Blog Archives
Ritual, Horror, and Grief
In the Mountain’s Shadow follows an old woman who ventures into the unforgiving wilderness, where she navigates starvation, isolation, trauma, and violence, encountering both animalistic kindness in a wolf and horrifying brutality in other humans. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for In the Mountain’s Shadow came from many places. I was influenced by Japanese tales of ubasute, in which the elderly were allegedly left to die in the mountains; a haunting mythos that speaks to how societies often discard those they no longer find useful.
Most importantly, though, Park’s story is rooted, for me, in the image of the old witch in the woods – not as a villain, but as someone forged by abandonment, survival, and memory.
This blend of ritual, horror, and grief felt like something that needed to be written.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
Humans are endlessly fascinating…because of our capacity for reason, belief, and perseverance; because of how often those things contradict each other. We can convince ourselves of almost anything, sometimes to survive, sometimes to justify, sometimes just because we need meaning.
But what I find most remarkable is our need to tell stories. Sometimes we do it to connect, sometimes to escape, and sometimes for no real reason at all…the endlessly complex impulse to create. That instinct, that emotional transmission through narrative, is what makes fiction so powerful. The written word allows us to explore what it means to be alive in a way that’s both intimate and limitless.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I was drawn to the absence of older women as central figures in fiction—especially as active agents of violence, resilience, or transformation. I wanted to explore the idea of the “female monster” and how societal neglect often shapes that archetype.
What is the next story that you’re writing, and when will it be published?
I’ve got two in the works right now, and I’m hoping to publish sometime next year. One is a story about invading aliens and the way we experience otherness—how we react to what doesn’t belong, and what that says about us. The other is a story that explores the dangers of falling in love when identity, memory, and desire are unstable.
I tend to write more than one at a time, it helps give me a much-needed break from some of the darker material I tend to gravitate toward; it also allows me the freedom to break through genre and write whatever I feel like, whether that’s sci-fi, horror, or something quieter.
My other two published works include Razorblade, a dystopian western about the consequences of taking what doesn’t belong to you, and Fragmentations, a short story collection that plays with form and iterates on the puzzle of the human condition.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Light and Dark Shades
After the Before follows a pair of scavengers navigating the ruins of a collapsed world who uncover a mysterious box, only to wind up on an adventure filled with religious fanatics, deadly mechanical beings called A-Eye, and a stark landscape marked by craters and threats. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The original title of AFTER THE BEFORE was “Plassik,” the material from which the sealed, found box is made. The scenario of finding the box created the landscape, the characters that people it, and the story’s chain of events. I liked having a mystery from the get-go, a mystery that’s not solved until the very end of the book. Imagining what a world would be like 300 years after an apocalyptic event was challenging. Even the language was changed. All the imagining was fun!
Your story has some very interesting characters that have their character flaws but are still likable. How do you go about creating characters for your story?
Character flaws are what create interesting characters. A character would need to be a complete psychopath not to have some likeable trait. Backstories or lack thereof provide enough information for a reader to like even a creep like the religious fanatic.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
At heart, AFTER THE BEFORE is about four women, from young to old, who live their lives in this forlorn landscape. They each want something different: one wants closure, one wants purpose, another needs freedom, and another wants love. Love is really at the core of everything in the story. Together, these women explore loss, longing, loyalty, desire, and grief. It’s a broad palette with light and dark shades that offer great avenues for emotional exploration.
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?
Yes, this is the first book in the AFTER series. AFTER THE BEFORE took three years to finish. I hope to have book two, IN THE AFTER, out much sooner! Some of the characters from AFTER THE BEFORE will be returning.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Three hundred years after the fall of civilization, scavengers Sophie and Markus uncover a sealed, translucent box buried deep in the ruins of The Before. What’s inside might hold answers to the apocalyptic origins of The After and a path to a safer future—if it can be opened.
Hoping for help, they set out for the faraway City where a reclusive historian may have the knowledge they need. The trek takes them across the cratered plain, bombed almost into oblivion, and infested with unstoppable humanoid machines hungry for human flesh.
When a religious fanatic derails their mission, Sophie and the box disappear. Markus enlists unexpected allies to help find her, pushing into the heart of his worst fears and opening bitter wounds and testing loyalties.
