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Coyote
Coyote by Ashley Brandt explores the centuries-old Navajo legend of Ma’ii. Raven Thatcher is an 18-year-old shapeshifter coyote in Maine who assumes a new position as the pack’s warrior. During her first night of duty, she is attacked by her feral boyfriend, Jonathan, and unexpectedly reduced by a stranger, with whom she immediately becomes infatuated.
Raven finds herself faced with the choice of either becoming the pack’s warrior or living as a passive housewife. She must make difficult choices, which leads to leading her pack toward justice while becoming entangled in a web of murder, intrigue, revenge, and deception. The author does an exceptional job of weaving suspense and mystery into a story that centers around elements of the Ma’ii and the power of perseverance. Raven becomes the only female graduate of the beta pack while learning to embrace a new phase of life.
I found the story riveting, including Raven’s journey and personal development. The book is a definite page-turner and captures the reader’s attention with vivid description and character development. Brandt expertly brings subtle elements of eroticism and fantasy fiction that are ideal for fans of adult fiction and fantasy themes. The story is set in the 2000s in Maine, with solid visual descriptions of villagers and communities. Raven must challenge her potential as a typical housewife and embrace a liberating path in leadership.
Coyote by Ashley Brandt is a fantastic story about a strong-willed woman and a fierce warrior. It’s a fast-paced, light read that’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a thrilling dark fantasy novel with a strong female protagonist.
ASIN B0BK9T7T21 | Pages: 183
Stories Featuring Diversity
Song of the Sea follows a young mermaid princess who rescues a human prince and together they try to save their kingdoms from evil. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I hoped to write a story featuring disability representation and introduce characters who are often overlooked in literature. Therefore, the story, while a fantasy, explores the importance of every individual and the potential that so many people have to offer the world. Being blind myself, I love any stories featuring diversity, and there is simply not enough of that representation, particularly in the fairy tale genre.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
My favorite character to write was Prince Reginald. He holds a very special place in my heart. I love his determination, his inner struggles and his ultimate heroism when he is finally able to take a stand for justice. I also had tremendous fun with the character Glissando because he is multi-layered and, to my mind, complex in his own way.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I explored the theme of leadership and what makes an effective ruler through this retelling. With the political upheaval in our society, Song of the Sea was a cathartic writing experience for me and enabled me to sort through some current events that have made me ponder an individual’s role and the role of our leaders in society.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I am working on a book entitled Wind Charmer. I hope to have it published early in 2024.
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Aria has heard this saying all her life, but it has little to do with her. She knows that her destiny is written
in the Song of the Sea. She will marry, birth children and, occasionally, sing the Death Journey songs to
guide lost souls to their final resting place. She knows that the Treaty of Separation prevents merkind
and humankind from interacting except when misfortunes occur at sea. Aria is content with her life and
is preparing to embark upon the journey of courtship and matrimony. A chance encounter will force Aria
to question where she truly belongs.
Prince Reginald struggles with feelings of self-doubt, a debilitating spinal injury that causes him constant
pain, and his father’s harsh treatment. After an unexpected accident places the burden of kingship on
the prince’s shoulders, he embarks upon a sea voyage and is attacked by an unexplained malevolent
force. Rescued by someone he cannot see, Reginald is thrust into an unexpected adventure.
Aria’s and Reginald’s stories combine in unforeseen ways as they must confront an evil that possesses
an unquenchable thirst for vengeance. Surprising allies and deceptive falsehoods battle, and the fate of
two kingdoms hang in the balance. Will the Song of the Sea be silenced?
Song of the Sea is a story of momentous decisions, forbidden love and self-discovery. For fans of fairy
tales with a sprinkling of whimsy, a dash of darkness and a dollop of courage.
Music Is A Universal Language
I Need a Hero follows a space captain and his crew who are sent on a secret mission to stop a deadly force while back home his wife’s life is in danger. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When my children were young, I would sing them a bedtime story, then share with them a story based on what I envisioned while listening to the words and hearing the harmony, beat, tenor, and feeling of the song. With encouragement from my wife, I wrote one of these stories for our future grandchildren.
Thumbing through my son’s playlist, I found “Something Like This”, written by Drew Taggart, and performed by The Chainsmokers and Coldplay. I NEED A HERO is the story I heard after listening to the song. An interview Drew Taggart gave concerning depression inspired Jacob’s character in the book in part.
Bonnie Tyler’s rendition of the song, Holding Out For a Hero inspired the conclusion of the book, co-written by Jim Steinman. An article I read on No Words, No Song about Holding Out For A Hero started by concluding that no woman has ever written about “holding out for a shy, slightly introverted, music-obsessed accountant”. I loved that quote. What Bonnie Tyler establishes are qualities which a hero should have: morality, strength, power, and compassion.
