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The Greys of Life
The Ebon Knight follows two adversaries, an outcasted Knight, and a brutal Princess, who are brought together to battle a third power, a virus, who threatens everything they both know. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The initial meeting between the Knight of the Light and the Princess of the Dark was based on a reoccurring dream I had over a span of close to ten years. In that dream, I imagined two uniquely powerful individuals on opposite sides of a hidden and eternal conflict meeting by chance at a casino diner/cafe. What happened then? What was the fallout of such a seemingly random yet intriguing encounter? I decided to write about it to find out.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
The inspiration is our world but with a hidden side to it. A battle wages within the shadows of that world, as the Dark and Light war with each other. When the two sides fight, their struggle throws the natural world out of balance, and so freak storms, earthquakes, floods, etc. result. In short, not all natural disasters are natural in the grim world of the Ebon Knight and his Dark Princess. The story has dragged me along with it, and as new characters have entered my pages, some of them have demanded their own stories, their own chapters, so that has been the most surprising changes to the Chronicles: It’s no longer JUST about my two protagonists, there are a whole host of other characters nearly as important. And, oh boy, my antagonist is NOT a joke either, read through some of my reviews and you can see she is mentioned several times. You will LOVE to HATE her!
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
With this book and series, I was interested in the greys of life. Is anyone fully “good” or “evil?” Although there can be many instances where someone is darn close to either end, I was most interested in the vast landscapes in between. I wanted to explore Light vs Dark, Good vs Evil, and Order vs Chaos. Is the Princess evil? Or is she Justice? Is the Knight good? Or is he just stubborn with a death wish and no sense of preservation? As you read through the book, you get to decide these things for yourself…I can tell you that the Princess is probably my most popular character so far (according to readers). And what does that say, once we look at her as a whole? It’s fascinating for me to see the reactions to her, and I am very honored that just about every review mentions how they loved that facet of my book: the grey, the ambiguity, the balancing.
What will your next novel be about, and what will the whole series encompass?
My next novel is The Dark Witch which takes place directly after the events of book one and is going live on 12/22/23…so in a few days. After that, the trilogy wrap will be in Jan/Feb of 2024 with The Arch Mage. Along the way, I will be dropping short stories to fill out some of the interesting events/characters that shaped the series but wouldn’t make sense to actually write into the main books. One is already out and available on my website called The First Fury, and it is the story of how Kelso first came by the sword, as seen through Kiasa’s eyes. Kiasa was mentioned several times throughout the book; she is a legendary Fury within the Sisterhood and its most peerless fighter – until she disappeared one day. Her story and her connection to the Knight is told in that short. I have a second story coming as well, called The Lord Commander which is the background to Marcus Dain, High Lord Commander of the Paladins. I can’t give away why he deserves his own story, but it will become apparent to readers of my series by book two. These offerings will have covers, etc., and will be listed on Amazon, or for free if you sign up for my newsletter. I am hoping to write about a dozen over the next year.
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Two adversaries on opposite sides of the Eternal Conflict meet by chance and become allied against a new and sinister third power that has entered the fray. The withdrawn Knight of the Light is supposed to be good, and he really kind of is. The Princess of the Dark is supposed to be evil, and she really kind of isn’t. Can they meet in the middle?
Kelso Hart is outcasted from the Light and bearer of the fabled sword “Argenta”—a sentient monster in her own right. The latest in a long line of grim Knights of myth and legend that are cursed to carry the sword, whomsoever unsheathes Argenta becomes nigh unstoppable—and a completely unscrupulous killer.
Ava Pentran is the youngest Princess of the ruling house of the Dark, and harbors a secret known to none. Exiled and hunted by her parents, she lives still only due to her intimidating battle prowess and unique relationship to the Furies—a sect of fierce warrior women who are now her only friends, companions, and protectors. She is also a predator of predators, and her justice is brutal and always fatal.
