Blog Archives
Sketches from the Periphery
Michael Patrick Summers’s debut novel, Sketches From the Periphery, stands as a remarkable achievement in historical storytelling. It illuminates the human narratives behind world conflicts, offering a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the Darfur conflict in Sudan. For anyone fascinated by history, this novel provides a poignant and empathetic window into the lives of those impacted by one of the 21st century’s most complex crises.
The story centers on Alexander Barr, a young American contractor working with the African Union’s peacekeeping mission in Darfur in 2006. Through Alex’s eyes, readers navigate the brutal realities of a war-torn region. The narrative delves into existential themes, grappling with the enduring legacies of colonialism and the often violent dynamics of human history.
Alongside Alex’s journey is the parallel tale of Tariq, a battle-hardened operative of the Darfur liberation movement, whose life has been indelibly shaped by conflict. Although their paths do not directly converge, the interwoven stories depict life on the margins of civilization, where idealism and survival clash in a haunting dance. Adding richness to the narrative is Cassandra, a fiercely independent European journalist whose presence brings a fresh dynamic to Alex’s search for meaning. Her depth and resilience make her a standout character. Summers deftly blends historical fiction with profound philosophical reflection, creating a layered and immersive experience.
The novel not only exposes the raw truths of the Darfur conflict but also challenges readers to confront broader questions about humanity’s capacity for both destruction and creation. The richly developed characters, each grappling with moral complexity, bring the story’s themes to life in vivid and unforgettable ways.
Sketches From the Periphery is an evocative and introspective work, appealing to history enthusiasts, fans of philosophical literature, and readers drawn to stories of resilience and moral struggle. Even for those who may not typically choose books about war, this novel offers an unparalleled journey into the depths of human conflict and the search for meaning amidst chaos. It’s a profound, moving, and deeply worthwhile read.
Pages: 197 | ASIN : B0DL6S7VHX
Flawed Characters
London Skies centers around a woman haunted by the memories of a lost love and her own experiences as a wartime nurse. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I first had the idea for the story of a WWII nurse in 2004, and briefly wrote something, before shelving it. It was sparked by a documentary about ‘the Guinea Pig Club’ – the group of pilots badly burned, and then experimented, on with pioneering plastic surgery and facial reconstruction at East Grinstead. Coincidentally, I then found out that my mum spent six weeks in that very hospital after a near-fatal car crash in the 1960s, where she had many broken bones, including to her face.
I had more ideas about Charlotte over time, and just thought she’d be a good person to build connected stories around.
I grew up adjacent to Heathrow Airport as my dad worked there for nearly 30 years, and I never really thought about the town where we lived until I was much older and had left.
I then had the idea that Charlotte could connect the stories initially via a scene at what was then called London Airport, in 1956, as the story moves forward but also with her looking back on the war.
Which character in the novel do you feel you relate to more and why?
I wrote it so that I can relate to all the characters in some ways, and have empathy for their plight, even if they may be the opposite of how I am, or how I think about things.
Some are closer to my actual experiences, but I don’t tend to turn my life into fiction. So, being a newly divorced dad 20 years ago who couldn’t have access to his young son was something I could relate to, despite having part-time access as a father in a more amicable way, but where it obviously left me appreciating what it must feel like to be cut off completely.
I also find it interesting how a character like Monty splits opinion based on the feedback so far, but I feel a lot of sympathy for his plight.
I try to balance as many things as possible in a novel, so there are three-dimensional, flawed characters, but also interesting descriptions, a sense of place, and sufficient plot and intrigue. It takes time to do that in a way that works.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
I always liked seeing the world through someone else’s eyes and experiencing things I never would in my life, through the different books I grew up reading.
We can step into someone else’s shoes, even their skin, and try to think about how we’d react if in the same situation. The act of reading puts all the imagery in their own mind, and that’s powerful.
I like flawed characters, but I don’t like the idea of character arcs, or that everyone must learn a lesson. “No hugging, no learning” was the Seinfeld mantra, and I like that. But I also like at least some hugging and some learning. Because in real life, some people learn, and some don’t.
I make zero effort to conform to what’s popular, proven, or marketable, as ultimately, I’m writing the best book I can, that only I can write. I had an agent in the past, but the shoe-horning of a story into something more commercial was too distressing. The BBC showed interest, but again, it wasn’t quite right. It’s why I went indie, as I didn’t want to compromise to the point where I lost belief in what the story was about.
