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Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light
Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light, by Scott M. Sargent, is a captivating modern fantasy steeped in the rich lore of Irish mythology. The story follows 14-year-old Caleb, a boy worn down by his father’s constant retelling of ancient Irish myths. Feeling abandoned by his often absent father, Caleb gravitates toward his traumatized uncle Seamus. But on a school field trip with his best friend Scott, the myths he thought were mere stories come to life. As darkness rises and demons emerge, Caleb and his newfound allies must face unimaginable threats to protect the world and save those they care about.
What really stood out to me was the way the author seamlessly wove Irish legends into a modern setting. I have a deep appreciation for world cultures, and learning about the ancient myths alongside Caleb was a fascinating experience. Caleb, though far from a perfect hero, is relatable in his flaws. His struggle with abandonment and his frustration with the world around him felt real. Frankly, he got on my nerves in the first half of the book—mostly because he reminded me of myself at that age. But that’s the brilliance of his character. Caleb’s growth is one of the highlights of the story. Supporting characters like the sarcastic leprechaun “Lucky,” the fierce Siobhan and the shy yet loyal Scott added layers of charm and depth to the narrative. Even Kieran, the elven college student, brought his own unique energy to the mix.
There are sections where the story drags a little, particularly when it goes deep into the family history and the backstory of the Tuatha Dé Danann. While this mythology is fascinating, I found myself getting lost in the details at times, yearning to get back to the action. That said, the legends themselves are a treat. The way Sargent ties the mystical artifacts—the Sword of Light, Lugh’s Spear, and the other treasures—into the plot is seamless. Caleb’s gradual discovery of his connection to these ancient myths is compelling, especially when he learns about his father’s secretive role in this world, a revelation that is hinted at with tension throughout the book. The story skillfully blends magical elements with real-world problems—issues of identity, family, and the weight of expectations.
The book wraps up with a solid, if somewhat abrupt, conclusion while leaving room for more adventures in future installments. It’s a real page-turner with action and adventure around every corner, and I was fully immersed in its world. Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light is an exciting tale of growth, self-discovery, and embracing one’s destiny. Scott M. Sargent delivers a brilliant debut, and I’m eager to see what comes next from this promising author.
Pages: 284 | ASIN : B0C7JCBB5X
A Character People Can Respect
Daughter of Light and Dark follows a young woman and orphan with the rare ability to see Jinn without the aid of a ring who searches for a stolen artifact belonging to her mother. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The idea for Daughter of Light and Dark first came to me while reading the true historical story of Zarqa’a Al Yamama, a woman known for her extraordinary eyesight. This inspired the character of Mina, a unique girl with the ability to see Jinn without needing any rituals.
Another source of inspiration was the Lord of Chains, modeled after a terrifying children’s tale “Abu Al Salasil / Man of Chains”, a horror folklore story from the Arabian Peninsula, particularly popular in the northern region historically known as Jilfar. While the original figure was frightening, I wanted Ashrush to be more of a guardian figure. His grumpy demeanor is one of the few remnants of the original Man of Chains.
I really wanted to write about these popular stories known here in the Arabian world, that not many know about out of this region, the Arabian peninsula folklore is rich with stories of Djinn and overpowered people like Zarqa’a, Antar Ibn Shaddad and so many more.
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?
This is kind of embarrassing to say, but that would probably be Mina’s attempt to subdue her emotions. Human emotions are really hard to control, especially negative ones. When you are angry, you shout, when you are sad, you cry, when you are anxious, you can’t sit down. Mina has to control her negative emotions, she has to subdue them so she won’t feed the dark thing within her. That would be the most “me” thing I would do, that’s probably true for a lot of people too. But in Daughter of Light and Dark, while Mina has to control herself, she also has to find a way to be free, to break from the chains holding her back and express her feelings like normal people.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
My main theme was to emphasize not letting others dictate what you should do. Ashrush is a popular character among readers, but if you notice, he often holds Mina back. He represents the people you love—whether a family member, close friend, or colleague you respect and adore—who have your best interests at heart but might discourage you from pursuing what you truly want. I wanted Mina to find her own voice, to stand up against being talked down from doing what she wants to achieve, and that’s why I think she’s a character people can respect or admire.
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
I’m planning to have book two ready before May (hopefully). Book two will have Mina at her lowest, losing control and trying to find ways to gain back that control. There are new places to discover, new people to meet, and new stories to share. And for those wondering about all the unanswered questions left at the end of book one, don’t worry—you will find some of the answers in book two. I promise, just trust the process.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
An Enchanting Journey of Discovery, Belonging, and Liberation.
She wanted one thing and one thing only, to free her mother’s Jinn from his golden ring, but to free one is to free them all. Accompanied by her Jinny Companion, the Lord of chains, and a dark presence stirring to free from within her, Mina sets on a journey to find all the eleven golden rings of the Kings of Jinn, her main mission overshadowed by scheming royals, a troubled friend, and a crumbling world.
