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Spy in the Sudan
Modesty Jack follows a British Intelligence Agent assigned to London who ends up in Cairo helping the Egyptians escape control of Constantinople. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was inspired by a curious incident reported in Roy MacLaren’s Canadians on the Nile. In 1885, Canada sent a contingent of riverboat men to Egypt to aid British troops going up the Nile to rescue General Charles Gordon in Khartoum. South of Wadi Halfa, in what is now Sudan, one of the Canadian boatmen left camp for a few hours of quiet.
At a nearby oasis, he heard someone singing ‘Un Canadien Errant,’ a Quebecois folk song. The boatman found what he believed was a Bedouin, singing in French. The Bedouin explained that he was from Quebec, had jumped ship in Alexandria, and had been captured by Bedouins. He had learned Arabic and
earned to love the desert.
I thought his explanation unlikely – more like the plot of Desert Song, in fact. Wadi Halfa is nearly 1000 miles south of the Mediterranean. Why was this man alone? And why was he so conveniently near the Gordon Relief Expedition? It struck me that the man might have been a spy. If that were so, one question was obvious: how could a Canadian end up a spy in the Sudan?
That’s how Jack Torrance came into being.
What were some of the trials that you felt were important to highlight Jack’s development?
When we meet Jack, he’s young and inexperienced. He’s an army officer cadet, intelligent and capable, but he’s a puppy.
Unbeknownst to Jack, he’s been recommended for a political assignment, mostly because he’s good looking, can speak French, and has a reasonably level head. Initially, he’s just sent to deliver an invitation to the Governor General, the Crown’s representative in Canada, and the country’s titular head of state.
There is an accident and Jack saves the life of the Governor General’s wife. The accident was a real event, and the woman was Princess Louise, Queen Victoria’s daughter. Jack becomes part of the vice-regal household – a boy from rural Ontario adapting to a very different world.
Jack learns to deal with threats to life, social obligations, diplomacy, and the pitfalls of political problems. In just a few months in 1880, Jack finds himself immersed in actual historical events – from society balls and meeting the rich and famous to the very real danger of a plot against the lives of Princess Louise and her brother Prince Leopold.
Jack’s journey is bumpy and he makes mistakes. He realizes that he can think for himself and that he needs to continue to learn. But he does get the job done and earns praise in the right quarters – and opportunities he could never have dreamt of.
What intrigues you about this time period enough to write such a gripping novel?
A young man in 1880 could easily live to see the end of the Second World War. Imagine the changes that took place, most of them driven by expanding technologies.
Speed changed how the world was evolving – the simple telephone conversation revolutionized everything from politics to journalism. Ships could cross the Atlantic in under a week. Trains could take you anywhere in times unimaginable a generation before.
Nation states were solidifying their power, income, and prestige. The Kingdom of Italy was only twenty years old. Even Canada, just thirteen years old in 1880, was older than the new German Empire and the new French Republic. Soon, speed and growth led to jockeying for position in the world. European players sought colonial empires, secure trade routes, and political influence.
Canada, a nation of 4 million, had become the size of an empire in just 15 years. It was building a trans-
continental railway twice as long as the American railroads to the Pacific. The government had no money to spare, certainly none for Britain’s imperial adventures.
The Prime Minister chooses Jack Torrance to spy for Canada. On Britain. Jack’s successes surpass the Prime Minister’s wildest imaginings. Through his royal connections, Jack ends up seconded to the fledgling British Intelligence Service, privy to everything going on.
Funny, sexy, and surprising, The Scandalous Memoirs of General John Torrance is a series about a young hero-by-accident in extraordinary times – beginning when the boys of the Regency played with the generals of the Great War, when steamships had sails, and when one man’s adventures could still change the world.
What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?
Book Three, One-Eyed Jack, is about a major episode in the Scramble for Africa. An 1884 conference in Berlin saw the leaders of European nations sit down and literally draw a new map for Africa. This part’s for France. That part’s for Germany. This is for Britain.
Not everyone agrees.
The future has been foretold. A guide – the Mahdi – will free Soudan, free Egypt, and topple the corrupt Ottoman Empire. Soudan falls to the Mahdi. The Khedive in Cairo hires Englishman General Charles Gordon to go to Khartoum and evacuate the Egyptians and Europeans trapped within the walled city. Gordon gets there but can’t get out.
Fuelled by jingoism in the press, the English mount an expedition to save Gordon. In advance goes Jack – a wild card, a one-eyed jack – to reason with two madmen, Gordon and the Mahdi, and get everyone out alive.
