Blog Archives
Personal and Societal Upheaval
Danethrall follows an Anglo-Saxon child who is taken captive and raised as a Dane on her journey of love, loss, and the harrowing ordeals she must endure to survive. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Like most, my interest in Vikings was sparked in school where the history of terrifying Vikings cutting across the seas on their dragon ships to raid and plunder villages and cities across the world has entertained and enamoured children in classrooms across the UK. The city I grew up in boasts a personal link to the 9th-century Viking attack; it is reported in the Anglo-Saxon chronicle to have been attacked by Ivar the Boneless and the Great Heathen Army who destroyed the monastery that was situated where the current cathedral is standing today. Inspired by history, Danethrall stemmed from wondering what it would be like as an Anglo-Saxon during the times of the Great Heathen Army’s attack, flourishing into the trilogy it is today.
I enjoyed the depth of the main character, Aveline. What was your process to bring that character to life?
I wanted Aveline to be a relatable character, a realistic response to a lot of what ifs while keeping the world around her as dark and accurate as possible. She acts as a guide through 9th-century Denmark, letting readers see the world through her eyes. I didn’t want Aveline to be some superhero or modern woman on a medieval backdrop, I wanted her responses to be as period-appropriate as possible while growing and finding herself in this harsh and bloody environment.
As cliché as it sounds, Aveline came into her own as I wrote Danethrall. Aveline originated from the idea of a kidnapped Anglo-Saxon forcibly taken to the land of the Danes, but rather than suffering thraldom, she is given a new home. Due to this circumstance, Aveline is an intricate character with a lot of emotional conflict, wrestling with her grudge against the people who slaughtered her family, her guilt for finding a home alongside those very same people, and everything in between, while giving an insight into the world of the Vikings through the eyes of a foreigner.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The core themes of Danethrall are survival, adaptability, and resilience in the face of personal and societal upheaval. Other themes include the patience and strategy needed to survive in this violent environment, sacrifice, power dynamics, cultural identity as Aveline juggles between her identity as an Anglo-Saxon and an adopted Dane while trying to survive in this war-torn world, and of course, love and loss.
Can you tell us more about where the story and characters go after book one?
Aveline enjoys a couple of quiet years before book two (Rise to Fall) and book three (Ashes Remain) in the Danethrall Trilogy see her caught up in blood feuds and mystical shaman rituals, battling in the Siege of Paris, travelling across the world to the shining city of Constantinople, and fighting both new enemies and ghosts of her past.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Pillaging. Violence. That is what the Norsemen were infamous for, and when they invaded the Kingdom of the East Angles in autumn 865, that is exactly what they did. Aveline, an Anglo-Saxon child, is taken captive by Birger Bloody Sword and stolen away to Roskilde, Denmark, where she finds herself alone, abandoned by her God.
Five years have passed. Adopted by her captor, Aveline is an outsider to the Danes and perceived as a traitor by the Anglo-Saxon thralls enslaved by them. When Birger sets sail to raid once again, he leaves Aveline in the care of the jarl’s son, Vidar, for her own protection.
Aveline begins to find her place in Roskilde, but even the few Danes she has come to favour are dark, blood-thirsty warriors. When Roskilde is besieged by its bitter rival Aros, Aveline finds herself fighting fearsome enemies alongside the very people who slaughtered her family.
The compelling and bloody tale of an Anglo-Saxon’s life in the land of the Danes. With human sacrifice, rape and murder, Aveline is thrust into a world more dangerous than she could imagine. Follow Aveline’s journey of love and loss and the harrowing ordeals she must endure to survive.
This novel contains graphic violence, sexual content and inappropriate language. Reader discretion is advised.
Overcoming Bad Decisions
American Jukebox follows a young boy and his father, Dancer, a baseball pitcher whose life takes an unexpected turn, leading them to a small town where he learns life lessons about shattered dreams and the challenges of growing up. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My first novel, American Past Time (published in 2014) is the prequel to American Jukebox. American Past Time is primarily Dancer Stonemason’s story – his fall from grace, and his recovery. It ends in 1973 when Clayton Stonemason has just returned from Viet Nam. American Jukebox, revisits those early years, but from Clayton’s perspective as a boy growing to adulthood. The second half of the novel follows Clayton on his journey.
Were you able to achieve everything you wanted with the characters in the novel?
