Diana Townsend and David Hardie’s The Devil’s Footprints is a charming and imaginative story set in the Victorian era, blending folklore, history, and adventure. The story follows a secret world of small, humanoid creatures called dittos who live alongside humans in the coastal village of Dawlish. As Queen Victoria’s reign ushers in an age of scientific progress, the dittos face changes and challenges of their own. With a mix of whimsy and real-world consequences, the book explores themes of community, deception, and survival.
The writing style is easy to follow, though it has an old-fashioned charm that fits the historical setting. The story shines in its world-building. The village of Dawlish feels alive, both in its human and ditto forms. The authors do a fantastic job making us feel the size difference between humans and dittos. A simple horse-drawn carriage becomes a monstrous threat, and something as mundane as a wheelbarrow full of manure is an adventure in itself. I particularly enjoyed how the dittos see humans as these powerful, careless giants, oblivious to the tiny lives scurrying beneath their feet. The early chapters introduce us to young Dudley, who immediately captures sympathy with his struggles. His near-miss with the carriage is a heart-racing moment, and it sets the stage for bigger dangers to come.
William, on the other hand, is a fascinating contrast to Dudley. He’s older, hardened by experiences outside of Dawlish, and quick with a lie. His return to the village is filled with deception, and the way he spins grand stories about his time in Bristol, especially the fake tale about being enslaved by elves, is both entertaining and infuriating. The dittos are eager to believe him, which makes his manipulation even more frustrating to witness. It’s clear William sees himself as superior, and his smooth-talking ways make him a formidable presence. The authors make it easy to dislike him while still keeping him interesting. His speech on the beach, where he convinces the dittos to follow his plans, is a standout scene that shows his cunning.
The underlying tension of human expansion adds a deeper layer to the story. The arrival of railway workers, and the slow but inevitable encroachment of industry, feels like an unstoppable force. The dittos, who have lived hidden for so long, are suddenly faced with a problem they can’t ignore. The book does a great job of showing the contrast between those who see change as an opportunity, like William who wants to profit from human waste, and those who see it as a threat, like Emil the elf, who warns of dark times ahead. One of the most striking moments is when Kate and Dudley get stranded on the rocks, caught between rising tides and aggressive seagulls. The tension in that scene is fantastic, and Emil’s rescue flight is a great pay-off. The mix of small-scale action and larger, looming changes keeps the book engaging.
The Devil’s Footprints (The Dittos of Dawlish) is a unique and enjoyable read that I think is perfect for fans of folklore and historical fantasy. It has the feel of a classic adventure story, with strong characters, clever twists, and a world that feels rich and lived-in. Younger readers and fans of books like The Borrowers or The Secret World of Arrietty will especially enjoy it. It’s light enough for casual reading but has enough depth to keep you thinking.
Starfall by B.C. Charles is a gripping tale that opens with mysterious occurrences in the quiet town of Anne Falls, centering on Nathan Hawkins, a teenager juggling everyday struggles with the weight of supernatural secrets. The story weaves together local legends, paranormal investigations, and personal conflicts, exploring the fallout from a supposed extraterrestrial crash decades prior. Through Nathan’s encounters with cults, cryptic journals, and his latent pyrokinesis, the book delves into themes of identity, truth, and resilience.
I was immediately hooked by the atmospheric opening. The vivid description of a fireball crashing into Kingland Forest sets an eerie tone that persists throughout the book. Nathan’s first foray into the woods to investigate a cult gave me chills—Charles nailed the sense of danger and suspense. Yet, what I loved most was how grounded the story felt despite its supernatural elements. Nathan’s frustrations with school bullies and his strained relationship with his aunt added layers of relatability.
The writing style is straightforward yet evocative. Charles’s knack for painting tension-filled scenes shone brightest during Nathan’s confrontation with the cultists near Queen’s Lake. I found myself rooting for Nathan as he outwitted them while battling his own fears. However, I feel the dialogue among the secondary characters, like Mike and Angela, occasionally veered toward being more formal and in some instances slightly repetitive.
