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A Magical and Vast Universe
Beast of Phe’lak follows a woman trapped on an alien planet, under the control of a powerful beast who spots a delegation on the beach that triggers century-old memories, and a chance to regain her freedom. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration began in Queen of Highwings, the first book in my Chronicles of Phe’lak Trilogy—of which Beast is the third book. Phe’laki General George muses about the beast with regard to the palace’s understructure, which once served as another dragon’s lair. He thinks that the underpass was sealed to prevent attracting the Beast of Phe’lak to such a luxurious dwelling because, unlike the original resident, the Dragon of Yand, the beast is not benevolent. I received many questions, including: ‘What happened to the beast?’ and ‘Is it related to the beloved Yandar dragon?’ The character Hele’ne lived in my head for a long time. I always knew who she was and how she ended up on the alien planet. I naturally wove her in.
Hele’ne is a fascinating character. What scene was the most interesting to write for that character?
I must say, I love all her scenes. My top favorites include her introduction scene, her interaction with the beast and then with Wolfpack at the beginning of the story. I also love her exchanges with Rel and Drace, as well as her final scene in the last chapter. This last scene is very powerful.
For readers who have not yet read the rest of the Worldmaker® series, what do you want them to know about the world you have created?
It is a magical and vast universe, spanning galaxies and constellations. Each new world—whether a star system, planet, or moon—comes to life in vivid detail. The people who populate these worlds, whether they are queens and kings, scientists, military archers, or regular people, are just as authentic and lifelike. There are four humanoid species introduced so far: the empathic, winged Yandar; their slightly smaller telepathic cousins, the non-winged Yendai; the benevolent, non-meta giants known as the Phe’laki; and the malevolent K’tul. The main characters are complex and richly developed, and their extensive dialogues throughout the stories enhances the immersive quality. The illustrations are glorious. If you purchase the PDF, please read in full-screen, two-page format to get the full benefit of the artwork.
The primary genre is Sci-Fi/Fantasy, but with elements of the paranormal, a touch of horror, and unconventional romance, always with a hint of humor. LGBTQ+ and polyamorous marriages are part of the norm alongside exclusive and binary ones.
The storylines follow the saga of Worldmaker Yanara’s family, whose children have evocative names: Snowfox, Hawklord, Asimia, Dragonlord, Wolfpack, Sunstorm. Can you guess the kings among them? The Worldmaker and Dragoon? The Pathfinder?
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
I received requests to write more about the Dragon of Yand and his wife, Yira, and also of Drace and his husband, Rel. I can’t stop writing about these two. I could serialize their adventures. However, I meant to write the third trilogy in my series, the one that brings the war to the K’tul homeworld. We’ll see. For the next couple of months, I’ll be taking a breather and focusing on earning a few accolades for Beast to adorn its cover, just like my other books. It has already received a few awards, the most prominent among them being the No. 1 Book/Manuscript on Coverfly’s Red List this month (out of 57,000 scripts).
Author Links: Website | X | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok
Beast of Phe’lak
This book throws you headfirst into a world of magic, pain, and tangled emotions. Hele’ne has spent centuries trapped on an alien planet, isolated and broken, under the control of a powerful beast who both saved her life and stole her freedom. When a group of new arrivals shows up on the beach near her prison, something stirs—faint memories, a flicker of purpose, a chance at freedom. What follows is a story that twists through identity, power, and survival, where every choice carries a cost, and every shadow hides something sharp.
What I loved most was how deeply personal it all felt. Beneath the dragons and battles and cosmic stakes, this is a story about trauma, real, raw, and relentless. Hele’ne’s connection to the beast is terrifying in how familiar it feels. It’s a portrait of control disguised as care, and it chilled me. And yet, there are soft moments too, brief flickers of tenderness, humor, even love, that make the heavy parts hit even harder. Elia dives into the darker emotions, showing what it means to fight for your own mind, your own body, your own name.
The writing is lush and dreamlike. The lore runs deep, the world is massive, and if you haven’t read the other books, you’ll probably spend a few pages catching up. But there’s something wild and beautiful about that, too. It feels alive. The characters are vivid, passionate, and impossible to ignore. Some are haunted, some are healing, all are trying to hold onto something in the chaos.
