Blog Archives
The Complexities of Dating
Kissing Toads follows a woman now in her 50s who shares her journey of looking for her Prince Charming and the journey of self-discovery she wound up on in her quest for true love amid societal expectations. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The book concept was initially inspired by one of my middle-aged girlfriends who, fresh off a divorce, dove headfirst into the online dating scene. As she regaled me with stories of her disastrous dates, I found myself laughing out loud and wanting to tell a similar story.
However, I actually wrote chapter 4, “Nash,” first. I wrote it during the height of the Me Too movement in 2017 or 2018. I never intended to publish it or even share it; I was just reacting to the many stories I was hearing from women all over the country and decided to write a fictional story that represented the ways in which women were treated at that time (late 80s/early 90s) by law enforcement and the society in general. Then, when COVID hit and we were quarantined at home, I found that creative writing became a good way for me to channel my anxiety. I took the Nash story and I built around it.
In a lot of contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
Haha. Well, sure. There are definitely trace elements of the real me in this story. However, the main events and characters are fictional. Although, I will admit that here was one part that was 100% accurate. The dogs. My family did have four Golden Retrievers when I was a kid: Toby, Liberty’s Lady Annabelle, Starbelle, and Cooper. There was indeed an oil-on-canvas portrait of Toby (the mutt) hanging in my childhood home, and Annabelle and her pups were allegedly the spawn of President Ford’s dog (albeit, I can offer no proof of it—just my mom’s testimony). On my website, there is a picture of Toby’s portrait as well as a picture of Toby and me in my childhood backyard for anyone who would like to see them. https://www.kissingtoadsnovel.com/
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I really wanted to explore the complexities of dating and finding one’s sexual identity in the late 20th century from a feminist perspective. I wanted my generation, Generation X, to be highlighted and celebrated in a way that I don’t see too often. I also wanted it to be an honest reflection of what it was like to come of age during this time period. So many of these rom-com or coming-of-age novels that I read don’t feel raw or real. I wanted mine to have that sort of authenticity. That’s why I decided to craft it as a fictional memoir.
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it?
I am about 75% done with my next book called The Station. It is very different than Kissing Toads, however. The Station could be categorized as magical realism or even paranormal literature. It is essentially a story that explores the questions about what happens to us when we die. Like Kissing Toads, it does include moments of humor as well as moments of heartbreak. And yes, there may be a love story embedded in there as well.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Amazon
A feminist tale at heart, Kissing Toads is a fictitious memoir that tells the story of a now 50-something-year-old woman named Annie who takes the reader on her decades-long quest to find her “Prince Charming.” Believing that if she kisses enough toads, she will eventually find her prince, Annie has one goal as a budding young woman: fetch herself a man. Set in the late 1970s through the mid-1990s, the reader follows Annie throughout young adulthood as she searches for her soulmate amid the backdrop of misogyny, a loving but overbearing mother, and gender and societal expectations. Sometimes cheeky, sometimes heartbreaking, Kissing Toadsexplores Annie’s messy yet authentic misadventures in dating. But just when you think you’ve reached the happily-ever-after, brace yourself for an exhilarating plot twist. Kissing Toads is not just another coming-of-age tale; it’s a celebration of self-discovery, liberation, and the courage to write your own fairy tale.
Ashes
Alice Reaper’s past clings to her like a shadow. Ever since the haunting night at the funeral home, her life has been consumed by nightmares and the oppressive weight of unseen terrors. Isolated from those she once loved, Alice resigns herself to a life devoid of joy or peace. But when Viviana enters her world, a glimmer of hope cuts through the darkness. For a moment, everything feels possible—until it doesn’t. Can Viviana pull Alice from the depths of despair, or will the shadows swallow her whole?
Ashes, by David Edgar Grinnell, is an evocative exploration of grief, despair, and the journey toward healing. Told in the raw, intimate perspective of first-person narration, readers experience Alice’s turmoil as if it were their own. Her father, Oscar, and other supporting characters add layers to the narrative, showing the different ways people live with—and sometimes succumb to—trauma. Grinnell doesn’t just present pain; he holds a mirror to it, reflecting its complexity and its power to shape lives.
While Ashes dives deeply into themes of sorrow and loss, it offers solace to readers who see their struggles mirrored in the characters. Tarot card readings and philosophical exchanges between Alice and Viviana provide moments of introspection and guidance, carving a path toward hope. The story is as much about finding light in the dark as it is about acknowledging the darkness itself.
Grinnell deftly weaves elements of Gothic tradition, paganism, and tender romance into the narrative, adding depth and dimension to the story. Viviana, with her Gothic charm and fascination with the dark arts, brings an air of mystery and intrigue. Though the spark between Alice and Viviana feels sudden, their unfolding relationship is both poignant and deeply satisfying. The romance balances the novel’s weightier themes, offering warmth and connection amid the bleakness.