What’s in the box may lead to a better future—but it just might cost them each other.
Deception’s Edge
From the very first chapter, Deception’s Edge plunges you into a world that fuses action, espionage, faith, and deep personal trauma into a globe-spanning narrative. The story follows Blade Broussard, a knife-throwing performer with a haunted past, and a covert brotherhood known as the Soldati di Cristo, as they navigate an escalating series of violent confrontations and spiritual reckonings. Across cities like New Orleans, Rome, and Pyongyang, Potter weaves together a story that pits characters against ruthless regimes, their own inner demons, and a ticking clock that adds weight to every decision.
I found myself torn in the best possible way while reading this book. On one hand, the writing is brisk, full of punchy dialogue and vivid action that reads like a cinematic thriller. On the other hand, there are deeply reflective moments, grief, redemption, and hard-won faith that give the story emotional muscle. What impressed me most was Potter’s ability to bring out the complexity in her characters. Blade isn’t just a revenge-driven protagonist; she’s deeply flawed, grieving, sometimes reckless, but always inching toward growth. And Chase, who starts out as a bit of a mystery, becomes a steady heartbeat in the chaos, a man whose convictions give the plot real weight. Potter doesn’t just throw her characters into wild situations; she lets them break, rebuild, and wrestle with truth.
With a cast this large and subplots this layered, I sometimes struggled to keep track of shifting motivations, especially across the international set pieces. The story juggled many threads, action, espionage, faith-based conflict, and interpersonal drama. But I can’t deny that even when the plot got tangled, the emotional stakes stayed strong. The writing has heart, and that matters more to me than perfect pacing.
Deception’s Edge surprised me. It’s not just another thriller. It’s part Jason Bourne, part missionary story, part personal redemption arc. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys high-octane action with soul. It’s especially a good fit for readers who appreciate stories that ask hard questions about faith, forgiveness, and how we move forward when everything’s been taken from us. If you want a thriller with grit and grace, give this one a shot.
Myth or Reality
Pope Joan follows a woman who defies all odds when she disguises herself as a man and rises through the ranks in the Catholic church and secures the position of Pope. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
I came across an article about the myth or reality of a female who became pope. Her real identity as a woman was revealed when her water broke in public, and she began to deliver a baby. According to the legend, she was stoned to death as she was about to enter one of the churches in Rome. I started to imagine how a woman back in those days, when a woman was heavily restricted, could climb the ladder through the church to become pope. What was her back story? My curiosity soon took over, and I did extensive research on the times in which she lived and the struggles she had to endure to succeed and become Pope Joan.
Can you share a little about the research that went into putting your book together?
The Internet offered a wide range of great resources to help me locate specific materials: timelines, biographies of people who lived during the age that I was interested in, places that housed certain religious orders, and the ongoing conflicts of the age. Generally speaking, I have had a fascination with the Middle Ages and now have a small reference library dedicated to the Crusades and the Reconquista.
What was your favorite moment in Joan’s story? Is there one scene that resonates with you?
I was most touched by Joan’s time in prison when she was awaiting execution. What was going through her mind? Surely, the uncertainty of being executed or not weighed heavily and gave her a feeling of dread. But also she thought about the safety and well-being of her child. No matter how old children are, their parents want to know they are safe.
Will your next book be historical fiction? What are you currently preparing for your fans?
I have written and my editor is currently finalizing my next historical fiction novel, Kitty Schmidt: My Life as a Prostitute. Kitty managed the Gestapo’s brothel during World War II. How did she find herself in this position? Did she have a family? What happened to her during the bombing of Berlin and the subsequent Russian invasion of the city? I wanted to explore all of these aspects of her life.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
While Andrew pursues the world of numbers and accounting, Joan becomes an avid student, learning to love reading and acquiring knowledge, eventually – through a string of circumstances – propelling her to higher and higher offices within the church and finally becoming the first and only female pope.
How long does Pope Joan keep her gender a secret?
Pope Joan
Pope Joan, by Pablo Zaragoza, is a historical novel that tells the gripping story of a woman who defies societal norms and disguises herself as a man to rise through the ranks of the Church, ultimately becoming the Pope. Set in the brutal and unforgiving world of the ninth century, the book weaves history, myth, and speculation into a rich narrative about ambition, intelligence, and survival. Joan, born into a world that limits women to silence and servitude, refuses to accept her fate. She thirsts for knowledge, a rare and dangerous trait for a female, and her relentless pursuit of learning leads her on a path few could imagine. The book follows her struggles, victories, and the immense risks she takes to carve out a place in a world that would see her destroyed if the truth were known.