Take It All In
A Fairy on My Sleeve follows a woman who encounters a fairy while reading under a tree and causes her to contemplate the belief and magic of the ordinary. What was the inspiration for your story?
Many years ago on a glorious summer afternoon, I was digging in my flower garden, watching the bees, dragonflies, and butterflies, which were all flitting about me.
Without warning, a little one landed on the sleeve of my shirt.
It sat there for a short time, slowly opening and closing its wings.
As I gazed at it, I swear it looked back at me, just for an instant before it flew off.
It was a rather idyllic moment on its own, but in my mind, I changed it from an insect to a fairy.
With that simple revision, it had suddenly become a wondrous, magical event.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I think that the most important message in this story is to just slow down, smell the flowers, and pay attention to the little things that are all around.
Turn off your phone, go outside, and have a look around – and a listen. It’s amazing what you can discover when you start to pay attention.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from A Fairy on My Sleeve?
One thing I hope that readers take away is to put down the devices, go outside, and take it all in. Just by looking into a simple flower pot you can see an extraordinary hidden world, full of life.
Insects and other organisms that live in the dirt and hide amongst the leaves all have their own story. If you look at them long enough, they will tell you that story.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have a new book called Where Do All The Fairies Live? along with two others that are currently ready for illustration.
I also have my first children’s song recorded which is in the process of being mixed.
The song is called “Full Moon Friend,” a happy little bedtime song, which will hopefully be ready for release next month.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Join author, poet, and actress Mari Sherkin as she glimpses a magical world where things are as real as they seem.
A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs
Scott Sollers’ children’s book, A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs, transports readers to a distant, fantastical land divided by a ridge and inhabited by two distinct communities: the resource-poor No-Haves led by Chief Nobody, and the prosperous Have-Alls under Chief Somebody. The stark contrasts between these groups—one struggling on barren land without water or wildlife, the other thriving among lush greenery, abundant water, and playful creatures called Squatz—sets the stage for a tale of envy, conflict, and ultimately, resolution.
Sollers’ narrative shines with creativity, particularly in the invention of the Squatz, adding a layer of whimsy to his portrayal of societal disparities. The plot revolves around the No-Haves’ ill-fated attempt to steal Squatz, leading to a pivotal moment of confrontation and the exploration of themes like fairness and justice. Without revealing too much, the story cleverly explains the mythical origins of ostriches’ distinctive features in a way that is bound to captivate young imaginations.
The moral lessons are clear and thoughtfully integrated into the storyline. Children are shown the pitfalls of envy and the repercussions of theft, alongside the virtues of seeking compromise and collaborative solutions. Such messages are delivered through a narrative that encourages understanding and empathy, even when characters initially falter. Alejandro Echavez’s illustrations are another highlight, with each page presenting vibrant, mural-like drawings that draw readers deeper into the story’s richly painted world. The visual storytelling complements Sollers’ words beautifully, enhancing the magical and educational experience.
Suitable for readers aged 4 to 8, A Tall Tale is more than just an entertaining read; it’s a book that imparts valuable lessons through a delightful narrative. It is a commendable addition to any young reader’s library, promising both enjoyment and educational value.
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 1637557736
Devotion to Duty and Honor
Sons of Empire follows the son of a high mage with unique powers who needs to find out who his allies are in a growing war environment. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had been writing thrillers for years and sales were going down. My agent suggested I write about Winston Churchill and his era since I have studied it for so long, but everything that could be had been written about him and his times. So I began writing about an alternate world in which there had been a Magical Revolution instead of an Industrial one, and things just took off from there.
Fantasy novels embrace magic in their own unique ways, each world having its own flair. Can you explain what technomagic is and how you developed this into a unique facet of your book?
Technomagic is the Unmagiced’s answer to the power of the Altmages. It is powered by a mysterious stone called Meersham that has multiple uses from fuel to medicine, and it drives the Empires. Of course, Technomages are not above using Altmage magic when no one is looking.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this series, and how do they differ from other fantasy series currently out?
I wanted to tell the tale of how men can rise from their stations to become world powers and how intrigue behind the scenes can often work against the very causes it purports to support. A constant theme is devotion to duty and honor.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
It will come as no surprise to some that the series very loosely follows events in our own world circa 1900 – 1945 so there is that spoiler. But don’t worry. While some will see ties from fictional characters to some real, the differences created by magic, the Council of Five, the Assassin’s Guild, and the requirements of fiction dictate a very different world and characters in many ways. Enjoy.
Author Links: Goodreads | Website | Amazon
Song of the Sea
Song of the Sea by Meredith Leigh Burton is a charming and engaging story about mermaid princess Aria and her sister Octavia, who live in their beloved ocean home. As daughters of the Sea King, they are responsible for protecting the sea, helping the spirits of the departed, and discussing their potential fiancés, all of which are part of their everyday routine. However, their lives are upended when a mysterious storm threatens the life of human prince Reginald, and Aria risks everything to save him.
