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Sophia and the Dragon-Eye Charms: The Secret of Okaas
Sophia and the Dragon-Eye Charms: The Secret of Okaas, by Beth Christopherson, takes readers on a poignant journey through the eyes of a young girl confronting the weight of grief and the uncertainty of starting over. Sophia’s move to a new state with her family stirs a flood of emotions, leaving her yearning for the comfort of her past life. In the midst of her sorrow and isolation, she stumbles upon a mystical dragon-eye charm at a local nursery, opening the door to an enchanting world of fairies and magic. This magical realm captivates with its mystery and wonder, but the true question lingers: can this magic help heal her broken heart?
One of the most striking elements of the novel is how deeply Christopherson immerses readers in Sophia’s emotional struggles. Through Sophia’s vulnerable journal entries and the tender memories of her late brother, we are drawn into her world with intimate clarity. The author brilliantly conveys the heavy shadows of grief and the challenge of forging a new beginning, making Sophia’s journey profoundly relatable. Themes of loss, identity, and the desperate longing for connection are interwoven seamlessly, offering a story that is as deeply moving as it is universal. The novel’s ability to blend magical realism with human emotion is another standout feature. The shift from Sophia’s painful reality to the mystical world of Fairy Blooms Garden Nursery is effortlessly executed. Her encounter with Mateo, the nursery’s enigmatic owner, marks a turning point, and the dragon-eye charm becomes both a symbol of hope and a key to unlocking a magical world. As Sophia delves deeper into this realm, the narrative highlights how even in the face of overwhelming sorrow, the fantastical can offer solace. This balance between the real and the extraordinary resonates with readers, reminding them that healing can emerge from the most unexpected places.
Sophia and the Dragon-Eye Charms is a richly woven tale that delicately balances grief, friendship, and personal growth against the backdrop of a magical world. With vivid imagery, heartfelt themes, and a resilient protagonist, this story explores the transformative power of love and connection. It is a touching exploration of loss that will inspire and uplift, encouraging readers to find magic and hope in their own lives. A beautiful addition to children’s literature, this book invites readers to embrace the magic of possibility, making it both enchanting and deeply meaningful.
Pages: 225 | ASIN : B0DJZKM7ZP
Forgotten Realm of Secrets: Book One
Forgotten Realm of Secrets: Book One by Rose M. Delorane is a captivating journey into a world where magic, danger, and self-discovery intertwine. The story follows Lit Square, a boy who begins as a curious soul, yearning for something more, and who boldly dives into the unknown despite countless warnings. As he crosses into a realm where the boundaries between dreams and reality blur, Lit quickly realizes that the quest to uncover his destiny is far more perilous than he ever imagined. What begins as an innocent thirst for discovery soon becomes a test of courage and survival. Is the price of uncovering his true self worth the perilous journey he now faces?
Delorane has crafted a deeply imaginative fantasy world, filled with vivid details and richly developed characters. The book transports readers to a supernatural realm brimming with wonder and danger. The world-building is exceptional, painting every scene with a haunting beauty that draws the reader in. The author’s skill in creating an atmosphere that feels both magical and foreboding is remarkable, setting the stage for Lit Square’s transformative journey. From the very first page, you can feel the weight of destiny pressing upon the protagonist as he navigates a world filled with enemies and enchantments. At the heart of the narrative is Lit Square himself. As a protagonist, he embodies the tension between ordinary life and extraordinary fate, making him highly relatable. His journey from a boy full of questions to a brave hero rising to face his destiny is a testament to the themes of courage, growth, and self-identity. The slow and deliberate character development is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. As Lit’s challenges mount, readers become deeply invested in his transformation, rooting for him as he evolves from a hesitant youth to a formidable hero. Delorane’s pacing allows this growth to feel natural, with each step of his arc building anticipation and emotional depth. The plot is as intricate as it is thrilling. Delorane expertly balances suspense and excitement with moments of introspection. The story brims with supernatural mysteries, eerie encounters, and magical artifacts that keep readers on edge. Twists and turns are placed with precision, ensuring that the suspense never wanes. Yet, beneath the action, there’s a layer of deeper moral questions—about fate, choice, and the sacrifices one must make to discover their true self. This delicate interplay between fast-paced adventure and reflective moments is handled with finesse, giving the novel a depth that elevates it beyond typical fantasy fare.
