Blog Archives
A Successful Life in America
The Journal of Aaron McClare follows a congressman settling the estate of his stepfather in Ireland who discovers a hidden journal detailing his life and how he ended up on a plantation during the Civil War. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
In the nineteenth century, the conditions of the ordinary people in rural Ireland were harsh in the extreme with evictions taking place at the whim of the landlords. They had to either move to the cities or large towns to get work or in a lot of circumstances emigrate to America or Canada. I attempted to imagine what it would be like for someone arriving in a foreign country.
Your novel takes readers on a journey with Aaron as he documents his life in his journal. What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
I had to undertake extensive research, mostly in history books and Google for the following:
(a) conditions on board the ships taking emigrants to the new world and what awaited them when they arrived there;
(b) life on the plantations in the Confederate states and how slavery affected the coloured population;
(c) life of a blacksmith in the Union army and research battles during the American Civil War to attempt to get correct timelines of the conflict;
(d) the aftermath when the civil war ended.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
I think the indomitable spirit of some human beings makes great reading. In the case of Aaron McClare, he rose from abject poverty, grief, and adversity to carve a successful life in America before returning home to the land of his birth.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The third book in the Silver Helmet trilogy entitled The Silver Helmet The Last Battle at Stalanger Fjord is with the beta readers at my publishers and I await the feedback on this one. I am working on a new story with the working title Part Of The Nation. It deals with the deportation of a section of the community and how it affects two families in particular.
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AARON MCCLARE WAS A BLACKSMITH IN HIS HOMELAND IN COUNTY ANTRIM BUT FINDS HIMSELF EVICTED FROM HIS HOUSE THROUGH NO FAULT OF HIS OWN.
AFTER TRAVELLING WITH HIS WIFE AND BEST FRIEND TO BELFAST IN AN ATTEMPT TO GET WORK IN THE SHIPYARD HE FINDS THERE IS NO WORK TO BE HAD. THE THREE TRAVELLERS DECIDE TO EMIGATE TO AMERICA TO FIND A BETTER LIFE.
DISASTER STRIKES ON THE VOYAGE ACROSS THE ATLANTIC WHICH FORCES HIM TO TAKE PATHS WHICH WOULD HAVE SEEMED INCONCEIVABLE WHEN HE FIRST SET FOOT IN THE NEW WORLD. A JOURNEY WHICH SEES HIM ENGULFED IN THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR AND ITS AFTERMATH.
The Invisible Ones
In The Invisible Ones, Jaime Grookett delves into a lesser-known chapter of American history, weaving a narrative that exposes the eugenic treatment of women in the 20th century. Although fictional, the novel serves as a poignant reminder of these obscured historical truths.
The protagonist, seventeen-year-old Anna Wilson, shoulders the burden of caring for her three younger siblings on their family farm after their parents’ abandonment. Despite her efforts to provide a stable life, the Children’s Aid Society intervenes when they discover the siblings living unsupervised. This marks the beginning of Anna’s journey through a harrowing landscape of institutional mistreatment and societal neglect.
Her resilience and determination shine as she navigates through life’s adversities, challenging the unjust systems that seek to diminish her worth. Grookett’s narrative is compelling, portraying Anna’s early life marked by limited resources and educational opportunities, which unscrupulous figures attempt to exploit to confine her freedoms. A significant turn in Anna’s life occurs when she is unjustly sent to an asylum for the so-called “feeble-minded.” It is within these walls that she learns of the grave injustices faced by those deemed unfit by society—individuals forcibly isolated and subjected to irreversible medical interventions aimed at preventing their reproduction. Despite the overwhelming challenges, Anna’s journey is one of unyielding courage. She evolves into a figure of strength and perseverance, embodying the roles of a friend, sister, and potential mother. Her fight against the oppressive forces illustrates a profound narrative of self-belief and resistance against those who wield their power carelessly.
The Invisible Ones is both harrowing and uplifting, presenting a tapestry of human spirit and resilience. Grookett’s elegant prose and sensitive storytelling highlight the hidden beauties of a fight for justice and freedom, making it an essential read for those interested in the resilience of the human spirit against historical injustices. This book not only recounts a troubling past but also celebrates the enduring will to overcome it.
Pages: 340 | ISBN: 183794010X
The Secret Hamlet
In The Secret Hamlet, authors Judith Briles and Brian Barnes continue the narrative of Nichol, their resilient protagonist from The Secret Journey. This second installment of the Harmonie Series transports readers back to medieval France, where Nichol, having fled from peril, seeks to establish a sanctuary for herself and others in danger. Surrounded by a blend of old friends and new, including her supportive husband Robert and parental figures Helene and Ezra, Nichol faces the lingering threat posed by her revenge-seeking mother and brother, allied with the corrupt priest, Loupe.