One of the novel’s standout features is its cast of characters. Despite their youth, they carry a profound sense of wisdom. Their voices resonate with thought-provoking reflections, often quoting classic literature in ways that feel both meaningful and natural. These moments of insight elevate the story, offering readers not just entertainment, but inspiration.
At its core, Ashes, by David Edgar Grinnell, is more than a tale of grief—it’s a story of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of love. Readers drawn to Gothic themes, explorations of mental health, or heartfelt LGBTQ+ romances will find much to cherish in this beautifully crafted novel. It’s a reminder that even in life’s darkest moments, there’s a chance to heal and move forward.
Pages: 368 | ISBN : 978-1736867587
The Affirming Faith Community
bacon grief follows a pair of young men whose online meeting ignites a journey of self-discovery and acceptance amidst the challenges of reconciling their identities with their faith and societal expectations. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I like to say the story is forty percent true. In other words, my now husband and I met online and went through some of the journeys that Tim and Charlie go through in the book. Fictionalized memoir in that way, I suppose.
Charlie and Tim are intriguing and well-developed characters. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
To my knowledge, bacon grief is one of the only works of fiction for teens and tweens to celebrate and affirm both faith and sexuality. In most of the works for this age group and, honestly, for adults as well, faith is a common thread that LGBTQIA+ people tend to walk away from. Which is totally fine, it’s part of their story. But it isn’t my experience, and I knew there were others. Gratefully, the affirming faith community seems to be trending upward and so queer people that want faith can more easily find it. I think that’s Tim and Charlie’s experience also.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I think I’m mostly trying to put a humorous book out into the universe that is geared towards reluctant readers that will hopefully allow queer teens and tweens of faith to find themselves. I tried not to be overly didactic, but I did long for readers to feel accepted by the book and, hopefully, by a community of believers outside of it.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
My picture book debut, Silas on Sundays, arrives June 4 from Wildling Press. It is a return to these themes but from a younger perspective. Silas is a gender nonconforming child with accepting parents and, ultimately, they find an affirming faith community. It’s dedicated to Nex Benedict.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
After meeting online and given the green light to attend a youth group at another church, Tim and Charlie become fast friends with more and more in common. When they consider more than friendship, Tim is faced with his reality and the choice to reconcile faith and sexuality or walk away from it all.
Club X: Vampire in the Closet
Club X: Vampire in the Closet by S.P. Somtow delves into the complexities of high school life through the lens of Fluke, Kim, Polo, and Danger, four students grappling not only with typical adolescent challenges but also with the extraordinary. Set within the confines of an elite, all-boys Catholic school in Thailand, the narrative unfolds against a backdrop of teleporting nuns, a potentially vampiric English teacher, and the unexpected intrusion of Donut, the principal’s daughter, into their tight-knit group.
Somtow skillfully weaves a tale of mystery and camaraderie, employing alternating perspectives to flesh out the distinct personalities of each protagonist. As the narrative progresses, the addition of Donut introduces both cohesion and conflict, enriching the group dynamic. While the storyline veers into the supernatural realm rapidly, it maintains a sense of playful absurdity without veering into excess. Beneath the fantastical veneer lies a narrative imbued with poignant themes of identity, friendship, and burgeoning romance. Somtow deftly navigates topics such as individuality and gender identity, portraying them as integral components of the characters’ growth amidst the fantastical backdrop. Despite the escalating absurdity, the core experiences remain grounded in the relatable struggles of adolescence. The novel’s frequent shifts in perspective are navigable due to the distinct voices of each character, enhancing the reader’s immersion in the unfolding adventure. While the conclusion leaves room for interpretation, it tantalizingly hints at future exploits, suggesting a continuation of the captivating journey.
Club X: Vampire in the Closet offers a compelling blend of mystery, humor, and heartfelt exploration, promising an engaging reading experience with lingering mysteries yet to be unveiled.
Pages: 226 | ASIN : B09MJQQ9R9
DEAR GOSEI
John Forrester’s upbringing, marked by privilege within a well-to-do family, might suggest a life of ease and comfort. Yet, despite his affable nature and intelligence, John’s existence is marred by familial challenges: a father with rigid religious beliefs, a distant mother, and the overshadowing presence of an older brother. These complexities form the backdrop of his relatively carefree childhood until a harrowing event at 14 alters his trajectory, casting him into a world of uncertainty. The once vibrant and hopeful young man now stands at a critical juncture, grappling with the decision between forgiveness and vengeance.