Forgotten Realm of Secrets is an exhilarating blend of adventure, magic, and mystery. Its compelling mix of suspenseful plot twists and slow-burning character arcs make it an appealing read for fantasy lovers of all ages. Delorane’s world-building prowess, combined with her ability to craft complex, relatable characters, ensures that readers will be eagerly awaiting the next installment. Whether you’re seeking a tale of magical adventure or a journey of personal discovery, this book offers both in spades.
Pages: 460 | ASIN : B0D6L9LVTB
A Place For All Characters
The House of Shi follows a 12-year-old boy who, after a chance encounter, is swept into the Land of Eternal Dusk, a strange, shadowy realm between worlds, where he embarks on a perilous quest to rescue an unexpected ally. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The Land of Eternal Dusk was born not so much out of inspiration, as it was born out of the need to have a ‘place’ where all the characters were capable, in some way or other, to move in and out of it. Writers establish rules for their imaginary worlds. The World Beyond was not the right location for the action that was called for in The House of Shi because not all the characters would be able to enter or leave it. Also, with the second book, I realized I have two stories running parallel to each other, so that required that I structured the story differently from the first book. I created the Land of Eternal Dusk as the place where the living, the supernatural beings, the deities, and the lost souls could exist and/or interact. It is sort of a no man’s land. Since it is an in-between realm, I imagined it to be a gloomy place, caught in a permanent twilight. Also, things didn’t always work logically there. It is a place that could exist in a dream.
On the other hand, the huaca, the remains of the ancient temple where most of the action occurs for Anna’s story, is inspired by a huaca that is nearby the school I attended when I was growing up in Peru. The huaca of my imagination is in a more dilapidated state and for the purpose of the story, it belongs to the Mochica people, a civilization that never reached Lima. The real huaca, on the other hand, belonged to the Ichma and the Inca people. So, I hope I will be forgiven for the artistic license I’m taking in that respect in my books.
Was there anything from your life that you put into the characters in your novel?
Anna is the character I connect with the most. I would like to say that she’s the better person I wish to become. For example, she’s determined and unafraid to step into unexpected situations while I tend to overthink things. When I was working on the first book, I didn’t want Anna to be the absent or clueless parent we sometimes find in children and YA books. And I didn’t want her to be relegated to the background either. I wanted her, the adult in the story, to have an adventure too. She’s the only character that sprung up of my imagination armed with a mission and on a mission. Her story gave me a chance to utilize some of my school memories. The school in the books is inspired by my high school in Peru. Anna’s romance is not something that happened to me, but who hasn’t had a crush on a classmate when we were her age? I tried to infuse Victor and Anna’s relationship with the heady feeling of being in love at sixteen. Writing Anna’s back story for this book was a very enjoyable and fun experience for me.
What were some of the themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I don’t plan for a specific theme to explore when I start writing a book, but I do want my books to carry a positive message. I think themes find their way into the story as I write it out. I’m not sure how it happens, but I would like to believe that it is part of the process (and magic) of writing. The power of belief is one theme that became present in the book. I hope readers can identify with David’s mixed feelings about the creature that is part of him. We all have faced or will face self-doubts. Belief in yourself and in your ability to rise above your circumstances is the first step toward change. However, belief alone will not get you to your goal. You have to take action. In The House of Shi, David realizes his amaru powers, but not before he has worked through some challenges. Acceptance is also a universal theme. We all look for approval and try to live up to other people’s expectations. In the book, Victor is caught between his aspirations to become a musician and his father’s inability to accept him for who he is and wants to be. Another theme that ‘sneaked in’ the first book, but I hope it will extend to all three books, is love. Mother’s love appears in the first book. First love is a theme in the second one. And for the third book—well, we’ll have to wait and see.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for David and the direction of the third book?
