Blog Archives
Tales of Witches and Wyverns
In the heart of a world painted with myths and legends, Enid stands apart, often referred to as the witch’s daughter. While this title might have once been a weapon her adversaries wielded against her, it became a beacon of hope when a young lad named Dylan bravely defended her. As fate interweaves their destinies, Enid finds herself on a quest to rescue Dylan from the clutches of the malevolent Unseelie Queen. This audacious ruler doesn’t merely reside in the realm of folklore; she seeks dominion over the human world.
S. Ramsey draws us into an enchanting realm of the fae, where dreams intertwine with reality and legends come alive. Tales of Witches and Wyverns takes readers on a journey with Enid, where, alongside two gallant princes, she navigates a landscape inspired by age-old folklore, replete with magical beings and tantalizing enchantments. Ramsey’s storytelling exudes vibrancy and creativity, offering readers a lush tapestry of characters and settings.
Although primarily catered to the young adult demographic, the novel possesses universal appeal. Enid’s evolution from a perceived damsel to a hero in her own right is commendable, turning the traditional “damsel and dragon” trope on its head. Her innocence occasionally renders her vulnerable, but her unwavering spirit ensures she finds her path, no matter the obstacles.
Tales of Witches and Wyverns is an invigorating read for readers who enjoy fantasy and folklore. As I delved into Enid’s adventures, I found myself eagerly anticipating the future chapters in her journey and am genuinely excited about the treasures Ramsey will unveil in subsequent novels.
Pages: 256 | ASIN : B0CBQMQLWM
Third Wheel
In Richard R. Becker’s captivating novel, Third Wheel, readers are introduced to Brady Wilks, a teenager who, after relocating to Las Vegas at a tender age, grapples with the challenges of fitting in. As he navigates the complexities of adolescence, Brady finds himself entangled with Mick, an influential older teen, leading him into a world of rebellion and recklessness during his high school years.
As the story unfolds, we witness Brady’s transition from living with his caring grandparents, which brought about its own set of social questions, to reuniting with his mother. This return home presents its own set of emotional and relational challenges, intensified by the family dynamics and the expectations set upon him.
Becker’s storytelling skill shines as he deftly delves into issues facing many teenagers, such as drug use, alcohol consumption, and the pressures of conforming to peer groups. What sets Third Wheel apart is its authentic portrayal of the so-called “troubled youth.” Instead of just painting them through the prejudiced lens of adulthood, the book gives a voice to these young individuals, letting readers understand their internal conflicts and motivations.
I was particularly drawn to Brady’s character development. Becker crafts him as a multi-dimensional protagonist with whom readers can both relate and empathize. The backdrop of Las Vegas, commonly associated with its dazzling urban landscape, is rendered with a fresh perspective in this novel. Becker beautifully captures the oft-overlooked suburban life, juxtaposed against the vast desert expanses.
Third Wheel is a compelling read, especially for high school students. Not only does it offer rich character development ripe for analysis, but it also provides invaluable insights into the grey areas of morality and the power of choices. Becker’s narrative style and skillful setting construction further enhance the reading experience, making this novel a must-read for those seeking both entertainment and enlightenment.
Pages: 327 | ASIN : B0C2MZ737L
They Know When The Killer Will Strike (A Film Milieu Thriller Book 3)
They Know When the Killer Will Strike by Michael J. Bowler is a compelling amalgamation of the narratives from Book One and Book Two. The ingenious plot follows Leo Cantrell, whose film producer mother seizes upon the riveting real-life escapade of her son and his comrades evading a serial killer, envisioning it as the quintessential material for an enthralling Hollywood horror flick. Enter Cassie Stewart and Donovan Quinn, recent graduates of a performance art school, now assuming the roles of assistant director and script supervisor for this cinematic endeavor. Yet, amidst the creative fervor, an unsettling presence harboring deadly intentions toward the crew emerges. The narrative propels Leo, Cassie, Donovan, and their allies into a high-stakes mission to stop the impending tragedy and unmask the elusive killer before they, too, succumb.