In the end, Beast of Phe’lak is for readers who want their fantasy to cut deep. It’s messy and magical, yes, but it’s also full of heart. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt lost, controlled, or broken and dared to imagine something more. If you want to be shaken, moved, and maybe even changed a little, give this one a shot.
Pages: 309 | ASIN : B0F7FD49NL
TWO CROWNS, THREE BLADES
In the wake of Madam Dunn’s death, Sibil declares her intent to join the army, openly vowing to strike against The Guild. Whispers of a young woman wielding a dagger adorned with a red-jeweled bone handle, slaying giants, tangle with rumors of the Wisperal’s return. Are these two tales connected? The narrative unfolds as an unlikely duo—a determined girl and an aging man—embarks on a perilous journey through a tumultuous world. Together, they navigate dangers and surprises, pursuing separate but intertwined goals.
Two Crowns, Three Blades, which is book two in The Legends of Baelon by Robert A. Walker, delivers a sprawling and intricate plot, anchored by engaging characters and formidable challenges. From a deadly pact to eliminate two kings to the intricacies of battle strategies, the novel seizes readers’ attention with its high-stakes missions and life-or-death gambits. The war strategies stand out as a highlight, evoking the grandeur of Tolkien’s beloved fantasy epics like The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Discussions of medieval tactics—from bracing for volleys of arrows to weighing the risks of cavalry against spiked barriers—are rich with detail and lend authenticity to the book’s action sequences.
Walker’s prose vividly captures the world through his characters’ eyes, immersing readers in the unfolding drama. His ability to bring even minor characters to life is evident through meticulous descriptions, such as the “small curved nose, taut cheeks, and thin lips” of a striking female figure. These details ground the fantastical setting in a sense of realism. The Wisperal herself is a standout element, shrouded in an aura of awe and menace. Rumors paint her as a giant slayer, a figure who hunts the wicked and delivers them “to Baelon below.” Her mythic presence elevates the stakes and deepens the intrigue, making her one of the story’s most compelling elements.
The abundance of characters—kings, enemies, and allies—woven into an intricate web of missions and alliances will appeal to readers who seek a rich, character-driven saga. Walker crafts a tale brimming with twists, suspense, and engaging fantasy elements. Fans of intricate political intrigue, thrilling action, and clever strategic planning will find much to enjoy. Two Crowns, Three Blades offers a captivating blend of epic adventure and imaginative storytelling.
Pages: 393 | ASIN : B0DRFF2V9D
Their Village, Their Fortress
Dylan Madeley’s Their Village, Their Fortress presents a gripping tale of courage, community, and survival set against the backdrop of a crumbling empire. When an allegedly impregnable fortress falls and the commanding general fails to warn the smaller outlying villages of an approaching threat, the story pivots to one soldier, Oleksiy. Disagreeing with his army’s decision to retreat and regroup, Oleksiy defies orders. He sets off on a perilous journey to alert his home village and surrounding communities, driven by an unbreakable resolve to prepare his people for the coming storm. The narrative follows Oleksiy’s return, where he unites with the villagers in a desperate bid for survival. As he shares the dire news, Madeley immerses readers in the lives of these ordinary people, revealing their hopes, fears, and resilience. Among the villagers, one character stands out: Vitaliy. Initially appearing overly emotional, his intense feelings seem to cloud his judgment. Yet, as the story unfolds, Madeley masterfully unpacks the complexity of Vitaliy’s character. His emotions, rather than being a weakness, become his strength, offering a unique perspective and a deep-seated empathy that shapes his actions and decisions.
Despite its brevity, the book lacks none of the essentials. The plot is expertly constructed, with clear, vivid descriptions of strategic discussions and battle preparations. The narrative’s pulse quickens as villagers debate daring, risky plans to outwit the enemy. Yet, it is the nuanced portrayal of characters that truly sets this story apart. Madeley introduces a cast of distinct individuals, each brought to life with carefully woven backstories that illuminate their motivations and fears. These glimpses into their pasts enrich the present, adding emotional depth and resonance to the unfolding drama.
