Blog Archives
Starfall Book 1 (Starfall: A Tale in Two Eras)Â
Starfall: Book I, by T. Newyear, intriguingly merges science fiction with elements of historical fiction. Set in a near-future scenario impacted by global warming, the story follows Xenia, a woman endowed with a unique dual consciousness: her own and an AI. As Xenia ventures into the Flood Zone, a largely abandoned area, her primary task is to repair a malfunctioning relay. However, her journey takes a curious turn as she discovers the small, reclaimed town of Harmonie, inhabited by a collective of unique intellectuals. Here, she stumbles upon historical documents tied to Camilla Wright, a 19th-century radical thinker, unveiling an unexpected connection between past and present.
T. Newyear showcases a bold narrative approach by blending these two distinct genres. This combination, while unusual, is executed with a creative finesse that enriches the novel’s texture. The dual storyline, oscillating between Xenia’s first-person experiences in the Flood Zone and Harmonie, and the historical revelations about Camilla Wright, is managed adeptly. The choice of first-person narration enhances the immediacy and engagement of the reader with Xenia’s discoveries and challenges. I feel the initial pacing is somewhat gradual, but it gains momentum as Xenia delves deeper into the mysteries of Harmonie.
Xenia’s character, marked by her persistence and curiosity, mirrors the traits of Camilla Wright, forming a thematic bridge between the two timelines. The novel excels in maintaining an air of mystery, keeping readers intrigued about the connections between the past and present. This sense of discovery is one of the novel’s most compelling aspects.
The conclusion of Starfall: Book I leaves readers anticipating more, hinting at the expansive world and deeper storylines yet to unfold in subsequent volumes. Newyear’s novel is a testament to imaginative storytelling, offering a refreshing blend of genres that will likely captivate a wide range of readers.
Pages: 368 | ASIN : B0CLKZLJVY
Death in a Gilded Frame
Set against the opulent backdrop of late 19th century America, specifically in Newport, a summer haven for New York’s aristocracy, this historical mystery fiction intriguingly intertwines the lives of an elite couple, Roddy and Val, with a heinous crime. As they consider commissioning a portrait from a newly arrived artist, they become embroiled in the brutal murder of an art gallery manager, setting off a whirlwind of gossip and societal scorn among their peers. The narrative propels Val and her husband into a quest to unearth the true culprit, thereby extricating themselves from the web of public accusation and disdain.
As part of a series, this standalone installment presents some challenges in character development. Val, portrayed as a defiant woman from the West, grapples with her identity in high society and as a wife, exhibiting a perplexing blend of resistance and compliance. This is particularly evident in her acquiescence to sit for a portrait, despite her reservations about the artist and personal discomfort, ostensibly to appease her husband. Her character’s internal turmoil in response to public slander seems at odds with her otherwise resilient persona, driving the narrative with an undercurrent of seeking redemption.
The author skillfully immerses readers in the Gilded Age setting, a delight for enthusiasts of this historical era, with detailed depictions of luxurious lifestyles and intricate societal dynamics. While this richly woven backdrop may be particularly resonant for some, it provides a lush context for the story’s unfolding. The narrative, intriguingly dotted with hints of potential threats and regrets, invites readers to engage deeply, even though some aspects may seem less explored, contributing to a resolution that encourages reflection and imagination. The core mystery remains engaging, with the amateur sleuthing efforts of the couple culminating in a solution that leaves room for reader interpretation.
This historical mystery offers a vibrant journey into America’s Gilded Age, blending a suspenseful plot with a vivid portrayal of societal norms and extravagances. Death in a Gilded Frame by Cecelia Tichi stands as a compelling read for those drawn to historical settings and intricate plots, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the complexities of high society and the intrigue of an unsolved crime.
Pages: 244 | ASIN : B0CM1K2HY2
la loi salique
Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle follows a French princess who wishes to become Valkyrie warrior queen but instead is being forced home to marry a man she does not love. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I am a former high school teacher and college professor of French with a passion for medieval French history. I love the region of Bretagne (Brittany in English) and especially the legends and myths from the enchanted Forest of BrocĂ©liande, birthplace of Merlin, the Lady of the Lake Viviane and Lancelot, King Arthur’s First Knight of Camelot.
When I was an undergraduate student, I spent a summer studying abroad in Normandy and was fascinated by the Viking influences and heritage in that region. So, I decided to create a story of a fiery French princess of Finistère in Bretagne whose ancestors were Viking Valkyrie.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
In the Middle Ages, knights were sworn to the moral principles of chivalry, such as fierce loyalty to God, their king, and their country. They also swore to protect and defend women, children, the weak and the sick.Â
These moral principles created the inner conflict of my hero, Sir Bastien de Landuc, the royal guard appointed to defend Princess Gabrielle who has suffered an impossible love for her since adolescence.
Historical fiction takes a lot of research to get the right feel even if the storyline is not real.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
No, but I wanted to bring in something I had learned in my studies of French history that I felt was horribly unfair to women. There is an archaic law–la loi salique-– which dates back to the 5th century and the Frankish king Clovis. According to this law, women could not inherit a kingdom nor rule in their own right. Their titles and property became the possession of their husbands. I wanted to show how unfair this law was to Princess Gabrielle, who was facing a forced marriage for this reason.
Will there be a follow up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?Â
Yes, I have signed a publishing contract for A Celtic Yuletide Carol, the story of Sir Cardin de Landuc–Bastien’s brother– and his struggle with grief and guilt when his young wife dies in childbirth and he forsakes his newborn son.  I am also writing another follow-up, the story of Sir Gaultier, Bastien and Cardin’s oldest brother, who defends King Philippe of France’s claim to the distant land of Aquitaine on the Spanish border in southwestern France.