The novel shines with its richly depicted medieval setting and seamless integration of new characters who enhance the stakes of Nichol’s plight. The Secret Hamlet adopts a more reflective narrative pace compared to its predecessor, focusing on character development through dialogue and discussion. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of character motivations and relationships. The sequel also employs frequent shifts in point of view, offering a variety of perspectives that add layers to the unfolding events. These narrative techniques invite readers to engage more thoughtfully with the story, providing a rich tapestry of interactions that highlight the complexities of its characters and their medieval setting. Nichol remains a compelling central figure, particularly in her role as a mother. Yet, the enigmatic figure of The Lady who guides her remains underexplored. Clarifying whether The Lady is a religious icon or a mystical entity and detailing her motivations could lend greater depth to Nichol’s reliance on her visions, which are critical given her role as the linchpin in her community’s safety.
Crafted with evident care, The Secret Hamlet builds upon the strengths of The Secret Journey, deepening its exploration of resilience and community within a vividly rendered historical setting. While it adopts a different tone, focusing more on introspection and the strategic elements of building a safe haven, the narrative offers a compelling look at Nichol’s journey. The enriched insights into the characters’ personal motivations and their intricate relationships add depth to the unfolding story, reinforcing the series’ thematic focus on perseverance and unity.
Pages: 414 | ASIN : B0CRXRD3JH
A Flavor of the Totality of My Writings
The KEAK Anthology is a unique collection of your writing covering genres from mysteries and thrillers to nonfiction pieces and offers readers a peek into your previously published books. What inspired you to offer readers this anthology?
I enjoy reading different genres and to experiment in writing short stories or flash fiction of different genres. My goal in writing The KEAK Anthology was to offer my readers the same experience in one book. In addition I thought that compiling all my works in one volume, thereby the creation of the anthology, would provide my readers a flavor of the totality of my writings. I found from the reviews that my readers enjoyed the mixture of different genres. Each reader had their favorite story and enjoyed the diversity of genre and format offered.
Do you have one story among your short stories and flash fiction pieces that resonates with you?
I would say that my favorites are ‘Times Past’ and ‘Patient Zero’. The first story, Times Past, is my experimentation with writing a crime thriller. I was particularly interested in using my knowledge of forensic science without boring my reader. The story was well received. The second story was written while I was in the hospital for a sudden medical issue. I felt I had lost the element of control in my life, not unlike my protagonist in the story. It was my first science fiction story. ‘We The People of Earth’ was the next one to be written. I am currently writing another science fiction story on ‘Time Travel’ entitled ‘Time and Time Again’.
You are adept at writing in a variety of genres. Is there one that comes more naturally to you than the others?
Actually, that is a difficult question to answer. I hear a phrase, a word, or a saying and a story gets formed in my mind. I do not select the genre, just the content. I immediately write the story and then determine where it fits, its genre. I would say that science related fiction would be most likely my favorite genre.
What can fans look forward to seeing from you next? Are you currently working on a new release?
Yes, I am working on a memoir of my worldwide travels as a young scientist called ‘The Ardent Traveler’ and a treatise about ‘Our Changing Times’. The latter is about a lifetime of changes from technology to political and social changes. In addition, I am beginning a Children’s Fantasy Nonfiction series called ‘Dr. K’s Time Portal’ for ages 8-12. It is a chapter book. It teaches young minds about scientific principles, inventions, discoveries, through time travel and visits to the scientist responsible for work. For example, Book #1 is about Galileo, his life and his work as an astronomer, particularly his discovery of the first 4 moons of Jupiter, the phases of the Moon and Venus, and his confirmation of the heliocentric model of our Solar System. Book # 1 and Book # 2 about Madame Curie are finished. Their teacher’s guides and parents’ science primers are also finished.
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Dive into the vibrant tapestry of the KEAK Anthology, where author Katherine Korkidis collaborates with her father, Artemios Korkidis, to weave a collection that spans genres and generations.
1. Short Stories: A Kaleidoscope of Genres
Explore sixteen captivating short stories, ranging from literary fiction to mystery, thriller, historical nonfiction and fiction, romance, science fiction, and realist literature. In “Patient Zero,” witness the delicate balance between utopia and dystopia, while “Times Past” entangles you in a web of sudden deaths and hidden intentions. “We The People of Earth” transcends our known space, and “The Battle of Crete” recounts the gripping memoir of witness Artemios Korkidis during the 1941 invasion.
