Blog Archives
Beneath the Scarlet Frost
Beneath the Scarlet Frost plunges readers into the enchanting yet treacherous world of Alse Hanya, where the story of Sorrel Zdraevit unfolds. As a princess in the ruling family of Eisa, Sorrel’s life is a delicate balance of political intrigue, familial obligations, and a growing magical menace that threatens the kingdom. This dark fantasy novel skillfully blends themes of power, legacy, and the dangers associated with forbidden magic. From the beginning, the book captivates with its richly crafted characters and a world that is as compelling as perilous.
Marissa Miller’s writing excels in its ability to bring the icy landscapes and opulent palaces of Eisa to life with vivid detail. The story opens with a gripping scene—a desperate chase through snow—that immediately hooks the reader and sets a high-stakes tone. Miller strikes a fine balance between lush world-building and dynamic action, though there are instances where the descriptive passages may slow the pace slightly. Even so, the prose remains engaging, consistently offering a clear and immersive picture of the setting and its inhabitants. The characters, particularly Sorrel, are drawn with depth and complexity. Sorrel’s evolution from a somewhat naïve princess into a determined leader is portrayed with authenticity and emotional resonance. The relationships within the Zdraevit family are thoughtfully explored, adding layers of tension and affection that deepen the narrative. The portrayal of familial bonds and responsibilities is one of the novel’s most compelling aspects. The novel’s treatment of power and magic is both insightful and relevant. The conflict between the ruling elite and those who possess outlawed magical abilities invites readers to ponder issues of control, fear, and the perils of unchecked authority. Miller approaches these themes with care, presenting multiple viewpoints without resorting to simplistic moral judgments.
Beneath the Scarlet Frost offers an engaging journey into a world of magic, power, and complex family dynamics. The novel’s emotional depth and strong narrative make it a rewarding read. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy dark fantasy rich in political intrigue and familial drama. Whether you’re intrigued by tales of magic or the complexities of power, this story provides a satisfying experience.
Pages: 648 | ASIN : B0CJXH5KNY
Disturbed Tombs
Disturbed Tombs, the debut novel by Kay A. Oliver, is a compelling journey through time that seamlessly blends the mystique of Ancient Egypt with the intrigue of modern archaeology. The story follows the dedicated archaeologist Dr. Kaili Worthy as she unearths a groundbreaking discovery: the mummies of Cleopatra Selene of Syria and Pharaoh Seti. However, the novel takes an unexpected turn as these ancient relics bring about more than just historical revelations, intertwining the world of a modern museum in the United States with the ancient tombs in a thrilling and unforeseeable manner.
Oliver hits a home run with this first installment. From the moment I started reading Disturbed Tombs, I was captivated by the riveting plot. The story’s gripping nature kept me hooked from beginning to end, making it a thoroughly engaging read. One of the standout features of this novel is its impeccable pacing. Even during quieter moments, Oliver’s meticulous attention to detail ensures an immersive experience that places the reader directly into the heart of the action. The narrative structure, with its frequent shifts in character perspectives, enriches the storytelling. These transitions, clearly marked by the author, offer a well-rounded view of the events, deepening the reader’s connection to the characters and their experiences.
The characters themselves are a highlight of the book. Each one is vividly brought to life, making their interactions and relationships particularly enjoyable. The dynamics between Kaili and Cleopatra Selene, as well as Kaili and her husband, stand out, adding layers of complexity and authenticity to the characters. This multidimensional portrayal is a notable achievement, especially in genre fiction, where the plot often takes precedence over character development. Oliver skillfully balances both, ensuring her characters are as emotionally resonant as the plot is compelling.
Disturbed Tombs offers something for every reader, whether you are a fan of historical fiction, mysteries, or narratives with a touch of the fantastical. If you’re looking for an enthralling read to transport you to the sands of Ancient Egypt, this novel is a perfect choice. Oliver’s first installment in the Dr. Kaili Worthy series is a captivating blend of history and mystery that promises to entertain and intrigue.
Pages: 259 | ASIN : B0BK4XGPQ4
Love and Protest
Love and Protest intertwines the lives of two young women, Harper and Libby, separated by time but united by their struggles for independence and identity. Harper, a modern teen from Hickory Springs, finds solace and inspiration in the 1960s diary of Libby, a girl who embarked on a daring journey to San Francisco during the height of the counterculture movement. As Harper delves into Libby’s past, she gains the courage to confront her own challenges and the oppressive circumstances of her life.
Author Nancy Klann-Moren’s writing shines with vivid descriptions and authentic character voices. The opening scene, where Harper stumbles upon the Second Chance Thrift Shop, is particularly evocative. The humidity of a Georgia day, the dusty nightstand with the diary, and the quaint charm of the shopkeeper all create a richly textured world. The narrative seamlessly shifts between Harper’s present-day struggles and Libby’s historical journey, maintaining a compelling pace that keeps the reader engaged.
