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Lose Yourself In A Story
Legacy follows a mysterious young man with an unknown past and his loyal friends, who is catapulted into a leadership role he doesn’t want and is unprepared for when his world is brought under attack from a brutal force beyond the stars. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve always been fascinated by the image of people circling a fire or sitting around someone in a tavern—one voice holding everyone captive with a tale of heroes and distant wars. Today we gather around a screen instead of a campfire, but the need is the same: we want to lose ourselves in a story.
Dark’s journey truly begins when life unapologetically hits him hard. Suddenly, he is faced with challenges he never saw coming, things he couldn’t have planned for. It’s the origin story for many heroes of tales old and new.
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?
I am a big fan of Japanese animation, Western comics and cartoons, RPGs, and world mythology. These things influenced my imagination when I was younger. Characters and stories came to life as I played. To start off with I created a race of beings by fusing together three things that I was a fan of into one. After doing that, they needed a home, and so Utopia was created. I forget where I first heard of the word, but I liked how it sounded. Though my world Utopia definitely does not live up to the word’s meaning. It may be beautiful, but it’s far from a paradise. The stories that formed when I was a child remained with me. While writing the story it did have to change a bit here and there. Things that worked when I was younger, didn’t quite work as well now that I am older and more knowledgeable. Trying to figure out why this or that happens has been a challenge at times, when it didn’t matter how it happened when I was younger, it just did. That works sometimes but not all the time. In some ways the story grew even larger as I was writing it as new questions or problems with the logic of things popped up.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Adventure was a major theme for me. I enjoy exploring areas and walking along paths in the woods, at times veering off the trail. Going out for a drive and just going somewhere you’ve never been before.
Loneliness and self-doubt play a strong role as well. But to counter that is the theme of Love and Friendship. Love in its purest and most innocent form and the type of friendships that truly are unbreakable. The pillars one leans on when all else seems lost.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
In regards to where the story goes in the next book, to put it simply, to the stars. “Legacy” is the start of a series that is going to explore a vast universe. There are a lot of stories, worlds, and characters yet to be explored that are just dying to be told. Beyond that…my dream is that I am creating a series that can and will stand the test of time. The Legacy series will hopefully be a strong foundation to build upon for years to come. This isn’t just Dark’s legacy, it’s mine.
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A sci-fi fantasy epic of war, sacrifice, and the unbreakable power of friendship. For readers who crave rich characters, explosive action, and worlds where courage and conviction are the greatest weapons, Legacy delivers a thrilling beginning to a saga that will echo across galaxies.
Dark Angelus Everlast is a mystery to most. A local outsider with no known past, he rose to prominence after a decisive victory in one of Utopia’s most prestigious martial arts tournaments. Powerful, enigmatic, and reserved, he’s earned respect—but remains untested in the eyes of many. That changes when a brutal force from beyond the stars descends upon the planet, leaving devastation in its wake and catapulting Dark into a role he never sought.
Thrust into command as Planetary General, Dark must rally divided factions, earn the trust of wary allies, and master abilities that may cost him more than he’s willing to give. With his home on the brink of collapse, he stands as one of its final hopes—whether he’s ready or not.
At his side are Cory Ryker and Cogeta Fairway—steadfast friends whose loyalty runs deeper than blood. Cory, a quiet strategist with a sharp mind who must learn to confront and defeat his greatest enemy, himself. Cogeta, a charismatic warrior whose humor masks a lifetime of burdens, faces trials that will test the very foundation of his identity.
Together, they’ll navigate a galaxy where ancient forces and advanced civilizations collide, forging uneasy alliances, confronting devastating truths, and waging war against an enemy that embodies domination and despair.
Legacy is a bold fusion of military science fiction, epic fantasy, and political drama, exploring the price of heroism in a world where nothing comes without sacrifice. This is not a tale of chosen ones—it’s the story of young warriors standing against impossible odds, shaped not by destiny but by the choices they make when everything is on the line.
