Blog Archives
We Take Care of Our Own
The Enforcer’s Tale follows a kidnapped teenager who is forced to become part of the Coalition who took him from his home and now must decide to help them or turn against them and help families like the one he was taken from. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Joseph’s story was created from a dream and my childhood experience of being adopted. In my dream, rebels fight against the government, which is set on dictating to families how to live and care for their children. The rebels escape into underground caverns to hide themselves and plan their resistance.
Joseph misses his mother but is groomed to see the Coalition as saviors of society and now must choose his path in life. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
While coming from a small farming community, Joseph has not experienced much of the “big” world, but he has a good sense of right and wrong. I wanted him to learn as a new child opens their eyes to new experiences – with awe and wonder. As his senses awaken to the harsh reality of his new life, he strives to keep true to his inner self and decides to play “double agent” – playing the political game but trying hard to remain true to his family and community that he was so abruptly torn from. I wanted Joseph to be relatable to my readers – someone who is conflicted and tries to do the right thing, even if it means taking big risks.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One of the main themes is “we take care of our own.” It’s mentioned numerous times by different characters, even the ones we don’t like. It is meant to remind my readers that every character feels like they must take care of their family and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe.
Another theme is belonging and trust. While Joseph is taken from his widowed mother, and he misses her immensely, he realizes that he’s not alone in those feelings. Each person he meets has a similar story of either being taken from their family or knowing someone who was taken. Trust is important, but the challenge is knowing who to trust.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
There will definitely be a follow-up novel to this story! It is meant to be at least a three-book series. The next book will continue with the rebels trying to take down the government while searching for the lost treasure of Harper’s Mountain. There will be a lot of twists and shocking moments, and I’m very excited about what is coming!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Joanne Kimm | Amazon
Captured while trying to hide himself and other children, Joseph is forcibly taken from his widowed mother. Over the next six years he is groomed as an Enforcer for the Coalition. His eyes are opened to a new life of distrust, deceit, and hidden agendas. But a shocking death sets Joseph as leader of the Coalition. When he discovers that rebels are harbouring children at a secret haven called the Talon, he must decide whether to risk his own life to aid them or betray the rebels and sentence the leaders to death, including his own mother, whom he yearns to see again.
The Story of Josette and Daniel: A Contemporary Sweet Romance Trilogy
Dr. Katherine E. A. Korkidis’ The Story of Josette and Daniel: A Contemporary Sweet Romance Trilogy offers a captivating contemporary romance journey through the stages of life and love. Josette beautifully captures a young girl’s resilience and discovery of her musical talents, leading her to New York and into a complicated but heartfelt romance with her instructor, Daniel. This story of love and overcoming adversity resonates deeply.
In Daniel, the focus shifts to the life of Daniel Ellington, whose early life of privilege contrasts with emotional complexities. His intricate relationship with Josette, set against his own personal struggles and a loveless marriage, paints a rich tapestry of human emotions and choices.
The trilogy culminates with Josette and Daniel, a story that beautifully ties together themes of love, redemption, and personal growth. Their married life, filled with both challenges and triumphs, is a moving portrayal of commitment and the power of love to heal and transform lives.
The trilogy’s vivid settings and engaging character arcs, along with a glimpse into high-society life, add a layer of elegance and fascination. The narrative style, with its straightforward exposition, offers a clear and accessible reading experience, while the inclusion of detailed cultural elements adds depth and authenticity to the story. The character development throughout the trilogy is thoughtful and nuanced, offering readers characters that, while near-perfect, embody aspirational qualities that inspire. This, combined with the potential for further narrative refinement, suggests that with minor adjustments, the trilogy could offer an even more immersive and emotionally rich experience. This trilogy is a delightful and sophisticated romance that skillfully intertwines emotional depth with the allure of luxury and intrigue. Its heartfelt storytelling and memorable characters make it a standout in contemporary romance literature.
