Blog Archives
Colours of the Fraud
Otilija Štajn’s Colours of the Fraud is an atmospheric novel that weaves together mystery, personal drama, and an unsettling sense of foreboding. For over two decades, Ema has owned a mysterious painting, oblivious to its true significance. When a friend casually suggests that the portrait resembles his sister, Ema’s curiosity deepens. Soon after, an art instructor claims it to be the work of a 16th-century Italian master. As Ema searches for answers, her life starts to unravel in unexpected ways. Her long-term relationship falters just as her career seems to be on the upswing, and more paintings featuring the same enigmatic woman begin to surface. Confusion gives way to a growing certainty that something larger and more mysterious is at play, far beyond her control.
Set against the backdrop of modern life, the novel immerses the reader in Ema’s world, one marked by the crushing pressures of corporate existence and complex personal relationships. Štajn’s writing expertly conveys a mounting sense of dread, making each new discovery feel like a step deeper into an ever-tightening labyrinth.
The story begins with disorienting shifts between timelines, but soon settles into Ema’s present-day struggles. As an economist working in a large firm, she’s consumed by her career, but the painting—lovingly dubbed The Muse—takes hold of her mind. The deeper she delves into the painting’s origins, the more chaotic her life becomes. Štajn’s talent lies in crafting a suffocating atmosphere, where even the most mundane moments carry a sense of unease. The book is not overtly dangerous, yet it pulses with an underlying tension that keeps the reader on edge.
The novel is remarkably tight, with little wasted space. Every character serves a purpose, whether enriching Ema’s personal life or adding complexity to her professional world. Štajn explores her relationships thoroughly, ensuring that each dynamic feels fully realized.
Colours of the Fraud is a captivating blend of mystery, psychological tension, and rich character exploration. Otilija Štajn skillfully crafts a narrative that draws readers into a world where the past and present collide and where personal unraveling mirrors the deeper mystery of a seemingly innocuous painting. The novel’s moody atmosphere, complex relationships, and meticulous attention to detail make for a thoroughly engaging read. It’s a story that keeps you guessing, unraveling its secrets layer by layer, and leaves a lasting impression with its haunting, introspective tone.
Pages: 281 | ASIN: B0D366RQ8K
Creating a Sense of Normalcy Amid the Chaos
Borealis follows a man with the ability to transport himself through time who discovers secrets about himself and works to save the people of Yand. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Ah, it’s not a man. It’s a young boy. It’s a coming-of-age story of an inadvertent blinker boy who finds himself in the middle of active warfare. It is a story of survival under extreme adversity, of danger, bravery, and resilience, and the ingenuity of creating a sense of normalcy amid the chaos. Many undertones of my childhood, growing up in a war zone. But like always, I infuse a light touch and humor where allowed. Meet and fall in love with Sunny, and see how he saves the world(!). He’s one of my favorite characters, way up there with Wolfpack and Snowfox.
All your characters have unique and original names; how do you come up with character names for your stories?
I draw my characters’ names from their backgrounds, environments, personalities. For example, I began the WorldmakerTM Saga in the star system of Yildun, which is a real star in the Ursa Minor constellation. Yildun means star, and I derived all primary names from it. The planet is Yand. The inhabited moon is Yenda. The worldmakers who manifest their power from this star are Yanara, Yira, Yileen, Yolinda. Yanara’s brother is Yildiz, which also starts with Y and means star.
All the goldenbloods (the bright Yandar race) have names that signify brightness, light, shine, luminance. Hence, Lucent, Flash, Blaze, Stardust.
Yanara’s children have names that reflect their personalities and abilities and also link them to their companions: Dragonlord is a dragoon (strongest mage) and is bonded to a dragon. Wolfpack, who is pathfinder, is like the alpha wolf, the leader. Sunny, well, I don’t want to spill the beans. You’ll see after reading Borealis. If not, please ask me again.
What author in your genre do you most admire, and why?
Tolkien for Fantasy. Do I need to elaborate? He’s the Master.
Anne McCaffrey, also fantasy, for her vivid world-building and characters.
Steven Brust for the first-person narration. Absolutely brilliant.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for the people of Yand and the direction of the second book?
Ah, Borealis IS the second book in the Chronicles of Phe’lak.
Queen of Highwings is the first book.
The third book will be coming in 2025. It is titled The Beast of Phe’lak. You hear it first right here. I’m very excited about it. It features Dragonlord, whom I have been dying to write about, his dragon, Lavender, and his Yendal partner, Squirrel.
If I may add, in addition to the E-Book on Amazon, the printed book formats offer spectacular 2-page illustrated openings of every chapter, and more full-page illustrations throughout. They can be found here:
Paperback with Standard Paper and Inks: (most economical) https://tinyurl.com/jd363xh4
Paperback with Premium Paper and Inks: (most recommended) https://tinyurl.com/nhc3wm42
Hardbound Premium Edition: (spectacular!) https://tinyurl.com/4s7y6ecm
Author links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Borealis
Borealis, by Andri E. Elia, is a captivating fantasy novel that delves into the intriguing story of Sunny (Sunstorm) and his unique abilities as a Pathfinder. The narrative masterfully weaves together two timelines—one set in the past and the other in the future—culminating in a resolution that connects these points seamlessly. Continuing from the journey in Book 1, this installment takes readers on a thrilling time jump and space odyssey across the universe.