One of the most poignant aspects of the book is its exploration of generational struggles and the quest for personal freedom. Harper’s discovery of Libby’s diary acts as a catalyst for her own transformation. The entries dated January 1 and January 4, 1967, reveal Libby’s determination to break free from her repressive environment. This historical perspective, I think, adds depth to Harper’s contemporary story, highlighting the universal desire for self-determination and the courage it takes to pursue one’s dreams.
The themes of addiction and recovery are handled with sensitivity and realism. Harper’s mother’s battle with opioids following a debilitating injury is portrayed with stark honesty. The emotional turmoil and the impact on Harper’s life are palpable. This subplot is not just a backdrop but a significant part of Harper’s growth. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of addiction, making Harper’s journey toward finding hope and strength all the more impactful.
While the story excels in its character development and vivid descriptions, one area that I think could be improved is the pacing in the book’s middle sections. I feel that the transitions between Harper’s and Libby’s narratives can sometimes feel abrupt, and the detailed exploration of certain subplots, like Harper’s interactions with secondary characters, occasionally slows the momentum.
Love and Protest is a compelling read for those who appreciate character-driven stories with rich historical contexts. Nancy Klann-Moren’s ability to weave together the past and present through the lives of two resilient young women is engaging and thought-provoking. This book is particularly well-suited for readers interested in historical fiction, coming-of-age stories, and narratives that tackle social issues with a heartfelt touch.
Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0D2VMQGJT
Working Toward a Singular Goal
A Beggar’s Bargain follows a discharged Army soldier during WWII who returns home to fulfill his dying father’s last wish to save the family farm. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I am an avid fan of Texas music and the artists who create the songs. I listen to the radio anytime I’m in the car and one day I heard a song that caused me to pull over and jot down a note. The lyrics of the song said, “It’s fool’s gold, a beggar’s bargain…” I knew A Beggar’s Bargain had to be the title of a book. I didn’t know much more than that, but as the creative juices began to flow, I saw the time period and the story set-up. I know it might sound crazy, but the characters talked to me and basically told me their names and the story. That’s how it all started, with just one line from a song.
Your book touches on the harsh realities that faced many American’s during WWII. What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
As I was working on the story, I visited the area in and around Everton, Missouri. Through the Dade County Library, I was able to look at newspapers from 1947 on microfilm and took lots of notes from them. They gave me a good view of things the country was still dealing with from the war, such as shortages. One newspaper article was about President Truman calling for all families in America to have one day per week with no meat, as it was still in short supply. I had to include that in the book. Also, the prices of goods in 1947 were way different from today and the newspapers were also super helpful in keeping that accurate. I found the people in that area to be super interested and helpful with stories and historic facts about their community that were instrumental in keeping it authentic. I love that I was able to do hands-on research, rather than relying on the internet. I think it helped make it all more believable.
Layken and Sara Beth are forced into a marriage as strangers but must find a way to make it work. What was your process in writing the character’s interactions to develop the bond they have?
First of all, I didn’t want this book to be a romance. I wanted it to be about two people thrown together by fate and circumstances, working toward a singular goal. So, while their relationship started out awkward, as two strangers would be, through their working together and facing each hardship with determination and resilience, their feelings for each other grew slowly from admiration and respect to something deeper. While some reviewers refer to the book as a romance, it is truly historical or literary fiction. I loved allowing and facilitating the organic growth of their relationship, in response to the obstacles they faced.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently working on the second book in The Bargainers Series. A Noble Bargain begins in Arkansas and ends up at Layken and Sara Beth’s farm in Missouri. So, the reader gets to catch up on the couple while meeting a new cast of characters and circumstances. I am hoping to publish it in the fall of this year.
Author links: Twitter | Facebook | Website
Desperate to honor his father’s dying wish, Layken Martin vows to do whatever it takes to save the family farm.
Once the Army discharges him following World War II, Layken returns to Missouri to find his legacy in shambles and in jeopardy. A foreclosure notice from the bank doubles the threat. He appeals to the local banker for more time—a chance to rebuild, plant, and harvest crops and time to heal far away from the noise of bombs and gunfire.
But the banker firmly denies his request. Now what?
Then, the banker makes an alternative proposition—marry his unwanted daughter, Sara Beth, in exchange for a two-year extension. Out of options, money, and time, Layken agrees to the bargain.
Now, he has two years to make a living off the land while he shares his life with a stranger.
If he fails at either, he’ll lose it all.
A Beggar’s Bargain
In A Beggar’s Bargain, author Jan Sikes delves into the post-World War II era through the lens of Layken Martin, a recently discharged soldier returning to his family home in Missouri. Layken is confronted with the imminent death of his father and the daunting task of reviving their struggling farm. The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Layken, faced with the bank’s threat of foreclosure, is offered a peculiar solution: marry the banker’s daughter in exchange for an extension on his loan.