Dr. Katherine E. A. Korkidis’ trilogy is a beautifully woven narrative of love, resilience, and transformation. It skillfully captures the essence of contemporary romance, blending rich settings with complex characters to create a deeply engaging and memorable reading experience.
Pages: 698 | ASIN : B0C7XRFCYF
Trust and Friendship
Bringer of Light follows the crew of a spaceship on a mission to find new substances who accidentally come in contact with alien genetic materials leading to unexpected results. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As I wrote some months ago on my author website (see below), this novel was originally a joint project with an old college friend of mine. We have both been avid science fiction fans since our teenage years, but he studied science while I went on to study literature and language. At one point in late 2014 or early 2015, he wrote to me about an idea he had based on asteroid mining. The concept of mining asteroids for rare minerals had always been only in the realm of fantasy, but at the time (and indeed, now the pace and planning have picked up) companies around the world actually thought they had developed the technology to do so. Other writers (e.g., the “James S.A. Corey” duo) had just published about it, but we thought it would be more interesting to keep it both much closer to the present day and also add a metaphysical element. I.e., what would happen not just physically but emotionally and even philosophically to people who encountered the unknown in space? how would they view life, and their part to play in their society? how would others who didn’t have that experience react to this change in people they thought they knew?
The world you created in this novel is brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you wrote?
As a long-time fan of the Dune series (well, the original four books, anyways), I had always thought to set the main thread of the narrative on Mars. This is because Frank Herbert had originally planned to set Dune on Mars, then changed his mind to avoid all the political complications. I wanted to tackle those complications head on, and in the process, make them even more complicated (lol). So when my friend dropped out of the project for personal reasons and handed the entire story over to me, I quickly replotted the narrative, changed our original outline, and added several more characters in vying factions. By the time I got to a workable first draft, however, NASA (among others) had announced more discoveries about the presence of water on Mars. So I had to go back and rewrite several spots to make sure the science (and the fiction) were more plausible. Up to a point! (It is science fiction and not science, after all).
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Some of the more important themes are power and acceptance, control and chaos, forgiveness and revenge, and above all else trust and friendship, neither of which can be demanded or bought but only given or earned. There may be other themes not evident to me that readers find on their own.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
This is the first book of a trilogy entitled Children of Pella. The second book, Defenders of Aeropagus, will skip ahead to see the burgeoning new cities of Mars, which has undergone partial terraforming but now faces two new threats. In recent years, a band of former asteroid hunters has turned to raiding the Mars cities for captives, believing that by ingesting Martian flesh they can gain the same telekinetic abilities. A Martian girl kidnapped as a child returns to reclaim her heritage, triggering plans for an all-out assault on the dying cities of Earth in a desperate attempt to retake what they believe ought to be theirs, while unknown to all a secret weapon is under construction by a hidden separatist group determined to take it all. The story concludes in book three, Return to Omphales, currently outlined but not yet written, as the Martian hierarchy begins to fracture and the separatists’ weapon increasingly puts them all in peril.
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To the disappointment of the Artemis crew, the rock is ultimately judged as comprising mostly ice and inert materials, with only some trace substances and no valuable minerals. They turn a chunk of it into drinking water for their own use and send the rest to the burgeoning Mars colony for further processing. Unknown to the crewmembers, the ice contains undetectable alien genetic material from outside the solar system. Before long, the crewmembers begin to hear voices, to experience other dimensionalities, and to learn more about the nature of the universe than they were prepared to. Their internal conflicts and new understanding of reality lead them to establish a new community on Mars, where the conflict sunders the Awakened from the Terrans who refuse to participate. Mars is reborn, and humanity will never be the same…
Phoenix Gumshoe – A Max Baer Trilogy
Phoenix Gumshoe, by G. L. Rockey, is a fascinating trilogy that delves into the dark underbelly of human trafficking, the complexities of human relationships, and the intricacies of personal dilemmas. This trilogy includes three distinct stories—”Help Wanted,” “Massage,” and “High Stakes Pandemic,” each unfolding unique narratives. Readers follow Max Baer, a former police detective turned private investigator in Phoenix, Arizona. The trilogy takes readers on a journey filled with suspense, emotional depth, and raw human experiences.