I think so. Clayton was a challenge. He had idolized his father as a young boy, and when Dancer was disgraced that wounded Clayton, and he didn’t want anything to do with his father. He didn’t want to be compared to him, but as he grows up it is obvious that he is much like his father and despite his protests he doesn’t hate him. He loves him. The challenge was showing his evolution from wounded child to an adult who through his own bad choices and failures comes to understand that no one is perfect.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
All of the Stonemason stories – not just American Jukebox, but also the prequel, American Past Time, and the third book in the trilogy, Everyone Dies Famous are about people making bad decisions and their struggle to overcome those decisions. In Jim Stonemason’s commencement address to his high school, he finishes with this exhortation:
“When we fail, it doesn’t have to be forever. We have to forgive ourselves. Let me repeat that. We have to forgive ourselves. As long as we’re still breathing, we have a chance to make things right. But we can’t if we’re spending all our energy blaming ourselves. So when you stumble, give yourself a break.”
Forgiveness. Perseverance. The opportunity for redemption if we keep trying. If we stay in the game. I guess I would call those the themes I explored in all of these novels.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
The novel I am working on now is titled, “Nothing Left to Lose” and it is the sequel to my novel, “Freedom’s Just Another Word…” which are lines from the late, great Kris Kristofferson’s classic song, “Me and Bobby McGee”. I am hoping it will be available next fall, but I have a lot of work to do.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website | Book Review
Clayton Stonemason idolized his father, a hometown hero in their small Missouri town. But when his father’s life unravels, Clayton loses his way, too. He tries to escape his father’s legacy but discovers he can’t run from his destiny.
AMERICAN JUKEBOX, a story of small-town America in the last decades of the twentieth century, explores the many ways our relationships, hopes, and dreams can alter the course of our lives.
Desert Guardian
Desert Guardian by A.W. Baldwin is an action-packed adventure set against the vast and rugged backdrop of the American Southwest. The story intertwines past and present, starting with a flashback to a Pueblo ambush on Mexica warriors in 1224 A.D. This historic tension sets the stage for the modern-day narrative, where Ethan, a young man on a post-graduation trip, literally falls into a hidden world of illegal artifacts, danger, and unexpected friendships. After surviving a bike accident, Ethan is saved by Relic, a desert hermit, and the two forge an unlikely bond as they navigate the harsh desert and the shady underworld of artifact smugglers.
The author perfectly captures the wild beauty of the desert, making it a character in its own right. The descriptions are vivid. Baldwin writes with a clear reverence for the setting, and that love of the environment adds depth to the story’s more intense moments. The setting is well-crafted, but the dialogue and character development, at times, feel less polished. Ethan’s internal monologues occasionally lean toward melodrama, particularly when he reflects on his near-death experience, which may momentarily disrupt the immersion. Relic’s gruff yet wise personality shines through, especially in moments where he imparts desert survival tips or shares cryptic advice.
The pacing of the novel is generally quick, with moments of introspection balanced by bursts of action. The scenes involving the artifact smuggling ring are tense and engaging, especially as the reader starts to unravel how deep the conspiracy goes. Boss, the antagonist, is suitably ruthless, and his cold demeanor makes for a chilling counterbalance to the more humane characters like Relic and Ethan. The subplot involving ancient Pueblo petroglyphs and hidden trails gives the novel an air of intrigue that kept me flipping pages, wondering how all the pieces would connect.
Desert Guardian is an entertaining adventure novel for those who enjoy thrillers with a historical twist and a strong sense of place. Baldwin’s love for the desert landscape shines through, and the fast-paced plot will appeal to adventure lovers. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories about survival, hidden treasures, and characters who live by their own rules in the unforgiving wilderness.
Pages: 209 | ASIN : B08MB6XL8S
Anemone
Anemone is a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of 1960s Southern California, weaving together themes of family, sibling rivalry, and the consequences of hidden truths. The novel follows two brothers, Russell and Wyatt, as they navigate a volatile home life dominated by their stern, military father, Frank. The story picks up when Russell begins to unravel dark secrets surrounding the disappearance of his brother’s girlfriend, Edie, and the mystery of a fire that changes their lives forever. At its core, the novel explores identity, guilt, and the complex dynamics of sibling relationships, all while keeping the reader hooked with a slow-burning suspense.
One thing I appreciated was Frazee’s ability to build tension from everyday moments. The opening chapter, where Frank is casually briefing his sons at breakfast about naval maneuvers, is subtle yet packed with an undercurrent of foreboding. It’s as if the family’s entire life is simmering just under the surface, waiting for something to erupt. I was drawn to how the novel lingers in the uncomfortable silences and exchanges between Russell and Wyatt, like when Wyatt callously dismisses Russell’s concerns about Edie’s absence. This emotional distance between the brothers, especially in moments like when Wyatt takes Russell’s watch, feels real and painful.
