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Vicious and Cruel Roots
In The Orphan Maker, a vampire hunter’s obsession with seeking revenge for the death of his family places him face-to-face with dangerous adversaries. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The very first book I loved that got me into the world of fiction was Bram Stoker’s Dracula. That book had such an impact on me and I have always dreamed of writing a vampire story. Additionally, I longed to read a vampire story that went back to the vicious and cruel roots of vampires. And as they say to authors, “Write the book you want to read.” So I simply followed that piece of advice and wrote The Orphan Maker, which is actually Book 1 of the (Blood & Flesh Series)
Which character in the novel do you feel you relate to more and why?
I’m not sure, but I’m probably most like Jess. I keep my cool and balance my decisions, but I also have a tendency to overextend myself when helping others, which gets me into trouble. I had to learn my lesson the hard way, multiple times. Perhaps I wrote Jessica’s character subconsciously to warn or remind people that it’s still good to have boundaries, and to know your own limits, and maybe even to tell people that there are times when you have to let others take responsibility–you don’t always have to be there for them, especially when the best lesson they can learn is from your absence.
How long did it take you to imagine, draft, and write the world your characters live in?
It took me about a day to imagine the entire world and story, another day to fully finish the entire outline, and about three months to finish the first draft. Then came the editing phase, which took about two and a half months since I have a wonderful editor. It was such a pleasure to write this book. It felt extremely natural.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently writing BOOK 3 of The Kindred Chronicles — Gathering Storm. In fact, Literary Titan also reviewed BOOK 2 of the Kindred Saga and gave it the Golden Book Award. I was thrilled when I got that email, and couldn’t believe it. I am so thankful to you guys for everything you’re doing for the writer communities out there. As for my next books, I’m excited to announce that I will be releasing TWO books next year: The Kindred Chronicles: Gathering Storm (Book 3 of the Kindred Saga) and Vexed (Book 2 of the Blood & Flesh Series)
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The Orphan Maker
The Orphan Maker, by D.A. Chan, is a gripping thriller that plunges readers into a world where vampires lurk in the shadows and revenge is a dish best-served cold. The story follows Damien Shaw, a hardened vampire hunter, who is obsessed with tracking down the sadistic vampire responsible for the death of his family. Armed with a set of strict rules and a burning desire for vengeance, Damien’s relentless pursuit brings him face-to-face with dangerous adversaries and moral dilemmas, making for a page-turning adventure that blends horror and suspense.
From the outset, this book hooks you with its intense prologue, setting the stage for Damien’s quest for retribution. The author masterfully portrays Damien’s inner turmoil and his struggle to stick to his own rules, which often adds a layer of tension to the narrative. Each chapter reveals more about Damien’s character and his relentless drive, making it easy to sympathize with his plight even when his actions toe the line between heroism and madness. The pacing is swift, and Chan does an excellent job of keeping readers engaged with well-timed revelations and cliffhangers. The author’s writing shines in the detailed battle sequences and the dark, atmospheric settings that enhance the story’s sense of danger and urgency.
The narrative alternates between fast-paced action and quieter, more introspective moments, giving readers a well-rounded experience. The character dynamics are intriguing, particularly the interactions between Damien and his allies and adversaries. The complexity of Damien’s relationships, especially with characters like Jess and Bishop, adds depth to the story. Jess’s interactions with Damien are filled with tension and unresolved feelings, as shown in “Glass Half Empty.” Meanwhile, Bishop, the rival vampire hunter, brings an additional layer of conflict and unpredictability. These relationships keep the plot dynamic and add emotional stakes to Damien’s mission.
The Orphan Maker is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of dark fantasy and supernatural thrillers. D.A. Chan combines elements of horror, action, and psychological drama to create a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. Readers who enjoy intense action sequences, complex character interactions, and a touch of macabre will find this book to be an exhilarating addition to their bookshelf.
Pages: 177 | ASIN : B0D254F1KZ
The Legacy
Prepare to be captivated by James Gilbert’s enthralling tale, The Legacy, which centers around the intriguing life of our protagonist, Adam Chauncey. As a lawyer at the Smithson and Dwyer firm, Adam finds himself caught in the monotony of everyday life, yearning for something more profound. Little does he know that his wish for change will spiral into a riveting and unexpected journey that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
In this gripping narrative, Adam’s character development takes center stage. He starts off as a man plagued by indecision, but as the story unfolds, he transforms into a determined and resolute figure. Flawed yet immensely likable, Adam’s evolution is a testament to Gilbert’s skillful storytelling. Sally Warren, Adam’s love interest, is a force to be reckoned with—smart, strong, and fiercely independent. You’ll quickly find yourself rooting for her. The supporting characters are thoughtfully crafted and seamlessly fit into the narrative, enhancing the overall storytelling experience.
The Legacy offers an intriguing mystery that keeps you guessing with its numerous twists and turns. The characters’ lives are a rollercoaster of ups and downs, ensuring that you’re constantly on your toes, eagerly anticipating the next revelation. The story’s tone is dark and suspenseful, drawing you deeper into its intricate web of intrigue. The pacing of the narrative is expertly executed, maintaining a swift tempo that ensures you’re never left with a dull moment. The setting is so well integrated into the story that it becomes an indispensable element, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the tale.
This story is a captivating blend of drama, tension, and a touch of romance that culminates in an exhilarating reading experience. While the action that does occur is executed brilliantly, I think a bit more exploration in this area would have added an extra layer of excitement and suspense to the narrative. Nonetheless, The Legacy is a compelling read that will leave you hungry for more of James Gilbert’s storytelling prowess.
Pages: 188 | ASIN : B0CKV2VGRR
LITERARY TITAN 