My current work in progress is A Nordic Yuletide Wish, the story of Princess Gabrielle’s ancestor Ylva, the descendant of Rollo, first Viking chieftain of Normandy. It is both a follow up to Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle and a gateway to a planned Viking trilogy that I will write in the near future.
Author Links: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
Chivalrous, solitary knight Sir Bastien de Landuc suffers an impossible love for Gabrielle, the unattainable princess he can never have. Without a title of nobility, he is ineligible to compete in the tournament for her hand in marriage, despite his unparalleled equestrian skills and inimitable swordsmanship.
Yet, Yuletide wishes for a wondrous winter solstice in the glorious Crystal Castle might make impossible dreams come true.
Can the valiant knight win the coveted hand of his Viking Valkyrie?
Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle
In Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle, Jennifer Ivy Walker transports readers to the heart of the French Medieval era, painting vivid scenes of frost-covered castles and lavish banquets. This historical fiction novel centers on Gabrielle, a princess who defies medieval norms with her aspirations to be a Viking warrior queen. An adept horse rider, archer, and swordfighter, Gabrielle faces the constraints of royal traditions when her father’s illness prompts a Yuletide Joust to determine her marriage fate.
Gabrielle’s romance with Sir Bastien de Landuc, her former mentor and royal guard, is a focal point of this riveting narrative. Despite their deep love, Bastien’s inability to compete in the joust and the menacing presence of Ugolin Cauchon, a villain determined to claim both Gabrielle and her kingdom, weave a complex web of challenges.
Walker’s storytelling is remarkable for its detailed depiction of the medieval period, blending the harsh realities of the era with the warmth of festive traditions. The romance between Gabrielle and Bastien unfolds with a blend of gentleness and intensity, characterized by moments both tender and passionate. Gabrielle, with her fiery spirit and resistance to traditional gender roles, is a particularly compelling character, and her dynamic with Bastien adds depth to the narrative. The novel’s main characters are richly developed, and while the extensive cast of secondary characters and the use of French terminology adds to the depth and authenticity of the setting, they also enhance the reader’s immersion in the medieval world, complementing the novel’s engaging plot and vivid historical backdrop.
Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle is a compelling blend of historical fiction, action, and romance, offering a vivid journey into a meticulously crafted medieval world. Walker’s skillful writing ensures a captivating read throughout.
Pages: 198 | ASIN : B0CHG3ZQ8J
Literary Titan Book Award – Dec 2023
With innovative themes and a knack for turning words into elegant prose, these stunning books effortlessly elevate the art of storytelling. Here’s to the brilliant authors who’ve turned fresh ideas and heartfelt narratives into beautifully written journeys. Your remarkable talent deserves every bit of this recognition.
Award Recipients
FastFlight 540: In Search of Xander by M.M. Mesldorf
Thrive: Ghosts in the Glades by Staci Andrea
The Miracle that made us a United Nation by Betty Lou Rogers
Power by Chuck Fair
The Wood Sprite by James Dobie
Soar a Burning Sky: Echoes of EonThera: Book One
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Literary Titan Book Awards – Dec 2023
Honoring the talent of brilliant authors who captivated us with unique writing styles, vivid worlds, and compelling characters. Delve into a universe of original ideas, celebrating books that stand out with their innovative concepts and extraordinary narratives. Join us in applauding the dedication and hard work of these exemplary authors as we spotlight and praise the magnificent realms they’ve brought to life.
Award Recipients
Shipwreck in Paradise by Konstantinos Gustad C
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Bullet’s Adventure: Chasing Sobekneferu
Victoria Ray’s Bullet’s Adventure: Chasing Sobekneferu weaves an unconventional narrative, blending elements of mystery and fantasy with an eccentric cast of characters. The story follows Bullet Harmless, a man whose mundane life is upended when he is unexpectedly employed as a private investigator by a prominent figure in his city. Tasked with unraveling the mystery behind a murdered rare insect and missing diamonds, Bullet finds himself entangled in a web of chaos and danger involving a vast criminal network.
The novel begins with limited context, focusing initially on Bullet’s everyday life, hinting at a conventional plotline. However, Ray rapidly diverges from this path, introducing a surreal world inhabited by uniquely named characters, anthropomorphic insects, and references to Egyptian mythology. The settings and events change rapidly, challenging the reader to keep pace with the evolving narrative.
Ray’s writing style is vibrant and imaginative, though at times, the plot’s complexity and the multitude of characters introduced can feel overwhelming. The central theme of Bullet seeking his ideal companion is a consistent thread, but the continual introduction of new characters and subplots adds layers of complexity to the story. This richness of ideas is ambitious and requires a reader’s full attention.
The book’s distinct style is a departure from conventional storytelling, offering a unique experience. It’s a crime fiction novel that will resonate with readers looking for something out of the ordinary. Ray’s novel has the potential to captivate those who appreciate unconventional and imaginative storytelling.
Pages: 193 | ASIN: B0CJP8BL9H
Literary Titan Book Awards November 2023
These books masterfully craft universes, breathe life into unparalleled characters, and weave plots that keep us hanging on every word. With innovative themes and a knack for turning words into elegant prose, these stunning books effortlessly elevate the art of storytelling. Here’s to the brilliant authors who’ve turned fresh ideas and heartfelt narratives into beautifully written journeys. Your remarkable talent deserves every bit of this recognition.
Award Recipients
The Wages of Kin
Behind The Curtain: Remarkable Stories of What Really Happens in Medicine
Anatomy of a Vampire by John Matthias
The Journal of Hidden Truths
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
LITERARY TITAN 