Blog Archives
He’s a Keeper of Magic
The Keeper’s Code follows a determined journalist investigating her mother’s suspicious death who hires a PI with mystical connections to help her get answers. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
This is book 2 in my series. I wanted Ash Hunter, an important secondary character from book one, The Witch Whisperer, to have his own story. He’s a Keeper of Magic, so who better to pair him with than a determined journalist who wants to out his secret witch society. Falling in love with her, a Reg, makes his life doubly more difficult.
Skye is a woman with strength and determination. What do you think makes her a valuable and worthy heroine?
Skye doesn’t take any guff, and with her trust issues, she’s going to keep Ash on his toes. There’s not much she hasn’t seen or done, so she’s resilient and resourceful and adventurous.
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away with the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
When I was initially creating my world, I didn’t want the witches to embrace all the usual conventions, like spells and wiccan and black cauldrons, waving wands around. They come from another dimension of Earth called Tae-wen, driven out hundreds of years ago by a warring race called the Malgren who hate the mage. They traveled to our world through portals. They are pacifists extolling reverence for life and worshipping the One Mother. They set their own realm within Tae-wen in a deep sleep before they left. I gave them spectrums of powers from lower magic to high magic, calling them Quaints, Specials, and Elites. I didn’t want any one of them to be all-powerful like Superman. I did keep the convention of having consequences for using magic. The big issue with their magic is it has become unstable. More and more incidences of broken magic have been reported, which is a HUGE problem for their secrecy.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
I’m excited about book 3, the final book in the series. The story takes place 3 years after The Keeper’s Code and 5 years after book 1. I took two secondary characters from book 2, Gryph (a Malgren with witch-tainted blood) and Myst (a Keeper of Magic) to become the protags and love interests in book 3. The witch society has found that time spent in their ancient homeland by security forces seems to enhance their powers. They send a small group to their old sleeping city with 2 problematic witches, hoping the magic that still infuses the land will heal them. Myst, a Keeper of Magic who worked with Ash in book 2, is there for security because some warring Malgren are still hating on mage. She persuades her good friend and witch sympathizer Gryph to go with her after the Malgren who are hunting all the mage creatures. There be unicorns and tiny dragonites and other cool magical creatures. Of course, both Gryph and Myst have their own deep issues to deal with—I love to keep things interesting, maybe impossible?
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So believes Skye Parker, an investigative journalist with major trust issues. She is hell-bent on proving her mother’s murder was staged as a suicide by someone with paranormal powers. She follows a suspicious man connected to mystical events and discovers he’s a P.I. What better way to keep an eye on the enigmatic, sexy Ash Hunter than to hire him to find her mother’s killer? But danger escalates when the killer targets Skye.
Ash Hunter, a reluctant Keeper of Magic, is tasked with preventing Skye from finding out about his secret global witch society. He determines a witch is killing Reg (people without magic) and mage alike. Ash must reveal to an incredulous Skye, someone he’s fallen hard for, that he’s a powerful witch and so is the killer. When forces conspire against them, he takes Skye through a guarded portal to a safe place, Tae-wen. That mystical land proves anything but safe. Will Ash and Skye learn that trust works both ways when life and love are at stake?
I Wanted To Write A Ghost Story
The House on Chambers Road is a haunting novel about a grieving widow drawn to a mysterious colonial house where the past refuses to stay buried and grief takes spectral form. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
First of all, I wanted to write a ghost story. But not one that depended on jump scares and malevolence. I wanted it to be about the characters and their journeys. And since I love history, the story had to feature some element of the past that is connected to the present, that is still alive. Old houses fill that role nicely. The old house in the story is very much influenced by Historic Waynesborough, an 18th-century property where I’m a tour guide. Every time I walk through the door there, the past washes in around me. It feels close and immediate.
How did you approach balancing historical accuracy with supernatural elements in the 18th-century timeline?
I had already done a lot of research for my last book, Clara in a Time of War, set during the Revolutionary War, so I had lots of good material from that regarding time, place and culture. And having grown up just outside of Philadelphia, I was steeped in history, especially the 18th century. Also, I love old objects and wanted to incorporate them into the story. But I wanted them to have their own histories and to illuminate character and emotion. They weren’t to be just old things. They had to have mystery to them, to have meaning to the people who owned them, and to echo through time, in fact travel through time.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Love, loss, and grief, for sure. And guilt. It’s the part of loss that rarely gets talked about. It feels so uncomfortable. In this story the element of guilt is heightened for both main characters. And with that goes a desire for redemption. How do we find a way to forgive ourselves and move on? Navigating relationships, with all their complicated facets, was also a theme. Marriages and friendships form the crux of the characters’ lives, and just as with an old house or object, they have histories. The good, the difficult, and everything in between.
What was the most challenging scene for you to write?
The scenes having to do with the haunting were challenging. I didn’t want to overdo them. They needed to be measured, to build one upon the other, and to have an element of fear but not too much too soon. The other difficult scene was Libby’s final realization of what happened in the house and how it tied into her own experience. How would she react in a way appropriate to the moment and circumstance? It’s an epiphany, and a vital one. How would she process it?