I’d love to find readers, but readers who want to read the kind of books I write, as I don’t want to waste anyone’s time!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have the research done for another book, including a visit to a key location and acquiring dozens of books and documentaries, but it takes me about ten years, on and off, with all the other writing I have to do for a living, as well as being only partially functional due to having suffered with M.E. since 1999, and now I’m going blind in one eye. But I still have the other eye.
I respect how Donna Tartt works, taking time to get it right, except she sells a lot more books and wins a lot more awards than I do!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Dotted around the terminal, a handful of strangers whose lives will be forever linked by the tragedy that rolls in with the snowstorm, and the decades each spends attempting to unravel its remarkable connections and mysteries.
From wartime Piccadilly Circus to a remote Icelandic shoreline as Eyjafjallajökull erupts in 2010, London Skies is a sweeping story of family secrets, lost loves, and unravelling the past.
London Skies
Paul Tomkins’ London Skies is a beautifully crafted tribute to the unsung heroes of the sky—both the aviation industry and the soldiers who served during World War II. This novel is more than just a story; it’s an immersive experience. Tomkins’ vivid descriptions and evocative prose transport readers to another time, allowing them to step into the post-war world of 1956, where humanity’s resilience and interconnectedness take center stage.
Set primarily at the newly built London Airport, the novel weaves together the lives of its characters through seemingly unrelated stories, all bound by aviation as the common thread. At its heart is a deeply introspective protagonist who visits the airport daily, haunted by memories of her wartime experiences as a nurse and the loss of her lover. Charlotte’s reflections on the bustling lives around her and her poignant musings on grief and resilience offer profound insight into the psychological toll of war. Her observations of strangers’ fleeting interactions reveal universal truths about connection, healing, and the small ways we find meaning in life. The narrative takes a dramatic turn during a snowstorm in 1956 when a tragic incident forces a group of strangers to confront their vulnerabilities and share their stories. Families, couples, and individuals recount their journeys, their lives often subtly intersecting in ways only the reader can fully appreciate. From moments of heartbreak to flashes of humor and romance, their tales reflect the rollercoaster of human emotions and how our paths often cross in unexpected and profound ways. The story builds to a heartwarming conclusion, reminding us of the invisible threads that bind us all.
London Skies captures the essence of post-war humanity with grace and depth. It’s a novel for those who love historical fiction and relish stories that explore the intricacies of human relationships. Tomkins deftly balances personal, relatable moments with larger reflections on loss, love, and resilience, creating a narrative that resonates long after the final page. This is a moving testament to the endurance of the human spirit and the moments of connection that keep us moving forward.
Pages: 438 | ASIN : B0CX22HWSX
Oblivion Black
Oblivion Black, by Christa Wojciechowski, is a gritty, darkly compelling story of addiction, trauma, and the quest for redemption. It follows Ona Price, an art school dropout navigating the brutal realities of heroin addiction and the emotional spiral it causes. Set in the seedy underbelly of New York City and later in the rural calm of her aunt’s bed-and-breakfast, Ona’s journey is one of self-destruction, survival, and the long, painful process of trying to reclaim her life.
The book weaves vivid descriptions of withdrawal and heroin highs with Ona’s inner turmoil, delving into themes of love, obsession, and despair. What struck me first about this book was the raw, unapologetic portrayal of addiction. Wojciechowski doesn’t sugarcoat the experience. In fact, she plunges you straight into the darkness of it. The vivid, almost cinematic scenes made me feel like I was right there with her, suffocating under the weight of her choices.
The writing hits hard and fast, often as disorienting as the life Ona is living. I found myself both repulsed and captivated by her self-destruction, wanting to reach through the pages and shake her awake. Wojciechowski’s ability to depict inner conflict is stunning. Ona’s thoughts are chaotic yet painfully introspective, such as when she reflects on her artistic ambitions and how her addiction has derailed them. The way the narrative delves into Ona’s psyche made me both pity and admire her. Her contradictions make her feel incredibly real—she’s someone who knows she’s broken, but she can’t quite summon the strength to pull herself together.
