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A Sense of Hope
The Scavenger follows three teens fighting their demons who make a wish at a mysterious well and find their lives are flipped upside down by the supernatural when something ancient, dark, and deadly starts to stalk them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As with a vast majority of stories, it started with a ‘What if” scenario i.e. what if three teenage kids, all close friends but all with their own personal issues, make a wish at a cursed well but their wishes come true in a twisted way? This came to me in mid-2019 and stayed in my mind for a few months. I then started to become familiar with the characters, getting to know their likes, dislikes, what makes them tick, etc. Once all the characters were fleshed out, I began plotting each chapter when I was very familiar with the main protagonists.
But I also think the inspiration came from Stephen King’s IT and the movie, Stand By Me, which apparently was based on one of King’s short stories too. I wanted to capture the same element of friendship or strong bond like the characters had in those stories. I must have pulled it off because fans really resonated with Jessica, Adrian, and Jared.
Jared, Jessica and Adrian are typical high schoolers on the surface, but are each facing struggles that weigh them down. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I know this is a cliché but I really enjoyed writing all the characters, especially Jared’s spooky scenes. They were fun because I always tried to up the scare factor each time something supernatural occurred in the book. Jessica, however, was a character I found hard to write because her scenes with her mother, Bertha, are raw and edgy. There’s always a tension there. It’s like a powder keg ready to explode.
There is another reason why her character touched me. When I was a kid, I knew some friends who were in exactly the same predicament she’s in. They had abusive parents, too, so writing those scenes in a way, brought it all back to me. Now that I’m older and can understand more of what they went through, my heart goes out to them.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes that were really important for me are: accepting yourself when people around you can’t and having the strength to stand up against someone/something far stronger than yourself. It’s gratifying to know that people find a sense of hope in The Scavenger‘s, conclusion.
Where does the story go in the next book and where do you see it going in the future?
When I first started writing, The Scavenger, it was only meant to be a one-off. However, the reaction by readers was so strong that I decided to write a sequel. That was in 2021; fast-forward to present day and it has now turned into a four-book series.
In the next book, Unlucky Charm (Second Edition), we’re introduced to two new characters, Reggie and Zane, who are also long-time buddies. When one of them buys an antique pocket watch for his mother, little does he know that it will set off a chain of events that will ultimately change both their lives. Jared and Aunt Maybelle are called in to help. In this book, Jared develops his abilities even more and comes into his own. Jessica also develops a strong bond with her mom. An event at the end of the book sets up a HUGE rollercoaster ride in book three – Dark Secrets, where Jessica will come face-to-face with a shocking secret from Bertha’s past that will make her question everything she knew about her mom!
The final book of the series, Lurking Beasts, will hopefully be released in November of this year.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Amazon
Jared, Jessica, and Adrian seem like your typical high schoolers, but each harbors a secret that gnaws at their souls.
Jared is struggling for acceptance from his disapproving mother as a gay teen while enduring the relentless torment of a bully. Adrian is crushed under the weight of his father’s impossible expectations as he conceals a forbidden crush. Jessica, trapped in a nightmare with her abusive, alcoholic mother, dreams of escape but finds no solace.
Then, one frigid night, the trio stumbles upon an ancient wishing well, its ominous aura drawing them in. With eyes closed and hearts burdened, they each make a wish half-heartedly but secretly hope for something—anything—different. In a snap, their wishes seem to mysteriously materialize.
But they have no idea they’ve just awakened something far more sinister than their minds can grasp, and things are about to go horribly wrong!
The Scavenger (Second Edition) is the chilling beginning of the Hopps Town Quadrilogy, where every wish comes at a deadly price.
Everything a Civilization Needs
Magic Compendium: Tales of Illuminaria is an intriguing fantasy work that introduces readers to the system of magic that your series is based on. What was the inspiration for this world and its magic?
I’ve always wanted to write a story set in a world where the magic system can be explained scientifically. This won’t become clear until book three, but it’s a foundational principle of the story.
The nine schools are designed to encompass everything a civilization needs to thrive.
Can you share a bit about your writing process? What was the methodology like to create and write your world and the magic system used in Illuminaria?