Tavern
Tavern follows Xelnath, or Xel, an orc priest who also happens to be a tavern owner, a healer, and the mastermind behind a covert mercenary guild called the Blackwind Company. Tavern is a character-driven fantasy adventure wrapped in rich worldbuilding and filled with witty dialogue, deep friendships, and a good bit of magical ass-kicking. From shady alleys to political schemes, the story flows through layers of intrigue, touching on themes like found family, trauma, identity, and self-worth.
I didn’t expect to fall so hard for the characters, especially Xel. He isn’t your typical fantasy protagonist. He’s overweight, scarred, introspective, and surprisingly gentle for a guy who can summon magical tree roots and crush bones with a staff. I loved the emotional layers the author gave him. His self-doubt, his craving to protect his found family, and the way he hides his pain behind sarcasm and kindness. Munden’s writing feels warm and lived-in, especially when characters are just talking. There’s a weight to their pasts that makes the small moments between them hit harder than the action scenes. The action is no slouch either. It’s visceral, fast, and packed with tension. Some chapters, especially the early fight scenes and Xel’s quiet, vulnerable monologues, really stuck with me.
The story doesn’t follow a typical structure, which I actually liked, but it might throw off readers who want a clear-cut hero’s journey. The book feels more like a slice-of-life with high stakes than a straight fantasy epic. I found that refreshing, especially with all the time spent on tavern life and casual conversations. Those slower parts often carried the emotional weight. The prose itself has a unique rhythm. Sometimes poetic, sometimes conversational, sometimes just plain weird in a good way.
Tavern is perfect for readers who care more about character depth and emotional payoff than nonstop action. It’s for folks who love a messy, flawed hero, and for those who don’t mind their fantasy with more heart than fireballs. If you’re into found-family stories, secret guilds, or cozy settings with dark undertones, you’ll find a lot to love here. I walked away from this book feeling like I knew these characters. And honestly? I miss them already.
Pages: 435 | ASIN : B07PWTR89Q
Zeus Legacy: An Epic Illustrated Science Fiction Novel from the Tales of Illuminaria
In Zeus Legacy, David ‘Deltakosh’ Catuhe tells a staggering tale of technology, humanity, and godhood through the eyes of Megara, a former human turned divine overseer of the planet Illuminaria. Framed as a memoir, the book weaves Megara’s personal journey, from her origins on a near-future Earth teetering on dystopia to her ascension as the godlike leader of a new civilization. We follow her across space and time as she attempts to rebuild humanity, guiding it with AIs styled after Greek gods, all while wrestling with grief, guilt, and the relentless weight of her choices. The story is part science fiction epic, part philosophical thought experiment, and part raw emotional journal.
I liked how intimate the story felt, despite its enormous scale. Catuhe’s writing is sharp and deeply personal, filled with emotional highs and lows that hit hard. Megara doesn’t speak like a sterile AI or a detached deity. She curses, she cries, she panics, and she tries, again and again, to do better. The prose isn’t flowery or complex, which actually works to its advantage. It’s direct and heartfelt, and that made her voice ring true. The pacing is fast but never rushed, and the mix of advanced sci-fi with old mythological motifs adds a layer of poetry to the tech-heavy plot. At times, it reads like a diary from a weary god trying to keep it together while watching her creation unravel.
The book doesn’t pull punches about human nature, and there were stretches that left me feeling bleak. Still, it never felt hollow. Megara’s despair is balanced by moments of wonder and quiet beauty. Her friendship with Demeter, an AI with a soft spot for nature, was especially moving. I found their connection oddly touching, more human than most human relationships in the book. And even when things go completely off the rails, there’s a pulse of hope running underneath it all, no matter how faint.
Zeus Legacy is a fierce, deeply reflective piece of sci-fi that isn’t afraid to ask big questions or explore dark truths. If you’re someone who loves sweeping space sagas with emotional weight, ethical dilemmas, and a hefty dose of heartbreak, this book is worth your time. It’s not a light read, but it’s the kind of story that earns that weight. I’d recommend it to fans of Mass Effect, Foundation, or The Left Hand of Darkness.
