Blog Archives
Leaving My Comfort Zone
Boone and Jacque: The Brothers’ Odyssey follows three teenage friends as they try to find their way back home; along the way, they must search for and find their lost companion while facing unknown dangers. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
I do a month or two of reading, ground work and research for every book I write. For this installment of the series, I researched autism because I wanted to make sure the character, Flint, wasn’t Hollywoodized in terms of the symptoms of Autism. I watched VR simulations of what it’s like to have autism. Mini documentaries and TED talks showing the continuing and evolving study of this neurological disorder. They say there is no definitive answer to where the disorder came from. And no cure. But there is Applied Behavior Analysis. Which is exemplified in extensive research, therapy and even television. I also watched the show Atypical. A Netflix series focusing on a teen character named Sam who has autism. Throughout the series, his symptoms become more focused in terms of where he is on the spectrum.
Outside of research, I incorporated memories from family vacations. These are quite rich in detail, so if anyone would like to hear about them, I am working on a Youtube series called Stories with AG Flitcher. Where I tell stories about my life that inspired scenes and elements of relationships in this ever evolving series. Nevertheless, I will share two things. The different types of environment came from my experiences being at the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea and the miles and miles of desert in between Cairo (the capital) and whichever destination my family and I arrived at.
One story that I didn’t film that inspired a long walk in the Dolov desert, was the time my family and I were stuck in the middle of a desert for 9 hours. The car had a flat tire and finding a tire repair shop was hard to find. It was 45 degrees Celsius, no shade, dry and the backseats had no seat belts.
Lastly, the characters being casted away from the town, is a mirror symbolic moment of me leaving my comfort zone to find my truth as a writer and human being. Leaving the comfort of routine, familiarity, safety nets and doubt was necessary because it meant I had to find what scares me and face it head on.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I would say I enjoyed writing for Flint the most because I’ve worked with people who have autism, heard stories from friends who work primarily with children with autism, and interviewed parents with children who have autism. Hearing and seeing the community of autism helped me to see what it was like to be wired differently than the neurotypical person.
However, the most challenging character to write for was Boone. Because Jacque is far more wise, and therefore his journey is different in terms of growth. Shammy is Boone’s guiding light to growing up. I didn’t want Boone to be exactly like me or grow up like me. My readers, who know me personally, say he is similar to me. So in book 3 and 4, I have him grow to be someone far more courageous yet lost than I am. In addition, he doesn’t develop the same personality as me when he becomes my age.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
I’m unconventional when it comes to developing plot points. I come up with a rough storyline and then start writing. In fact, for book 4, I stopped writing a rough storyline because I didn’t know whether or not there was going to be a book 5. Which there will be.
For this book though, book 2, I did structure it a little more but not the plot twist. These books take me typically 6 to 8 months to write while I work a full time day job as a maintenance worker at a zoo. So while I’m working, I daydream about plot twists. Therefore giving me the same surprise as the reader. When I revise I’ll add details and tweak plot twists to my liking, but not knowing what they are ahead of time keeps it fresh.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m working on book 4 of the series, Cytrus Moonlight. It will be out late 2022. I also wrote what I call “writing doodles” on the keynotes app on my phone for book 5. In which it will take place on a fantasy island that has creatures and trees representing the main characters regrets and fears. The only way they can escape is if they confront them and see fear as an important emotion that helps us do better in life. The tentative title for book 5 is Grotto Island.
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Rebuilding in the Aftermath of War
Worldmaker of Yand – Polaris follows a family who seeks a new life on a new planet after their home is destroyed by war, only to have trouble find them anyway. What were some new ideas you wanted to explore in this book that were different from book one?
Yildun tells the destruction of war, Polaris tells the war’s aftermath, the rebuilding, showcasing the family’s strength and resilience. It features character development of the kids, each one of them individually and in their relationships. In terms of storyline, Polaris explores the colonization of a new moon, Yanara’s backstory and her family’s previous entanglements with the K’tul, and her struggle to find a solution to the null so she can see her daughter again.
Yanara, Frost, and Mandolen have a unique relationship with each other. What was your process in writing the character’s interactions to develop the bond they have?
I wanted to explore non-exclusivity in marriage in a paradigm where taboos of exclusivity and gender preference do not exist. But even in this society, people come with complex emotions and wired preferences. So, I allowed the characters to lead me. What developed is this very complex, delicious relationship, where Yanara is bonded with both her spouses, while the two of them can’t even bare to inadvertently touch each other. Frost is insanely jealous of Mandolen, with good reason because Yanara loves Mandolen more. A thing that helps is that Frost and Mandolen had been friends in the military for a couple hundred years before marrying Yanara.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
I wanted to reveal more of Yanara’s backstory; more about how magic happens, how a celestial wizard forms wormholes; expound on the concept of the null and if it can be controlled. I also wanted to bring out the kids’ distinctive characters and abilities. And to write it all with vivid scenes and extensive dialog, to immerse the reader and transport him/her to this word. I’d love to see it in film.
What can readers expect in book three of the Worldmaker of Yand series?