2. Flash Fiction: A Symphony of Brief Narratives
Under the pseudonym Katherine Elizabeth Ann Bell, the author delves into the realm of flash fiction. These succinct narratives, averaging 360 words, peel back layers and progress stories with precision. From the dysfunction of “The Blind Man, the Blind Woman” to the power of closeness in “The Hug” and the importance of self-confidence in “The Performance,” each piece is a snapshot of emotion and movement.
3. Excerpts from Published Works: Glimpses into Worlds
Journey through excerpts from five novels, including “Josette,” “Daniel,” and “Josette and Daniel” from “The Story of Josette and Daniel” Trilogy. Carefully selected chapters invite readers into the minds and experiences of the protagonists, Josette and Daniel, offering a taste of the rich narratives that unfold across these published works.
Guardians of the Latte Stones
Set against the backdrop of Sasebo’s economic struggles, Guardians of the Latte Stones, by M.K. Aleja, is a compelling historical fiction narrative interwoven with elements of folklore and the harsh realities of World War II. The story follows Yuki and Takeshi, siblings grappling with the loss of their parents and the cruelty of their guardians. Takeshi, seeking an escape, enlists in Japan’s Imperial Army, believing he’s secured a favorable position on a seemingly tranquil tropical island. However, the island harbors a dark secret, challenging Takeshi’s perceptions of warfare and morality.
Aleja masterfully merges fantasy and historical elements, weaving a narrative rich in suspense and tinged with a sense of foreboding. This novel skillfully intertwines authentic historical details with creative storytelling, immersing readers in the era’s cultural, social, and emotional contexts. Structured like a classic fairytale, it features a young protagonist navigating a world of sinister relatives and pivotal decisions. The story centers on Takeshi, whose initial dreams of glorified military service clash with the harsh realities of war, forming the story’s core. The characters are thoughtfully crafted, bringing their challenges and victories to life in a way that resonates with readers.
Aleja’s meticulous approach to narrative construction and his knack for intricate storytelling are noteworthy, offering an engaging and enlightening read. This book poignantly addresses the human toll of war, presenting a seldom-seen perspective on WWII. As the plot progresses, Takeshi and the readers encounter the ancestral spirits of Guam. These spirits, seeking retribution for past injustices, introduce a supernatural layer to the story. Their actions and subsequent developments prompted Takeshi to reevaluate the Japanese army’s role on the island, providing an insightful look at the effects of wartime occupation.
Guardians of the Latte Stones is a story that transcends its historical setting, weaving together elements of a ghost story and a poignant commentary on the futility of war. Aleja’s approach is both ambitious and nuanced, imbuing the novel with a rich emotional depth. This book is not just a historical account but a multifaceted exploration of war, cultural conflict, and moral ambiguity.
Pages: 377 | ASIN : B0CTS9KYR9
Righting the Wrongs of the Past
Hattie’s World follows a young woman as she emerges from her father’s shadow, striving for independence and redefining her community amidst her father’s pursuit of power. What do you believe your novel conveys about the power of individual actions?
Human resilience and the importance of righting the wrongs of the past.
Hattie’s World delves into themes of family legacy and personal resilience. How do you approach weaving these themes into your narrative without overpowering the story?
I hope I simply allow the characters to grow, relate to others, go through the motions of life, and experience its highs and lows in as natural a way as possible.
What inspired the character of Hattie Winthrop, and how did you develop her journey from a marginalized figure to a symbol of hope and leadership?
Strangely, I was inspired by an abandoned mansion that had fallen into ruin and was falling apart. I tried to imagine its past and came up with a short story which is the basis for the epilogue, “Herbie Banks.” I thought there was enough in it to transform it into a novel. Hattie and her father’s story emerged from my imagination.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’ve recently completed The Last Tryst, a historical novel of the Belle Epoque in Paris. In it, my protagonists, a young man who gains access to high society by romancing ignored wives of the very rich and a fallen socialite who becomes a successful courtesan, mingle with some of the period’s historical figures.
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Convinced he needs a wife to be accepted socially, Owen marries a girl he met in Monterey. It is a loveless marriage, but when a daughter, Hattie, is born, he learns he is capable of love and becomes devoted to the child. She grows into a beautiful and confident young woman with a thirst for life outside of the confines of her home. Fascination with a Portuguese fisherman results in a torrid love affair that results in a grisly murder. To punish her, Owen confines her to their home, where she lives in isolation for twenty years until his death.
Made heiress by to a great fortune by her father as both a joke and revenge on a town that reviled him, she emerges from isolation determined to atone for the sins she discovered her father has committed. Her crusade takes her from pariah to sainthood as she molds the town in her own image. Her deeds and gifts to the town makes her everyone’s Aunt Hattie in this family saga that spans the Twentieth Century.
LITERARY TITAN 