The book’s pacing takes on a slower, more reflective tone in the middle. This shift allows the reader to truly immerse in the painstaking nature of the healing process, capturing the realistic ebb and flow of emotions. The portrayal of Ona’s daily struggle creates a sense of authenticity, highlighting the repetitive yet essential small victories and setbacks of recovery. And just when the routine starts to feel too settled, Wojciechowski injects powerful moments of raw emotion that reignite the intensity and keep the reader deeply engaged.
Oblivion Black is not for the faint of heart. It’s a gritty, disturbing, and often uncomfortable read, but it’s also beautifully crafted, with characters that linger long after the last page. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys psychological fiction that doesn’t shy away from dark, complex themes. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate stories that explore the depths of human suffering and the possibility of redemption, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
Pages: 387 | ASIN : B09YWKRLG6
Self-Discovery
Roth follows a highly gifted man as he revisits memories of his childhood and how it is shaping his adult life and the things he does to find his own inner peace. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Although the story is 100% a work of fiction, there are some elements inspired by real events that somehow marked my childhood. The story begins in a very particular place, which is the protagonist’s lowest point of suffering in his life. We then have two timelines that open up after the first chapter: The first begins in his childhood and is the one that will help us understand why he is who he is, and what events transformed him into that cynical person. But at the same time, looking towards the future, the path towards self-discovery that eventually makes him understand where true happiness can be found.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
The human condition is the greatest inspiration for any kind of fiction. The complexity of human relationships and the enormous burdens of meaning that humans attach to everything are undoubtedly what make for great stories.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Universal themes. Happiness, the pursuit of happiness, money, love, unconditionality, friendship, fear, jealousy. The human condition is fascinating in every way.
What next book are you working on, and when will it be available?
I am writing a new novel, which is not directly related to ROTH but takes place in the same universe. It’s a much more complex and ambitious story, and so far, I am really liking how it’s turning out. It will be ready to read next year.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Instagram | TikTok | Website | Amazon
“ROTH”, la novela de Jonás Romano Weiss, combina magistralmente el uso de la ironía y la reflexión explorando temas universales como la mediocridad, la inteligencia, el amor, la incondicionalidad y la búsqueda de sentido en la vida.
La narrativa gira en torno a Félix Amadeo Roth, un individuo con una capacidad intelectual excepcional, atrapado en un mundo que no comprende ni valora sus habilidades. La historia se despliega con una prosa incisiva y mordaz, revelando la lucha del protagonista por encontrar su lugar en una sociedad que parece estar en constante conflicto con su singular identidad.
Weiss nos sumerge en un mundo donde la mediocridad y la incompetencia son la norma. Este contraste establece el tono de la novela y destaca la alienación de Félix en un entorno que lo sofoca intelectualmente. Sin embargo, en otra línea temporal, originalmente planteada, el autor nos transporta simultáneamente a la infancia del protagonista. De esta manera, cautiva al lector con el juego de dualidades que hacen a la vida y la formación de Félix.
Tradition, Family, and Identity
In The Price of Passion, a married restaurant owner faces difficult truths as he struggles to decide between his duty to his family and his feelings for a young waitress. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
My father, Artemios John Korkidis’ idea for The Price of Passion came from a deep interest in exploring the intricate and often tumultuous nature of human relationships, particularly within the context of a vibrant cultural community. He was inspired by the emotional and moral complexities that arise when personal desires conflict with familial responsibilities. Observing the dynamics of close-knit communities, especially within the Greek-American diaspora, provided a rich tapestry of experiences and interactions that he wanted to capture in a narrative.
The setting of Astoria, with its blend of old-world traditions and modern challenges, offered a compelling backdrop to examine these themes. The community’s strong cultural ties and familial bonds mirrored the internal struggles of the characters, making it an ideal environment to delve into issues of love, loyalty, and infidelity.
In particular, he wanted to create a story that does not shy away from the raw honesty of emotional turmoil and the consequences of one’s actions. The character of Peter, a restaurant owner torn between his love for a young waitress and his duties to his family, emerged as a central figure to explore these conflicts. His journey of self-discovery, regret, and the impact of his choices on those around him form the heart of the story.