In Eltanin the theme transitions from defense and survival to offense and revenge. Of course, twists happen as a result. There will be two new star systems introduced and a new species of humanoids. I’m still writing it, so many more exciting things can come into play. Stay tuned.
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The King of Gems
![The King of Gems by [Jim Cronin]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41qiS+8QtKL.jpg)
The King of Gems, by Jim Cronin, is a science fiction/fantasy hybrid that brings together the world of advanced fantasy VR gameplay and aliens from far-off star systems. Set in the distant future, this novel focuses on Dr. Anthony Kennan, an astrophysicist working in isolation on a research base in space.
With only an android named HAL as a companion, Dr. Kennan has maintained his sanity on the research base by advancing to the highest level in a popular fantasy VR game called King of Gems. However, things take a turn when he discovers a fleet of alien species somehow downloaded themselves into the game by accident. Kennan must decide whether he is to help these strange beings or leave them to fend for themselves in this dangerous game.
Jim Cronin certainly knows how to to write deeply thoughtful science fiction while taking contemporary ideas to their extreme. The author knows how to end a chapter as well, leaving readers wanting more and making it very hard to find a good spot to put this book down. The ending to the novel was satisfying as well while still leaving just enough for the possibility of a follow up book in the future.
This is a fast-paced story, especially in the beginning, but that does not necessarily mean it is filled with action. This is a weighty story that plays with some interesting ideas in fun ways. There is a lot going on and it feels like the author wastes no time in getting the information and ideas out so he can tell a very compelling, and expansive, sci-fi story.
I’ve come to appreciate the depth that Jim Cronin novels usually have. This is an adventure story with something to say. I think the reference to Star Trek and Dungeons and Dragons in the books blurb is fairly accurate. With cerebral ideas underlying this story, much like Star Trek, combined with the sheer joy you get out of a well played Dungeons and Dragons game come together in this engrossing novel.
The King of Gems is a well paced story that is intellectually invigorating. With rarely a dull moment readers will be pulled into this epic fantasy saga that is equal amounts fun and interesting.
Pages: 320 | ASIN: B09N9NBCRG
Worldmaker of Yand – Polaris
Worldmaker of Yand-Polaris, by Andri E. Elia, is the second book in the spellbinding Worldmaker of Yand series. In this book, Yanara builds a new city in the aftermath of war. The story begins with Yanara, Frost, and Mandolen on a new planet after the war. While they recover from their injuries, they begin to make a new life in a place they name Tuncay.
There are so many revelations in this book that will appeal to fans of the series. Yanara’s backstory continues to get deeper and more intriguing as we discover more about her lineage while she is creating a new life for herself. She has a brother who was in love with the Queen, Stardust, and finds out her son can also wormhole. The leader, Wolf, uses another to get to Yanara and her family. On top of all those tantalizing revelations, we also discover that the k’tul leader, although shot in the head with an arrow during the war, had his body preserved in a pod.
Andri Eli’s writing style in this vibrant story has improved since the first book, which allows readers to appreciate the depth and creativity of the world and characters. With a much better pace and flow to the story, I feel like this book is very easy to read, even with its sometimes weighty ideas. The first book in the Worldmaker of Yand series built-up tension slowly and revealed the plot at a methodical pace while using a lot of descriptions along the way to give readers a clear idea of the events taking place. But this entertaining book places readers right in the middle of the action, which makes for a much more intriguing read.
The dialogue between characters is fluid and engaging, allowing readers to connect with the characters. I admire Yanara for her strength and her selflessness, and I really appreciated how well these character traits are drawn-out in the story. This book has an ensemble cast of interesting characters that sometimes make it hard to keep track of who is who but certainly adds to the epic nature of the overall story and shows how many people are involved, but I would have appreciated a little more clarity on who they were and what they wanted.
Worldmaker of Yand-Polaris tells the compelling story of the Worldmakers life after war with the k’tul. I enjoyed seeing Yanara build a new world and how she finally rids herself of the k’tul. This is a fascinating epic fantasy story with plenty of action to keep readers entertained and plenty of romance to keep you emotionally invested in this stimulating story.
Pages: 446 | ASIN : B09MF797VR
Boone and Jacque: The Brothers’ Odyssey
In The Brothers’ Odyssey, written by A.G. Flitcher, Boone and Jacque have been sent to another realm with their friend Shammy. Boone, Jacque, and Shammy know they must not stay still for too long in any place as danger follows them. The children search for Flint, who was separated from them earlier. Not knowing what treacherous paths are ahead, they go out into the darkness. Surviving an ocean, trees, sokas, and King Reeve, the trio manages to make their way back to Saddleton, or what is now known as New Saddalia.
The Brothers’ Odyssey is a phenomenal novel. This second installment in the series is even more exciting and thrilling than the first novel. This second book answered many questions that readers were left with at the first novel’s end. This epic fantasy novel is creative and has many unexpected twists and turns. It will keep readers guessing even more than the first novel. Flitchers great imagination takes readers into a world that is original and full of surprises. The action-packed story flows smoothly with little time for readers to catch their breath before another surprise or twist is revealed.