Frazee’s writing shines most in the way he handles the emotional and psychological complexities of his characters. The relationship between Russell and his father is especially poignant. Frank’s stern demeanor and military pride permeate the household, and Russell’s attempts to seek his approval make for some emotional moments. The scene where Russell, eager for his father’s recognition, cleans and polishes the family car only for Frank to give a dismissive acknowledgment is heartbreaking. It’s a simple moment, but it speaks volumes about how children can feel invisible in their parents’ eyes.
The novel spends a great deal of time building the atmosphere and setting the stage. While I loved the character development and backstory, there were moments when I felt a little lost in the details, particularly when the narrative would drift into flashbacks of Frank’s military past. Though these moments were important to the overall story, I sometimes found myself eager to get back to the central mystery and the unraveling of the fire incident.
Anemone is a haunting and thoughtful exploration of family dynamics, guilt, and the struggle to come to terms with the past. I recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of suspense. It’s not a fast-paced thriller but rather a novel that rewards patience and emotional investment.
Pages: 420 | ASIN : B0CW1M2GBM
American Jukebox
American Jukebox, by Len Joy, is a heartfelt exploration of childhood, family, and the bittersweet transition into adulthood. Set in mid-20th century America, the story centers on Clayton, a young boy, and his father, Dancer, a baseball pitcher whose life takes an unexpected turn. Through snapshots of Clayton’s childhood, the narrative delves into his relationship with his father, who eventually leaves baseball and faces a series of personal and financial hardships. As Clayton navigates the complexities of family life, he learns tough lessons about shattered dreams, harsh realities, and the inevitable challenges of growing up. The story vividly portrays small-town life and the struggles families face when their aspirations falter, weaving a tale of resilience and emotional growth.
In this literary fiction piece, Len Joy captures the essence of how personal choices, family ties, and unforeseen events shape one’s future. Readers are taken on Clayton’s emotional journey as he wrestles with his father’s downfall, his mother’s endurance, and his own coming-of-age. The book’s nostalgic tone, coupled with its vivid depiction of 1950s and 60s America, paints a picture of a time when baseball symbolized not just sport, but hope and heartbreak. Each chapter is concise, making it an easy read, yet packed with emotional depth.
The theme of a dysfunctional family makes for a poignant and, at times, difficult read, with Clayton’s relationship with his father serving as the novel’s emotional core. Dancer’s fall from the pitcher’s mound to working in a factory is a tragic arc, one that resonates with anyone who’s experienced the disillusionment of seeing a parent’s dreams crumble. Clayton’s idealization of his father is gradually dismantled as he confronts the painful truths of adulthood. This depiction of family turbulence and childhood disillusionment is delivered in a subtle yet powerful manner. Joy’s writing is simple yet descriptive, offering vivid imagery without over-complication. Clayton’s emotional growth is paced perfectly, making his journey feel both intimate and relatable. The book touches on universal themes: the fleeting moments of childhood, the bonds within a family, and the inevitable loss of innocence.
American Jukebox is an emotional rollercoaster, filled with relatable characters and a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers engaged. Len Joy’s storytelling brings to life the joys and sorrows of growing up in a world where dreams and reality often collide. It’s a touching and simple read, deeply resonant with anyone who’s ever grappled with the complexities of family and the passage of time.
Pages: 326 | ASIN : B0DF5B3QV4
Twilight’s Hidden Truth (The Winds of Change)
At first glance, Twyla appears to be the perfect daughter in the idyllic Cameron family, but beneath the surface, her world is unraveling. The peace her family once knew is shattered when a biker gang disrupts their lives, and things only worsen when her brother is drafted to Vietnam. The perfect life she had always known quickly descends into chaos. Amidst the turmoil, Twyla crosses paths with Caleb Silverson, a handsome and charismatic celebrity racer. As she is drawn into the glamorous Hollywood lifestyle, Twyla begins to wonder if Caleb might be the key to her happiness.
Twilight’s Hidden Truth by Rachel Valencourt is a compelling novel about self-discovery and finding one’s passion when life takes an unexpected turn. The book is written from Twyla’s perspective, which I found particularly engaging. The detailed descriptions of the 1970s—from the music and fashion to the social tensions—create an authentic atmosphere that makes Twyla’s experiences relatable and engaging. The author’s talent for creating complex, multi-dimensional characters is evident, particularly in the way Twyla is portrayed. Her internal struggles, torn between family loyalty and the desire for independence, resonate deeply, making her a character that readers can root for. The romantic subplot involving Twyla and the celebrity racer Caleb Silverson feels somewhat underdeveloped and rushed. This relationship, which could have provided deeper insight into Twyla’s character and her evolving sense of self, instead serves more as a convenient plot device. Valencourt maintains tension and keeps the reader invested in Twyla’s journey.