I start with the illustrations. Once the story’s outline becomes clear through the paintings, I begin the writing process. I’m not a big fan of long, boring descriptions, so the images take care of that. From there, I let the story flow naturally.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing or illustrating?
Probably the flight of the Telekinator-1. I’m a huge fan of steampunk, and that painting was the perfect excuse to sneak a bit of it in.
Can you tell us a little about the story’s progression in book three and when the novel will be available?
The third book will completely flip the table. It is actually a sci-fi story that will explain the zodiac legion and the magic of Illuminaria. Already available: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DX38CGNZ
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon
Filled with stunning illustrations, this book invites you to step into the magical world of Illuminaria and join the Zodiac Legion. Your training begins now!
The gods have chosen only the most promising individuals to master the power of magic, and the guardians of Illuminaria have deemed you worthy to stand among them.
Like every great mage before you, your journey begins as a novice. To prepare you, the Zodiac Legion has built nine schools to hone your skills and awaken your arcane potential. Within this index of ancient knowledge, you’ll uncover Illuminaria’s timeline, the nine arcane disciplines, and the secrets buried by the gods.
Dive into mysteries such as:Telekinesis—command objects with the sheer force of your will.
Nature—control the essence of life that sustains Illuminaria’s balance.
Death—peer beyond the veil separating the living from the dead.
But magic has not always existed. Long ago, in a time before magic, the Precursors—a forgotten civilization—constructed awe-inspiring cities and artifacts. Through ingenuity and discovery, they unlocked the first magic, turning frailty into unimaginable power. Then, they vanished, leaving behind only their secrets.
Now, it’s your turn to unearth those secrets, master your craft, and claim your power bracelet—the ultimate symbol of your mastery.
Your magical education begins here. Are you ready to answer the call?
The Quest for Identity
Al Ana’s Curse follows a young man and his friends who set out to unravel the mystery behind the eerie occurrences linked to the river and the ancient demon, where they come face to face with evil. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Al Ana’s Curse draws inspiration from the timeless allure of folklore and the universal human fascination with the unknown. The narrative was born from a desire to explore how myths and legends shape our understanding of the world, both past and present. By setting the story against the backdrop of a mysterious river haunted by an ancient demon, it taps into age-old tales where nature is intertwined with supernatural forces, challenging protagonists to confront forces beyond their comprehension. This setting allows for a rich tapestry where suspense and intrigue can flourish as readers are drawn into a world teetering on the edge of reality and myth. Moreover, by focusing on a young man and his friends, Al Ana’s Curse emphasizes themes of friendship, courage, and discovery as they navigate this perilous journey together. Through their eyes, audiences can experience the thrill of adventure while pondering deeper questions about fear, tradition, and human resilience in facing darkness. In essence, this setup not only provides an engaging plot but also invites readers to reflect on how ancient stories continue to resonate within contemporary contexts.
The supporting characters in this novel, I felt, were intriguing and well-developed. Who was your favorite character to write for?
Aedan quickly became my favorite character to write for, as I drew inspiration from my oldest son, Shawn, mirroring his hairstyle all the way down to his attitude. Through this character, I aimed to motivate readers by offering actionable steps and thoughtful reflections on any struggles they may face in their lives. He is designed to encourage readers on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, inspiring them to embrace their strengths, confront their fears, and make meaningful changes toward a more fulfilling life.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In crafting this book, several themes emerged as vital touchstones that demanded exploration due to their profound relevance and impact. One of the central themes is the resilience of the human spirit, a concept that resonates universally and inspires readers to overcome their own challenges. By creating narratives that highlight perseverance amidst adversity, this book aims to instill a sense of hope and determination in its audience. Another critical theme is the quest for identity and self-discovery—a journey every individual undertakes at some point in their life. By looking into the character’s personal growth and transformation, readers are encouraged to reflect on their paths and embrace change with confidence. Additionally, the theme of interconnectedness underscores how our lives are intricately linked with those around us, emphasizing empathy and understanding in our interactions. Through these themes, this book not only entertains but also provides valuable insights into life’s complexities, urging readers to ponder their own experiences deeply.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
Al Ana’s Curse is the inaugural book in my exciting new series, The Legends of Folklore. This supernatural thriller promises to immerse readers in rich folklore, with the second book continuing this enchanting journey. It introduces an intriguing new legend, offering fresh perspectives that entertain and empower readers with practical strategies for overcoming life’s challenges.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
In the small Northern Michigan town of Cheboygan, a group of courageous friends set out on a thrilling quest to unravel the mystery surrounding a string of bizarre occurrences that leaves its residents in a state of fear and paranoia. Haunted by nightmares and pushed to their limits, they must confront their innermost fears as they come face-to-face with evil, whose malevolent presence threatens to engulf Cheboygan in shadows. Confronted with their deepest fears and the looming darkness, the friends must lean on their unbreakable bond to save themselves and protect their beloved town from impending doom.