The ideas within the book, particularly the intersection of science, faith, and the paranormal were fascinating. I enjoyed how the AFUN archive files complemented the narrative, offering glimpses into a conspiracy bigger than Nathan. The concept of the “Daughters of Men” and their ties to Anne Falls’ history was compelling, though I wish the book had spent more time unraveling their motives. The inclusion of Nathan’s fire powers added a unique layer to the story, but it sometimes felt underutilized. I kept hoping for a deeper exploration of how his abilities connected to Starfall and his family’s mysterious past, however, this leaves an opportunity for future installations.
Starfall is a satisfying mix of coming-of-age drama and supernatural mystery. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves stories that blend small-town secrets with larger-than-life phenomena. Fans of shows like Stranger Things or books like The Outsiders with a paranormal twist will feel right at home here. The book’s heart and intrigue kept me turning pages late into the night.
St. Paul Goes to Spain follows three men bound by their shared faith and curiosity about the apostle Paul, who, after discovering a letter, they go on a journey to the places they think Paul could have visited in Spain. What inspired the setup of your story?
Well, I wrote it as an historian and a Christian, but I was long interested if Paul actually made a missionary trip to Spain which he mentioned in some other published Scripture, such as the Book of Romans. Plus, I have loved fiction ever since early-life discoveries of Steinbeck, Hemingway, etc. It is a way of reaching people and drawing upon your imagination to tell great stories that, in fact, usually reach a lot more people than histories! I did an earlier novel on early Christianity in the Americas (Columbian discoveries, conquests, and settlements) and how Jesus, or, more exactly, some of his followers and prophets may have reached the New World hundreds of years before 1492, and they left evidence (artifacts in the forms of the Cross), and I was off into the past again, this time inventing and tracing a story which I think could have actually happened. Ok, I’ll stop here. I’ve had a couple cups of coffee and it is Saturday morning and football games don’t begin until this afternoon!
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I’ve always enjoyed the trajectory and messages of the Apostle Paul in the New Testament, especially since he produced more than half of the Books of the New Testament. He was, in fact, the writer who did more to write down the teachings of Jesus, or to create the theology of Christianity. So I suppose my principal interest was in exploring, one, the central themes of Christianity that Paul taught (love, forgiveness, salvation, etc.) and, two, how he probably took them to Spain, a country I have long loved and admired given my background and experiences, first visiting as a young Naval officer in the Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean in the mid-1960s, and then over the years as a historian, where I especially learned about the land and its people while researching for my dissertation in the Archive of the Indies, Seville, 1970-71,.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?
Without a doubt, it has been the growth of my Christian faith, influenced especially by my marriage to my wife Louise more than thirty years ago. Without going into detail, she showed me that true worship in understanding did not come necessarily with reading and doing good works, but through the faith that comes when God in his infinite Grace accepts you into his world. You have but to accept. Secondarily, but no less important (although not as transcending as making the same discovery that Martin Luther made in the early sixteenth century when he discovered for himself, while teaching at Wittenberg on the Book of Galatians, the true power of the grace of God) was my teaching the history of Christianity over the last almost five decades to various forums, from my students at the University of Alabama, to mission trips into places like Honduras and the Dominican Republic, and my all-time favorite students, the prisoners of the Tuscaloosa County Jail where I’ve been ministering on a weekly basis for twenty-five years.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from St. Paul Goes to Spain?
That the Christian message given to Paul by Jesus (beginning with his Road to Damascus conversion) was indeed aimed to the entire world, albeit a world circumscribed by the knowledge of geography of the world 2000 years ago. Taking it to Spain was just reaching the far Western end of the Mediterranean and I even hint that Paul may have voyaged into the Atlantic with some of the intrepid Phoenician mariners of the times and zipped across the Atlantic, about fifteen hundred years before Columbus!