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C.J. McGroarty blends the gothic touches of a good ghost story with the rich, evocative details of historical fiction in this tale of love, loss, and redemption.
Interior designer Libby Casey desperately wants to move on from her grief and the painful secret that has plagued her since her husband’s death. When she buys an 18th-century house on the outskirts of town that she feels inexplicably drawn to, she thinks she has a chance to do just that.
But soon after moving in, she finds she’s not alone. An ominous voice whispers in the night, mysterious objects appear and disappear, and odd scents waft from the old kitchen garden.
Looking for answers, she digs into the history of the estate and the man who built it, Hugh Peter Jones. Like Libby, Hugh harbored his own troubling secret. But will this secret hold the key to banishing her ghost for good? And will Libby finally find the peace she desires?
Oceano Beach Bedlam
In Oceano Beach Bedlam, Topper Jones throws us into a gritty, sun-soaked mystery set against California’s central coast. The story follows Thad Hanlon, a former forensic accountant turned private eye, and his fierce partner Bri de la Guerra, as they unravel the disappearance of a teenage surfing prodigy. What starts with a corpse tangled in a sand groomer soon spirals into complexity involving gangs, privileged families, a toxic home life, and plenty of secrets hiding in plain sight. The book blends classic noir with a beachy detective twist, and it leans hard on fast-talking dialogue, quirky characters, and some good old-fashioned sleuthing, with a side of toddler antics courtesy of Thad’s son, Zael.
Honestly, I had a blast with this one. It’s punchy, weird, emotional, and occasionally a little absurd in the best way. Jones writes like someone who doesn’t take himself too seriously but still knows how to land a heavy moment when it counts. I found the pacing snappy, especially in the first half. The stakes build fast, and the interplay between Thad and Bri gives the story real energy. Their banter isn’t just for show, it reveals who they are, how broken they’ve been, and how much they’re both trying to put their pieces back together. Zael, Thad’s toddler, isn’t just comic relief; he’s weirdly insightful, and his presence adds emotional weight to a story that could have easily been just a slick, smart-aleck crime caper.
There’s a lot going on in this story. While I admired the wild turns and layered plot, a few characters didn’t land the way they probably should have. Mr. Dudamel, for example, felt more like a villain caricature than a real threat at first. Still, even when the plot swerved or the tone slipped, I didn’t stop turning pages. I was in it all the way through.
Oceano Beach Bedlam is a smart and entertaining read. If you like your mysteries with surfboards, sass, and just enough heart to keep you caring, this one’s for you. It’s a great pick for fans of offbeat detectives, fast dialogue, and sun-drenched noir with a brain and a soul. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy Janet Evanovich, Robert Crais, or the beachier edges of Elmore Leonard.
Pages: 350 | ASIN : B0DSG8YN11
Dark Matter: Stories
Dark Matter is a tightly woven collection of techno-thriller novellas that dive into themes of surveillance, data manipulation, artificial intelligence, and ethical collapse. The book opens with “The Perfect Match,” a chilling story about a lonely man named Alex whose search for love through a seemingly magical dating app pulls him into a sinister world of organ harvesting. In a later story like “Swarm,” which follows a family trying to escape nature-turned-enemy, showing just how close technology and horror can walk hand in hand. Across these stories, Robert Plant lays bare the unsettling consequences of our digital dependence and the illusions of privacy and control.
Reading Dark Matter was like watching Black Mirror, but way more vivid. Plant’s writing style is lean and propulsive, with a strong cinematic feel. He doesn’t waste time with flowery language. His sentences hit fast and hard, much like the twists in his stories. Sometimes the simplicity made it feel a little rushed, but it also kept me hooked. I felt real tension during Alex’s descent into the Perfect Match nightmare, especially that moment when his date, Jessica, switches from charming to chilling with subtle, terrifying ease. The twist was both insane and believable, which is what made it so effective.
I liked how plausible it all felt. These aren’t just made-up sci-fi scenarios, they’re cautionary tales rooted in the very real world of Big Tech and unchecked data collection. Plant taps into a quiet fear many of us have but rarely acknowledge: that we’ve given away too much of ourselves online. The emotional heart of the stories, loneliness, guilt, and family love, is what gives the horror its punch. I found myself getting angry at the characters’ decisions, then realizing I’d probably do the same. That’s what made it hit so hard. I also appreciated how Plant never leaned too far into preaching. He lets the story deliver the message, and it lands.
Dark Matter left me unsettled and thoughtful. If you’re a fan of Black Mirror, Ex Machina, or anything that explores the dark side of tech with a human touch, this book is a must-read. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you like stories that make you squirm a little and think a lot, you’ll eat this up.