The tale centers around Asimia, her husbands, Lucent and Snowfox, and their pathfinder, Wolfpack, as they persist in their quest to save the world of Yands from the malevolent K’tuls. Concurrently, Sunstorm transports himself to a future world using his power of ‘blink,’ unraveling secrets about himself with his Da, Dr. Pietro (Pete). The narrative is filled with multiple time jumps and a diverse cast of characters, each playing a crucial role in shaping their future.
Elia’s writing style is fast-paced and exhilarating, with twists and turns that keep readers hooked. The smooth flow of the story during war scenes and action sequences adds to its appeal. These thrilling portions are well-crafted and highly engaging. The diverse character dynamics add complexity to the narrative. Asimia’s affection for Pete and her submission to Snowfox, Sunny’s actions in the first half, Willie’s loyalty to Sunny, Lucent’s evolving role in their marriage, and Asimia’s decision to pass her positions and powers to Snowfox create intriguing and multifaceted relationships. The author’s focus on highlighting specific traits provides depth to the main characters, adding a unique dimension to the story.
Borealis, by Andri E. Elia, is a thrilling and imaginative fantasy novel that takes readers on a fascinating journey through time and space. Fans of fantasy with a penchant for adventure and twists will find much to enjoy in this captivating tale.
Pages: 397 | ASIN : B0CWDGMBS4
Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave
Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave, the second installment in S. P. Somtow’s riveting trilogy, transports readers back to the opulence and peril of the Roman Empire, seen through the eyes of a young slave named Sporus. As the favored companion of the notoriously unpredictable Emperor Nero, Sporus navigates a world of luxury and danger, where his beauty both elevates and endangers him. The narrative is a delicate balance of splendor and terror, as Sporus must continually evade the whims of a virtually insane emperor.
The author’s adept storytelling makes Imperatrix an engaging read, with a brisk pace that artfully conveys the treacherous twists of life in Nero’s court. Somtow’s thorough research enriches the narrative, weaving in intricate details of ancient Roman life, from the decadent foods to the societal norms, lending an air of authenticity to the tale.
Sporus is a compelling protagonist, his resilience and vulnerability drawing the reader into his plight and rooting for his survival amidst the debauchery and madness of the imperial surroundings. While the novel does not shy away from the explicit realities of the time, including graphic scenes, Nero’s portrayal stands out—his divine madness and capricious nature are as fascinating as they are frightening. This depiction offers a glimpse into the life of a man treated as a god yet indulged and isolated to the point of lunacy. The novel’s concise nature only leaves readers more captivated and eager to delve deeper into Sporus’s journey—a clear testament to the immersive world Somtow has crafted. This brevity fuels anticipation, making the prospect of the next chapter in this enthralling saga all the more enticing.
Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave is a compelling dive into a notorious epoch, offering a vivid exploration of a young slave’s struggle for survival and identity amidst the grandeur and madness of Nero’s Rome. The novel promises and delivers a journey filled with danger, intrigue, and the relentless pursuit of a place within a world where every moment could be your last.
Pages: 273 | ASIN : B0C62LB2NM
Humanity of Homeless People
Baja Silver follows a detective on vacation in Mexico who winds up helping an old friend rescue women from a sex trafficking cartel. Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
I had a 35 year career as a clinical social worker and manager of mental health and homeless programs in Sacramento. For 7 years, I was the Director of Loaves & Fishes in Sacramento. And my series of novels is based on my time there 1999-2006. My main character, Sam White, is a semi auto-biographical character, and I have a number of homeless characters that are composites of folks I’ve known, and many homeless situations are based on true experiences.
Part 2 of Baja Silver was inspired by my interest in California history and the 12 years my wife and I had a vacation home in Loreto, Baja California, after our retirement. Sam White’s reunion with his childhood friend, Jesus (Juice) Fierro was based on a childhood friend that I parted ways with in 1975 and have never seen again, nor been able to locate.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Themes I highlight in the book are sexual preferences and the discrimination, abuse, and homelessness LGBTQ young and older people suffer from. The humanity of homeless people and their resilience and the political/social causes of homelessness are also important themes.
Where can readers find more of Sam White and his mysteries?
Lastly, Baja Silver is my 2nd book in the series, and Squatter’s Gold, was my first book.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
A 2022 American Writing Awards Finalist in the Fiction:Thriller/Adventure Category.
In a race against a Mexican cartel, Sam White is on a mission to find two young fugitives from Sacramento. Dani and TommyLynn are sex workers, but not fugitives from the law. They’re a young woman who is abducted into a sex trafficking cartel, and her friend, an intersex person who is trying to find and rescue her. They are on the run for their lives and their freedom.