Rockey’s writing style is both engaging and thought-provoking, seamlessly blending gritty detective work with psychological insights. In “Help Wanted,” the narrative thrives on intense, fast-paced action as it unravels the horrific world of a human trafficking ring. Rockey’s detailed portrayal of the seedy underbelly of society is both disturbing and compelling, painting a vivid picture of the moral abyss that Baer navigates. The author’s choice to tackle such a dark topic through the eyes of a hardened yet vulnerable protagonist like Baer adds a layer of authenticity and emotional resonance to the story.
“Massage,” on the other hand, takes a slightly different turn, focusing more on dialogues and character interactions, particularly through a radio talk show. This section offers an interesting exploration of human sexuality, emotions, and the complexities of personal relationships. The conversations are raw and unfiltered, providing an honest look into the diverse spectrum of human experiences. However, the shift from a high-stakes crime narrative to a talk show format might be jarring for some readers, though it certainly adds depth and variety to the overall trilogy.
“High Stakes Pandemic,” the last story in this trilogy, dives into a world of deceit and danger within the pharmaceutical industry. In this crime thriller, Max Baer finds himself entangled in a complex plot involving the VP of a pharmaceutical company, who is coerced into creating a virus and its vaccine for financial gain. The story expertly intertwines elements of suspense, corruption, and ethical quandaries, as Baer navigates through a maze of lies and peril. The author’s adept storytelling shines in depicting the unraveling of the conspiracy, leading to a gripping climax where justice precariously hangs in the balance.
Phoenix Gumshoe is tailor-made for readers who enjoy crime dramas with a psychological twist. Its exploration of dark themes, combined with a deep dive into the human psyche, makes it an ideal read for those who appreciate narratives that don’t shy away from the grittier aspects of life. While the content can be intense, I think it’s well-balanced with moments of introspection and character development, making it a thought-provoking read. G L Rockey’s “Gumshoe” is highly recommended for fans of crime thrillers, detective stories, and those who appreciate a deep dive into the complexities of the human condition.
Remarkable and Inspiring
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk follows a woman on a journey to the New World in 1620 who encounters challenges that she could not have foreseen and must fight for her own survival. What inspired the setup of your story?
For over forty years, I have done genealogy as a hobby to learn more about my family, where we came from, and what we went through. As a part of that process, I realized how seldom women were at the forefront of histories stories even though they were often the ones holding the whole thing together. I felt like I needed to give these women, my ancestors, and yours, a voice.
Sarah is portrayed as an ordinary woman who has to rise above the standard stereotype to survive the harsh conditions she finds herself in. What do you find interesting about the human condition that you think makes for great fiction?
I think we often forget that it is the ordinary person among us who often does extraordinary things. Sarah doesn’t see herself as a victim of the many challenges she faces, instead, she seizes each of those challenges to grow and learn and in the process, she discovers who she really is, and what she is really capable of. That is inspiring to me and I hope to others who read my books.
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 did not. This was my first novel, and while I knew the story would start on the Mayflower, I knew little else. I didn’t even know how the story would end until it did! As I “became” Sarah and began to weave into her story things that had happened to my ancestors, and to those of her time, the story just grew organically. Sarah is an amalgamation of what so many women of that time endured, the pain, the struggles, the joy, and the hope for the future.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
On the Wings is the first of the trilogy The Centenary Chronicles-Tales of American Women. The second book which follows Sarah’s great-great-granddaughter Eliza during the American Revolution was published in November of 2023. Till I Come Home is another story of an ordinary woman faced with circumstances most of us could not even imagine and how she manages to face those challenges while finding a way to hold her marriage and her family together.