In a world of magic and madness, Kelso and Ava must find a way to trust each other as they come to grips with a new and unknown complication in the Conflict—a virus that targets those on either side indiscriminately. Those infected are completely changed, their personalities overwritten into something malevolent and chaotic. Knight and Princess both are wounded and disillusioned with the war, but can their unlikely alliance save them? Can it save the world?
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The Ebon Knight is the first in a trilogy of books with elements of quirky humor, perilous adventure, and forbidden attraction during an extremely dangerous time. If you like plot surprises that aren’t ludicrous, villains you will love to hate, heroes with a few rough edges, and exciting battles where the “good guys” don’t always have the upper hand—then welcome!
Any fan of well-written dark/urban fantasy will feel right at home!
Augie Doyle and the Dead Boy
In Augie Doyle and the Dead Boy by Dylan Blackwood, readers are thrust into a perplexing and eerie scenario. The story begins with Augie Doyle and his classmates witnessing the unexpected return of Oliver Hackl, who was declared dead just five days earlier. This baffling incident sets the stage for a riveting narrative that intertwines the paranormal with the mysteries of everyday life.
Augie, a character with a keen interest in the paranormal, is convinced that supernatural forces are at play. His determination to unravel the truth behind Oliver’s reappearance propels the plot forward as he and his friends delve deeper into a web of mysteries and unexplained events. The novel excels in maintaining suspense, constantly posing questions about the reality of Oliver’s death and the possibility of otherworldly influences.
The character development in this young adult novel is a standout feature. Augie and his friends – Ben, Ethan, Caleb, and Fiona – are portrayed with depth and authenticity, each contributing uniquely to their collective quest. Their interactions and the dynamics of their friendship add a layer of realism to the story, making the characters relatable to readers of all ages.
Blackwood’s narrative style is engaging, successfully drawing readers into the heart of the mystery. The book’s pacing is well-managed, keeping readers invested and eager to uncover the truth alongside the protagonists. Incorporating elements such as the mysterious Creeper character, who is rumored to be a voodoo priest, adds an intriguing and chilling aspect to the story.
While labeled as a young adult novel, Augie Doyle and the Dead Boy holds a broad appeal, captivating adult readers with its blend of mystery, suspense, and supernatural elements. The novel sets a high standard for the subsequent books in this series, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Dylan Blackwood’s novel is a commendable addition to the young adult genre, offering a story that is as much about the bonds of friendship and the resilience of youth as it is about solving a supernatural mystery. This book promises to engage, thrill, and leave readers pondering the thin line between reality and the paranormal.
Pages: 138 | ASIN : B0C9YTR56J
The Soul of Chaos
Gregory Wunderlin’s The Soul of Chaos, part of the Litanies of the Lost Star series, offers an intriguing foray into a fantasy landscape marked by apocalyptic themes and a fusion of technology and magic. Set in a dystopian world ruled by dark gods, the narrative revolves around Rurik, a royal descendant tasked with the monumental responsibility of saving his land. This novel stands out for its rich language and successful blending of genres, defying easy classification into a single category.
Wunderlin skillfully crafts a diverse cast of characters, including the likes of Kali and Rurik, each bringing their unique perspectives and stories to the forefront. The author’s adeptness in world-building is commendable; he constructs a vivid, intricate universe from scratch, a feat that often poses a challenge even for seasoned writers. The immersive quality of the storytelling kept me engaged throughout. The innovative aspects and the authentically portrayed characters in The Soul of Chaos are commendable. The pacing of the novel presents a varied rhythm, with some chapters unfolding at a contemplative pace that offers a thoughtful contrast to the more action-packed or intense scenes. This variation in tempo adds a unique dynamic to the narrative’s flow.
The Soul of Chaos captivated me, largely due to the author’s eloquent language and the intricate development of the characters. This novel stands out as an excellent introduction for newcomers to fantasy and a delightful read for long-time enthusiasts. The Soul of Chaos has sparked an eagerness to explore the rest of the series, reflecting its growing appeal to me.