Publication is set for December 2024.
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Jack is seconded to the tiny British Intelligence Department, little more than a map room in 1880. He’s assigned to the Balkans, Turkey, and Africa Desk – a hodgepodge of low priority. Jack’s got nearly nothing to do, but he wants to learn. He works on his Arabic and he seeks out experts on Islam and the complicated politics of the Ottoman Empire. When trouble erupts in Egypt, his friends offer to pay his way to Cairo. Perhaps Jack can help free the Egyptians from the control of Constantinople.
Delighted somebody else is footing the bill, Intelligence Branch sends Jack.
Into a revolution.
Choosing Sides
Choosing Sides, by David K. Wesel, is a compelling coming-of-age novel set against the tumultuous backdrop of pre-World War II America and the early 1930s rise of Nazi Germany. The story centers on Karl-Heinz, a young man caught between two worlds: born in Germany but raised in the United States, He returns to his homeland just as it is being reshaped by the burgeoning Nazi regime. The novel delves deeply into his inner conflict as he struggles to balance his loyalty to Germany with his appreciation for the peace and democratic values of his American upbringing. Ultimately, Karl-Heinz faces the daunting task of choosing a side in a world fraught with ideological extremes.
Set during one of humanity’s darkest periods, Choosing Sides takes a domestic approach to explore the devastating impact of the Nazi era on a single family. Wesel adeptly portrays Karl-Heinz’s ideological struggle, depicting his exposure to the Hitler Youth and the influence of prominent Nazi figures within his family, including his uncle and cousin, who are ardent nationalists. This fervent nationalism starkly contrasts with the democratic ideals cherished by Karl-Heinz’s parents, who have firsthand experience with the horrors of war. These conflicting influences anchor Karl-Heinz to a vision of a more democratic world, creating a profound tension within his character.
Wesel’s novel is both deeply moving and insightful, enriched by its foundation in the author’s partially fictitious family history. This personal touch lends the narrative a unique authenticity, making it resonate across different generations and social backgrounds. Choosing Sides provides a vital perspective on how the war affected ordinary German citizens, offering a nuanced view that differentiates between the ideologies of Hitler and the realities faced by everyday people.
For enthusiasts of historical fiction, this book is a must-read, sparking intriguing conversations about the complexities of reconciling national and personal identity. Wesel presents a thought-provoking exploration of how one’s beliefs are shaped by their surroundings, making Choosing Sides a significant contribution to the literature of this era.
Pages: 274 | ISBN : 978-1952439773
“Perfect American Life”
Tangles follows a fierce secretary and a brash scientist as they seek to expose the mishandling of radioactive waste by the government and the impact it has on their town. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Very early on in my research I came across multiple non-fiction volumes about Hanford. When I read Trisha Pritikin’s (herself a victim of radiation exposure) book, The Hanford Plaintiffs, multiple personal accounts inspired several characters. Mary and Luke and their parents are an amalgamation of many different folks who were a part of those lawsuits in early 2000. Those court proceedings went on for almost 12 years and resulted in very little recompense for the victims. When I discovered that, I knew I had to write this story.
I enjoyed the depth of your characters and how relatable they are. Who was your favorite character to write for and why?
Luke was probably my favorite, but a close second was Walker. Creating their “guy” relationship, the melding of their different backgrounds, was both a challenge and really satisfying when I got it right – especially when one of my expert readers said, “Yes, that is exactly how scientists talk to one another. You’ve captured the competitiveness perfectly.”
Was there a scene you felt captured the character’s essence?
For Luke, that was the hiking scene into the Goat Mountains where a significant discovery was made. I worked very hard on his inner thinking, to portray the guilt he felt on many levels. For Mary, it was the scene with Helen, Luke’s Mom, when she learned how to can tomatoes. Again, her inner thoughts and her responses to Helen when she offered Mary her aide in her difficulties, said it all about Mary.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
So many, but maybe foremost, the debunking of the tropes that abound about the 40s and 50s “perfect American life.” So many problems in our society were ratcheted up as industry and wars created huge problems across both the middle and lower classes and affected our education systems, especially at the post-secondary levels. Second was daylighting the severe limitations women still endured, both financially and career-wise, because of societal dictates.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
If you read to the end, you will see a set up for another Luke tale, and maybe, just maybe he and his son will take on a challenge together. But for now, I am working on my mother’s story, involving the five women she boarded with while teaching high school in rural Texas during the 30s and 40s. It’s turning into quite the tale!