My Inspiration
In Gumshoe Goes To A Quinceanera, a detective reincarnated as a Siamese cat must solve a series of murders leading up to a young woman’s quinceanera. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
A couple of things…first I was asked to do a young adult mystery. When I thought about that, I thought about my cat, Ash, a Siamese who has a bit of an attitude. Second, I thought about what I liked to read when I was a kid…The Hardy Boy and Nancy Drew Mysteries. I wondered what would happen if Nancy Drew met Sabrina the Witch (Another thing I loved as a kid) and I also have an interest in History. They all seemed to come together and Gumshoe was born.
I find that authors sometimes ask themselves questions and let their characters answer them. Do you think this is true for your characters?
Not really. Ash is my inspiration for Gumshoe’s antics. The mysteries are something I just figure out in my head. Ash speaks enough for everyone.
Do you have a favorite scene from this installment of the Gumshoe Mysteries?
I admit the beginning where Gumshoe is threatened with being neutered and his response makes me laugh every time.
Can fans expect to see a third book featuring Mia and Gumshoe? What are you currently working on?
Yes. I have a couple of different series that I write as well as write for a couple of anthologies, so the next Gumshoe won’t be out until 2025. I’ve had a couple of ideas and I know where Mia and Gumshoe will be headed next, just haven’t figured out yet who I am going to kill….just yet.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website | Amazon
Mia Thomas’ close friend Tiffany Santos is celebrating her fifteenth birthday with a traditional Spanish/Mexican quinceanera, but murder also plans on attending. As Gumshoe tries to solve the first murder, the bodies keep piling up. Mia and Gumshoe are dragged into a dark world of treachery and corruption. Can the two sleuths find the culprit or will Tiffany’s special day be ruined?
Gumshoe Goes to a Quinceanera
Gumshoe Goes to a Quinceañera spins an intriguing yarn around an unexpected protagonist, a reincarnated detective turned Siamese cat, Gumshoe, who assists his teenage witch companion, Mia. The story begins with a mysterious murder at a quinceañera, and Gumshoe, in his feline form, leverages his past life’s detective instincts to untangle the case. Set in a small town rife with secrets and imbued with the mystical, author Laura Hawks weaves a narrative that is as much a coming-of-age tale for Mia as it is a murder mystery.
Hawks’ writing style in Gumshoe Goes to a Quinceañera is not only engaging but also accessible, making it a perfect choice for a light and enjoyable read. The first-person perspective of Gumshoe adds a unique and humorous touch to the mystery.
The character of Gumshoe is a delightful surprise. Hawks skillfully brings to life a character type that I have never seen in mystery novels: a detective trapped in a cat’s body. This whimsical concept adds a layer of fun and unpredictability to the story.
Gumshoe Goes to a Quinceañera is an entertaining and lighthearted young adult mystery novel that stands out for its creative premise and the charm of its feline detective. I feel this book will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with a paranormal twist and younger audiences looking for a blend of magic and mystery.
Pages: 98 | ASIN : B0CHQ3ZZTG
Camaraderie Amidst Adversity
The Gold Mystery Adventure follows a young and determined protagonist who steals a golden artifact to save her planet, embarking on a perilous journey to rescue her mother and liberate her homeland. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have long harbored an affinity for the works of esteemed authors such as Jules Verne and H.G. Wells, finding profound enjoyment in their literary creations, alongside a fondness for children’s adventure and mystery narratives. One day, while observing my son engrossed in play with a remote-controlled device, inspiration struck, igniting the genesis of a creative endeavor. Thus, I conceived a narrative featuring an antagonistic force juxtaposed against a courageous young protagonist, interwoven within the backdrop of a climate crisis. Layer by layer, I meticulously crafted and augmented this concept, imbuing it with depth and complexity.