One of the things I loved about this book was how vivid and immersive the writing felt. The details of medieval life are gritty and raw. Joan’s intelligence shines through every page, and her thirst for knowledge is portrayed so powerfully that I felt her frustration every time someone tried to snuff it out. There’s a scene early on where her father, a rigid and cruel priest, beats her simply for being curious. That moment alone set the tone for the kind of world she was up against.
Another thing that stood out to me was how the novel balanced historical depth with emotional intensity. Sometimes, historical fiction can feel weighed down by facts, but this book never lets the history overpower the human heart of the story. Joan’s relationships—her forbidden love with Gerold, her conflicts with the men who underestimate her, and her silent struggle to remain hidden—kept me glued to the pages. The tension was constant. Every moment, I was bracing for the inevitable discovery of her secret, yet I couldn’t stop hoping she’d keep pulling off the impossible.
There are moments throughout the book that are very dramatic. Some of the characters, particularly the villains, left me wanting more depth to their character to understand their intensity. Joan’s father, for instance, was especially harsh, which emphasized the struggles she faced. While I understood that his role was to represent the oppressive forces of the time, I occasionally wished for a little more nuance in how those forces were portrayed. Still, the book remained engaging, and even in its most heightened moments, it never lost its emotional depth.
I’d recommend Pope Joan to anyone who loves historical fiction, particularly readers who enjoy stories of strong women defying the odds. If you’re looking for a novel that combines rich historical detail with a gripping, fast-paced story, this one is worth picking up. It’s intense. It’s emotional. And it’s the kind of book that stays with you long after the final chapter.
Pages: 179 | ASIN : B0CW1JH88C
Creating My Own Fantasy World
In Sorcery & Sin in the Second World: A Tale of Two, a couple who enter a mysterious portal are ripped apart, one imprisoned and one forced to marry an evil sorcerer, must face perilous quests in order to reunite. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
Some of the idea came from reading classical novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs like the Princess of Mars and Tarzan series, but also from all of the sword and sandal movies in the 1980s like Conan the Barbarian and Red Sonja just to name a few. I’ve always wanted to create my own sword and fantasy world.
Do you have a favorite character in this novel? One that was especially enjoyable to write?
It’s hard to pick a favorite character because there are aspects of each one that I like such as Rena’s resilience, Kana’s toughness, or Pal’s ability to deal with all of the B. S. whether it be in the first or second world. My favorite character to write is probably Garneth because although he’s wise like Yoda or Gandalf, he’s also a grumpy old man with a potty mouth and flaws. It makes it more fun to me that he’s not pefect.
What was your hardest scene to write?
The sex scenes can be difficult because I want to entice the reader with a bit of eroticism but at the same time convey the characters’ thoughts and emotions during them to give it some heart.
Can we look forward to a third installment in this series soon? Where will it take readers?
I’m aiming to have the third installment done by the end of this year/beginning of next. I’m thinking of Rena and Pal having more time together rather than apart but also show Rena and Kana dealing with each other because of their closeness to Pal.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram
Tossed into a magical prison tower after reuniting briefly with his wife Rena, Pal must figure a way out to be with her once again. In prison he meets Kana, a neighbor from back home now living in the second world for twenty-three years, not quite a day in the first world. With her help he’s determined to break out, learn about his sorcerer powers, and find Rena once again.
While her husband Pal is locked away, Rena contends with being forced into a marriage with the duplicitous Sorcerer King Sego and battling multiple sorcerer enemies. All the while, Rena keeps a secret that could change the course of not only her life, but Pal’s too.
Rena and Pal discover what they are made of, but is it enough in this second world of sorcery, sex, love, and adventure?
Unravel the mysteries of the Second Word, where a moment is a lifetime, and every lifetime is a tale of magic.
Join Rena and Pal as they navigate a land brimming with magic, ancient enmities, and timeless love. Get your copy of Sorcery & Sin in the Second World: A Tale of Two today and unravel the magic, mysteries, and monumental adventures waiting on the other side of reality.