St. Paul Goes to Spain
What if the Apostle Paul, after his release from imprisonment in Rome, embarked on a daring journey to the far reaches of the Roman Empire? “St. Paul Goes to Spain” by Lawrence Clayton is a riveting historical fiction novel that imagines this very scenario, blending meticulous research with engaging storytelling. Join Matthew Western, an intrepid archaeologist, as he uncovers ancient artifacts in the Sinai desert, sparking a quest to prove that Paul indeed traveled to Spain. His journey intertwines with the lives of several compelling characters:John Baldus, a former Army soldier and current Divinity student, who grapples with faith and doubt while investigating Paul’s journeys. Domingo, a Dominican priest in modern Spain, facing spiritual challenges and historical mysteries. Slate Watson, a daring crop-duster pilot with a rich military past, whose adventurous spirit leads him into the heart of biblical archaeology. Sarah Maxwell, an Englishwoman tracing her ancestors’ historic discoveries, contributing her own expertise to the mission. Together, they delve into historical sites, uncover ancient manuscripts, and piece together the lost chapters of early Christian history. From the dusty libraries of St. Catherine’s Monastery to the vibrant landscapes of modern Spain, their quest reveals profound insights and unexpected connections. “St. Paul Goes to Spain” explores the intersection of faith, history, and archaeology, offering readers a captivating journey through time and belief. It’s a story of discovery, adventure, and the enduring impact of one man’s mission to spread the Christian faith.
LAWRENCE A. CLAYTON was born in October 1942, in Summit, New Jersey. He lived in Peru for seven years. He attended Duke University (B.A., 1964), and earned his M.A. (1969) and Ph.D. (1972) at Tulane University in Latin American History. From 1964-1966 he served as an officer in the U.S. Navy on the USS Donner (LSD-20), cruising both in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean with the 6th Fleet. He was on the faculty of the University of Alabama from 1972-2013. He directed the Latin American Studies Program from 1980 to 1992. He was Chair of Department of History 2000-2007 and was Interim Chair, 2009-2010. His specialties focused on Latin American history and the history of the Christian church. He is now Professor Emeritus of History. He retired in 2013. He held two Senior Fulbright Lecturing Awards, one in 1983 to Costa Rica and one in 1988 to Peru. In 1983 he served as President of the South Eastern Council on Latin American Studies. In 1999 he held a year-long Pew Evangelical Scholars Fellowship.
St. Paul Goes to Spain by Lawrence A. Clayton is a captivating work of religious fiction that brings together history, faith, and intrigue. The story introduces us to three main characters—Matthew, John, and Domingo—whose lives, while seemingly different, are bound by their shared faith and curiosity about the apostle Paul. This shared religious fascination drives the plot, with much of the narrative centered on the discovery of a letter believed to be written by Paul to a church in Spain.
The novel’s premise revolves around the authenticity and location of this letter, sparking a journey of discovery for the characters and their companions. This quest takes them to places Paul could have visited if his journey to Spain, hinted at in the New Testament, had indeed taken place. This historical mystery gives the book its compelling edge, encouraging readers to reflect on Christianity’s roots while expanding their understanding of faith. One of the most fascinating aspects of St. Paul Goes to Spain is its grounding in real-world history. Clayton weaves in significant historical events, such as the fall of the Berlin Wall, and touches on modern political issues, including the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East. These references not only add depth to the narrative but also prompt readers to think critically about war, politics, and their impact on religion, both past and present. The question of whether Paul ever reached Spain is a topic of theological debate, and Clayton skillfully uses this ambiguity to drive the story. The characters explore regions Paul might have visited, offering readers a fresh lens through which to consider early Christianity and its spread. By blending history, religion, and politics, the author successfully creates a rich, thought-provoking narrative.
Clayton’s ability to merge these elements makes the book worthwhile for those interested in world events or religious fiction. St. Paul Goes to Spain offers a unique perspective, encouraging readers to contemplate both the historical and spiritual aspects of faith while providing an engaging exploration of Paul’s possible travels. I highly recommend it to anyone drawn to stories that intertwine history, belief, and current affairs.