I NEED A HERO is the first of the series I have written. Each of the books continues the saga with a minor shift in emphasis. There are many underlying storylines in I NEED A HERO, but the major theme of the first book focuses on one primordial need. Most men have a desire to be the hero of their significant other. In a world of equality and independence, and gender neutrality, many men lose their sense of importance and purpose, their desire to be someone’s hero.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing or did it come out organically as you were writing?
The music sets the tone for the book. Music is a universal language that transcends nationality. Most of the western world deems the metric system the most logical means to understand numbers and measurements and is the numerical system used by science. Music is still based on whole notes, quarters, eighths, and sixteenths. The imperial system matches the beat of our hearts and can convey emotions understood and recognized by all.
Besides supplying the storyline, the music also set the tone.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I have already mentioned the need many men have of wanting to be their significant other’s hero. Other themes which are developed over the series concern morality, strength, power, compassion, depression, jealousy, anger, and the tension which couples often must learn to deal with.
Another theme which I play with is the concept of euhemerism, the belief that all mythology is based on historical events, and etiological theory uses these explanations for why something is the way it is today. While I NEED A HERO is not suggesting an alternate history for humanity, it is suggesting that much of the history of humanity is unknown.
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, I am writing Book Five in the HERO series, THE PROTECTOR, and editing Book Two, FEEL THE THUNDER, which I hope to release early in 2024. While not wanting to offer any spoilers to the next book in the series, the adventure continues and is full of surprises.
As we follow our favorite characters, I also introduce new characters. Some characters we already know become more important as they come into their own. As the series progresses, we draw closer to learning who the real antagonist is.
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Despite his wife Maddie’s objections and the fact that he is nearing retirement, Charlie accepts the mission. With the Obsidians one step ahead and the possibility of never returning home, the crew of the Perseus takes on the monumental task. Additionally, Charlie finds himself making enemies left and right-including Space Command.
Secrets from Maddie’s past are also brought to light, and the rewards on her head soon rival those on the Perseus. She is now alone and on the run, and Charlie, who is lightyears away, must find a way to return to Earth to rescue her and be the hero he’s always wanted to be for her.
Palisades of the Heart
Phyllis A. Still’s Palisades of the Heart: Dangerous Loyalties, Book Four, is a captivating young adult historical romance that picks up right where its predecessor, Warrior on the Western Waters, left off. Set in August 1776, the novel follows Mary Shirley as she and her family settle into their new home in Cooks Fort, Western Virginia, following their escape from the Shawnee village. Mary is now nearly 15 years old and must navigate the challenges of finding peace after her traumatic experiences while also exploring her first love with William McGuire, a scout for Cooks Fort.
Still masterfully crafts Mary’s story, introducing new characters while developing the ones readers have come to know and love. What stands out most is Mary’s character development. Readers witness her transformation from a young girl to a woman who grapples with the lingering effects of her past trauma. Still writes about Mary’s PTSD with care and delicacy, so much so that even readers unfamiliar with the previous books will understand what she’s been through.
The perfectly crafted dynamic between Mary and Will is another highlight of the book. Still captures the beauty of first love through these characters, detailing their shyness and constant thoughts of one another. Their story reminds us that love is a constant throughout history. A fun fact about the book is that Phyllis is an eighth-generation descendant of DAR Patriot Mary Shirley McGuire, who inspired the Dangerous Loyalties series. Still’s commitment to doing justice to her ancestors shines through in this successful and thoroughly enjoyable series.
Palisades Of The Heart is a fantastic read for historical fiction enthusiasts. This story of romance and the thrilling adventure that comes from living on the frontier is sure to capture the heart of readers. Whether you’ve read the previous books or not, the novel will keep you captivated from beginning to end.
Pages: 257 | ASIN : B0BVGN6XPC
Thaddeus of Beewicke
Louis Sauvain’s Thaddeus of Beewicke, the first book in The College of Sorcerers Trilogy, is a gripping tale following a young boy named Thaddeus, who is set to follow in his father’s footsteps as a beekeeper until a Master Sorcerer, Silvestrus, comes along and offers him the opportunity to become his apprentice. However, Thaddeus’ journey to college, where he is set to learn the ways of a sorcerer, is not an easy one. The path is fraught with beasts, assassination attempts, and wonders that are entirely new to him. Along the way, Thaddeus finds two other apprentices chosen by Silvestrus, and together they embark on a journey filled with twists and turns that keep the reader captivated.
Sauvain’s storytelling skills are exceptional. He takes his time to establish Thaddeus’ intricate world and builds a captivating mystery through a brief prologue that sets the stage for a compelling narrative. While Thaddeus is the protagonist, the author does not shy away from providing glimpses into the minds of the other characters, which adds depth to their personalities and the story.