Sorcery & Sin in the Second World: A Tale of Two
R.S. d’Arcy’s Sorcery & Sin in the Second World: A Tale of Two continues the captivating saga of Pal and Rena, a married couple navigating a magical realm far removed from their everyday life. Picking up where the first installment left off, the story plunges readers back into the Second World—a place Pal and Rena entered through a mysterious portal in their backyard. This sequel begins with Pal imprisoned in the inescapable tower, while Rena is bound to the sinister sorcerer Sego, forced into a role as his wife and queen. Though separated, their shared goal of reunion drives their individual quests, which are fraught with peril, tests of loyalty, and personal transformation.
Adventure, humor, and intrigue fill every chapter, making this story an absolute page-turner. The Second World’s unique blend of medieval and modern elements is brilliantly realized, with d’Arcy’s masterful world-building serving as a standout feature. From enchanted kingdoms ruled by powerful sorcerers to rich magical lore, every detail feels intentional and immersive. Readers are transported effortlessly into this vibrant and dangerous realm, where magic and human ambition collide.
The novel doesn’t just shine through its fantasy elements; it also explores profound themes. The treatment of women, for example, is a recurring motif that adds depth and resonance. Rena and Kana, another prisoner within the tower, exemplify the unyielding strength of women. Despite physical and emotional trials, their resilience remains a central force, particularly in harrowing encounters with the dwarves and Sego. Their perseverance and dedication to those they care for offer a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit of women, even in the darkest moments.
Emotional themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal pulse through the narrative. Pal’s unwavering devotion to Rena propels much of the story, whether he’s battling to escape the tower or grappling with his own evolving powers. Similarly, Rena faces agonizing choices that test her endurance and commitment. Both characters are forced to weigh their survival against their love for one another, creating a gripping tension that asks the timeless question: can true love conquer all?
For fantasy lovers, Sorcery & Sin in the Second World: A Tale of Two is a must-read. It blends intricate world-building and serious emotional themes with doses of humor and fiery romantic tension. Fans of Lord of the Rings and Throne of Glass will find much to savor in this series’ unique take on fantasy. Step through the portal and embark on an unforgettable journey filled with magic, danger, and heart.
Pages: 399 | ASIN : B0DPJC8KHG
The Ransom Enigma
Step into the vibrant world of Magnolia Bluff, Texas, and prepare for a gripping thriller in The Ransom Enigma, the latest offering by Breakfield and Burkey as part of The Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles. With a fresh twist and high stakes, this novel promises to keep readers on edge. Jo, a former top model from Brazil, seeks a quiet life after the chaos of her career. Instead, she’s thrust into a whirlwind of extortion and danger. Alongside her tech-savvy husband, JJ, she becomes entangled in a shadowy game of blackmail. Breakfield and Burkey masterfully develop Jo’s character, showcasing her emotional turmoil alongside her unyielding determination to protect her family and preserve their idyllic life—no matter the cost.
The supporting cast adds richness and complexity to the narrative. JJ’s sharp business acumen and protective instincts are skillfully portrayed, offering a striking balance to his grounded, empathetic nature. Joyce, a believable and dynamic local realtor, breathes life into the setting, while Brandon, a former New York detective, brings investigative prowess to unravel the mystery. These characters are vivid, relatable, and integral to the plot’s momentum. The story unfolds with unexpected twists that defy predictability. The authors expertly weave elements of cross-border crime, small-town intrigue, and advanced technology into a narrative that captivates from start to finish. Magnolia Bluff, with its vivid descriptions and lively spirit, feels tangible and immersive, a town brimming with secrets waiting to be unearthed. Breakfield and Burkey’s approachable writing style draws readers in, combining sharp dialogue, dynamic action, and evocative detail into a seamless reading experience. The tension mounts with every scene, compelling the reader to keep turning pages until the smartly crafted resolution.
The Ransom Enigma is a thrilling tale brimming with complex characters and high-octane action. Whether you’re visiting Magnolia Bluff for the first time or returning for another adventure, this novel adds depth and intrigue to the series. For readers seeking the perfect mix of suspense, vibrant characters, and unexpected turns, this story delivers in every way.
Pages: 262 | ASIN : B0CZLGZRHR
LITERARY TITAN 