Pages: 431 | ASIN : B0CCYLTQRM
Glass Flower
Glass Flower, authored by David Procaccino, is an intricate fusion of thriller, family drama, and historical fiction centered around the aftermath of the Vietnam War. The narrative begins in July 1972, introducing Jim Malory, a veteran and psychiatrist based in Philadelphia. Struggling to piece together his life post-war, Malory faces challenges both in his professional realm and within his family. His wife, Maria, pregnant and concerned, doubts his mental stability, while their daughter, Ruthie, is caught in a downward spiral of seeking connection at any cost.
The story’s core revolves around Malory’s encounter with a fellow Vietnam veteran and his patients, propelling him into a deeper exploration of his psyche. This journey of self-discovery is intertwined with his efforts to repair familial ties and confront his fragmented mind. Despite strides towards recovery, Malory is continuously haunted by his past, a reminder that the vestiges of his wartime experiences are not easily left behind.
Procaccino’s Glass Flower excels in its character-driven narrative, marked by tension and family complexities. The theme of forgiveness emerges as a central motif, offering a potential escape from the unyielding grasp of trauma. The author skillfully navigates the interplay between Malory’s past and present adversities, employing a subtle approach that enhances the story’s emotional depth.
The novel’s strengths lie in its brisk pacing, compelling dialogue, and vivid, atmospheric descriptions that draw readers into a world rich in psychological and relational dynamics. Procaccino adeptly intertwines the concept of forgiveness into the plot, illustrating its vital role in healing and moving beyond trauma. Glass Flower is a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of past wounds on individuals and those around them.
In his portrayal of complex characters and psychological undercurrents, Procaccino’s writing is both evocative and nuanced, offering readers an insightful, thought-provoking experience.
Pages: 397 | ASIN : B0CMKF7LG9
The Ebon Knight
The Ebon Knight by James Wood is a captivating foray into a world brimming with magic, chaos, and the unexpected alliances that emerge from the shadows of war. This novel weaves a tale around its two central characters, Kelso Hart and Ava Pentran. Kelso, an outcast Knight of the Light, and Ava, the youngest Princess of the Dark, form an unlikely alliance against a malevolent new force threatening their mystical realm. Wood’s narrative is both gripping and sophisticated, drawing readers in from the very first page and holding their attention through a journey filled with suspense and intrigue.
Kelso Hart, armed with the sentient sword Argenta, carries the burden of a cursed legacy, while Ava Pentran, exiled and pursued, wields her formidable battle prowess alongside a secret tied to the Furies. Their quest to combat a sinister virus transforming individuals into malevolent beings challenges the established dichotomy of Light and Dark, compelling readers to reevaluate their perceptions of heroism and villainy.
James Wood excels in both plot development and character exploration, presenting a story that is as action-packed as it is profound. The Ebon Knight masterfully explores themes of trust, survival, and the grey areas of morality, making it a standout in the urban fantasy genre. The novel’s backdrop is richly constructed, providing an immersive experience that enhances the narrative’s depth. Wood’s ability to blend elements of fantasy with heart-pounding suspense is remarkable, ensuring that this book is a thrilling read from start to finish. The novel strikes a fine balance between humor and darkness, featuring meticulously crafted battle scenes that resonate long after the book is closed. Wood’s exploration of the blurred lines between the forces of Light and Dark mirrors the complexities of our own world, adding a layer of relatability to the fantastical setting. His writing style is a fusion of dark undertones and sharp wit, creating a narrative that appeals to a broad range of readers, including those new to the urban fantasy genre.
The Ebon Knight is a stellar addition to the urban fantasy landscape. This book is recommended for genre enthusiasts and anyone who values a narrative woven with humor, darkness, and surprising turns. With this novel, James Wood has crafted an enthralling world and established himself as an author to watch for future masterpieces.
