefarious queen. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Dawn of Chaos is the second book in The Sapeiro Chronicles trilogy. In the first book, A Forgotten Past, the story is quite simple: it’s the story of a girl who wishes to remember her past, recover her memories, and understand why she is a threat to those in power. In Dawn of Chaos, the stakes are much higher. Sora now has a better understanding of her power, and why it makes her dangerous.
In both books, power and the acquisition of it play a huge role in the storyline: the queen wishes to gain as much as she can, while Sora, who naturally is powerful, regrets having so much. When I was first planning this series, I really liked the idea of a post-magical society, where power had been diluted through the generations. I also really liked the idea of each book building on the other, of the journey becoming more dangerous as time passed.
Were you able to achieve everything you wanted with the characters in the novel?
Yes, and that’s something I was very proud of. In Dawn of Chaos, Sora in particular undergoes a series of internal struggles. She is placed in a role where she never saw herself as being, nor wanted. And yet what choice does she have? I think her struggle makes her a more interesting heroine. I really wanted her to think deep and hard about the ramifications of either of her choices.
There are also a lot of characters in the book, with different threads of the storyline told through their point-of-views. One of the main challenges was making sure that each character had their own voice, to make it evident that they were their own person.
I felt that there were a lot of great twists and turns throughout the novel. Did you plan this before writing the novel, or did the twists develop organically writing?
I love writing twists! Though a couple did sprout up organically, most of them were planned, way back even when I was still working on the first book. I’m doing the same while working on the next in the series.
Can fans look forward to a third installment of this series? If so, can you give us a peek inside the next book?
Absolutely! I am currently working on the third and final book in the trilogy. I’m aiming for a spring 2024 release, but that will depend on how fast I can write! I can’t go into too many details, so as not to spoil it.
However, in this third installment, the story follows on the heels of the closing events of Dawn of Chaos. The stakes are higher than they’ve ever been before, and the very existence of Sapeiro is in jeopardy. Sora will need to delve into the continent’s past to see if she can find a weapon suitable to defend those she loves from the shadows that would strike them from the map.
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Against all odds, Sora Rosewood has recovered her memories and survived multiple attacks on her life. Not only that, but she’s allied herself with the Sanctuary, a rebel force dedicated to freeing Sapeiro from Queen Amana’s corruption. While Sora works to become the weapon she needs to be, her sister, Lenka, is busy strategizing on a way to overthrow the queen without bathing the continent in blood of the innocent. Whether she likes it or not, Sora has become part of something greater than herself. But as her power grows, so does her unease at wielding it.
Can she become the hero Sapeiro needs her to be? And more importantly, does she want to?
LITERARY TITAN 