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TANGLES
A Suspense-Filled
Historical Tale
Coming
November 12, 2024
A quietly fierce secretary, a brash young scientist,
a town cloaked in secrecy…and an entire region under threat.
The Canticle of Ibiza
The Canticle of Ibiza is an intriguing tale set against the vibrant backdrop of Ibiza. The story follows John, a man from the Upper East Side of Manhattan, who abruptly leaves his life behind to seek answers from his long-lost friend, Gunther, rumored to be somewhere on the island. His journey is filled with eccentric characters, unexpected encounters, and a deep dive into the hidden, mystical side of Ibiza.
From the first page, the author hooks readers with vivid descriptions and quirky scenarios, such as John’s encounter with a magenta speedo-clad waiter. The novel’s charm lies in its detailed portrayal of Ibiza, from the wobbly tables of a nameless café to the serene, unspoiled beaches. Kurian’s writing is immersive, painting a picture of Ibiza that feels simply magical.
One of the standout aspects of the book is author Justin Kurian’s ability to create memorable characters. Angela, the mysterious woman with a sixth sense, and Lent, the fervent believer in Wiccan traditions, are particularly compelling. Their interactions with John are filled with humor, tension, and depth, revealing their complex personalities and the rich tapestry of life in Ibiza. Kurian’s characters are not just quirky for the sake of being quirky; they add meaningful layers to the narrative, making John’s journey all the more engaging.
The pacing of the story is another strong point. Kurian balances introspective moments with lively, almost surreal encounters, keeping the reader engaged throughout. The scenes are well-crafted, often leaving the reader as bewildered as John, which adds to the immersive experience. The blend of reality and the mystical creates a unique atmosphere that is both enchanting and unsettling. I feel some readers might find the eccentricities of the characters and the surreal nature of the events a bit overwhelming, though others will more than appreciate the novel’s unique flavor.
The Canticle of Ibiza is a captivating read for those who enjoy literary fiction with a touch of magical realism. Kurian’s depiction of Ibiza is enchanting, and his characters are wonderfully eccentric and complex. This book is perfect for readers who appreciate detailed settings, well-developed characters, and exceptionally well-constructed narratives.
Pages: 390 | ASIN : B0CWFF244V
Modesty Jack
Modesty Jack is the second compelling installment in D.E. Ring’s series, The Scandalous Memoirs of General John Torrance. With a masterful blend of history, geopolitics, and espionage, Ring crafts a narrative that keeps readers riveted from beginning to end.
Set in the 1880s, the novel unfolds through the memoirs of the fictional Jack Torrance. The narrative opens with Torrance leaving Canada alongside the royal party, bound for London. Written as first-person entries in his memoir, Torrance’s story not only draws readers into his world but often addresses them directly, enhancing the immersive experience. While the setting predominantly remains in London, Jack’s adventures also take him to Cairo, with each twist and turn adding layers of intrigue and excitement.
Upon his arrival in Britain, Jack is assigned to a seemingly insignificant intelligence department within the British Intelligence Service. However, it isn’t long before he becomes entangled in a larger, more dangerous political upheaval, propelling his tale into a dramatic and perilous realm.
Ring deftly interweaves historical fiction with references to real historical events, enriching the memoir’s authenticity and grounding the plot in a time of significant geopolitical tension between the British and Russian empires. This tension permeates the storyline, as espionage and political maneuvering unfold against a backdrop of historical verisimilitude. Alongside the intrigue and pulse-pounding moments, the evolving love story between Jack and Princess Louise adds emotional depth, as their romance navigates the constant scrutiny and challenges posed by their surroundings.
Modesty Jack excels with its intricate blend of political intrigue and covert operations, making it a gripping read for a wide audience. Whether you’re a seasoned thriller enthusiast or new to the genre, this book promises to keep you enthralled. I highly recommend picking up Modesty Jack—just be prepared to be so captivated that you won’t want to put it down until you’ve turned the final page.
Pages:286 | ASIN : B0CY96XJ7D
Cherry Blossoms in Winter
Cherry Blossoms in Winter, authored by Michael J. Summers, weaves a compelling narrative centered around Dane, a journalist on a mission to Manila to interview Filipino war veterans from World War II. During his assignment, Dane encounters Jack Pierce, a man with an enthralling and complex history. Through a series of card games and months of growing familiarity, Jack slowly reveals his tumultuous life story to Dane. His tale encompasses military service in Japan, romantic entanglements, and harrowing experiences during the Korean War. As Dane delves deeper into Jack’s past, he embarks on a personal quest to address Jack’s losses and confront his own fear of commitment to his girlfriend. The question remains: will Dane succeed in his endeavors?