Sikes’ work, rooted in historical fiction, showcases meticulous attention to period detail, echoing themes found in classics like The Grapes of Wrath. The novel’s portrayal of poverty and desperation may also remind readers of elements from John Irving’s The Cider House Rules. Layken’s journey is grounded in authenticity as he navigates not only the challenges of saving the farm but also the complexities of an arranged marriage with Sara Beth, a woman he hardly knows. The backdrop of mid-20th century America, with its societal expectations and norms, further compounds the dilemmas faced by the characters. Sikes crafts a nuanced exploration of Layken and Sara Beth’s relationship, which evolves from uneasy acquaintances to potential allies facing shared adversities. The narrative is enriched by a cast of supporting characters like Tab, a young local drawn to the couple, and Uncle Seymour, a wise hired hand offering guidance.
Sikes’ prose is concise and deliberate, a stylistic choice that complements the story’s focus on character development rather than grand historical narratives. A Beggar’s Bargain unfolds as an intimate, moving study of two individuals forced into an unexpected life together. The brevity of the chapters contributes to the narrative’s tight, almost claustrophobic atmosphere, heightening the emotional depth of Layken and Sara Beth’s story.
Pages: 332 | ASIN : B0CVK8442G
A Story Forms In My Mind
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’.
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.
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 8-10. 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 is finished. Book #2 will be about Madame Curie.
Author links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
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.
The KEAK Anthology: A Collection of Short Stories and Much More
The KEAK Anthology, crafted by the collaborative effort of Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis and her father Artemios Korkidis, presents a diverse and engaging collection of stories that traverse a wide spectrum of literary genres. This anthology is neatly organized into three distinct sections: short stories, flash fiction, and excerpts from Korkidis’ previously published works. Each section showcases a unique aspect of the authors’ storytelling prowess.
The short stories in this anthology are a vivid display of genres, including literary fiction, mystery, thriller, historical nonfiction and fiction, romance, science fiction, and realist literature. Each story is a different hue in this richly colored literary tapestry, offering readers a variety of themes and styles. In the flash fiction segment, Katherine Korkidis, under the pseudonym Katherine Elizabeth Ann Bell, demonstrates her skill in crafting concise yet powerful narratives, each distilled into about 360 words. This section highlights the art of brevity in storytelling. The anthology’s third part features tantalizing glimpses into Korkidis’ five novels, introducing readers to the complex worlds and experiences of protagonists Josette and Daniel. These excerpts serve as an inviting preview into her broader literary work.
Throughout the anthology, Korkidis successfully maintains a balance between thought-provoking content and engaging storytelling. The stories are woven with themes of human emotion and experience, revealing the complexity of the human spirit. The book consistently surprises and delights with its twists and depth, keeping readers engrossed from start to finish. Korkidis’ versatility as a writer shines through in this anthology. Her ability to navigate various literary styles and genres is commendable, as is the thorough research evident in each section. This anthology is not just a showcase of Korkidis’ narrative skills but also an exploration of dark romance, optimism, and educational elements, all brought together in a harmoniously diverse collection.
The KEAK Anthology stands as a testament to Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis’ creative versatility and depth as an author. It’s a compelling read for those who appreciate a multifaceted approach to storytelling across genres.
Pages: 382 | ASIN : B0CHGVWFFJ
Running As Fast As I Can
Running as Fast as I Can by John David Graham is an evocative novel set in the Midwest during the turbulent 1960s. The story follows the protagonist, Daniel Robinson, through a difficult childhood marked by an abusive father and a mother grappling with mental illness. Seeking an escape from this oppressive environment, Daniel leaves home at 16, initially finding refuge with a sympathetic pastor. This sanctuary is short-lived, however, as a betrayal by the pastor sets Daniel on a challenging path of self-discovery and belonging.
Graham paints a vivid picture of Daniel’s disillusionment with the religious institution he once turned to for solace. The narrative is enriched by the array of characters Daniel meets — some offering wisdom and support, others struggling themselves, yet all contributing to his growth. The central theme of constructing a chosen family comes to fruition when Daniel meets Kate Fitzgerald, with whom he endeavors to build the nurturing home he always longed for. Yet, a lingering question persists for the reader: Can Daniel truly free himself from the shadows of his past?
John David Graham’s writing is impressive, characterized by meticulous planning and skillful character development. His attention to detail creates immersive scenes, bringing the characters’ emotional journeys to life. The reader is drawn into Daniel’s world, sharing his pain, understanding the complexities of overcoming trauma, and witnessing his efforts to find love and acceptance. The novel is not without its familiar tropes. One particular instance where Daniel confides in his mentor, Doc, echoes a memorable scene from the film “Good Will Hunting.” While this similarity may detract from the novel’s originality, it does not significantly diminish the overall impact of Graham’s storytelling.
John David Graham has written an emotionally charged story that delves into the themes of resilience, belonging, and the importance of human connection. The story follows Daniel through personal struggles and challenges, discovering the true power of perseverance and human relationships. This story is a poignant reminder of the importance of finding one’s place in the world. Overall, Running as Fast as I Can is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartfelt and inspiring tale of triumph over adversity.
Pages: 466 | ASIN : B0CKK418FB
LITERARY TITAN 