The wasteland realm A. G. Flitcher created where Boone, Jacque, and Shammy were transported will really come alive in readers’ minds. The detail written into the story made it very easy to make the words turn into images. For example, there is a scene where the ocean is turned into oil that is incredibly vivid.
In the last novel, readers were looking for Boone to explore his feelings more in-depth, especially those for Shammy. He was able to do that in this book. Shammy was also able to figure out her feelings for Boone as well. Jacque really seemed to be wise beyond his years in this book. He explored his own emotions and dealt with them while finding out about his family. This book tied up all the loose ends from the previous book. It will also leave readers wanting more.
The Brothers’ Odyssey is a riveting epic fantasy novel filled with adventure and action. Middle school, teenagers, and young adult readers will enjoy this fantasy adventure with some mystery mixed in.
Pages: 263 | ASIN : B08KRMFVRJ
Worldmaker of Yand – Yildun
Worldmaker of Yand-Yildun, by Andri E. Elia, is the story of Yanara of Yand, a spellcaster. She is the Worldmaker, the only one of her kind until she gives birth to a daughter. She is tasked with keeping Yand safe from invaders. The story begins with Yanara narrating her life, what she has accomplished, and the people who surround her. Yanara is ranked the Queen and the savior of Yand. Much of the novel is about Yanara’s personal life, her marriage to multiple men and one woman, and wanting to start a family. An interesting focus for a book with humanoids and unimaginable powers. Yanara, alongside her family, saves Yand once again from an army of foreign invaders through the use of spells, telepathy, and her falcon Blackhawk.
This novel has a slow-burn style in the beginning. Elia spends a lot of time on Queen Yand’s back story, explaining how she arrived at the place the novel starts. There are a lot of different character interactions that go into this story and if readers rush through the opening chapters they may miss key information. One element of the story is the polyamorous relationships and the LGBTQ+ relationships. This non-traditional family structure is a key element to this coming-of-age novel. As the story continues, Yanara and Frost start building a relationship. This relationship advances the dialogue and storyline into something meaningful and engaging. The development of their relationship, and of their non-traditional family is an element that readers will enjoy discovering.
The writing style in this new-age book is extraordinary and irregular. The dialogue is written as though you were sitting in on the conversations watching it all unfold. The combination of artistic an writing style and a mysterious landscape will delight readers looking for something new to try.
Worldmaker of Yand-Yildun is the narration of the Worldmakers life. Readers of fantasy, action, romance, and other-worldly life with an LGBTQ+ twist will find this fantastic world unforgettable.
Pages: 299 | ASIN : B09BDGT47B
Literary Titan Book Awards January 2022
The Literary Titan Book Awards are awarded to books that have astounded and amazed us with unique writing styles, vivid worlds, complex characters, and original ideas. These books deserve extraordinary praise and we are proud to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and imagination of these talented authors.
Gold Award Winners
Silver Award Winners
Storm Front 8 by Steven Paul Germane
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
As Alien As Possible
Three Immortals follows war hero to the fringe of the galaxy where he discovers an ancient alien civilizations and their legendary powers. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
I am a computer scientist, so one of the civilizations discovered by the protagonist had to be an AI/machine dominated one. Working in bioinformatics for many years, I developed a deep fascination with biology. We can only speculate what extraterrestrial life will look like. I like aliens in fiction who are truly alien, as alien as possible while remaining relatable as characters in a story. Introducing non-carbon based aliens with a different evolutionary backstory and having them “adopt” a human to live among them was a lot of fun to write about.
Your characters are intriguing and well developed. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
“I did not like […] having existence happening to me, instead of shaping it!” says the hero in the story. All main characters act and change the course of galactic history for good or bad. I wanted to tell the story from the perspective of passionate people who plow ahead despite adversity. None of them is all good or all evil. The hero has massive flaws, the antagonist has a relatable backstory and even the traitors’ perspectives offer some redeeming qualities.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The story presents itself in a way I like to read space opera and military science fiction and it will check all boxes of expectations if you prefer these genres. Underlying the story thread is questioning the saying “what does not kill you makes you stronger” and the book asks if this is true or not. The (human) galactic government, for example, has idolized this notion in their creed “strength through adversity” and makes war and suffering a desirable natural state for the life of trillions. The machine civilization pushes this one step further through their ability to perceive many realities in the multiverse, and always pursue the most difficult one. The hero, learning this ability, will have to choose if he prefers an easy life or not. The ending invites the reader to decide what they would have chosen for themselves.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
Three Immortals brings its main story to a conclusion – but it leaves the arcs of many interesting characters open for continuation. 2400 Earth years of galactic history are woven in when the story requires, but there are many things left to explore with the reader – including the true nature of the Dark Ones, who nearly destroyed the galaxy. The next book is part 2 of a trilogy set in this universe. We will see familiar characters return, but also new threats and antagonists emerge. The scope will be larger, and the interstellar conflicts of Three Immortals are going to expand beyond the galaxy.
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Why was their existence purged from the historic records by the immortal elite?
LITERARY TITAN 