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True Change
Common Sense & Other Tales of Disillusionment is a collection of short stories that peels back the layers of ordinary life to reveal the people who are breaking down under the weight of their own choices & circumstances. What was the inspiration for this collection of stories?
Coming off writing my book before this one, BE NOT AFRAID, I’d had the desire to work in a shorter form. BE NOT AFRAID was an incredibly taxing, and thorough, and ambitious project. So, I knew fairly soon after that I wanted to produce a collection. Originally, I’d only wanted to do four stories, but my mother convinced me to do a fifth (lol).
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Well, right off the bat, disillusionment was the overall compass for each story. When I began writing the collection, I was experiencing a good deal of it in my personal life and wanted to explore characters entering into their own bouts of disillusionment, where they always believed life would go one way but, instead, was going another, and not for the better, and, try as they may, they only seem to make it worse. I’m one of those readers who does not read to escape but reads to see the world reflected, the more brutally honest, the more I’ll enjoy it. So, naturally, that’s what I write 🙂
Was it important for you to deliver a moral to readers, or was it circumstantial to deliver an effective book?
Everything I write begins as a premise argument, usually around a unique belief I have of the world. For instance, one might look like this: People are incapable of true change vs People are capable of true change. And I will design characters to embody behaviors and decisions for both sides of that argument, so the story is a compelling one. In the first short story of the collection, “DRIVE YOU TO VIOLENCE,” the premise argument was–Family will drive you to violence vs Family will drive you to compassion. Characters dance on both sides of that premise 🙂
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
At the moment, I’m nearing completion of a Fargo-esque crime novel, which I plan to serialize on my substack in the coming months. The working title, which is totally subject to change, currently is THE FIRE YOU’RE DRAWN TO.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
A mother’s patience turns to quiet rage as family secrets unravel.
A filmmaker loses his grip on reality while chasing his masterpiece.
In a near future where machines mimic emotion, humanity itself begins to fracture.
And in the haunting remains of a lost documentary, a vanished man’s voice echoes long after he’s gone.
Each story in AJ Saxsma’s acclaimed collection is a slow descent into disillusionment—where hope flickers, truth corrodes, and the familiar becomes unrecognizable. With a masterful blend of literary fiction, dark realism, and quiet horror, Saxsma confronts what it means to live honestly in a world built on denial.
Fans of Shirley Jackson, Raymond Carver, and Flannery O’Connor will find themselves captivated by Saxsma’s unnerving portraits of love, loss, and human fragility. If you crave stories that unsettle as much as they illuminate, Common Sense & Other Tales of Disillusionment will stay with you long after the final page.
One Night With Finnbar
Leo D’Lance’s One Night With Finnbar is a historical novel set in late 18th-century England, following the young aristocrat Martin as he prepares to leave his family estate to join the Royal Fusiliers. What begins as a reflective and somewhat humorous account of country life slowly unfolds into a deeply personal and emotional journey of identity, attraction, and transformation. At the heart of the story is Martin’s unlikely and intense connection with a stable boy named Finnbar, an ethereal, wild figure whose sudden appearance shifts the entire course of Martin’s life. Told with lyrical detail and a sharp eye for atmosphere, the novel weaves themes of class, repression, love, and liberation across a vivid historical backdrop.
The writing is immersive. The book takes its time, and I appreciated that. It’s not in a hurry to throw Martin into drama, but instead builds a world where things matter. The dialogue, too, had its own flavor. It’s clever and organic, full of tension and little moments of humor that make the characters feel real. But more than the writing style, it was the emotional honesty that drew me in. Martin isn’t always likable, and neither is Finnbar, really, but their flaws are human, and that made their bond all the more compelling.
There were also moments when the pacing slowed a bit. Some chapters seemed to linger on internal thoughts or minor domestic scenes. Still, I found myself drawn to the quieter emotional beats, the hesitation in Martin’s thoughts, the unspoken truths hanging in the air. The scenes between Martin and Finnbar crackle with tension, both sexual and social, and I admired how D’Lance didn’t flinch from the confusion, fear, and longing that come with forbidden desire in a rigid world. The book balances sensuality and restraint in a way that feels both grounded and poetic. It’s romantic, but also raw. Brave, but never melodramatic.
By the end, I wasn’t just invested, I was moved. One Night With Finnbar isn’t a sweeping epic or a battle-heavy war tale. It’s a story about moments, small choices that change everything. It’s about the ache of living in between what you want and what you’re allowed. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys quiet but powerful historical fiction, particularly those interested in LGBTQ+ themes, character-driven stories, or slow-burn romance. It’s for readers who enjoy books that aren’t afraid to linger in difficult emotions or sit with the silence between words.