Zhen is an intriguing and well-developed character. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
In response to the narrative challenge posed by an indomitable antagonist, I undertook the task of crafting a young female protagonist embodying the essence of a warrior. My intent was to eschew the conventional archetype of a superhero, opting instead for a character who relied upon her youthful vigor, sharp intellect, unwavering resolve, valor, and relentless determination to vanquish her adversary.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In establishing the foundational pillars of the book, it became imperative to explore and validate a myriad of themes that resonate deeply with readers. Central to this narrative tapestry are the intricate dynamics of familial bonds, underscored by the enduring values of love, support, and understanding within familial relationships. Moreover, the significance of friendship emerges as a guiding principle, illuminating the transformative power of companionship and camaraderie amidst adversity.
Loyalty, a cornerstone of character, serves as a guiding light for the protagonists, highlighting the unwavering commitment to stand by one another through trials and tribulations. This unwavering allegiance intertwines seamlessly with the theme of teamwork, emphasizing the collective strength that arises from unity and collaboration.
The journey of the protagonist is imbued with the essence of bravery and courage, as she confronts daunting challenges with unwavering resolve and a steadfast spirit. In moments of adversity, her compassion for others becomes a beacon of light, illuminating the path toward empathy and understanding.
As the narrative unfolds, the protagonist undergoes a profound coming-of-age journey, navigating the complexities of self-discovery, growth, and maturation. This transformative process is epitomized by the virtue of perseverance, as she tenaciously pursues her goals despite the odds stacked against her.
Central to the narrative tapestry is the enduring hope for the future, symbolizing the belief in the inherent capacity for positive change and redemption. Anchored by the principle of taking a stand, the protagonist embodies the ethos of moral courage, daring to challenge injustice and championing the cause of righteousness.
Collectively, these thematic threads interweave to form a rich and resonant tapestry, inviting readers to embark on a journey of introspection, empowerment, and ultimately, redemption.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book I want to write is a noir story like Fargo and the Ripley series on Netflix. It’ll take a few years to plan the plot carefully.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
An action-packed climate fiction quest that blends elements of tech, magic, mystery, friendship and family. For 10 years of age and up.
In a world on the brink of destruction under a madwoman’s tyranny, a brave young girl emerges as hope’s last beacon.
Defying her oppressors, Zhen steals a valuable gold object, launching her into a perilous and whirlwind adventure to a mysterious planet.
She believes the gold artifact possesses special powers. Unlocking its mysteries holds the key to her homeland’s salvation. With her enemy in pursuit and a race against time, Zhen must be smarter and braver than ever before to stay alive, rescue her captive mother, and return home armed with the solution that could alter the fate of her planet forever.
Obsessiveness Pays Off
Lost Grove: Part One follows a tenacious lawman who digs into the mystery of a woman’s death, discovering the town is hiding more secrets than he anticipated. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Charlotte: The idea first originated when I visited the quaint and stunning Victorian town of Ferndale, CA. I was inspired by the picturesque surroundings and the magical vibes it made me feel. While I was there, I came up with the idea of a series of interconnected weird tales, something akin to Josh Mallerman’s Goblin, six separate tales that all happen in the same town, with some loose connections. A few of the original stories I came up with were one about The Green Man, one about Mary the Vampire, and one about a mysterious institute (which became the Orbriallis).
Alex: When Charlotte brought the idea to me, I came up with the concept of tying them all together through a detective story, which are my favorite books to read.
Charlotte: I came up with the idea and image of Sarah Elizabeth’s body being found on a beach. With Mary being there.
Alex: And I grabbed the baton from there to come up with the actual case.
Sergeant Seth Wolfe is an intelligent and intense character who is set on discovering the secrets that the town has hidden even as the clues drift away. What was the inspiration for the main character’s traits and dialogue?
Charlotte: I think Seth was an amalgamation of some of my favorite detective characters from books, as well as my husband.
Alex: Insider secret – that’s me. The husband. But what else are you leaving out, Charlotte? Don’t hold back.