Summers skillfully explores the duality of human nature through Jack, portraying a man torn between the brutality of war and the tenderness of love. This juxtaposition of violence and compassion underscores the complexity of human emotions and experiences, highlighting how individuals can embody both destruction and affection simultaneously. The author adeptly conveys the profound impacts of war on both personal and societal levels without relying on gratuitous violence. Instead, he emphasizes the subtle yet pervasive ways war affects soldiers and civilians alike, even when their country isn’t depicted as the traditional “good guys.” The narrative is thoroughly researched and authentic, with rich descriptions of the settings and a keen adherence to the conventions and social standards of the historical period, effectively transporting readers to a different era.
Cherry Blossoms in Winter, by Michael J. Summers, is a captivating blend of romance and historical events. While it contains strong language and adult themes, making it best suited for mature readers, it offers a deeply engaging experience for adults who will appreciate its nuanced storytelling and historical depth.
Pages: 293 | ASIN : B0D4NZ6HTX
To Seek For Eldorado
To Seek for Eldorado, by Sam Holloway, is a compelling exploration of love, resilience, and the human connection to nature. Set against the vast and varied landscapes of Canada, the novel follows Lazlo, a young farm boy, whose world is turned upside down when a tragic incident separates him from the preacher’s daughter he loves. His journey across the Canadian wilderness becomes a path to self-discovery, where he gains profound insights into both nature and human relationships.
Holloway crafts a narrative rich with adventure and introspection. Lazlo’s odyssey through forests, mountains, and small towns is not just a physical quest but a metaphorical one, leading him to greater wisdom and emotional depth. His unyielding determination in the face of numerous challenges showcases a spirit that is both inspiring and relatable, capturing the essence of an enduring search for love and purpose. The novel’s strength lies in Holloway’s remarkable writing style. His vivid descriptions of the Canadian landscape paint a picture so detailed and immersive that readers can almost feel the chill of the northern winds and the serenity of untouched forests.
The dynamic use of tone and dialogue breathes life into each scene, effectively conveying the emotional spectrum of Lazlo’s experiences. Themes of heartbreak, romance, suspense, and action are intricately woven throughout the narrative, creating a multifaceted story that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The novel’s setting not only serves as a backdrop but also plays a crucial role in shaping the characters and their journeys. Through Lazlo’s eyes, readers experience the majestic beauty of Canada, enhancing the novel’s appeal and depth. The diverse cast of characters, each with their unique backgrounds and development arcs, adds richness to the story. Lazlo, in particular, stands out as a beacon of unwavering dedication to his quest for true love, making him a compelling and inspirational protagonist.
The plot of To Seek for Eldorado is a roller coaster of emotions, filled with unexpected twists that keep the reader enthralled. Holloway’s ability to blend action with deep, meaningful themes results in a storyline that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. This book is a masterful blend of adventure, emotion, and philosophical exploration. Its captivating plot, well-developed characters, and evocative settings make it a standout read that resonates long after the final page is turned.
Pages: 200 | ASIN : B0CZL1Z6HD
Tangles
Tangles by Kay Smith-Blum intertwines a poignant love story with a gripping narrative about a government conspiracy linked to an environmental catastrophe. Set alternatively in the late 40s and early 60s in Hanford, Washington, this novel vividly recounts the production of plutonium for atomic weapons and exposes the government’s mishandling of radioactive waste. Through the eyes of Mary and Luke, the readers are introduced to the dire consequences faced by workers, their families, and the community at large.
Smith-Blum deftly raises critical questions regarding worker sacrifices, governmental secrecy, and the unintended repercussions of monumental projects. The narrative sheds light on exploitative working conditions, the suppression of vital information about radiation exposure, and the ensuing long-term health ramifications on both the human population and the environment. It prompts reflection on the true cost of technological advancement and the ethical responsibilities of those in power. The author skillfully balances themes of conspiracy, romance, and environmental accountability, ensuring that each theme maintains its significance and emotional resonance without overshadowing the others. The use of a dual narrative structure enhances the storytelling, providing clarity and building toward a compelling convergence of the protagonists’ paths.
Tangles offers a deeply moving yet unsettling look at historical events and their lasting impacts. Readers drawn to suspenseful romance infused with socially and environmentally relevant themes will enjoy this gripping story. Those interested in historical environmental issues will also find this novel particularly engaging.
Pages: 293
LITERARY TITAN 