Do You Believe in Miracles? follows a once shy teenage boy who discovers a hidden realm where he is a powerful wizard and now must decide to remain in that world or return to his mortal life.What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Two things stand out. My previous epic fantasy saga is titled The Death Wizard Chronicles, and it contains adult content that makes it appropriate for 18 and older. But I have five daughters, and the youngest one — who is a voracious reader — couldn’t bring herself to read DW. The ol’ you can’t picture one of your parents even thinking such things. So she asked me if I could write something appropriate for the 13+ age group. Hence, my teen fantasy adventure series Dark Circles was born. Do You Believe in Miracles? is book 3. The second thing that stands out is that the setting for Dark Circles is based on a small town in rural Upstate South Carolina that is near to where I currently live.
Were you able to achieve everything you wanted with the characters in the novel?
The short answer is yes. The long answer would go on forever. So I’ll give you the middle-length answer. 😀 I went to great effort to give each of my major characters real and recognizable traits such as their physical appearances, emotional responses, personality quirks, and their values, beliefs, and morals. For example, Charlie’s growth from a timid teen to a powerful wizard built slowly throughout the narrative. If you read carefully, you’ll be able to see this growth step by step, almost like walking up a long set of stairs.
What was the initial idea behind the Dark Circles Trilogy, and how did that transform as you were writing the series?
The initial idea came from the title. The trilogy is called Dark Circles for a specific reason. When teens from the real world enter the fantasy world, they are unable to sleep because an evil being haunts their dreams and is intent on killing them. Therefore, when they return to the real world, they have dark circles beneath their eyes from lack of sleep. I carried this theme throughout the series, though it became less important as the story picked up speed.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m working on two books: a novel and a memoir. The novel is titled Bhayatupa the Great: The Dragon Wars and is a prequel to my six-book adult epic fantasy titled The Death Wizard Chronicles. It should be available by June 2025. The memoir is titled The Adventures of a Florida boy and it chronicles what it was like to grow up in the 1960s on the west coast of Florida, a time when kids roamed wild and free. I’ll be shopping this to publishers and agents soon, so I’m at their mercy as to when it will be available.
Dark Circles is the winner of ten prestigious international awards. From the author of The Death Wizard Chronicles comes an award-winning adventure suitable for teens and adults.Do You Believe in Miracles? is book 3 of Dark Circles, a fantasy trilogy for readers 13 and older. This is a fascinating coming of age series for fans of J.K. Rowling, Neil Gaiman, and Brandon Sanderson.
Book 1: Do You Believe in Magic? (May 25, 2023) Book 2: Do You Believe in Monsters? (Oct. 23, 2023) Book 3: Do You Believe in Miracles? (April 21, 2024)
Synopsis: When Charlie Magus enters a fantastical world hidden deep in the forest, his life is turned upside down. The timid 13-year-old transforms into a powerful wizard wielding formidable magic. In the real world, life goes on as usual. But in the fantasy world, a war is brewing that will dwarf all others. Charlie’s newfound powers stand between victory and defeat. But in which world does he truly belong? Dark Circles is an adventure of epic scope. Only those with a hero’s heart will dare to stand at Charlie’s side as he battles an army of monsters led by an evil being of immense power.
Pennsylvania Fireside Tales Volume 2 by Jeffrey R. Frazier is a delightful anthology that captures the heart and soul of Pennsylvania, a state often considered America’s heartland. From the historic streets of Philadelphia to the steel-forging foundries of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has long been a place of rugged beauty and enduring tradition. The people who have lived here, and continue to do so, carry with them a rich heritage of stories—tales from a simpler time when life moved at a gentler pace, yet held lessons just as meaningful. This collection of folk tales, the second in Frazier’s series, evokes the spirit of classic American storytellers like Mark Twain and Washington Irving. The tales are imbued with the no-nonsense, hardworking ethos of Pennsylvanians, but also reveal their whimsical and imaginative nature. The state’s rugged landscape serves as the perfect backdrop for these inventive and fascinating stories, many of which were likely spun around a crackling hearth on a cold winter’s night.