The last book in the Chronicles is out next week, Her Last Full Measure is a very personal book for me, heavily based on my own family’s experience during the Civil War and follows Eliza’s great-granddaughter Millicent and her family. Men get and deserve great accolades for the sacrifices they make in war and that theme runs through all the books. But, it’s the women, what they must do to survive while the men are gone that is truly remarkable and inspiring. It doesn’t always have a happy ending, it isn’t always easy, and sometimes it is raw and painful. But each of these books takes the reader into the heart of a woman they can admire, empathize with, and be inspired by, leaving the reader feeling hopeful with a newfound appreciation for what their ancestors did so they could be here today.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Winner of the highly coveted 5-star Highly Recommended award from The Historical Fiction Company.
Nominated for the Eric Hoffer Award for Excellence.
Plymouth 1620-Sarah has left the security of all she knows to travel with her husband to the New World, but things don’t go as planned. The Mayflower is lost unable to find the colony already there they must manage on their own. Not enough food, no shelter, then people start dying. Can Sarah find her inner strength and prevail or is she destined to join the others, another grave on Coles Hill.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is deeply satisfying. Whether it veers towards happiness or sadness, it stays true to the story’s spirit and provides a fitting conclusion to Sarah’s journey.
This book stands out for its focus on ordinary women of the past, whose accomplishments were anything but ordinary. This perspective is refreshing and adds a unique dimension to the genre of historical fiction. The authors skill at incorporating historical elements into an engrossing story without becoming boring is impressive. Because of the evocative and detailed writing, Sarah’s experiences come to life on the page. A cleverly written plot arc with a distinct beginning, middle, and end. Every stage of Sarah’s trip receives sufficient attention, guaranteeing a smooth and seamless progression of the story. A must read for everyone who loves strong woman characters who overcome the odds.
Chaos Ascending: A Feast of Betrayal
Chaos Ascending: A Feast of Betrayal, by R.C. Vielee, emerges as a compelling dark fantasy novel, intricately weaving themes of internal conflict, fate, and the interplay of parallel universes. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and spiritual turmoil, the story unfolds in a world teetering on the brink of collapse. The protagonist, Reyne, is thrust into a treacherous journey through the Void to Evidar, grappling with the burdens of deception and destiny while evading assassins. His story is a reflection of the broader narrative: the struggle of Tartica under Chancellor Tomelai’s oppressive rule and the looming threat of the Devil’s Blacksmith.
Reyne’s character is deftly portrayed, and his inner turmoil echoes the larger societal decay and the tension between conformity and rebellion. This complexity lends him a relatable depth, particularly in his struggles with moral ambiguity and trust, mirroring the human inclination to adapt for survival.
Mithany’s character complements this dynamic, offering a poignant exploration of guilt and honesty amid a web of deceit. The antagonist, known as the Devil’s Blacksmith, injects a palpable sense of dread into the narrative, embodying the despair and dangers lurking within the story’s universe. The juxtaposition of Evidar and Tartica skillfully illustrates the perpetual battle between darkness and light, resonating with the complexities and dualities of real life. Vielee’s novel is notable for its meticulous attention to detail and the seamless integration of sophisticated themes, especially the exploration of physics elements. The characters are crafted with depth and nuance, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the reader.
Chaos Ascending is more than a fantasy novel; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition set against a richly imagined world. A highly recommended read for anyone seeking a compelling dark fantasy that will remain with the reader long after the last page is turned.
Pages: 609 | ASIN : B0CTGJW7Y4
Self-Discovery and Personal Growth
Shamera follows a young male apprentice who must quickly master his magical arts to save the kidnapped Great Verazslo before evil takes over the land. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup of Shamera was inspired by the classic battle between good and evil. A theme found in many mythologies and folklore across different cultures. I wanted to incorporate this eternal struggle into a vibrant, imaginative story. It takes place in the background of a young apprentice’s urgent mission to become a master of his magical powers. This character’s journey symbolises the transition from naivety to wisdom. The concept of a ticking clock adds urgency to the story. The protagonist must save Verazslo before evil triumphs, mirroring the pressures we often experience in our own lives. We are familiar with the need to overcome challenges before time runs out. The setup, therefore, is not just a plot mechanism but a reflection on broader human experiences and the perennial fight against darkness both within and outside of all of us.