Having thoroughly enjoyed the preceding installments, I found They Know When the Killer Will Strike to be an equally gratifying read. Michael J. Bowler’s narrative effortlessly toggles between moments of camaraderie laden with buoyant humor and the looming shroud of suspense that pervades the tale. The convergence of characters from I Know When You’re Going to Die and The Horror Film Killer is a narrative feat that encapsulates the essence of unity forged through trials. Initially disparate, the two groups eventually find their synergy, albeit after some initial friction, setting the stage for a riveting collaborative effort.
The supernatural element introduced through Leo’s extraordinary gift adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative. His ability to glean hints about imminent murders by peering into the eyes of individuals adds an interesting dimension to his character. Yet, the caveat of not determining the perpetrator’s identity adds a layer of complexity to his role. The enigma of one individual escaping the killer’s grasp further enhances the storyline’s enigmatic allure.
Bowler’s tantalizingly scatters clues throughout the story, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover the truth. While the unveiling of one of the shadowy figures orchestrating the prologue’s ominous events might align with perceptive readers’ suspicions, the resolution springs forth with an array of unforeseen twists that invigorate the plot.
While I enjoyed They Know When the Killer Will Strike I think that a touch more context about the events surrounding the killer’s sister in Book Two could have been beneficial for readers new to the series. Additionally, the incorporation of certain modern idioms by the young characters, while attempting to capture modern sensibilities, at times deviates from the authenticity of a modern teenager’s perspective.
They Know When the Killer Will Strike is a fantastic addition to the Film Milieu Thriller series, entwining suspense with camaraderie. As the protagonists grapple with imminent danger, readers are bound to be captivated by the inexorable pull of suspense until the final, unforeseen revelations come to fruition.
Pages: 299 | ASIN: B0CB1T6FC9
The Executioner of Yrecep Forest
The gripping tale of The Executioner of Yrecep Forest begins with two young brothers, Anicen and Capar. Forced by circumstances and their parents’ desperate wish for their safety, they venture into the ominously renowned Yrecep Forest, known to swallow its entrants whole, never to return them. They are soon taken under the wing of a mysterious woman, who is revealed to be part of an enigmatic coven that reveres the four Gods of Elements.
The narrative further unfolds with the introduction of Pesdari, a coven member who yearns for freedom, and her friend Thade, who harbors a dark ambition of immortality. The paths of the two diverge radically, leading us to anticipate: will Pesdari succeed in her quest for liberation?
This captivating saga had me riveted from its compelling start, where Anicen and Capar muster their courage to penetrate the treacherous Yrecep Forest, to its enthralling climax, where Pesdari emerges victorious, claiming her freedom and finding a new, accepting family after vanquishing Thade.
The author’s meticulous attention to detail, interweaving every scene with intricate narrative threads, engendered an immersive reading experience. I found it particularly intriguing when Pesdari uncovered Thade’s sinister experiments for immortality, a discovery that prompted her to extend her help to the two brothers, despite their unfamiliarity.
The poignant connection between Pesdari and Dowhas, the complex relationship between Pesdari and Thade, the fraternal bond shared by the two brothers, and the rapport Pesdari builds with them, all contribute to a rich tapestry of emotional narratives. This emotional spectrum is deftly navigated by the author, ensuring nothing is overly dramatized or underrepresented.
The novel achieves an impressive depth, with each character meticulously crafted, exhibiting their unique flair. From the mystique of the Yrecep Forest to the clandestine affairs of the coven, from the struggle for freedom to the thirst for immortality, The Executioner of Yrecep Forest is a literary feast for readers who appreciate intricacy, depth, and emotional resonance in their choice of literature.
Pages: 164 | ISBN: 1644566192
Keeps You on the Edge of Your Seat
The Djinn Entrapment follows a teenager who, armed with a unique ability to see unseen entities, must confront enigmatic beings implicated in her mother’s demise while navigating her everyday adolescent life. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Many stories illustrate dichotomies such as good vs. evil or right vs. wrong. This book, alternatively, invites the reader to enter a world of “gray”– where the supposed villains become the characters we root for.