Twilight’s Hidden Truth is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and coming-of-age stories. It is particularly well-suited for readers interested in exploring the complexities of the 1970s and the impact of societal change on individual lives. Valencourt’s evocative writing and nuanced characterizations make this a novel worth diving into.
Pages: 360 | ASIN : B0CTFXG3BD
Challenges and Triumphs
What Are We Going to Do Tyrone Jr.? follows the parents of an adult autistic son who faces challenges from the neighbors with his behavior. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Life was really my inspiration. My wife’s and mine personal journey along with the experiences of other parents of autistic children served as the primary inspiration for this story. Because I’m a part of this community, I’ve become aware of the challenges and triumphs that other parents of autistic children have experienced. There are a lot of challenges, but, fortunately, there can also be a lot of wins.
This novel was a perfect way for me to share an interesting story and to educate readers on the difficulties that families may experience while raising a loved one who has special needs. Most importantly, I was inspired by the need to highlight the uncertainty that families often experience when their special loved one becomes an adult.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
My primary guideline was to ensure that my characters were interesting, relatable, and believable. I really want the reader to emotionally connect with my authentic characters and have a good understanding of why the characters in my story act a certain way. In order to make this possible, I deliberately shared the main characters’ personal dreams and goals. It’s important that readers understand the parents’ goals in the story, and how having a special-needs child may possibly impact them. By sharing these insights, I feel as if I developed believable, relatable, and likable characters.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In addition to addressing the central theme of raising a special-needs adult child, family and friendship are critical themes in the story. Family and friendship create powerful emotions that many people can relate to based on experiences in their lives – good or bad. In my first novel, The Other Side of Friendship, I primarily focused on the challenges of making and keeping new friends as an adult. What Are We Going to Do with Tyrone Jr.? also captures the themes of friendship throughout the story. One of my goals was to show how the main character, Tyrone, matured in the area of friendship. As for the family theme, this story is a reminder that even the most close-knit families can experience internal personal conflicts. The goal should be to stick together as a family and work through obstacles.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
For my next novel, I’m still brainstorming ideas. I’m actually torn between writing a more light-hearted and adventurous story or a reflective novel about a character who is struggling to obtain personal goals. Both stories may include some of the characters from my current book and will contain chapters that are inspired by my military career. After spending 30 years in the Army, it’s hard for me to not include military references in a story. Brainstorming the different ideas for my next book is exciting. Regardless of the type of story I write, there will surely be a central theme to inspire or educate the reader. The expected release date is late 2025. I look forward to sharing more about my next story with you.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The devoted parents eagerly seek the right support for their child even when the odds simply feel as if they are too much to overcome. Between a military deployment for Tyrone, police involvement with their son, and unforeseen events, Tyrone and Krystal are determined to take steps in order to answer the question, “What are we going to do with Tyrone Jr.?”
What Are We Going to Do With Tyrone Jr.?
David Grant’s What Are We Going to Do with Tyrone Jr.? is a poignant and stirring narrative that dives deep into the complexities of raising a child with autism while navigating the relentless challenges of societal judgment and personal sacrifice. The story revolves around Tyrone Washington, a father struggling to provide the best life for his son, Tyrone Jr., who is on the autism spectrum. Through a series of trials, including courtroom battles, misunderstandings, and heartfelt moments, Grant masterfully paints a picture of resilience, love, and unwavering dedication.
One of the most compelling aspects of this book is its authenticity. Grant’s depiction of the everyday struggles faced by Tyrone and his family feels incredibly real and relatable. In Chapter 1, we see the frantic search for Tyrone Jr. in a mall, which sets the tone for the many anxieties and fears that follow. This scene not only hooks the reader but also establishes the raw emotion that permeates the entire narrative. The author’s ability to convey such genuine emotions is commendable and adds a layer of depth to the characters that make them memorable. Another standout element is the narrative’s exploration of societal issues. The book does not shy away from depicting the prejudices and systemic challenges faced by families dealing with autism. Grant’s background as a military officer also brings an interesting perspective to these issues, adding a unique dimension to the story. The dialogues are strong and natural, and the reflective moments offer a deeper insight into Tyrone’s internal struggles and add to the story’s emotional weight.
What Are We Going to Do with Tyrone Jr.? is a heartfelt and impactful read that will resonate with anyone who has faced adversity while caring for a loved one. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength of family and the importance of compassion in our interactions with others. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy emotionally charged stories with strong character development and those interested in understanding more about the challenges faced by families dealing with autism. David Grant has crafted a narrative that is both enlightening and moving, making it a valuable addition to contemporary fiction.
Pages: 257 | ASIN : B0CZ4D33NY
LITERARY TITAN 