Pages: 346 | ASIN : B07QTC6SDX
Outlet For My Grief
To Kill a Cockroach is an evocative and deeply introspective memoir that captures your turbulent journey through significant personal and historical challenges. Why was this an important book for you to write?
My passion for painting has been a gift I received from early on. Painting was more entertaining as a child than any toy or amusement park. Unfortunately, the passing of my mother, who became my best friend towards the end of her life, left me unable to paint at all. I would sit in front of a canvas and pray, and nothing. This added to the already tremendous grief I was experiencing. It was then that I sat down to write To Kill a Cockroach. To write became an incredible outlet for my grief. As a staunch believer in something much greater than myself, which I call God, he answered my prayer in disguise, and To Kill a Cockroach was born. Looking back, as usual, it was God’s plan that I write and put the paint brushes down, at least while I healed from my loss. As painful as it often was, writing the book brought me back to life. I was able to not only process the grief but look back at my life and see the hand of God carrying me through life. Yet again, God showed up at the right time and in the proper form.
What was the most challenging part of writing your memoir, and what was the most rewarding?
The most challenging part, without a doubt, was having to relive some of the horrendous times of my life. Interestingly enough, reliving these horrible memories was also a gift in disguise. Writing it down and pouring it onto the paper was cleansing my soul. I felt very proud of my life for the first time. In some small way, I was honoring my parent’s sacrifice and my very own journey.
How has writing your memoir impacted or changed your life?
There is an incredible sense of freedom that I have never felt before. As a child, having been sexually molested created an incredible sense of shame that I carried with me throughout my entire life. Writing about the sexual molestation for the world to read was incredibly scary and yet very empowering. I am no longer a victim of what happened to me, and this is perhaps one of the greatest gifts God wanted to reveal to me through my writing.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
Hope is, without question, what I would love readers to receive from reading my story. As I write in my book, there is hope even until our last breath. And that may be the most significant metamorphosis yet: our crossing over.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
To Kill a Cockroach
Osvaldo Calixto Amador’s To Kill a Cockroach is a deeply personal and philosophical memoir that weaves together themes of identity, survival, and self-acceptance. Through a series of poetic reflections, autobiographical vignettes, and existential musings, the author recounts his life’s journey—from childhood struggles and societal alienation to moments of revelation and healing. Drawing inspiration from To Kill a Mockingbird and Black Beauty, Amador uses their themes of injustice and compassion as a lens to examine his own existence. The book is less about a linear story and more about peeling back layers of experience to reveal the universal quest for love and understanding.
I enjoyed this book’s lyrical, almost dreamlike writing style. Amador tells his story with emotions and sensory details. One passage that lingers in my mind is his recollection of watching To Kill a Mockingbird and his visceral reaction to Atticus Finch’s words about killing blue jays but sparing mockingbirds. His discomfort with this moral distinction spirals into a philosophical dilemma: why kill at all? This moment becomes a metaphor for larger existential questions—who decides what has value and what is deemed expendable? The writing here is raw, reflective, and unapologetically introspective, which makes it both beautiful and unsettling.
Another powerful aspect of the book is its exploration of love and self-acceptance. Amador, a gay man who struggled with societal rejection and personal trauma, writes with haunting honesty about the pain of being an outsider. His connection with animals, particularly the birds and dogs he cares for, becomes a form of redemption. One of the most touching moments is his bond with his dog, Toto, and the grief that follows her passing. His emotions are palpable, and the way he describes love—whether for a pet, a friend, or the self—is heartbreakingly sincere.
The book is brimming with poetic depth. The stream-of-consciousness style can be overwhelming at times. That said, this isn’t a book that’s meant to be read for plot. It’s an experience—sometimes chaotic, sometimes deeply thoughtful. The disjointed nature might frustrate some readers, but for those who appreciate literature that leans more on introspection than structure, it offers a rewarding and emotional ride.
To Kill a Cockroach is for readers who enjoy poetic memoirs, philosophical musings, and emotionally raw storytelling. If you’ve ever wrestled with identity, love, or belonging, this book will speak to you.
Pages: 280 | ASIN : B0CTJ6LJRY
Seeking Closure: Someday, You Will Understand
Seeking Closure dives deep into the interconnected lives of its diverse cast of characters, blending personal growth, financial intrigue, and societal upheaval. Spanning decades from the 1990s to the pandemic-stricken 2020s, the book intertwines major historical events like 9/11 and the Great Recession with the intimate struggles of love, ambition, and self-discovery. The story’s heart lies in its exploration of universal questions: What defines love? How do we balance personal desires with societal expectations? It’s as much about financial investments as it is about emotional ones.