Dear Gosei distinguishes itself as a nuanced exploration of the aftermath of sexual abuse, taking the reader on an emotional journey that is as unsettling as it is profound. The narrative centers around John, whose resilience and inner strength in adversity are heart-wrenching and admirable. His character is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for courage and endurance. The portrayal of John’s mother invokes a complex mix of emotions, from frustration over her apparent neglect to a reluctant empathy for her choices. Similarly, Douglas, John’s father, initially appears dismissive, yet as the story unfolds, his infuriating actions become somewhat understandable within the broader context of their fractured family dynamics. While Dear Gosei confronts the reader with the uncomfortable realities of abuse, it is ultimately a narrative imbued with hope. The characters are skillfully crafted to evoke a spectrum of responses, from anger and perplexity to empathy and tears. The book challenges readers to navigate the murky waters of moral ambiguity, understanding, and forgiveness. It serves as a beacon, suggesting that even in the darkest moments, there is a healing potential and a better tomorrow.
For those seeking a story that offers more than mere escapism, one that provides a raw yet inspiring examination of the human condition, Dear Gosei will resonate deeply. It is a compelling read for mature audiences, promising a glimpse into the trials and triumphs of its characters and a reflection on the resilience and complexity of the human spirit.
Pages: 314 | ASIN : B0C7NGKWGZ
Something Scandalous, Treacherous, and Black
Paige Marcus finds herself in dire financial straits, burdened with debts that demand immediate attention. Meanwhile, Joshua Samuels is caught in the delicate web of his mother’s demanding expectations, desperately yearning to secure his rightful inheritance. In their pursuit of personal gain, both individuals agree to maintain the facade of love, upholding the esteemed Samuels family name through an elaborate wedding. Adhering to the Samuels’ cardinal rule of not disrupting their carefully orchestrated plan becomes paramount. However, the resurgence of Chelsea, the wedding planner, threatens to unravel their schemes. Armed with their deepest secrets, Chelsea harbors a vengeful agenda, prepared to stoop to unimaginable depths to exact retribution. Yet, for her plan to come to fruition, she must coax the guardians of these secrets out of hiding. Will Paige and Joshua be coerced into assisting Chelsea’s quest for revenge? What unsavory skeletons lie concealed within their closets, capable of jeopardizing their picture-perfect scheme?
Zachary Ryan’s Something Scandalous, Treacherous, and Black thrusts us into a world centered around the intertwining lives of Paige Marcus, Joshua Samuels, and their relentless antagonist, Chelsea Mann. With a festering grudge stemming from Paige’s past transgressions of stealing Chelsea’s boyfriend, an opportune moment arises when Paige decides to enter into marriage with Joshua, motivated by personal gain and ulterior motives. Seizing this opening, Chelsea meticulously crafts her revenge, enlisting the aid of various accomplices. While Paige wrestles with conflicting emotions about her union with Joshua, he conceals a series of past mistakes and a double life that could shatter his family’s cherished reputation. As the specter of Chelsea becomes aware of this grave web of deception, her intention shifts from creating a grandiose wedding spectacle to orchestrating a ceremony that would forever mar the annals of socialite history.
Within the pages of Something Scandalous, Treacherous, and Black, Zachary Ryan skillfully weaves a captivating narrative brimming with intricacy and suspense. The notion of revenge permeates the story, offering a compelling foundation. The true triumph of this work lies within its characters. Chelsea’s enigmatic persona, unapologetic nature, and masterful manipulation make her a force to be reckoned with. However, the character of Leo remains enigmatic and perplexing. While empathy emerges for the hardships he has endured, the choices he subsequently makes elicit frustration. As the secrets Joshua conceals come to light, one cannot help but anticipate Chelsea’s inevitable delight in exploiting this newfound vulnerability.
Zachary Ryan’s Something Scandalous, Treacherous, and Black is a riveting tale of vengeance and subterfuge that draws readers into a whirlwind of lies and deceptions. With well-constructed characters, each flawed in their unique ways, and an expertly crafted plot riddled with tantalizing secrets, Ryan successfully hooks his audience from the very first page. The novel delivers an engaging read filled with dramatic tension, emotional depth, and unexpected twists. For anyone seeking a sophisticated narrative of scandal, revenge, and clandestine love, this book offers a deliciously dark foray into the hidden corners of the human psyche and the dire consequences of unchecked ambition.
