Blog Archives
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
New Trails
New Trails by Jody Norman is an engaging fantasy novel that transports readers to the world of Abhaile, a realm where ancient powers, complex societal structures, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness shape the destinies of its inhabitants. The story follows Troy Kirkland, a young man from Earth who finds himself inexplicably drawn into this mystical world, and Kieran, a native Guardian, as they navigate the intricate web of alliances, betrayals, and hidden truths that bind their fates.
Norman’s writing is immersive and richly descriptive, painting a vivid picture of Abhaile’s landscapes and the mystical elements that define its existence. The opening scenes, where Troy finds himself stranded in the desert with a blown tire, quickly set the tone for the adventure and mystery that follow. The author’s ability to blend the everyday with the fantastical is one of the book’s standout features. For instance, the shift from Troy’s mundane troubles to his encounters with Olaf Henderson, who can see multiple futures, creates a compelling juxtaposition that hooks the reader early on. The author’s character development and the emotional depth of the protagonists are standout features of this book. Troy’s journey from skepticism to reluctant acceptance of his new reality is handled with nuance. His initial interactions with Henderson are particularly striking, revealing Troy’s internal conflicts and his struggle to reconcile his past with his unexpected new role. Kieran’s character is equally well-drawn, and his bond with Troy adds a layer of emotional resonance to the narrative. The dynamics between them, especially during moments of crisis and revelation, drive the story forward and make their journey both believable and engaging. The detailed world-building and intricate plot are strengths that invite readers to fully immerse themselves in Abhaile’s rich society. The multiple layers of Abhaile’s society, the various types of energy workers, and the numerous rituals and customs introduced throughout the story offer a depth that rewards attentive readers. While some may find themselves referring to the glossary frequently to keep track of the different terms and characters, this adds to the experience of uncovering the story’s many facets, making it a deeply engaging and interactive read.
New Trails is a richly woven tapestry of fantasy, emotion, and adventure that will appeal to fans of detailed world-building and character-driven stories. Jody Norman’s ability to blend the familiar with the fantastical creates a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. This book is particularly well-suited for readers who enjoy diving deep into complex worlds and unraveling the intricate relationships that drive the story.
Pages: 751 | ASIN : B0CW9CLY26
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
Wish of the White Tiger
Wish of the White Tiger, authored by Joseph Harkreader, emerges as a compelling narrative set in the mystical realm of Mèngjìng. This ethereal sanctuary, resplendent with luxury and excess, is governed by formidable rulers. The story follows Baihu, an elite guard who harbors aspirations of freedom and love. His life takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon a mystical golden lamp, which, upon a gentle touch, releases a white light and summons a Genie from another world, ready to grant Baihu’s deepest wishes.
Set against the backdrop of a world teetering on the brink of disaster, Baihu’s story weaves a delicate balance between personal desires and the looming threat posed by a tyrannical ruler. Harkreader’s narrative style is a fusion of magical realism and detailed world-building, creating a vivid and tangible universe that engrosses readers with its authenticity and rich imagery. The story is an invitation to a bygone era, adorned with emperors, cherry blossoms, and samurais, and is underscored by a keen eye for detail.
Central to this tale is Baihu, a character whose depth and complexity captivate the reader’s imagination. His journey from a lowly guard under the Ming Dynasty to a figure challenging his destiny is both moving and profound. Baihu’s character development is skilfully portrayed, reflecting a natural progression as he grapples with the harsh realities of his world and the possibility of achieving freedom and love.
A notable aspect of Wish of the White Tiger is its exploration of a male-to-male relationship, presented not as a mere subplot but as a pivotal element of the story. Harkreader approaches this theme with sensitivity and depth, offering an authentic and inclusive portrayal of love in its many forms. The book’s strength lies in its immersive world-building and the seamless blend of fantasy and historical elements. Baihu’s character serves as a compelling focal point, encouraging the reader to invest emotionally in his journey. The resolution of the love story is both satisfying and impactful, underscoring the narrative’s overall success.
Joseph Harkreader’s Wish of the White Tiger is a standout novel for readers who appreciate a blend of fantasy and historical elements, and for those who value diverse and nuanced portrayals of relationships. It is a story that remains with the reader, resonating long after the final page is turned. This novel is more than just a tale; it is an experience that invites readers into a world both enchanting and profound.
Pages: 348 | ASIN : B0CN3W6PCW
Halls of Fire
In Halls of Fire, by Christian Cura, readers are transported into a meticulously crafted fantasy realm through the eyes of Tama, a winter mage journeying to the untouched lands of Cordacia, the homeland of her companion. Cordacia, a serene landscape, yet untouched by the malevolent grasp of Malsumi, the evil goddess, soon becomes the epicenter of chaos as creatures fall under her sinister influence. Amidst this turmoil, Tama, an outsider in Cordacia, finds herself deeply entwined in the unfolding pandemonium. Alongside her companion, Liseli, they delve into the mystery behind the unsettling occurrences. As the narrative unfolds, we meet Salvatore, Liseli’s close acquaintance, poised on the brink of becoming a Summer mage through the Gauntlet’s rigorous trials. However, fate deals a cruel hand, leaving him paralyzed and desperate, leading him to an ominous pact with Malsumi. His transformation into a conduit for her malevolence signifies a chilling escalation in her bid for dominion.