Burton’s tale of tolerance and understanding draws inspiration from classic fairy tales, particularly The Little Mermaid, as Aria embarks on a dangerous adventure to uncover the truth and save two kingdoms from destruction. Aria and Reginald’s friendship and alliance are at the heart of this story, and Burton’s use of musical terminology adds depth and richness to the narrative. This novel has many twists and turns, keeping readers hooked as they watch the thrilling plot unfold. Burton manages to keep readers guessing, waiting to discover the fate of the two kingdoms.
Song of the Sea is a compelling and thought-provoking story with a plot that closely follows the storyline of The Little Mermaid. Aside from that similarity, this novel has a new villain and a fresh take on well-known characters, making this story stands out as a unique work. In addition, their book has some mature content, making it better suited for older teens and young adult audiences.
Song of the Sea is a captivating and enjoyable read with an important message of love, harmony, and cultural understanding. It is perfect for readers who enjoy a fresh retelling of classic tales, and its story of diplomacy and friendship offers a new perspective on a familiar theme.
Pages: 132 | ASIN : B0BMM6PY7K
The Impossible Girl
Ava Marie Jones doesn’t know anything about her past. That is until she falls through a tree. Ava finds herself in a whole new world with creatures from all types of fairytales. She soon realizes that she belongs here. She fits in! Or so she thought. She is soon dubbed The Impossible Girl because she was never registered at birth. Author Ashley White has us follow Ava as she navigates through this new realm and school. Will she learn more about her family? Will she test the limits of her powers?
The Impossible Girl will have readers enchanted! It has a feel to it similar to books by J.K. Rowling and Rick Riordan. The story pulls readers in from the very beginning and keeps them engaged throughout the whole novel.
This magical novel starts with a long prologue, readers will find this information imperative as they start reading chapter one. The story has a great flow to it, combining action and dialogue seamlessly. The author has a way with descriptive language. The details that went into her world building will have readers envisioning the city under the tree as clearly as if they were walking there themselves.
Ava’s character is well thought out. She is taking everything she learns in stride. Ashley White has given her a strong and distinct personality that readers will be able to relate to. Ava is shy, but she is starting to come out of her shell. Her friend Duncan is an interesting character. He seems very nice and caring. However, he is a pleaser. Duncan wants to please and impress his father. He follows the rules. Can he be trusted in the future? We shall see. Ava’s friend Tara seems to be an open book and is filled with all kinds of useful knowledge. She is also a very caring friend. Always aware of her friend’s feelings. Colin is another friend of Ava’s. He is shy in the beginning but is very brave by the end. I look forward to seeing his character progress in future novels.
The Impossible Girl is a children’s and teen fantasy novel that will take readers on an adventure as a young girl discovers her true identity. With magic and mystery readers of all ages will want to follow along as Ava discovers what makes her unique.
Pages: 314 | ASIN : B09SNG2MJB
Plant Folklore
Plant Folklore is a collection of 120 stories that take the reader on a stroll through wild plants found in the hills of Appalachia. Each of these stories covers ancient myths, truths, and the history behind the origin & name of the plant.
Three sections are included in the book, the first being Spring Wildflowers, which includes a list, illustrations, and information about various flower species, with the descriptions of the multiple uses they served to early settlers in America. In addition to identifying each plant by its Latin name, the common names of the plants are also listed to dispel any uncertainty. Additionally, along with enhancing the interest of nature lovers, the pictures of flora and fauna in the book help distinguish between the different species while also clarifying the descriptions.
The second section focuses specifically on the wildflowers found in summers, which will particularly interest plant enthusiasts. In this section, you can find suggestions on precautions to take when planting flowers at home. There are 41 flowers listed here, including one native to America and one brought over by immigrants. It also mentions interesting myths and medicinal uses and warns of the toxicity of plants historically used in America in the early days. In the final section of the book, which addresses shrubs, trees, and bushes more commonly seen, the author reveals the shocking poisonous plants endemic to most people’s diets.
Throughout his book, author Connie Taylor’s knowledge of wild species is woven with folktales, cautions, origins, and blooming periods of flora and fauna. While Plant Folklore covers the fascinating wild plant species found in hills and forests, it also underscores the necessity of protecting them down the road.
As written in the introduction, the author of the book does not intend this book to become a guide to plant medicine. Instead, the author has causally related his knowledge of numerous plants, many of which were part of his childhood memories. A significant focus of the book is on conveying, in an engaging manner, the role that plants played during the early days in America. In addition to explaining the various beneficial medicinal uses of the native species, traded off with modern synthetics, there is a subtle admonition for modern men to disregard most of the native species as non-beneficial weeds.
Plant Folklore is a fascinating book that spreads across several genres. It is perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone curious about different plants and stories associated with them.
Pages: 240 | ASIN : B07H6538QQ
LITERARY TITAN 