Pages: 423 | ASIN : B0CLS6VT6T
Deadfall Mall
Deadfall Mall, by Michael Nohe, presents an intriguing take on the horror genre, set in the eerie, almost forgotten corridors of an abandoned mall in Deadfall, America. This novel, with its backdrop of desolate storefronts and deserted shopping avenues, cleverly subverts the typical bustling mall scene, transforming it into a site for leisurely strolls for those seeking refuge from unpredictable weather. The narrative escalates on Halloween, as ten individuals seeking solace from the clamor of the streets find themselves in a harrowing predicament within the mall’s confines, a journey from which most will not return.
Nohe skillfully blends elements of horror and thriller yet maintains a somewhat casual tone throughout. This approach infuses a unique flavor into the narrative, as the characters navigate their surreal situation with a surprising degree of nonchalance. The mall itself almost takes on a character of its own, with its mysterious and borderline supernatural occurrences. As a reader, one is invited to suspend disbelief and embrace the spooky, atmospheric setting of the story. A noteworthy aspect of Deadfall Mall is its accessibility to readers new to the horror genre. The scenes, while engaging, are not overly intense, making it an excellent introductory choice for those not yet ready to delve into more intense horror literature.
The worldbuilding is solid, firmly rooting the story in a setting that, despite its fantastical elements, feels real and tangible. The dialogue is unique–sometimes echoing the style of older horror films. For those who find charm in this approach, the novel offers a quick, entertaining read. It’s particularly suitable for those not typically inclined towards heavy reading and those who may be looking to explore more literary avenues.
Michael Nohe’s Deadfall Mall is a compelling and accessible foray into horror, blending the everyday with the uncanny, and offering a fresh perspective on the genre. Its blend of mystery, casual tone, and relatable setting makes it a noteworthy addition for readers looking to explore horror in a less intimidating format.
Pages: 237 | ASIN : B0CJ3GG6X6
Horror Often Gets a Bad Rap
A Ghoulish Good Time: Tales to Make You Scream is a short story collection centered around horror, good vs. evil, and the supernatural. Where did the idea for this anthology come from?
I have always loved horror. The story goes that my mother never liked horror, but the entire time she was pregnant with me, she watched horror movies. After I was born, she never watched them again, but I did. Several of these stories were first conceived of when I was a nanny and looking after kids. Soul Stones was conceived when the two kids I looked after were considered like a devil and angel to their family. The kids used to goof around on the steps to the point that I thought someone would get hurt one day. In the story, they do.
Do you have a favorite short story in the collection? A character you especially enjoyed writing for?
I think my favorite was the bad sister in Soul Stones. She’s snarky, she’s clever, and she can’t help being bad. It’s one of the funniest stories in the book.
What intrigues you about the horror and paranormal genres that led you to write this book?
I think horror often gets a bad rap. After all, there isn’t one person upon this planet who hasn’t had a nightmare at some point in our lives. Horror is part of the human collective unconscious. I’d much rather a reader satisfy any violent tendencies they have by reading about them rather than acting upon them. Our world is also filled with the paranormal. We don’t know everything about how our world interacts with the universe. As long as there are mysteries to solve, the human soul will always gravitate towards darkness.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book I’m working on is a children’s book about a very naughty elf who almost succeeds in destroying Christmas. It will be available just before Christmas this year. It has a lovely ending and my illustrator, Christina Cartwright, has designed some very beautiful artwork that I know everyone will enjoy. Her illustrations are truly inspired. This will be our fifth book together and the fourth one in the Happy Tails series.
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Soul Stones: How do you live with the consequences of a death when you, in some small way, helped contribute to its passing? That is the dilemma that Chris Whitaker faces as she remembers the events that led to the death of her best friend, Maggie Malone, and almost to her own.