Within these pages, readers will encounter a vivid tapestry of banshees, ghosts, and folksy wisdom, all set against the backdrop of Pennsylvania’s bucolic countryside. Frazier skillfully brings to life the hardy souls who form the backbone of this region—blue-collar workers who take pride in an honest day’s work, and whose stories are as enduring as the land they till. The evocative descriptions make it easy to imagine the smell of woodsmoke rising from cookfires and the distant howl of a farmyard dog. One of the standout tales in this collection is the bloodcurdling Haunts of the Highway, which will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Like Twain at his best, Frazier has a gift for creating characters that are both lovable and deeply human. Even in the midst of improbable events, the goodness and decency of these characters shine through, reminding us of the enduring power of simple virtues.
In a world that often seems to have lost its sense of wonder, Pennsylvania Fireside Tales Volume 2 is a refreshing reminder of the magic that still exists in the stories passed down through generations. Frazier’s collection not only entertains but also rekindles a sense of wonder, bringing these timeless tales vividly to life.
Magical realms in literature captivate the imagination by offering boundless possibilities, and Charlie Magus is the hero who brings this novel to life. Do You Believe in Miracles? by Jim Melvin is the third book of the Dark Circles trilogy. It follows 13-year-old Charlie Magus, who stumbles into a hidden realm within the forest, changing his world forever. Once a shy boy, Charlie becomes a mighty wizard with extraordinary abilities. While life continues normally in his everyday world, the fantasy realm is on the brink of a colossal war. Charlie’s magic could decide the outcome, but he faces a tough choice: remain in the world of mortals or reside forever in his newly discovered world.
Melvin’s talent for creating vivid, immersive descriptions pulls you into the magical world he’s crafted. Each scene is rich with detail, making the fantastical elements feel real and immediate. From the intricate spell work to the majestic landscapes, the book’s visual splendor is truly impressive. The way Melvin paints these images with words makes the fantasy realm come alive. You can almost see the shimmering magic and feel the atmosphere of each setting. This ability to create such a vivid world adds a layer of depth to the story, enhancing both the action and emotional moments. The book is a visual feast that keeps the reader engaged and invested in the adventure. Melvin’s writing style ensures that the fantastical elements are not just decorative but essential to the story. The detailed imagery helps to build a rich, immersive experience that draws you into every aspect of the narrative. The magic and settings are described with such clarity that they become an integral part of the story, making each moment feel both epic and personal.
Do You Believe in Miracles? captured my heart with its exceptional visual and narrative artistry, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.
Sunshine Clinic by Meera Ekkanath Klein is a captivating tale centered on the journey of its protagonist, Sunny, also known as Thangam. After completing her medical studies and gaining valuable experience, Sunny returns to her childhood home of Mahagiri. This town is where she grew up, faced loss, and where her family, including extended in-laws and a cherished niece, still resides. Despite her father’s absence, the longstanding presence of those who have worked for her family remains. Initially eager to escape her hometown, Sunny now finds herself irresistibly drawn back, yearning for the familiarity she once knew. Yet, she grapples with the challenge of stepping out of her family’s shadow. The central question is whether she can find a balance that allows her to pursue her passion on her own terms.
This novel deeply explores family dynamics, resonating with the universal theme of leaving home to discover oneself, only to yearn for a return to familiar roots. The opening line, “My mother used to say the best part of leaving is coming home again,” perfectly encapsulates this sentiment, immediately engaging readers with questions about Sunny’s past and her motivations for returning. Rich in cultural detail, Sunshine Clinic immerses readers in its setting through the use of regional dialects and phrases like “bonda and tea,” “Akka,” “Kutty,” and “chechi.” These elements not only bring the environment to life but also highlight the distinct culture being portrayed. This compelling narrative of a woman discovering herself and her place among loved ones is beautifully depicted.
Meera Ekkanath Klein’s Sunshine Clinic offers rich characters and cultural elements that provide a relatable yet unique lifestyle. The strong emphasis on family bonds adds warmth and depth to the story. I highly recommend this novel and eagerly anticipate more works from this talented author.
LITERARY TITAN 