One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is the portrayal of the village’s unity. Madeley captures the essence of a close-knit community where every individual has a role, and each strength complements another’s weakness. This interdependence is painted with finesse, highlighting the unspoken understanding among villagers. The friendship between Vitaliy and Denys exemplifies this bond. When Vitaliy acts impulsively, Denys never judges. Instead, he offers space and understanding, modeling a compassionate response that others in the village come to respect and learn from. It’s a testament to the emotional intelligence and mutual respect that bind these people together.
With an eye for small yet significant details, Madeley’s writing invites readers to connect deeply with the characters. Every moment, every interaction feels intentional, crafted to draw readers into the villagers’ struggle for survival. The book’s balance of action, emotional depth, and richly drawn relationships makes it a compelling read, one that lingers long after the final page is turned. Their Village, Their Fortress is a testament to the power of community, the strength found in vulnerability, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of insurmountable odds.
Pages: 140 | ASIN : B0DFTC3DNH
Love and Family
In Critical Habitat, humanity is ruled by a mysterious force and two people hold the key to ending the reign of oppression, fear, and deception. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Modern concerns with the environment and corporate greed, honestly. I’d seen the working class suffer for years and considered how the powerful make decisions that often don’t prove to be for the greater good. The human condition is supremely flawed. Having grown up with some incredible action-adventure and sci-fi movies and television–from Buck Rogers and Star Wars to Battlestar Galactica, as well as Edgar Rice Burroughs’ writings, specifically John Carter and the Tarzan of the Apes books–I used pieces of them as masterworks that I could pay homage as I recreated storyworlds and Critical Habitat’s narrative into something new. It had to be fun but meaningful, as well as thought-provoking. It was a fun and super-challenging process.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
I meant to, but it was recalibrated so many times through drafts, that it would be overstating it as “organic.” The tone and direction became clear, eventually. I wanted to throw my computer more than once.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
As the story crystalized, the overarching theme never wavered. Simply, “Love and family correct a path of self-annihilation.”
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
I’m happy to report yes! The follow-up to Critical Habitat should come out in 2025, it’s currently in its final editing stages. As the power vacuum grows, the cast of characters struggle as the stakes rise. Book 2 is deeper and darker than Book 1, taking the fantastical, sci-fi, dystopian, and action-adventure mash-up storyline to the next level. It’s the most challenging work I’ve ever done. I’m excited to share it with Critical Habitat fans, and those who have yet to discover this take on multi-genre action-adventure. I really can’t wait.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
What does it mean to be a rebel, a hero, or the destroyer of habitat and civilization? As a devastated world recovers from war and plight, an unlikely heroine emerges and attempts to rescue distressed rebels from the government’s corruption controlling the rationed food supply and from a rogue general trying to steal the only known honeybees.
And Earth itself fights back.
Following the Great Uprising of the Millennium, the remaining human population in the Third Continent’s forty-four districts—starved and weakened—are dependent on the Authority. The new power structure that emerged after the war rules by fear and tyranny, confiscating property, and feeding the masses poisoned food.
Yet out of the rubble, rebellious clans who dream of a better future emerge, able to grow their own food because of their secret weapon—the last remaining nest of honeybees. Now a war wages between the rebels and the Authority. X and Y, children of the rebellion, have the key to the rebellion’s success: a download that can bring down the Authority once and for all.
Power hungry and corrupt, the Authority’s General Speer is intent on finding the download, along with the rebels’ bees and food stocks. And he will stop at nothing until he rules all the districts.
The fate of humanity hangs in the balance as X and Y join forces with an unlikely heroine and their allies in a race against time. But in a futurist world where survival is paramount and everyone has an agenda, who can they trust?
Critical Habitat
Critical Habitat, the award-winning sci-fi, dystopian adventure by Terrence King, delivers a chilling vision of the future that feels alarmingly close to reality. In this gripping tale, humanity is ruled by a mysterious Authority, a force so oppressive that even basic human needs are crushed beneath its iron grip. In a world where survival is bleak and hope is a distant memory, the idea of a hero feels obsolete. But heroes exist here, even if they remain nameless. Our protagonists, simply known as X and Y, hold the key to dismantling the Authority—a critical data chip that could destroy everything the regime stands for. Yet, they can’t complete their mission alone. Trust, however, is a rare commodity in this desolate landscape. Even among rebels, fear and suspicion reign. How do you trust others—or yourself—when everything around you is built on deception?