I’m not sure if you’ll believe me, but I’m as curious about the third book as you are. I know some writers can plan every scene in their future books. I’ve never been able to do that. I’m not a planner. When it comes to writing, I’m just flying by the seats of my pants. That doesn’t mean that I’m improvising all the way. I do start with some ideas about my characters and the plot. I brainstorm possibilities for the stories. I always do research. I learn as much as I can about the topics I think I’m going to need for the book. While researching, I pick up bits and pieces of information and ideas that might serve the plot. It’s only when I sit down and I’m writing the story that those pieces will come together and fall into place. Right now, I’m trying to figure out who Natalia is as Esqha. Once I get to the answer, I’ll know what David’s mission is going to be in this book. For Anna, it is going to be about rescuing Henry, but along the way, she’ll have to question her own feelings for him since Rojas claimed (in the first book) that she has been bewitched by her husband. My intent for the third book is to tie all the loose ends as neatly as I can, and to provide a satisfying ending to the trilogy.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Book Review
When David Luke learns he has the power to become a dragon, he embarks on a perilous quest to unlock his true potential in the Land of Eternal Dusk.
In an effort to save Natalia, an unexpected visitor to his grandfather’s house, 12-year-old David Luke is thrown into a fantastic world that lies between the worlds of the living and of the dead: the Land of Eternal Dusk. As he and Natalia cross the vast plain in the Land of Eternal Dusk, they must fight their way to the House of Shi, the abode of the Moon goddess, where David might, just might, unlock the ancient secret of becoming the amaru, the legendary Peruvian dragon.
As David battles to harness his newfound abilities, his mother, Anna, is in hot pursuit of a thief who had stolen a jewel with mysterious powers. Powers, she hopes, would allow her to cross into the World Beyond to reach the amaru still imprisoned there; the one whom she hopes could be her missing husband.
Join David on his epic adventure through the Land of Eternal Dusk. Get your copy today and unveil ancient secrets, face mythical creatures, and discover if he has what it takes to become the amaru.
Avatars of Destiny: The Quest for Reality’s Edge
Set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II, Avatars of Destiny: The Quest for Reality’s Edge by Ess-Jee Rautenbach plunges readers into a gripping story where science, ambition, and fate collide. A decade after a mysterious alien ship crash-landed on Earth, scientists, desperate to gain the upper hand in the war, embark on a reckless quest to harness its advanced technology. But their ambition spirals into disaster, unleashing forces far beyond their comprehension. Now, with Earth’s future and another world in peril, the race to undo the damage begins, raising the crucial question: can catastrophe be averted before both worlds are lost?
Rautenbach’s fantastic world-building lies at the heart of this science fiction novel. Each region introduced in the story bursts with life, showcasing fascinating creatures and landscapes that feel as real as they are magical. The seamless integration of magic and technology forms a compelling backdrop, while themes of survival, conflict, and power echo human history, grounding the fantastical in universal struggles. This rich and layered setting immerses readers in a world that feels extraordinary and relatable.
What sets Avatars of Destiny apart is Rautenbach’s intricate weaving of multiple storylines. Initially disconnected, these threads gradually intertwine, leading to an exhilarating and cohesive conclusion. Each character brings a fully fleshed-out backstory, which not only adds depth but drives the plot with clear motivations and personal stakes. The novel explores powerful themes such as self-discovery, loyalty, and the immense burden that comes with wielding great power.
The author skillfully balances fast-paced action with thoughtful character development, ensuring the story engages readers on both an emotional and intellectual level. One thing I liked about the book is the unique reflection section that follows each chapter. These summaries provide readers with additional insight into the characters’ choices while encouraging them to reflect on the unfolding events. By inviting readers to consider what they would do in similar situations, the book creates an interactive reading experience, blending traditional storytelling with a fresh and reflective approach that adds a personal layer to the narrative.
Visually captivating and intellectually stimulating, Avatars of Destiny is an exhilarating blend of action and introspection. Rautenbach has crafted a tale that not only entertains but provokes thought, making it a perfect read for those who love adventures that delve into deeper philosophical and moral questions.