One thing that struck me immediately was the writing’s layered texture. The author breathes life into characters with rich, nuanced backstories. For instance, Adam, the protagonist, steps into the financial world with all the polished nerves of a freshly minted MBA, yet his journey is anything but linear. His first encounter with the enigmatic Charlie had me grinning and wincing in equal measure, reflecting on how chance meetings often define our paths. The way Adam’s nervousness on his first day mirrors his internal growth later in the book is rewarding. This character progression feels real and heartfelt.
I enjoyed the story but felt the prose occasionally reaches for more than it needs to, with some scenes feeling a bit overexplored. For instance, the meeting between Adam and Charlie in the early chapters, while engaging, sometimes lingers on details that could have been tightened. Even so, these moments also highlight the author’s enthusiasm for crafting vivid and immersive storytelling.
What I loved most, though, was how the book delves into its philosophical undertones. Each character seeks closure, whether through love, career, or family. The chapter on Jane’s sacrifices for her family versus her career ambitions resonated deeply. Her quiet strength is a sharp contrast to Charlie’s brash assertiveness and Adam’s introverted resilience. I found myself rooting for all of them, even when their flaws were painfully evident.
By the time I reached the closing chapters, I felt like I had lived decades alongside these characters. The final moments are bittersweet, leaving you pondering the very meaning of closure. Is it truly an end or just another beginning?
If you enjoy stories that weave personal dilemmas with historical contexts and explore themes of love, identity, and ambition, Seeking Closure is a must-read. It’s perfect for anyone who loves drama with a philosophical twist or wants to lose themselves in a tale that feels both sprawling and deeply personal.
Pages: 345 | ASIN : B0CW1BSJC5
Silas on Sundays
Silas on Sundays tells the story of a young child, Silas, who explores a world of possibilities each day of the week, except on Sundays. At home, Silas is free to imagine and embody different roles as a quarterback, a dancer, an astronaut, and more! But when Sunday comes around, Silas feels limited, especially by church expectations. After several humorous attempts to avoid church, Silas’s parents finally understand, leading them to a new and inclusive church that celebrates Silas’s true self. This heartfelt children’s book brings themes of acceptance, identity, and the joy of finding a supportive community.
Each weekday, Silas has a new dream or passion. Tuesday is for cheerleading, Thursday is all about karate. These imaginative scenes are alive and remind me of how my own kids play, switching roles in a snap. I loved the vibrant illustration of Silas “karate-chopping through six solid blocks of wood” on Friday, it’s over-the-top but perfect for a child’s world where anything feels possible. The story embraces Silas’s playfulness and curiosity, which feels so true to how children are experimenting with who they are or want to be.
The scenes on Sundays took me right back to childhood. Silas’s reluctance and even the inventive ways of “accidentally” skipping church were funny and heartfelt. When Silas “makes a HUGE breakfast” to delay going, it’s clever and relatable. But beneath the humor, there’s an undertone of discomfort with the structured setting of church, where Silas can’t fully express themself. As a mom, this hit home. Seeing that Silas doesn’t feel quite right in a space where expression is restricted was eye-opening and a good reminder of the need for flexibility and empathy in how we introduce traditions.
The turning point, when Silas’s parents took them to a new church, was my favorite. Silas meets Matt, who’s volunteering, and Silas finds acceptance in a church that’s open and affirming. When the new church welcomes Silas with “rainbows and toyboxes and music,” it feels liberating. And the fact that Silas finally finds joy on Sundays was moving. The illustrations here are beautiful and full of color, showing Silas’s happiness in a way words couldn’t alone.
I’d highly recommend Silas on Sundays for parents who want to discuss identity, acceptance, or finding inclusive spaces. It’s an uplifting picture book that tackles big ideas in a way that’s easy for kids to grasp. It’s heartfelt, real, and, in many ways, just the kind of story I wish I’d had growing up.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D7TZ9WM5
Love and Tolerance
In The Artifact, a young man acquires a technologically advanced artifact that allows him to glimpse the future and finds himself fighting to keep it out of the hands of forces seeking to control the world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The story was born when it occurred to me how two ideas I’ve long been fascinated with–the artifact that foretells the future, and the disrespect shown to the dead and Egyptian heritage by Westerners raiding the Pyramids–could be related. What if an artifact that had never been publicized offered its possessor powers of prophecy? I knew the main character should be a young adult because people in that age range are interested in the future in such a unique way–first realizing how so many possibilities exist, and how choices affect their futures, but in ways that can be difficult to predict.