Pages: 406 | ASIN : B0BY7SDT53
I’ve Always Been Interested in Ancient History
Delicatus follows a young boy from ancient Rome who is enslaved by pirates and becomes a key player in Poppeae’s plot to become the Divine Empress. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
I first encountered Sporus at Eton, studying Alexander Pope with the remarkable teacher Michael Meredith, a guru to generations of literary and stage personalities. Pope’s satire on an 18th century local aristocrat notorious for sexual ambiguity led me to be fascinated by this figure, who was well known enough in 18th century England for a poet to allude to him in a satire, yet mostly just a footnote in history books about ancient Rome today if he appears at all. I would encounter this character from time to time (there’s an illusion, for instance, in the TV series “Succession”) but there are only scraps in the historical record. But what scraps they were! Not just the relatively well-known bit about Sporus getting castrated by the emperor Nero and made his wife … but what happened to Sporus in the year 69 AD when four different emperors held the throne and all had a different relationship with Sporus … from a second wedding to an order to execute him in the arena … and all before Sporus turned twenty. But it took me another fifty years before thinking of it as a novel.
What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
I’ve always been interested in ancient history and I’ve written both serious and satirical novels in that setting, so I have been doing research for decades. It’s a way of taking revenge on my bullying Latin teacher, as well. I’ve read most of the primary sources (some in the original) but more important, I spent a lot of time daydreaming about what that world, with its radically alien attitudes, was really like … because, despite its weirdness, it is a world populated by real people who speak to us today. One of the things that is hardest to wrap one’s mind around is that absolutely no one that there was anything wrong with slavery, and that because slaves could not be distinguished by race, there was a kind of continuum where you rise to a position of great power and still technically be a slave. Big things like that influence the world-view, but also little things, like human urine being collected to use in laundries. This is a very well studied period so there is a lot of consensus about what this world was like. But there are still gaps in the consensus and this is where imagination comes in.
What is one pivotal moment in the story that you think best defines Sporus?
When Sporus receives his freedom from Petronius, and realizes that in many ways nothing has changed. In a sense this is a central theme of the story. Even the Emperor, we’ll see in the second book, suffers from a kind of enslavement.
To be honest, I didn’t originally conceive of this as a trilogy but as a big fat book. But I’m getting on in years and I want to make sure the whole story comes out. In terms of the trilogy, the real pivotal moment probably happens in the middle of Book Two … I am writing that moment even as we speak.
Can you tell us what the second book will be about and when it will be available for fans to purchase?
The second book will be on sale Dec 1 and is already available for pre-order. The second book deals with Sporus actually becoming Empress and takes us to the humiliating end of his reign … and the third book deals with Sporus’s life in the Year of Four Emperors … perhaps the most eventful time of all.
If readers can’t wait, and have a U.S. Amazon account, they can find the Delicatus series posted in installments on the amazon vella platform, where we are almost half-way through the second book.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facbook | Website
World Fantasy Award winner S.P. Somtow weaves a vivid adventure about one of the most colorful personalities in ancient Rome. Delicatus, the first volume in a trilogy, speaks of Sporus, from his enslavement by pirates in a remote corner of the Empire to his meeting with the great satirist Petronius and the woman to whom he bears a striking resemblance, the beautiful Poppaea with her manipulative plans to seduce the Emperor Nero and become Divine Empress.
Delicatus: From Slave to Empress in Imperial Rome
The Roman Empire stands as a repository of numerous invaluable treasures, ranging from priceless works of art to awe-inspiring feats of engineering and architecture. Rome, over the course of millennia, has indelibly carved its legacy. However, greatness is not achieved without a steep cost, and in the case of Rome, that cost was borne by the countless lives of enslaved individuals. Sporus, among the millions who enabled the grandeur of Rome, emerges as a protagonist whose narrative traces the trajectory of a young boy ensnared by slavery, transformed into a plaything for the affluent and influential. His tale epitomizes internal fortitude, adaptability, and an unwavering yearning for freedom in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
Within the pages of Delicatus by S.P. Somtow, readers are invited to embark on a deeply personal journey, experiencing the world through the eyes of a young child ensnared and subjugated by Romans. The narrative casts a revealing light upon the lives of the opulent and influential of Nero’s era, all observed from the unique vantage point of an enslaved child who was procured and conditioned to satiate the carnal desires of his masters. This unfiltered portrayal immerses us in the complexities arising from personal and cultural disparities, as sex, politics, and personal safety intertwine, weaving a tapestry that resounds with authenticity and relevance.
Delicatus is an exceptionally well-crafted work of fiction that seamlessly transports its readers into the unrefined facets of Roman life. The author deftly incorporates nuanced themes of gender identity and human sexuality, skillfully avoiding the imposition of modern values upon the subject matter. The prose emulates the style and language of contemporary writers of that era, effectively channeling the spirit of the time. While the narrative delves into graphic and mature content, the author’s discerning approach ensures that it is rendered with consummate taste. This book comes highly recommended for discerning and mature readers who seek to truly immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of authentic life within Nero’s Rome, all from the perspective of an unlikely protagonist.
Pages: 246 | ASIN : B0BR88V6VZ
LITERARY TITAN 