Pages: 102 | ASIN : B0DX38CGNZ
Legacy
Legacy by The Chronicler is an ambitious, genre-blending tale set in the richly imagined world of Utopia, where technology, magic, and ancient warrior ideals coexist. Told through the lens of a timeless narrator known only as the Chronicler, the novel follows a group of university students, Angel, Cory, Cogeta, Leen, and Becky, through a transformative chapter in their lives. The story intertwines themes of loyalty, longing, coming-of-age, and social hierarchy, all while hinting at deeper undercurrents of political unrest and cosmic mystery.
One of the strongest aspects of Legacy is the emotional depth embedded in its characters. From the opening chapter, the novel presents a poignant and relatable exploration of unrequited love and self-doubt through Cory, a soft-spoken student struggling to express his feelings for a girl named Alisandra. The scene is richly written, conveying his vulnerability without resorting to melodrama. His internal struggle is one of the most human and grounded elements of the story, serving as a quiet contrast to the more overt heroism of his peers. Watching Cory wrestle with his emotions while surrounded by confident, outgoing friends like Cogeta and Angel adds an impressive layer of complexity to the group dynamic.
The narrative also shines in its portrayal of relationships and rivalries. Angel and Leen’s bond evolves with warmth and authenticity, standing out as one of the most compelling arcs in the early chapters. Their connection is given the space to breathe, which allows readers to witness not just romantic development, but also how love can soften a guarded, combative personality. The rivalry between Angel and Shaw, captured in a tense exchange, provides a compelling look at class conflict, pride, and jealousy. The way their mutual disdain plays out through terse dialogue rather than immediate violence adds a mature touch to what could have easily been a one-dimensional conflict.
The world-building is vast and imaginative, but sometimes overly detailed to the point of slowing the pace. The elaborate descriptions of food, drink, and school traditions, while evocative, at times overshadow the momentum of the plot. While Cory’s introspection is effective in moderation, extended internal monologues occasionally dilute the tension built elsewhere. Still, the writing retains a sense of earnestness that is difficult to fault. Every moment, whether quiet or dramatic, seems deeply felt by its characters.
Legacy is a heartfelt and immersive narrative that will likely appeal to fans of character-driven fantasy, particularly those who enjoy a blend of school drama, action, and interpersonal tension. The writing is sincere, the characters are richly drawn, and the setting is both imaginative and grounded. Readers who appreciate strong emotional arcs, evolving friendships, and a touch of romantic and political intrigue will find much to enjoy here. It’s a story that doesn’t just entertain, it invites you to care.
Pages: 464 | ASIN : B0FBRLTW29
Richard: War Erupts
Michael Hickman’s War Erupts is the thrilling, fantasy-filled fourth installment in the Richard saga. Richard, the teenage king of the galaxy with otherworldly powers, alongside his family, seeks peace in the kingdom. However, tensions grow among the residents of the Milky Way, and whispers of war threaten the civility of this universe. As Richard attempts to control the growing tension between his subjects, he makes time to strengthen his relationship with his family and friends.
Hickman’s strength lies in the immersive world-building. He has crafted a universe that is vast, diverse, and full of life. From alien civilizations with unique customs to life-saving advanced technology, this galaxy is full of wonder and complexity. The central conflict is between the human population and the non-human species. As distrust and resentment grow on both sides, the kingdom begins to crack.
Despite the chaos, Hickman keeps the story grounded through Richard’s personal journey. While the thought of war looms above him, his family deals with their own struggles. I found the chapter where Little Raider struggles between his human morals and fox instincts to be particularly emotional. These more heartfelt moments provide a contrast to what is unfolding across the stars. Richard’s powers may grant him a greater strength, but his empathy and his desire for unity shape his leadership.