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?
In crafting the characters for Shamera, the paramount factor was authenticity. The metamorphosis of an adolescent’s journey from naivety to his inherent potential for greatness. This was crucial in ensuring readers could connect with, understand, and even see part of themselves in this character. It was important to find a balance between the relatable struggles he faces in his quest and the challenges that young people face today. This would help them identify their own strengths, weaknesses, fears, and desires.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Shamera explores several pivotal themes that resonate with both the fantasy genre and the human condition. The story revolves around the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery and personal growth. As he faces the challenges of his destiny, he learns about his strengths, weaknesses, and the importance of making choices. Another important theme in the story is the duality of nature. It explores the contrast between light and darkness, good and evil. This contrast is seen in both the world as a whole and in individuals’ hearts. The story also emphasises the importance of mentorship and community. It shows how our relationships with others can guide and shape us, giving us the strength to overcome seemingly impossible challenges. The importance of standing up for what is right aiming to inspire readers to reflect on their values and the impact of their actions in the world. Shamera aims to provide more than just a fantasy getaway. It also serves as a reflection of the eternal battles and victories of the human spirit.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
My first book in the Shamera trilogy laid the groundwork for a sweeping and captivating saga that dives into the essence of magic, adventure, and the timeless struggle between light and dark. As I weave this series, I find the layers of the narrative and the depth of the characters growing richer, with the second instalment set to propel Shamera’s story to unprecedented levels. I want to keep the core twists and turns of the first book’s conclusion a mystery to maintain its thrill. However, I can assure you that the sequel intensifies Shamera’s quest significantly. He will face new, unexplored challenges that test him both in the physical realms of his world and in the inner recesses of his being. The adversities are tougher, the obstacles more formidable, and the insights gained more profound. Echoing the intricate narrative style of the first book, the sequel intertwines hidden truths and local legend, crafting a narrative that is as intellectually stimulating as it is entertaining. This fusion of fantastical elements with the nuances of myth lends a distinct character to the story, urging readers to reflect on the fine line between legend and reality. Having completed the manuscript, I am now deep in the editing phase, dedicated to refining every detail, from the evolution of the characters to the complexity of the plot. My goal is to deliver a sequel that not only lives up to but also exceeds the expectations set by its predecessor, offering an experience that is both immersive and emotionally stirring. With the release expected this summer, the next instalment in the Shamera trilogy is shaping up to be an exciting progression of a story that has already captured many hearts.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Following the kidnapping of the Great Verazslo, he must quickly learn his magical art. He needs to seek out the Elvenii before the Blood Moon has waned and give them the crystal shard for its protection. However, there are evil forces who want the crystal for themselves and will stop at nothing to get their hands on it.
When the destructive Sorceress begins to ravage the region, Shamera is sent on a quest to an unknown land. He must decipher an encrypted map and search for a mysterious weapon, to help defeat the evil Sorceress in battle.
The fate of the Second Realm rests on Shamera’s young shoulders.
Stewards of a Healthy Planet
The Adventures of Captain Polo: Polo and the Yeti follows a polar bear on an adventure who is captured and in danger of being sold to a zoo if he cannot escape and continue his journey. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
This is the second book of a trilogy that was originally published as a single title. When I decided to split this story into three separate books, I knew I had to find a cliffhanger on which to end the first book, and the perfect scene was when Polo is captured at sea. This is what inspired the setup in Book 2 starting with Polo escaping in the port of Shanghai, and it was a good way to simultaneously continue the main character’s travelogue into a key geography for topics relating to climate change (both in terms of issues and solutions) whilst maintaining the vital element of fast-paced entertainment required to carry the story along.