The Vanishing: One of the most dangerous things a person can do when driving a car is fall asleep at the wheel. Just ask Leta Tyler – she crashed her car into a tree and managed to walk away from it. Her luck runs out, though, when she gets to the eerie little town of Wakefield where the residents are not what they appear to be and no soul is ever safe.
The Change: Sara Crew has done one of the worst things a person can do – she has just managed to wipe every living being off the face of the Earth with a wish. Even though it was made in anger against her sister, she had no idea when she made the wish how horribly it would backfire upon herself. When we unleash our inner monsters upon the world – how many of us are strong enough to survive them coming after us?
Pumpkin Parts: There are moments in Charlie’s life when she wished that she could just start the day over again . . . or skip it altogether. Anything would be preferable to experiencing a brother’s betrayal of his sister’s trust or having one’s eyes opened to the realization that true monsters exist in the world.
All Hallows’ Eve: Sam Monroe is having a bad day – a verybad day. As if starting high school in a new town wasn’t bad enough, now he’s being hunted down in unfamiliar woods and a creepy old cemetery by a bully who’s lost his mind. It’s all enough to make anyone lose their mental marbles, especially when you add the dead into the mix.
Monsters Adeep: Humankind thinks that we are at the top of the food chain. Charles Devereaux is about to find out that isn’t the truth. Some things in the universe are older than us and don’t have a tolerance for humanity’s inhuman treatment for the world around them.
A Ghoulish Good Time – Tales to Make You Scream
Dive into the spine-tingling world of A Ghoulish Good Time: Tales to Make You Scream, a standout installment in the Daerk Cemetery series. This enthralling anthology brings together six short horror stories, each masterfully crafted to captivate and send shivers down the spines of its readers. The collection weaves a tapestry of tales that traverse the shadowy realms of fear, guilt, and the supernatural, offering an array of narratives rich in suspense and intrigue. “Soul Stones” chronicles the emotional turmoil of Chris Whitaker, haunted by her role in her best friend’s tragic death. “The Vanishing” follows Leta Tyler’s eerie encounter in the mysterious town of Wakefield after a car accident. “The Change” depicts Sara Crew’s devastating realization after her wish inadvertently wipes out humanity. “Pumpkin Parts” explores themes of betrayal and the existence of true evil through Charlie’s harrowing experiences. “All Hallows’ Eve” describes Sam Monroe’s terrifying ordeal of being hunted in a strange new town on his first day of high school. “Monsters Adeep” reveals the chilling revelation to Charles Devereaux that humanity is not at the top of the food chain.
Michele L. Sayre’s book stands as a monumental achievement in horror literature. Her unique approach to storytelling not only captivates with its suspense and imaginative creations but also enriches the reader’s understanding of life’s uncertainties. Each tale in this collection transcends the typical horror narrative, evolving into powerful allegories that emphasize vigilance and impart profound lessons. The book’s true brilliance is in its ability to weave rich scenes of suspense, masterfully bringing to life monstrous entities that are both terrifying and fascinating. Sayre’s writing is a perfect blend of eloquence and tension, making each story a riveting journey. The depth and complexity of the narratives promise to leave a lasting impact, inviting readers to ponder and reflect long after the last page. The anthology excels in its exploration of the eternal conflict between good and evil, presented in a way that is consistently engaging and thought-provoking. This clear delineation does not simplify the tales; instead, it adds layers of meaning and relevance, demonstrating Sayre’s skill in crafting stories that resonate on multiple levels.
In A Ghoulish Good Time, Michele L. Sayre has not only created a collection of horror stories but has also issued a compelling invitation to delve deeper into the realms of horror and human psychology. Her work is not just a display of narrative excellence but a celebration of the genre itself, offering readers a rich, multifaceted experience that is as enlightening as it is entertaining. This anthology is a must-read for anyone interested in the depths and potential of horror literature, affirming Michele L. Sayre’s place as a masterful storyteller and visionary in the field.
Pages: 252 | ASIN : B0CLJYW34Z
LITERARY TITAN 