Ultimately, The Price of Passion is a reflection of my father’s fascination with the human condition, the cultural richness of the Greek-American community, and the enduring questions of love and morality.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
When developing the characters in The Price of Passion, my father, Artemios John Korkidis, adhered to several emotional and moral guidelines to ensure they felt authentic and relatable. The primary guideline was to portray the characters’ inner conflicts with honesty and depth. Peter’s struggle between his love for Alkmini and his duty to his family was crafted to reflect the raw, often painful reality of such situations. My father aimed to show Peter’s vulnerability, flaws, and the emotional toll of his decisions on both himself and his loved ones.
Another key guideline was to highlight the moral complexity of infidelity. Rather than painting characters in black and white, my father sought to explore the gray areas where human emotions and ethical dilemmas intersect. This approach allowed him to create multifaceted characters who evoke empathy and understanding, even when their actions might not be morally justifiable. The emotional journeys of Helen and Alkmini were also given significant attention, illustrating the far-reaching impact of Peter’s choices on their lives and mental well-being.
Was there a reason why you chose this location as the backdrop for your story?
Astoria, with its vibrant Greek-American community, was chosen by my father as the backdrop for the story because of its rich cultural heritage and the unique dynamics it offers. The close-knit community in Astoria provided a compelling setting to explore themes of tradition, family, and identity. The cultural elements woven into the narrative, such as the restaurant scenes, familial gatherings, and community interactions, added depth and authenticity to the characters’ experiences.
Astoria’s blend of old-world values and modern challenges mirrored the internal conflicts faced by the characters, making it an ideal location for the story. Additionally, the familiarity and warmth of the community contrasted sharply with the personal turmoil of the characters, enhancing the emotional impact of their journeys.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
My father’s last book before his passing was titled Captain Nicholas Remembers. This deeply personal and poignant novel captures the reflections of an aging Greek sea captain looking back on his life, filled with adventures, loves, and losses. Captain Nicholas Remembers is a testament to my father’s enduring talent for storytelling and his ability to touch readers’ hearts with his richly drawn characters and evocative prose. The book stands as a beautiful legacy, reflecting his passion for exploring the human spirit and the complexities of life.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Katherine Korkidis | Website | Amazon
The Price of Passion is the story of two people in what should be a trusting and meaningful relationship. However, this is a tragedy in every sense of the word. A dysfunctional marriage leads to the destruction of a family. Jealousy and an excessive need for control lead to both madness and murder. The story is told from the perspectives of both spouses to help the reader understand human weaknesses and behaviors. Both protagonists suffer greatly but are ultimately unable to change their tragic character flaws.
About the Author
Artemios John Korkidis grew up on the island of Crete, Greece. As a young man, he migrated to New York City where he wrote for the National Herald and raised his family. Surrounded by his cherished family members, Artemios lived his life doing what he loved: painting, writing, and inspiring others. The Price of Passion is his third book. It has been translated from the original Greek version with additional content by his daughter, Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis. Dr. Korkidis has a Ph.D. in Biophysical Chemistry and is also a writer like her father. Through her love and respect for her father, she has helped preserve his life’s writings for generations to come.
The Price of Passion
The Price of Passion, by Artemios John Korkidis, is a deeply emotional and gripping tale that navigates the tumultuous seas of love, infidelity, and the complex web of human relationships. Set primarily in the vibrant Greek community of Astoria, the story follows Peter, a restaurant owner who finds himself entangled in a web of romantic and familial obligations. As he grapples with his illicit love for a young waitress and his duties towards his wife and children, Peter’s journey is one of self-discovery, regret, and the inevitable consequences of his choices.
One of the most compelling aspects of Korkidis’ writing is his ability to vividly depict the inner turmoil of his characters. Peter’s struggle between his passionate feelings for his young employee, Alkmini, and his loyalty to his family is portrayed with a raw honesty that makes him both relatable and deeply flawed. This is especially evident when Peter, overwhelmed by his emotions, decides to drive Alkmini home every night, rationalizing his actions as protective while ignoring the emotional damage he is causing his wife and children. The portrayal of Peter’s wife, Helen, as she succumbs to jealousy and depression, paints a rather bleak picture of marital discord. Her descent into madness and subsequent departure to Cyprus highlights the devastating impact of Peter’s actions. While her storyline is poignant, its dramatic intensity adds a compelling layer that highlights the depth and complexity of her character. Korkidis excels in creating a rich, immersive setting that brings the Greek-American experience to life.