Many of the scenes in this part of the book are inspired by Tintin comics, both graphically and in terms of the plot.
Captain Polo may be a polar bear, but he has human characteristics and encounters problems because he is seen as just an animal. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
A fundamental driving characteristic of character development in this first trilogy that carries through all three books is that the initial reaction of most human characters to Polo is surprise or even fear. This is a rational argument denoting the most probable reaction any human would have to suddenly encountering a bipedal polar bear in the most unexpected places. The pattern that immediately unfolds is that those same people quickly realise this is not an ordinary wild animal; Polo’s human traits quickly break through people’s fear and surprise to the point where they see him on their level as a conversant and highly intelligent being. This then allows Polo to interact in a meaningful way to carry the non-fiction elements of the book.
The Adventures of Captain Polo: Polo and the Yeti, I felt, did a good job explaining climate change and global warming to young readers. What is one thing that you hope readers take away from the story?
The main thing I wanted this particular book to communicate to readers is that two of the countries in the world that rank among the highest offenders in terms of causing global warming (China and India) are actually also among the most innovative for climate solutions, whether through public policy, technology, or both. Polo and the Yeti fulfills this purpose and the geography involved also provided me with an opportunity to throw in some messages of wisdom from Eastern religions and spiritual sources, many of which explicitly allude to humans’ responsibility as stewards of a healthy planet.
This is important to me because my readers so far at least tend to be mostly from the Western world, and I want my books to present the reality of climate change while also taking into account the perspective of other parts of the world, particularly in terms of social and technological innovation to mitigate and adapt to climate change. It is important that young readers appreciate they are part of a single world, and not as isolated as they might think from kids their age who live very far away.
When will Book 3 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
Book 3 is already available! The final installment of the trilogy takes Captain Polo across the Arabian Sea into East Africa, down the River Nile, and on into Western Europe. Polo has many adventures along the way and learns about even more subtle and unexpected facets of climate change, such as the combined impact of global warming and tourism on Masai populations in Kenya and how climate change is, at least in part, at the root of the problematic immigration of desperate refugees from North Africa and the Middle East seeking asylum in Europe. At the end of Book 3 Polo is guest of honor of former President Obama, befriends Leonardo DiCaprio and Edward Norton, and makes a new friend in London Zoo…
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Captain Polo and the Yeti is an exciting graphic novel in the tradition of the legendary Tintin and Asterix series. If you like stories of adventure and humour with accurate geographical and cultural settings, then you’ll love this fast-paced, educational and entertaining tale.
Captain Polo is devastated: his precious boat is in pieces, lying at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, and he is locked in the hold of a fishing vessel, destined to be sold to a zoo in a foreign land.
In Book 2 of the series, Polo faces countless dangers and obstacles on a path that will take him across China, up the mighty Himalaya mountains into the forbidden monasteries of Tibet, through the swampy delta of Bangladesh, and into India. On his voyage Polo meets many colourful, informative, heroic, kind, mischievous and also dangerous characters, ranging from an enlightened Chinese farmer to a jealous Fakir, a disgruntled Bengal Tiger to the Dalai Lama himself. On his way Polo also meets and learns from a character drawn from legend…
Every step of the way the bear who has become Captain Polo hones his understanding of the causes and effects of climate change, the true meaning of global warming and how it is affecting all living creatures and human societies. Polo also witnesses the heroic efforts of individuals, human groups and governments who are learning to adapt to a changing world, reduce their carbon footprints by innovating in the use of cutting edge technology and becoming leaders in the adoption of clean energy.
Captain Polo is half way around the world and a long way from home. On his travels he has picked up new understanding and knowledge about how global warming is affecting people across the world.
Get Book 2 in the series to share in his learning, and have fun while doing so!
LITERARY TITAN 