Pages: 130
Knights of Orion Citadel – Illusion of Safety
I found Illusion of Safety to be a whirlwind of a story. We follow Emma, a young woman whose world is turned upside down when she witnesses the murder of her stepfather. This event sets off a chain reaction, leading her to cross paths with Chase and Ben Kincaid, modern-day Templar Knights. They save her from a vampire ambush, and from there, the story accelerates. We learn that Emma is a magnet for all things monstrous due to a curse, and to complicate matters, she and Chase are soulmates, a rare and powerful connection. The story is a frantic race for survival, a quest to break the curse, and a battle against the forces of evil. It’s a story packed with action, supernatural beings, and a hint of romance.
I was completely hooked by the writing. Avalon O’Clair has a knack for creating a sense of urgency. The short, punchy sentences in the action sequences had my heart racing. The dialogue is snappy and modern, which makes the characters feel real and relatable. It’s clear that a lot of heart and soul went into crafting this novel.
The ideas in the book are a fun mix of old and new. The concept of Templar Knights in the 21st century, fighting ancient secret societies and supernatural creatures, is a popular one, but O’Clair manages to make it feel fresh. I was particularly drawn to the idea of soulmates, which added a layer of depth and emotion to the story. The connection between Emma and Chase felt palpable, and I found myself rooting for them from the start. The curse that plagues Emma is a fascinating plot device, creating a constant sense of danger and forcing her to be strong and resilient. I was impressed by how the author wove together these different elements to create a story that is both exciting and emotionally engaging.
Illusion of Safety is a thrilling ride from start to finish. It’s a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, with its fast-paced action, intriguing mythology, and a touch of romance. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy, paranormal romance, or action-packed adventures. If you’re a fan of stories with strong heroines, ancient conspiracies, and a healthy dose of the supernatural, then this is the book for you.
Pages: 672 | ASIN : B0CH5T9YKK
Paying Homage To My Childhood Hero
Paradox Forged in Blood follows a woman from her early years through post-WWII America who is found to be the last remaining witness to the death of a socialite four decades ago. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Growing up, reading Nancy Drew novels captivated my sense of adventure and their underlying support of female empowerment—including the ability to solve life’s mysteries—regardless of age. If I completed all chores and homework assignments, I was rewarded with a new book for the exorbitant price of $1.95! We weren’t rich but our lives were fulfilling as love, happiness, and family unity became mainstays in tackling problems that arose. Each Nancy Drew book transported me into a world of exciting escapades and achievement. Before tackling my first novel, Paradox Forged in Blood, I relied on those feelings through the use of carefully chosen words and scenarios to develop strong characters. My goal was twofold: drawing readers into the story by identifying with characters and historical events; and, paying homage to my childhood hero.
Do you think there’s a single moment in everyone’s life, maybe not as traumatic as Ellen’s, that is life-changing?
Absolutely! An example in my life occurred at the age of 27 when I met Jack and fell madly in love. But my Guardian Angel (she’s always present and forever doing her best to keep me honest) kept screaming he was married. Unfortunately, I chose to believe Jack’s claim that he wasn’t. Within three months, I discovered I was pregnant and, miracle of miracles, Jack suddenly remembered he was married. It’s an old story, but when it happens to you, acknowledging the daunting concept that life as you knew it was forever changed. I was so traumatized that I didn’t date for 15 years—except once, but it turned out he was also married “but don’t worry, it’s an open marriage.” Needless to say, that date was a one-off. However, my story has a wonderful ending—my son and very best friend is always there with an encouraging word and laughter to offset life’s hardships. Facing a challenge with determination and faith can be a path toward realizing happiness of unprecedented proportions.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
The Top Secret Rainbow Plan to address potential attacks by foreign nations (Black Rainbow Plan for an attack by Germany; Orange Plan involving a strike by Japan) were developed in the 1920s, outdated and lacking in technological advances. This resulted in the astounding lack of America’s preparedness to enter World War II. The America First plan, promoted by Charles Lindbergh with overwhelming support to keep America out of foreign wars, resulted in a nation completely ill-equipped to enter the worldwide conflict. Combined with the decision to keep all planes on the tarmac at Hickam and other Pearl Harbor airfields, ostensibly to prevent saboteurs, ironically provided a concise target for the Japanese invasion. Japan’s critical supply of sufficient oil to continue further attacks, the result of America’s oil embargo, was the impetus for the Pearl Harbor attack. Simply put, the American islands were blocking Japan’s ability to access oil-rich areas to replenish their dwindling supply. They also relied on Japanese spies in Hawaii who believed America would not retaliate an attack based on the popularity of America First.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m actually working on two books: When I Grow Up: A Collection of Short Stories and Never Truly Alone, a psychological thriller. My goal is a release of short story compilations in 2026 and, hopefully, my thriller in 2026 as well.
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A murder on Millionaire’s Row.
A killer’s chilling words, “Shh. I know where you live.”
A woman tormented by her guilt-ridden past.
A historical murder mystery, PARADOX FORGED IN BLOOD is set in Cleveland, Ohio, during the late 1930s. Four decades after the murder of socialite Louis Sheridan, the cold case is resurrected with receipt of new evidence that transports detectives back to Nazi Germany. The only living witness, Ellen O’Malley, must confront a haunting secret and her complicit actions.
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
LITERARY TITAN 