The novel’s pacing is smooth and well-orchestrated. This pace allows us to spend plenty of time with the protagonist, where readers are provided with ample background information about Thaddeus. The length of the book may seem daunting, but it is necessary to provide a comprehensive understanding of the characters and the deep backstory and lore of the world.
Thaddeus of Beewicke concludes with a satisfying ending yet leaves the reader with unanswered questions that create anticipation for the next installment of the trilogy. Sauvain has created a rich and well-thought-out world that is filled with magic and fantastical creatures that are sure to appeal to fans of the sword and sorcery genre. Overall, Thaddeus of Beewicke is an engrossing fantasy novel that takes readers on a spellbinding journey. Sauvain’s storytelling skills, combined with the thrilling plot and well-established world, make this book an exciting read for fans of coming-of-age fantasy stories.
Pages: 532 | ASIN: B0B59LLNTN
A Combination of Folklore
Ascension follows a teenage girl from a small town who discovers her destiny is to become a guardian with powerful magic and fight an evil demon. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The story actually began with Anne-Marie. She started as a character in a video game my family plays, and with time, her role became that of the “witch in the woods”. I imagined her as an ageless guardian who watched over the generations of her family, always close by, but keeping her distance all the same. In developing the story, I wanted the secondary Main character, Angelica, to be far enough along the family tree that when Anne-Marie revealed that she was Angelica’s 10th great grandmother, the significance of the relationship would stand out stronger. Shade, the Father of Nightmares, grew out of a combination of folklore. I knew his title first, so I wanted a villain who embodied different scary things. A touch of Little Red Riding Hood, werewolves, zombies for the decay of his muzzle, and the patient confidence that his evil schemes would outlive the foolish mortals who might oppose him. He never anticipated Anne-Marie’s vow upon her own Ascension to the mantle of Guardian to grant her near immortality and tie her life force so strongly to his own.
Angelica and Anne-Marie are strong, intelligent, and powerful witches. What was your inspiration for the characters and their relationship?
The story was always going to be about love of family and the duty to protect those dearest to us. I have two children of my own, and I think a lot of Anne-Marie’s devotion came from the relationships I have with my kids. Angelica’s wit and boldness certainly comes from the day to day antics of my teenagers and their friends.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I find that I often write about the idea of an unsung hero protecting the innocent from the dangers that they may not even know exist. Anne-Marie begins her journey simply trying to take care of her own family, but finds herself thrown into a much larger fight. There are moments where she thinks of turning her back on the responsibility she has assumed, but knows that if she doesn’t make the stand, then not just her loved ones, but the entire world could fall to Shade’s threat.
When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers? Guardian, Book 2 of the series is available now. In 1671, Anne-Marie must flee from Shade’s enclosing grasp. As the demon’s power grows, and new enemies arise, lashing out not just at the young woman, but at those she holds dear. In present day, Angelica slowly recovers from her battle with Aiden Carmichael, but her impetuous actions have caused the veil between the realms to tatter, and she soon discovers her most beloved sanctuary has become the Father of Nightmare’s hunting ground.
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Anne-Marie Carmichael is a compassionate and hard working wife and mother from the late 17th century. Determined to save her family’s struggling farm from financial ruin, she enters into a hasty bargain that unwittingly turns her into a soldier in a war that has lasted for millennia. Imbued with the primordial magic that extends her life and grants earth shattering power, the fiery natured farmwife must recruit the children of her family for generations to come to stand against the demonic Shade, Father of Nightmares.
As the barriers between our world and the Realm of the Demonkin falter, Anne-Marie must awaken in Angelica the might that lies dormant in the Blood of the Firstborn and shape her into the weapon that fate has called for her to become. For only the Witches of Pioneer Vale can hope to win the battle that threatens to destroy not just the pastoral community that Angelica has known her whole life, but existence itself.
A Machine Divine
A Machine Divine, by Derek Paul, is a steampunk-themed, young adult novel that follows biology prodigy Asher Auden and animal trapper Callie Saint, residents of small town Vana who have been accepted into prestigious Langford University in the bustling capital of Riali City. The story initially unfolds as a coming-of-age story and quickly shifts into a thrilling tale of danger, conspiracies, and secret societies.
This novel draws its readers in slowly, introducing the characters, and their situation, until the plot quickens into an exciting world of dystopian developments. The writing style kept me intrigued, turning one page after another to learn about the next conflict. The more I read, the better the development, with exciting technologies, visual descriptions, and details about the characters that kept me engaged. I especially enjoy the steampunk imagery and how well it fits into the story.
A Machine Divine, by Derek Paul, weaves the complexities of genetics, science, and steampunk fantasy into a well-written young adult novel. It’s the first book in a series and makes a solid debut. I strongly recommend this book to fans of the young adult and fantasy genre and anyone who appreciates steampunk in literature.
ASIN B0BSJLLQYD | Pages: 380
LITERARY TITAN 