Pages: 248 : ASIN : B0D9VL5HQF
Choose to Empower Others
When You Called My Name follows a sixteen-year-old boy with autism, depression, and anxiety who is contemplating suicide till he meets a new girl in school who helps him change his perspective. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Three friends of mine inspired this story. They bravely shared stories of what life was like for them as autistic people with depression and anxiety. (One of them is a counselor, and he shared more things from a professional POV.) They also mentioned how men got less attention for the same mental issues compared to women because traditionally, men were not encouraged to show any weakness or emotion. (That unfortunately remains a fact to this day.) That got me thinking. That’s why I wrote When You Called My Name and decided to tackle mental issues from a male perspective. The main character, Logan, was loosely based on my friends, although he does have my insecurity and tendency to overthink. Can’t help it, I always put a little bit of myself into every character I create.
Despite my objective to examine mental illness through a male perspective, female characters—most notably, Andrea—play an important role in the novel, too. Andrea is a perfect example of what a strong, brave character should be like. She doesn’t put down anyone because she’s comfortable with being herself. She doesn’t have to hurt anyone to make herself feel better. Only the best people choose to empower others, and that’s exactly what she does—she empowers Logan and helps him discover the beauty in being himself.
A lot of time was spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
Actually, I didn’t spend a lot of time crafting their character traits. Things just came easily to me. Logan Smith is an insecure main character who has a full character arc and becomes brave and emotionally mature at the end. Andrea Goldstein is a fairy godmother type of character who’s sunshiny and has a gift for making quirky, clever remarks. She ranks high on my list of favorite characters (which is an incredible feat, as I’ve written thirty-two books now and created hundreds of characters!) I don’t think I’ll ever give birth to another character as cool, interesting, and positive as she.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
There’s the obvious anti-bullying message, of course, but what lies behind it matters more—compassion, bravery, and finding the strength to grow. The sub-themes in my story are mortality and existentialism. The plot twists in the latter part of the story also serve to remind readers that life is fragile, and we must cherish every minute of it.
What is one thing that you hope teens and young adults take away from When You Called My Name?
Have empathy. Have empathy for anyone of any gender, race, or age. We’ll never know what it’s like to be in the shoes of another person, but having empathy and the ability to imagine ourselves in their position is what makes us human. To you, winning an award may be a tremendous achievement; to someone else, getting through another day is an accomplishment in itself. You never know what other people are going through, so “Judge not,” as the Bible says.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Book Review
Al Ana’s Curse
Al Ana’s Curse, by Jerome McGinn, is a supernatural thriller set in the quiet town of Cheboygan, where a centuries-old demon, Al Ana, haunts the residents, stealing souls and creating chaos. The story follows Aedan, a young man, alongside his friends Tim, Lindsey, and Mary who are determined to unravel the mystery behind the eerie occurrences linked to the river and the ancient demon. As they dive deeper into local lore and the strange happenings around them, Aedan and his friends face increasingly terrifying encounters with the malevolent force of Al Ana.
From the start, the book pulls readers into its atmosphere with richly detailed settings. The descriptions of Cheboygan, especially the ominous Chook River, make you feel like you’re standing right there, sensing the dread that lurks in the water. McGinn’s writing style is gripping and suspenseful. The pacing is excellent, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The banter between Aedan and his friends feels natural and relatable, reflecting the way teens interact. It is full of humor, hope, and occasional moments of self-doubt. McGinn does a great job of using dialogue to build tension, especially in scenes with old Man Harry, who adds layers of mystery with his cryptic warnings.
McGinn crafts incredible lore surrounding Al Ana. The myth feels real, blending seamlessly with the town’s history. The stakes feel higher every time Aedan and his friends inch closer to discovering the truth. I loved the creepy build-up, especially in scenes like the one where they face the mist at Chook River. It’s those moments where you can feel the characters’ fear that the book truly excels. McGinn knows how to paint fear into the landscape itself, turning even simple things like a ripple in the water into a sign of doom.
Al Ana’s Curse is a solid read for anyone who enjoys supernatural thrillers with a mix of mystery and eerie folklore. If you’re into stories about small towns hiding dark secrets, and if you love the slow burn of supernatural horror, this book is for you. It’s got enough suspense to keep you hooked and enough spookiness to give you chills long after you’ve turned the last page.