The audiobook narration elevated the reading experience through the immersive delivery. The narrator alternated accents and vocal pitches to distinguish each character, which made the dialogue vivid and easy to follow. Additionally, the inclusion of sound effects added a dynamic layer to the storytelling, making each scene feel more atmospheric.
If you are looking for a science-fiction fantasy story that blends intergalactic tension with heartfelt character development Richard: War Erupts is a must-read. The audiobookis especially engaging, with compelling narration and sound effects that bring the galaxy to life. I am looking forward to reading the next installment in the Richard series.
Listening Length: 15 hours and 53 minutes | ASIN: B0CRRYWBW3
Magi’s Curse
Magi’s Curse is a sprawling epic fantasy set in a war-torn world on the brink of collapse, where the divine pantheon meddles with mortals and fate itself unravels. The novel centers around Captain Bronwyn Amyna, a resilient and battle-worn soldier tasked with leading a ragtag group into the icy wilderness in search of a mythical artifact said to turn the tide of war. Alongside her is Clara, a broken yet defiant prisoner with a secret past and vital knowledge. As gods debate the role of death and freedom, mortals struggle with politics, survival, and destiny. The book intertwines divine conflict with gritty human drama, laying the foundation for a larger saga of legendary proportions.
I found the writing to be immersive and bold. Christopher Harris doesn’t shy away from violence, pain, or emotion, and his prose reflects that. Some parts feel cinematic, especially the opening clash between gods and the snowy military camps where tension simmers. His world-building is dense and thoughtful without being overbearing. The pacing, though deliberate, allows the emotional weight to settle in. What hit me hardest was Clara’s trauma. Her pain felt real, and her voice carried history. At times, I wished the secondary characters had more dimension to counterbalance the intensity of the leads.
What stayed with me, more than the plot, were the ideas. The gods’ detachment from human suffering felt both timely and deeply symbolic. The exploration of power, divine, political, or personal, felt honest and raw. Harris doesn’t paint in black and white. Clara isn’t a hero. Captain Amyna isn’t perfect. They’re both flawed, battered by systems larger than themselves, and trying to do the right thing in a world that punishes it. There’s something painful and beautiful in that. I didn’t agree with every choice made in the story, but I respected its guts. It’s a rare kind of fantasy that dares to be this emotionally intimate while still being packed with magic, snowstorms, and sword fights.
Magi’s Curse is a rough ride through frost and fire, grief and grit. It’s for readers who like their stories morally murky and their characters relatable. If you enjoy books like The Broken Empire series or The Poppy War, and you don’t mind a slow burn, this one’s for you. I’m still chewing on some scenes. And that’s a good sign. This book haunted me a little. I’ll definitely be picking up the next in the series.
Pages: 319 | ASIN : B0DWTXGYVF
Orphan’s Quest
Orphan’s Quest is the first volume in The Great Forget Fantasy Series by Terry Ironwood. It tells the story of Chip, a red-eyed orphan cast aside by a callous king and taken in by those more compassionate. Born with a mysterious past and even stranger powers, Chip’s journey begins as a downtrodden kitchen help and rises through intense training, unlikely friendships, and internal transformation. Along the way, he grapples with pain, prejudice, and the desire to belong, all under the watchful eyes of a wise wizard and a relentless weapons master. The novel is both a classic coming-of-age tale and a deep dive into themes of identity, purpose, and the price of inner strength.
Ironwood writes with clear affection for the genre, but more than that, there’s a beating heart underneath the swords and magic. Chip’s suffering is brutal. It’s unflinchingly described in scenes of abuse and neglect, but the story never gives in to despair. Instead, there’s a subtle power in Chip’s perseverance that made me root for him harder than I have for most heroes. The prose is straightforward, sometimes even plain, but that simplicity works here. It never distracts from the raw emotions or the clarity of the story’s moral compass. There are moments, especially the training montages and Chip’s early friendships, where I was completely swept up, like I was twelve again, reading fantasy under the covers at night.