The story grips you from the start, keeping you on edge with its constant twists and turns. The world King has created is hostile, but the characters of X and Y shine through, forming a connection with the reader that makes the stakes feel personal. X, in particular, stands out with her biting sarcasm, providing much-needed levity in a world filled with darkness. Her sense of humor adds a sharp, refreshing dynamic that elevates the entire narrative.
What truly sets Critical Habitat apart is how original it feels. In a genre that often recycles familiar tropes, King takes well-worn concepts—advanced technology in a broken world, a totalitarian regime, and rebels seeking to overthrow the system—and spins them in a way that feels fresh and innovative. It’s rare to encounter a sci-fi story that breaks from the mold so completely, and that’s what makes this book such a standout. It offers a new perspective, something that feels like a breath of fresh air in a genre where stories often blend into one another. I feel the book’s slow start is its one drawback. The initial chapters can feel dense, as King meticulously builds his dystopian world, and it takes some time to fully immerse yourself in the story. However, once you push through those early pages, you’ll find yourself hooked, unable to put it down.
Critical Habitat is more than just an engaging sci-fi adventure—it’s a thought-provoking reflection on where our planet could be headed. King’s vision of a future ruled by fear and control hits unnervingly close to home. By the end, you’ll be left pondering the frightening possibility that this dystopia may not be so far off. Thank you, Terrence King—you’ve made me question the future, and now I won’t be sleeping tonight.
Pages: 270 | ASIN : B0C4QXLBSC
Worldmaker of Yand-Yildun
Worldmaker of Yand-Yildun by Andri E. Elia takes us to the planet Yand, orbiting the star Yildun, where Yanara, a powerful spellcaster known as the Worldmaker, must defend her world from the menacing K’tul, an intergalactic invader. The story intricately weaves themes of love, loss, and the responsibilities that come with immense power, all while introducing a rich cast of characters, including Yanara’s daughter, who is just beginning to manifest her own inherited abilities. As threats loom, Yanara is not only challenged by external forces but also by the complexities of her personal life, especially her relationships and her desire to protect her family.
From the start, I was struck by the depth of Yanara’s character and her multifaceted nature. She is powerful, yet vulnerable, particularly when it comes to her family. The narrative begins with a rich backstory, laying a solid foundation for the events that unfold. I found the early exploration of Yanara’s internal struggles compelling, especially her reflections on her marriages and her longing to start a family. These personal conflicts made Yanara relatable despite her extraordinary abilities, and they added a layer of emotional depth to the story. The planet Yand, with its empathic, winged humanoids and their intricate societal norms, is vividly depicted. I particularly enjoyed the scenes that highlighted the contrast between Yanara’s immense power and the everyday struggles of life on Yand. The descriptions of the landscape, the technology, and the unique cultural elements of the Yandar people were immersive, drawing me deeper into this fantastical world. The illustrations, particularly those by Lily Dormishev, beautifully complement the narrative, capturing the essence of Yand’s unique environment and its inhabitants.
Elia’s writing is both evocative and engaging. It has moments of intense action balanced by introspective passages. I appreciated the seamless blend of science fiction and fantasy elements which kept the story unpredictable and fresh. The inclusion of LGBTQIA+ themes, particularly in the depiction of Yanara’s relationships, felt natural and added a contemporary touch to the classic hero’s journey.
Worldmaker of Yand-Yildun is a captivating start to a trilogy that will appeal to fans of both sci-fi and fantasy. It is a book for those who enjoy stories rich in character development, world-building and complex themes. I recommend it to readers who appreciate layered narratives and aren’t afraid to dive into a world as complex as the characters that inhabit it.
Pages: 308 | ASIN : B0BJRMM3T6
The “Character Cake”
Journey of Seven Circles follows a soul warden who has devoted his life to the wellbeing of others who, in a desperate bid to save lives he uses magic, causing the course of his life to be altered. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
There were several notions which came together when planning Journey of Seven Circles. If the fantasy genre has a superpower, it’s the ability to examine complicated subjects through a layer of abstraction.
Travel to, say, Dune or Middle-earth, and we can discuss how easy it is for the mighty to fall prey to their own greatness or examine the corruptive nature of power in the form of a magic ring. By taking one step away from the real world, we enjoy a new perspective and perhaps learn something important about ourselves along the way.