Pages: 246 | ASIN : B0DCT744RV
Real Talk: Navigating Critical Decisions in College and Beyond: Unveiling Secrets to Thrive at Life
Real Talk: Navigating Critical Decisions in College and Beyond by Ali Qasim, and honestly, it felt like a chat with a no-nonsense big brother who’s already walked the path and is tossing you the map so you don’t trip up like he did. This book is pretty much a blueprint for anyone stepping into the adult world, wondering how to nail it from school all the way to nailing your financial goals.
Qasim doesn’t just tell you to work hard; he tells you to work smart. One story that stuck with me was about Susie, the high school top student turned waitress, and Jake, who’s crushing it as an engineer. This isn’t just a sad reunion; it’s a wake-up call! Qasim’s point? Luck plays less of a role in success than making tough, smart decisions early on. It’s all about that groundwork, and honestly, it’s refreshing to see it laid out without sugar-coating.
Qasim label following your passion as “PBS” (Partial BS). Sure, follow your dreams, but maybe keep it as a hobby if it’s not going to pay the bills. Harsh but fair advice in a world where the cost of living is skyrocketing. His take on major choices and their impact on financial stability makes you really think twice about what path you choose in college. It’s like he’s saying, “Love what you do, but let’s keep it real about the moolah.”
Qasim also doesn’t shy away from discussing the pitfalls of post-grad job hunting, including all the hurdles from crafting a standout resume to nailing interviews and the art of negotiation. His practical tips, like treating your job search as a job itself, could be a game-changer for new grads hitting the job market.
So, would I recommend this book? Absolutely, if you’re the type to appreciate tough love. Qasim’s advice is perfect for high schoolers, college folks, or anyone about to start their career and wants to avoid common pitfalls. Dive into this book if you’re looking for practical, straight-to-the-point advice with a good dose of reality checks. It might just save you from some serious future headaches!
Pages: 132 | ASIN : B0DBF2V9PV
Against the Wind
Against the Wind by A.W. Baldwin spins an electrifying tale of adventure, danger, and unlikely partnerships. The story centers around 16-year-old Chloe, who has a lot on her plate. She’s desperate to escape her sketchy foster parents and even more determined to steal a plane to visit her grandfather. But will her daring plan work out? At the same time, Professor Dochauser is deeply involved in a high-stakes quantum physics project, research that holds the potential to change lives. However, a relentless “journalist” will stop at nothing to steal the professor’s work. It doesn’t take long for Chloe and the professor to realize that if they want to survive, they’ll need to rely on each other, because failure—or death—is not an option.
Chloe, the novel’s fiery protagonist, is a sassy, well-crafted character who brings a spark to every page. Readers will be drawn to her wit and resilience. The professor, while flawed, is equally compelling—a brilliant yet endearing figure that you can’t help but cheer for. Together, they face a series of thrilling, life-threatening situations, and the chemistry between them keeps the story’s momentum strong. The pacing is spot-on, with a tone that balances tension with bursts of humor. Set primarily in the sky, the story’s high-flying action will make readers dream of becoming pilots themselves. The stakes are high from the start—being shot at in a plane is just one of the pulse-pounding moments that makes this novel hard to put down. Yet, amid the danger, there are moments of beauty and human connection, such as when Chloe and the professor meet kind-hearted strangers on their journey to Spokane. The story also touches on the darker side of life, especially in Chloe’s struggle with her foster parents, who are anything but ideal. There’s an underlying sadness in her story, but it never overshadows the fierce drive that pushes her forward. Meanwhile, the looming threat of a mysterious antagonist—willing to go to any extreme to seize the professor’s secrets—keeps the tension high.
Against the Wind is a fast-paced, action-packed thrill ride that blends danger, humor, and heart. With its engaging characters, sky-high adventures, and nail-biting twists, this is a story that readers will devour and thoroughly enjoy!
Pages: 322 | ASIN : B0DHV3G316
LITERARY TITAN 