The community in Astoria, with its cultural traditions and close-knit relationships, serves as a vibrant backdrop to the unfolding drama. The descriptions of the restaurant, the familial gatherings, and the emotional farewells all add depth to the story, making the reader feel a part of Peter’s world. The author’s ability to weave cultural elements into the narrative enhances the authenticity of the characters’ experiences.
The Price of Passion is a heartfelt and evocative exploration of love, loyalty, and the human condition. Korkidis’ storytelling is rich with emotion and cultural authenticity, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy character-driven narratives. This book is particularly suited for readers who appreciate family sagas and complex emotional journeys.
Pages: 173 | ASIN : B0C54L8QKX
We Are All Just People
In Shooting Stars, readers follow a woman whose life has been filled with bitter disappointments as she finds new meaning in her life on a solo trip to Hawaii. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The real inspiration behind the story stems from a fantasy I’ve had ever since I was a teenager of a Hollywood superstar falling in love with me. I wanted the fairy tale romance to someone rich and famous as a kind of revenge against all the bullies who called me ugly and boring in school.
That daydream was the core of my idea, but the Hollywood star meeting the average woman has become clichéd, so I decided to use that very stereotype to explore how stereotypes are always prejudiced and rarely right. Things are never as they seem, and if you look below the surface, people from different backgrounds can have a lot in common.
It’s something I learnt from having pen pals and travelling – I got to meet a wide range of people from those scraping together a living to millionaires – we are all just people in the end with the same hopes and dreams, fears and insecurities.
Which character in the novel do you feel you relate to more and why?
Anyone who knows me can immediately recognise that Catherine is me. She’s so heavily based on me that it’s almost autobiographical. Her self-deprecating humour, clumsiness and introspective yearnings are all me. I based much of her day-to-day life on jobs and colleagues, and dating disasters I’ve had. However, unlike Catherine, I’ve never had the happily-ever-after part. I’ve also never been to Hawaii, which might come as a surprise. I’m a stickler for detail so I did a lot of research and also drew from my visits to tropical areas like Singapore and parts of Brazil.
Shooting Stars has so many wonderful moments between Catherine and Jake. What was your favorite scene in this story?
I loved writing the scenes between Catherine and Jake. My favourite is the moment she first meets him – the way she recognises he’s familiar but can’t place him, and then in true Skye Bothma fashion, the moment the penny drops, she does something that would send most men running for the hills. But, Jake’s not most men and I love the way he never criticises or mocks her lack of elegance. The part with the runaway pickle is another favourite – I’m always dropping food down my front.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’ve actually had the idea for my next book since I was 18 – that’s over thirty years ago now! It’s a huge project – a mystery with two timelines one set in the past, one set in the present. I’ve been so intimidated by it that when I began pursuing writing fulltime I decided to choose a simple story to start with to see if I would be able to write a full-length book. Now that I know I can do it, the project is a little less imposing, but considering my first book took six years to write, it’s going to be years before I get to the finish line. I wish I was one of those writers who can knock out a book every few months, but perfectionism takes a lot of time.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website
Catherine Marshall is used to being invisible. Although she’s intelligent and talented, she’s an underachiever and lives her life in other people’s shadows. She has a job she hates and dreams she’s too afraid of pursuing. When she wins a writing competition and her long-term boyfriend persuades her to spend the prize money on air tickets to Hawaii, she’s convinced he’s about to propose at last. Instead, he betrays her and unable to change the tickets, Catherine goes to Hawaii alone to mend her broken heart.
Jake Donovan can’t hide from being in the spotlight. A Hollywood superstar and one of America’s most eligible bachelors, he’s in Hawaii taking some time to decompress after the filming of his latest hit show wraps. Surrounded by paradise he should feel like he has it all, but he’s feeling jaded and aware of a growing dissatisfaction with his world.
When a chance encounter brings their two lives together Catherine and Jake discover they have more in common than expected. Together, they escape their everyday lives and develop a fragile intimacy. But as reality closes in, it becomes clear that the fairy tale is not likely to survive in the real world and they begin to question whether their meeting was meant to inspire personal change or if it really was fated in the stars.