In Journey of Seven Circles, I wanted to create a genuinely good-hearted character then hurl him into a complicated world and force him to make some gut-wrenching decisions. While Kryn never loses his sense of moral purpose, he has to navigate some murky waters and pay full price for the choices he makes.
I asked myself, what would such a life look like? What sacrifices would Kryn need to make? How would he change through his journey? Those questions guided me through the course of the book.
What was your writing process to ensure you captured the essence of the characters?
Over time I’ve developed a personal method I call the “character cake.” There are several layers to the cake, including the candles, frosting, sprinkles, and the fundamental “cake” layer.
For the cake layer, I define the character’s three (give or take) deepest motivations or goals. For Kryn these were compassion, loyalty to the teachings of his church, and love for his family, most notably for the plot, his brother, Adro.
Whenever a character makes an important decision, I always return to that character’s cake traits. I ask myself, which of the character’s traits are in jeopardy? How would these traits influence the character’s decision? Can the character act in such a way that all the cake traits are satisfied?
Of course, the most interesting decisions take place when the answer is “no.” When characters are forced to choose between two cherished desires, that’s when we see who they are in truth, or, who they are becoming.
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away by the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
That answer is likely different depending on the novel in question. For Journey of Seven Circles, I made the deliberate decision not to share more of the magic system than was strictly necessary to explain the plot. Because of that, we never go into great detail regarding the exact mechanics of Kryn’s magic or how he casts his spells.
However, we do focus a great deal on the cost of Kryn’s magic. As we learn through the story, his power does not come for free. By making sure the costs of Kryn’s power service the overarching plot, the story avoids becoming lost in the supernatural forest.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Journey of Seven Circles is a stand-alone fantasy novel, and so Kryn’s story is completed. If I ever revisit this world again, it will be through another character’s eyes.
However, I do have more novels planned. My next book, Dreams of the Old Explorer, is in final draft form and is currently being proofread. I plan to publish it early in 2025.
The story follows two old tricksters engaging in their final battle of wits. We begin with Mikhail the Horizon Seeker, a man famed for his far-ranging travels and nigh legendary cleverness. However, for years Mikhail has felt as though a piece of his soul is missing. His old moniker of “Horizon Seeker” may as well have belonged to another man.
Afflicted with a deadly illness, Mikhail knows his days are drawing to an end. He wishes only to leave behind a legacy of good to those he cared about, and perhaps, to fill the hole in his heart, to become the Horizon Seeker once again.
Then he hears word of an ancient artifact resurfacing, one greater than any treasure he has ever known. It holds the potential to fulfill all his dying wishes if only he can lay hold of it. Of course, he isn’t the only man to have noticed the prize in play. Mikhail’s old rival, a man he’s never beaten, is also on the trail.
When Mikhail learns that the life of his dear friend’s son hangs in the balance, there’s no turning back. And for all his cleverness, even Mikhail has no idea how he is supposed to win.
For anyone interested, head over to the blog on my website: russellpikebooks.com. Information regarding the upcoming release will be posted there.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram | Amazon
In a world chained by ancient lies, one man holds the key to its salvation — at the cost of his own life.
Kryn Darien, a wizard of unparalleled ability, stands poised to unleash a spell of unimaginable magnitude, a desperate gambit to reshape the very fabric of existence. Centuries of preparation have honed his skills and forged tools of devastating arcane might. Yet, as the moment approaches, doubt gnaws at him.
Will his sacrifices, his relentless pursuit of power, prove futile in the face of such overwhelming odds?
Once a humble priest, Kryn never sought such profound responsibility. His aspirations were simple — to serve and protect those he held dear. But fate thrusts him into a maelstrom of war, treachery, and ancient mysteries that challenge his resolve. Every step forward demands a toll more exorbitant than he ever imagined.
Across treacherous battlefields and against foes wielding deadly magic, Kryn’s journey unveils a conspiracy older than memory itself.
Amidst adversaries wielding godlike powers, he must navigate a labyrinth of impossible choices.
Yet, his unwavering commitment to aid the helpless propels him ever forward, even as the cost escalates to encompass all he holds dear.