Charlotte: Ugh, fine. Yes, I will also admit there was a little bit of Seth Rollins, the current WWE Champion, in there.
Alex: There ya go. So, Charlotte established his overall character and then passed him off to me, knowing my penchant for detectives. I wrote the majority of Seth’s dialogue and really leaned into the stoic nature that Charlotte came up with. He’s seen things in his almost twenty years as a homicide detective in San Francisco that make it hard for him to get phased by much. I also consciously forced his dialogue to not be from my personal voice.
Charlotte: Right, because truthfully, you talk more like Nate Abbot, one of our favorite teen characters.
Alex: Very true, which is why I had to rewrite a lot of his dialogue to make him awesome and hilarious.
Charlotte: Is that why? (laughs)
What was the hardest part about writing a mystery story, where you constantly have to give just enough to keep the mystery alive until the big reveal?
Charlotte: I think one of the hardest parts of writing a mystery story is keeping track of the clues and what’s been revealed, when, and by whom.
Alex: And this is where our obsessiveness pays off. We did an epic amount of prep work before digging in to start actually writing the novel(s). Coming up with the overall story arc first, and then using flashcards to break it down event-by-event, date-by-date, covering our entire living room floor with them.
Charlotte: Yes, that was very important. But we also had to allow for natural surprises to come out in the process of writing the novel and not be fully tied to these pre-planned events.
Alex: Right. Much like preparing for an opponent in sports. Like if I were a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves—-
Charlotte: You’re not.
Alex: No, but if I were, it would be practice, practice, practice, study tape, read reports. But then, when the game comes, we’d have to be willing to throw all of that aside and just go play. Allow for the opponent, in this case, our story, to challenge you and force you to switch gears.
Can you tell us a little about where the story goes in book two and when the novel will be available?
Charlotte: I’m going to take a queue from Mr. Scott Gimple, franchise boss of The Walking Dead Universe, and vaguely reply: you’ll get answers.
Alex: (laughs) Oh, I think we can say a little more than that. Every now and then, Gimple will actually give the audience something to chew on. I will say this: the title of book two is The Orbriallis Institute, which one could logically conclude that you’ll learn a lot more about the mysterious research facility.
Charlotte: Very true. I will add that you’ll also see the teenager’s friendships grow and that their mystery will take less of a backseat in this one.
Alex: And you’ll learn more about the Green Man and that Peter Andalu—
Charlotte: Okay, that’s enough.
Alex: Fine, fine. Can we at least tell them the date?
Charlotte: Absolutely. The Orbriallis Institute: Lost Grove Part Two will be released on Tuesday, October 8th.
Alex: And that’s this year, 2024. So, not long to wait! Just the way we planned it.
Charlotte Zang Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Alex J. Knudsen Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
In the eerie, enigmatic town of Lost Grove, where secrets whispered among the rustling pines are as thick as the fog rolling in from the sea, the discovery of Sarah Elizabeth Grahams’ lifeless corpse on the windswept beach is but the first note in a haunting symphony of mysteries.
Sergeant Seth Wolfe, the town’s tenacious lawman, penetrates the cryptic and labyrinthine secrets veiled beneath the town’s murky facade. A connection to Sarah Elizabeth, one he could never have fathomed, begins to take shape, blurring the lines between his own existence and the mysteries that enshroud the town. Suspects multiply like whispers in a haunted forest, but each lead unravels, and the mysteries of the case deepen.
Meanwhile, a group of local teenagers embark on their own harrowing mission, driven by a relentless desire to answer the riddle of their friend’s vanished brother and expose the sinister secrets harbored by an affluent institute nestled in the heart of Lost Grove. Bringing their disturbing findings to Seth, he discovers eerie parallels between their quest and his case.
As Seth dives deeper into the abyss of darkness gripping Lost Grove, an unsettling incident threatens to derail his investigation and shatter the illusions of safety the town has harbored for far too long. A chilling web of malevolence begins to tighten its grip, ensnaring them all in a nightmarish dance that will test the limits of their resolve.
Readers who love the eerie, unsettling mystery of Stephen King’s The Outsider and the monstrous legends of Brian McGreevy’s Hemlock Grove will enjoy this twisty, taut thriller.
LITERARY TITAN 