Cura’s novel opens with evocative folklore, setting the stage with the origin myth of this enchanting world. This foundation is pivotal, offering readers a compass to navigate the rich lore and intricate dynamics of this universe. Halls of Fire will resonate with enthusiasts of alternate realities, where the clash of mythical beings, the dance of magic, and the perennial struggle between light and dark are elegantly portrayed. The narrative’s rhythm ensnares the reader, with unexpected developments ensuring a perpetually suspenseful experience. Tama’s valor, alongside the diverse strengths of her allies, forms a compelling ensemble driving the saga.
Cura skillfully intertwines themes of vengeance, courage, and mystery, crafting an engaging journey through the dichotomy of good and evil. A successor to Temple of Ice, this novel stands firmly on its own, welcoming newcomers without prerequisite. Halls of Fire is a notable contribution to the fantasy genre, presenting a tapestry of imagination that is sure to enthrall its audience.
The Last Red Wolf
In The Last Red Wolf, author Kurtis Dolman introduces us to the compelling narrative of Lyle Larson, a young man embarking on his university journey in Seattle, Washington. Larson is an instantly relatable and robust protagonist who navigates the complexities of new friendships and self-discovery with a genuine, heartfelt approach. The story takes a turn with the entrance of Chess Beck, a character shrouded in mystery and allure. Dolman skillfully explores themes of identity and connection through the evolving relationship between Lyle and Chess, prompting readers to ponder the profound question: Who is Chess Beck, and what secrets lie in the intertwined pasts of the Becks and Lyle?
Dolman’s writing is notable for its dynamic character development. From the intriguing, resilient Lyle to the enigmatic Chess Beck, each character is crafted with depth and relatability. The supporting cast, including Jesse, Reese, Andy, Hunter, and Phisher, is equally well-drawn, enhancing the story’s immersive quality. Dolman’s adept character portrayals ensure that readers will find themselves emotionally invested, cheering for some and casting a wary eye on others.
The narrative tone masterfully oscillates between light and dark, creating a tapestry of emotions that keeps the reader engaged through suspenseful undertones. The pacing is deftly handled, propelling the story forward with a momentum that makes it hard to put down. Dolman’s world-building is particularly noteworthy, painting a vivid setting that becomes a character in its own right. Memorable moments, such as the initial meeting between Lyle and Chess, are written with such intensity and clarity that readers will find themselves deeply invested in the characters’ futures.
Dolman’s narrative is a harmonious blend of excitement, action, and a simmering romance that keeps the pages turning. The Last Red Wolf is a testament to Dolman’s storytelling prowess, delivering a narrative that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
The Last Red Wolf, by Kurtis Dolman, is a riveting journey of discovery, resilience, and the intricate dance of human relationships. It’s a story that resonates long after the last page is turned, and I eagerly anticipate more from Dolman’s literary repertoire.
Pages: 350 | ASIN : B0CLJ8L4ZM
Resilience And Its Power
Evolved follows a former agent grappling with his identity as he embarks on a rescue mission to save loved ones while unraveling a tapestry of intrigue, all within a world that fuses superhero elements. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
There are moving parts, as I see it, to the story. There is obviously the superhero aspect of the story which would be considered an event in any comic now. A huge change in the dynamic of how the world in which the Evolved takes place and the characters must find a solution. People with gifts, the Evolved, are being hunted. The inspiration behind that part of the story is from being a huge X-Men nerd my whole life, but also combining that with the real-life situations I think the world could barely fathom. The story was conceptualized during the quarantine when the world was seeing such division, when kids were being kept in cages.
The more personal story very much originated around Pahras’ relationships, more so with his family than anyone else. The inspiration behind the story was definitely relationships in my life. I’ve always loved the idea of a superhero but I definitely wanted a hero who wasn’t the norm by any stretch. When I decided this was going to be a superhero story, I knew I wanted to tell a story that maybe isn’t touched upon. Yes, Pahras has these complicated romantic relationships, but the inspiration behind the setup was always to have this man, who has superpowers, find an equilibrium in facing his even more complicated familial relationships.
Pahras Rowe is an intriguing and well-developed character. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
From the very beginning, Pahras was always going to have this indomitable spirit. Blow him up, submerge him in the ocean, take his powers, whatever else, and he’s going to fight back. He is resilient beyond his abilities, which was always something I needed him to have to make the story believable. I look to characters like X-Men’s Storm, who briefly lost her abilities in the comics and went on to not only be an asset to her team but be the leader of her team through her sheer fortitude and capability. I wanted Pahras to be able to push forward, even when there was no hope.