What was your favorite character to write for and why?
The main character, Linc, was the most fun to write–and the most challenging because he is not like me–my mother was not an attorney, my father was not killed in Afghanistan (and was not a soldier), and I never wanted to be an architect. So I had to let Linc teach me what it was like to live that life–and I had to remember what, in general, it was like to be 17 years old. But the adventure Linc lives–and the challenges he survives–these were the thrill of a lifetime, for him and for me and, I hope, for the reader.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In addition to themes of wondering about the future and having respect for other cultures, the need to respect other people and the differences we encounter every day was paramount. So as a young person with friends who are just figuring out who they are and coming to terms with questions of gender roles and orientation, Linc knows an attitude of tolerance is essential. When he asks his mother why she married a soldier even though she hates war, she tells him things are not always simple: “You love who you love.” Love and tolerance are easy virtues to lose, but we must have them to survive.
Another theme was how history creates the present. From the turbulence of the Watergate years in the US and the realities of Project MKUltra Delta to the terror of September 11, 2001, Linc learns the history that made the world he has to live in. Everything in the present has roots in the past.
Can readers look forward to seeing more work from you soon?
Yes! My new novel, The Delphi, has just hit the shelves (both real and virtual ones). It’s about politics, money, mythology, the need for safe elections, and–you guessed it–history! How did we get to wherever this strange place called the present is? Who is this Cleo person who has so much mystery and power surrounding her? It all started a long time ago . . .
Author Links: Bluesky | Facebook | The Artifact | Website | Amazon
fiction story set in the mostly real world of Louisville, Kentucky, and
surrounding areas. Seventeen-year-old Linc is a fan of old movies,
Egyptology, and pyramids. Raised by a single mom who works as an
environmental lawyer, he spends a lot of time watching old movies with
his very close friends Lonnie and Julie. Linc is unwittingly drafted to take
possession of a mysterious artifact, a high-tech electronic device
with connections to ancient Egypt. The artifact allows the possessor
to have visions of the future, but, Linc and his friends soon discover, at a
high cost.
The main character, Linc, and his friends are young people dealing with
issues that speak to readers of diverse ages and backgrounds. Books
with similarities include Jennifer Egan’s The Keep, Jodi Picoult’s
Where There’s Smoke, Harry Potter and the Sorceror’s Stone, Mindwalker
by A. J. Steiger, and Stephen King’s Later.
David Rogers was a reader before he became a writer, so he
learned to appreciate Elmore Leonard’s rule to leave out the parts
readers skip anyway. The Artifact is all story, all the time, and is
intended to accomplish two tasks above all else–allow the reader to
identify with the characters, and keep the reader curious about what
happens next.
The Artifact
David Rogers’ The Artifact is a captivating young adult novel brimming with unexpected twists and turns. This fast-paced, mysterious thriller offers ominous settings and intricate plots, all while weaving an inclusive love story between teenagers discovering themselves amidst life’s challenges. The writing is enigmatic and enchanting, drawing readers into the rapidly unfolding events. The protagonist’s direct engagement with the reader makes readers feel like a part of the story, experiencing his ordeals firsthand. This book is not just a thrilling read but also a catalyst for important discussions about identity, acceptance, and the power of love.
The story centers on Linc, a seventeen-year-old with a passion for Egyptology and classic movies. Through a mysterious series of events, he acquires an unknown artifact that grants him the ability to see the future—but at a significant cost. Linc soon realizes he is entangled in a much larger conflict, with powerful individuals and agencies vying for control of the artifact. As the plot thickens, Linc is kidnapped and subjected to experiments designed to exploit his newfound abilities. These powerful forces aim to control not only him but the future of the world.
The Artifact stands out for its exceptional inclusivity and LGBTQ+ friendliness, sparking meaningful discussions about sexuality and acceptance among young people and their families. Rogers skillfully initiates deep, thought-provoking conversations about the philosophy of life through his young characters. The author balances the mystery and thrill with a generous dose of humor, often eliciting laughter through Linc’s witty puns.
The Artifact‘s tone perfectly suits its teenage audience, blending humor, mystery, and engagement. Whether you’re fascinated by Egyptology or simply looking for a gripping narrative, David Rogers’ novel offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Pages: 193 | ASIN : B0C7DR1WQX
LITERARY TITAN 