What stood out to me is how comfortably the book leans into classic fantasy elements like the orphaned hero, the wise old wizard, and the cruel noble prince. These familiar pieces are handled with care and affection, creating a story that feels timeless and grounded in tradition. The dialogue, especially from the weapons master, is packed with memorable maxims and life lessons. At times, it feels almost like reading a guidebook for inner strength, and that gives the story a unique voice. The author clearly writes from experience, and that sincerity shines through.
I was surprised by how much this book moved me. It’s old-school in its bones, built from the stuff of classic fantasy, but it has an earnestness that’s rare in today’s darker, grittier fare. Orphan’s Quest would be perfect for readers who loved the early Harry Potter books, Eragon, or The Belgariad. It’s especially good for teens or adults who are still nursing childhood wounds or who just want to be reminded that strength often comes from the most overlooked places.
Pages: 110 | ASIN: B0D74QYJ78
A Magical and Vast Universe
Beast of Phe’lak follows a woman trapped on an alien planet, under the control of a powerful beast who spots a delegation on the beach that triggers century-old memories, and a chance to regain her freedom. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration began in Queen of Highwings, the first book in my Chronicles of Phe’lak Trilogy—of which Beast is the third book. Phe’laki General George muses about the beast with regard to the palace’s understructure, which once served as another dragon’s lair. He thinks that the underpass was sealed to prevent attracting the Beast of Phe’lak to such a luxurious dwelling because, unlike the original resident, the Dragon of Yand, the beast is not benevolent. I received many questions, including: ‘What happened to the beast?’ and ‘Is it related to the beloved Yandar dragon?’ The character Hele’ne lived in my head for a long time. I always knew who she was and how she ended up on the alien planet. I naturally wove her in.
Hele’ne is a fascinating character. What scene was the most interesting to write for that character?
I must say, I love all her scenes. My top favorites include her introduction scene, her interaction with the beast and then with Wolfpack at the beginning of the story. I also love her exchanges with Rel and Drace, as well as her final scene in the last chapter. This last scene is very powerful.
For readers who have not yet read the rest of the Worldmaker® series, what do you want them to know about the world you have created?
It is a magical and vast universe, spanning galaxies and constellations. Each new world—whether a star system, planet, or moon—comes to life in vivid detail. The people who populate these worlds, whether they are queens and kings, scientists, military archers, or regular people, are just as authentic and lifelike. There are four humanoid species introduced so far: the empathic, winged Yandar; their slightly smaller telepathic cousins, the non-winged Yendai; the benevolent, non-meta giants known as the Phe’laki; and the malevolent K’tul. The main characters are complex and richly developed, and their extensive dialogues throughout the stories enhances the immersive quality. The illustrations are glorious. If you purchase the PDF, please read in full-screen, two-page format to get the full benefit of the artwork.
The primary genre is Sci-Fi/Fantasy, but with elements of the paranormal, a touch of horror, and unconventional romance, always with a hint of humor. LGBTQ+ and polyamorous marriages are part of the norm alongside exclusive and binary ones.
The storylines follow the saga of Worldmaker Yanara’s family, whose children have evocative names: Snowfox, Hawklord, Asimia, Dragonlord, Wolfpack, Sunstorm. Can you guess the kings among them? The Worldmaker and Dragoon? The Pathfinder?
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
I received requests to write more about the Dragon of Yand and his wife, Yira, and also of Drace and his husband, Rel. I can’t stop writing about these two. I could serialize their adventures. However, I meant to write the third trilogy in my series, the one that brings the war to the K’tul homeworld. We’ll see. For the next couple of months, I’ll be taking a breather and focusing on earning a few accolades for Beast to adorn its cover, just like my other books. It has already received a few awards, the most prominent among them being the No. 1 Book/Manuscript on Coverfly’s Red List this month (out of 57,000 scripts).
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LITERARY TITAN 