One of my favorite parts to write was a chapter where they infiltrate a high-security prison, and he has to perform a feat not even he believes he can do, but he preserves. I feel that in that moment, I hope it showed a lot of development. At the start of the story, we find him meandering on a sabbatical of sorts, having left the team and the love of his life. It was that chapter that, while writing, informed me (as the author) of where I needed him to go.
I also knew very early on that one of his biggest conundrums would be how much he is or is not like his father. In the story, his father is a Magneto-like character, with the added scope of growing up an African-American man at a time when it wasn’t easy to be one. At the core of the story, and Pahras’ psyche, the question really is how much is Pahras like him? Is the world safe in his hands? And I think the story does a good job of answering that question and in what good and bad ways.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I think some of the most important themes in the story have more to do with family and the relationships we foster. Pahras had a lot of fatherly relationships to sort out and in a metaphorical and very literal way, those relationships informed his other relationships. You also see that in other characters. I wanted the story to be very revealing as far as what a family can look like. Not everyone has the stereotypical relationships, and not every family we are born into is as important as the family we find.
Another big theme I really hope shown through is resilience and its power. Very early on when I was outlining the story, I had to make a lot of decisions about what powers Pahras would have and how that would affect him in the long run. Losing his powers, an extension of himself that he had become so reliant on, caused him to readjust how he took on life. It sometimes made him feel powerless and sometimes made him feel empowered, and when he looked back at what he accomplished, it was with pride.
I also hope that I conveyed the power of letting go. It’s a lesson that I have to constantly remind myself of because I am far too much like Pahras. When we meet Pahras in the beginning of the novel, he is holding onto everything. And by the end of the book, there is a moment with his uncle and cousin where he has this cathartic talk where he is at peace and he knows what he has to do. Of course, I am not stating everything that happens to get him there (check out the book) but he has this moment where he is acutely aware of himself because he said the things he needed to say, did what he needed to do, and was ready to face the future, unburdened by his past.
It was a good moment as an author.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Right now, I am outlining. I wasn’t able to stop myself and I did write a couple of chapters to the sequel. How could I not with where the story leaves off? The next book I release will be a sequel and will likely lean more into the mystical side of the universe. At this current time, I am not too sure when the release date will be. Follow me on social media, my website, and my Amazon Author page for updates!
Author Links: Twitter | GoodReads | Website | Amazon
His idyllic vacation is interrupted when the DISA agency, his employers, begin brutalizing and enslaving superhuman individuals, like himself. It isn’t long before his employers catch up with him, and the race is on.
Luckily, his uncle, Gerald Stone, and wayward father Solomon Stone, arrive just in time to help him escape the clutches of DISA. With a new team of Marvels, Pahras sets out to unravel the mystery of DISA’s villainous turn and free his people. Just when the journey couldn’t get any stranger, his ability to control the weather is replaced by an incandescent golden energy that he can barely control.
Stumbling through burning buildings and gigantic sharks, he finds himself at the center of a centuries-old conspiracy with his own name written in blood.
Under an Azure Sky
Under an Azure Sky is a fantasy novel written by Wil Chan. It is Book One in the Elysia Dayne series, of which I immediately became a fan. The main protagonist is Elysia, a tortured soul who has lived a highly traumatic life. She harnesses her hatred for dragons to become a dragon slayer, which turns out to be a less-than-ideal career choice for the young woman. However, she develops a specific skill set that allows her to pursue other thrilling adventures. Her heroic nature finds her responsible for rescuing Princess Isabella, who was kidnapped and held hostage by goblins. The two find themselves on a very tense journey back home which eventually develops into a beautiful love story.
Wil Chan is a highly talented author with an exciting writing style. His imagery and ability to create an immersive world will impress readers. He has clearly put a lot of effort into this project. He also composed the music for the book trailers, which shows that he is an all-around talented person.
The storyline has elements of fantasy, sword and sorcery, and adventure wrapped up in a complex journey Elysia must navigate. Her feelings of loss and betrayal run deep, and it is dragons, the creatures she once loved, that have caused this change. Readers see and feel what Elysia endured and will want to root for her as she starts to develop feelings for Isabella.
Chan’s worldbuilding is thorough; he gives readers detailed information allowing them to be fully engaged in the storyline. While the beginning of the book instantly hooks you in with the traumatic events that unfold, the main plot takes a slow burn approach while remaining entertaining all the way through. The LBGTQ+ representation is excellent, especially in tandem with the theme of goblin culture in this creative book.
Under an Azure Sky evokes emotion in the reader, and the quality of the author’s writing is one to praise. Fantasy readers will love the familiar elements; those looking for action and adventure will not be disappointed.
Pages: 448 | ASIN : B09MSMJ3F7
LITERARY TITAN 