Sam, director of St. Frances Village, is a man who believes in finding the good where you least expect it. On vacation in Mexico for a reunion with an old friend and a scuba diving trip, off the coast of Loreto, Baja, they find a cave which could hold ancient treasure. TommyLynn suddenly reappears in his life, begging for help.
When Sam and TommyLynn take on a vicious sex-trafficking cartel, they soon realize this rescue plan could turn fatal.
If you like high-stakes action, jaw-dropping twists, unflinching discussion of sexual identity and California history, then you’ll love this dark, but hopeful tale.
Plus, there’s more adventure to come! Baja Silver is part of the gritty Sam White crime adventure series, including Squatter’s Gold and more. Dive into Sam White’s adventures today!
The Empath’s Second Chance
Dive into the interstellar expanse of love and rebirth with The Empath’s Second Chance. This captivating blend of Sci-fi MM Romance introduces readers to the complex relationship between the passionate human, Sylas Hayes, and the enigmatic Kyphomi alien, Ksa’in.
The Kyphomi, distinguished by their luxuriantly long hair and impressive stature—greater than that of humans—are peaceful inhabitants of a distant planet, boasting lifespans of up to 200 years. Their empathetic nature sets the tone for this poignant tale.
As the narrative unfolds, Sylas grapples with memories of Davon Pax, a past love interest who abandoned him for an alien named Tulq’on. Ksa’in, similarly, is on a path of self-reflection and healing. Their fates take a dramatic turn when Sylas is abducted by the Vraik aliens and placed on the fiery planet Evis, teeming with its distinctive lizards and furry inhabitants. But amid this chaos, Ksa’in emerges as a beacon of hope.
Author Sidonie Savage tells a riveting romance story set against a backdrop of spaceships, unique creatures, and alien worlds. The story is enriched by the interwoven perspectives of Sylas and Ksa’in, as well as the inclusion of Tira, Sylas’s dear friend. This triad of views offers an immersive experience into the characters’ emotions and challenges.
As the follow-up to The Empath’s Lover, this novel is the second entry in the tantalizing Kyphomi Empath’s series. While catering to a niche audience, it seamlessly marries elements of erotic romance and science fiction. Intended for mature readers, the book includes several artfully crafted erotic sequences.
In The Empath’s Second Chance, Sidonie Savage seamlessly interweaves the allure of science fiction with the passions of romance, creating a universe that both captivates the mind and touches the heart.
Pages: 282 | ASIN : B0CGR4C8PY
Evolved: Aether Rising
In Evolved, penned by Patrick Roberts, we are taken on a thrilling journey alongside the protagonist, Pahras Rowe, as he grapples with his identity and the turmoil of returning to his former life. Different and challenging circumstances await him, as the DISA agency, with whom he once collaborated, is now pursuing individuals like him, known as Evos. The stakes are further heightened when Pahras discovers that those closest to him, including the love of his life, have been captured, setting the stage for an exhilarating rescue mission.
Roberts crafts a rich tapestry of intrigue and excitement that seems to draw inspiration from iconic comic universes, blending elements reminiscent of Marvel’s X-Men with the dynamism of the DC world. The result is an innovative fusion that excites the reader’s imagination, encapsulating the very best of superhero storytelling. The cliffhanger conclusion of this first installment leaves readers eagerly awaiting the next chapter, a testament to Roberts’ ability to enthrall his audience.
Character development is another compelling aspect of Evolved. Pahras is a character with depth and complexity, though, at times, his decision-making can be frustrating. For instance, I think the handling of his original powers could be more judicious, and his interactions with the character Xian regarding his new abilities seemed a bit lacking. Though one can argue that these may have been intentional choices by the author to depict Pahras’ growth, a bit more clarity could have provided more insight into his character’s development.
The relationships in the novel add warmth to an otherwise action-packed narrative. The bond between Pahras and his uncle Gerald is depicted with sincerity and nuance, and the broken yet touching connection with his father, Solomon, adds layers to Pahras’ character. The support they provide highlights the novel’s theme of family and connection amidst the chaos.
Roberts’ adept handling of action scenes contributes to the novel’s gripping pace. The interspersing of intimate moments with loved ones amidst the thrilling action sequences brings a welcome contrast, enhancing the reader’s engagement. I would have liked to have had more fleshed-out details concerning Pahras’ life before the central events of the story. I think a more in-depth look into his past could have lent additional weight to his character’s motivations and decisions.
Evolved stands as an enticing work, skillfully marrying superhero mythos with emotional depth and thrilling action. Roberts’ narrative craft ensures an engaging reading experience, leaving readers both satisfied and craving more. The balance between character insight, familial relationships, and adrenaline-fueled sequences positions Evolved as a novel not to be missed for fans of the genre.
Pages: 274 | ASIN: B0C9LPZBR9
LITERARY TITAN 