I was inspired to write a story that incorporated supernatural components, plot tactics, and characters I had not seen before. The main character, Melody, is a “do-gooder” who is kind and highly ambitious, but is also hard on herself. Similar to many young people, she struggles to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome. However, it is her ability to challenge her thinking and push past her fears which makes her a strong protagonist. Witnessing her mother’s death fuels her motivation and drive throughout the rest of the book.
The world of the Djinn seems richly constructed. Could you talk a bit about the process of creating and developing this unique realm?
The inception of this book occurred 20 years ago when I immersed myself in paranormal stories about vampires, ghosts, clones, etc. I longed to write something different, and I quickly became enthralled with the Djinn lore. This book has roots in that lore (and odes to the vampire books I enjoyed as well).
I thought about the Djinn and what it would be like to exist as a Jinni. It made sense that they would exist in alternative dimensions, and within that, I enjoyed playing with concepts such as “pocket” dimensions. Bringing the reader into these new realms deepens their understanding of the Djinn and what it is like to exist as one.
How did you approach the delicate task of making the Djinn both frightening and sympathetic in your narrative?
A key element of the story is Melody fearing the mythical creatures only she can see, and yet – she decides to help them. It was a challenge to make this shift believable and understandable. After many drafts, I came up with a key strategy: writing scenes from other characters’ perspectives.
I invented a “memory share” technique where the reader (and Melody) experiences a Jinni’s recount on what has happened. These scenes are pivotal in helping the reader better understand the characters and they propel the plot forward in an enlightening and enjoyable way.
What else can you tell us about this book? Are there plans for a sequel?
The Djinn Entrapment begins as a mystery and morphs into a fun, romantic adventure that keeps you on the edge of your seat. I deeply enjoyed writing it, and a fan wrote, “It was hard to put the book down and take a pause from Melody’s story as reading it leaves you breathless and wondering what’s going to happen next.”
I do have plans for a sequel (and perhaps a trilogy). The next book would be in Carrie’s perspective, and would follow her journey with the strange “glow” from the Epilogue.
If you would like to learn more about me and my work, please see my author profile on Amazon and reach out to me at leigh.mascolino@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you!
Fun fact: the name “Melody” is a combination of both of my daughters (Melanie and Lydia)!
Author Links: Amazon | Facebook | Instagram
Melody Thompson has carried a haunting secret since childhood — She sees terrifying smoke-like creatures and commands unexplained abilities. When her mother is murdered before her eyes, Melody alone knows the true cause behind the tragedy.
Years pass, and a veil of uncertainty shrouds Melody’s existence until a mysterious stranger enters her life, promising her the key to unlocking the origins of her powers and her family’s secretive past.
But there’s a catch – She must help him save the very creatures she has feared her entire life.
Thrust into the mesmerizing realm of the Djinn and an ancient power struggle, Melody is presented with an extraordinary task — to Entrap a Jinni and harness its otherworldly powers as her own.
As her past unravels and an unexpected love blossoms, will she find the strength to seize control of her destiny, or be consumed by the powers that seek to destroy her?
In The Face Of Absurdity
“Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools” follows a daring teen who challenges the stifling norms of society, using intellect and courage to question authority and shed light on the absurdity of education practices. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
First, so as not to confuse the readers, I’m speaking as W.T. Kosmos, the alter ego of a lifetime educator (going on almost 30 years now) who emerges particularly in the face of absurdity. Given the increased book bans, diversity & equity bans, and polarized us-versus-them, my-side-is-always-right culture wars, I’m afraid I’ll be around for a long while. As someone who has been a teacher and school administrator, there are times for students to listen to authority and there are times to question it skillfully. In general, we need to do a much better job of listening to students. And we need to teach them how to learn and talk with people from different backgrounds and different and even opposing viewpoints. As I narrated in Blaze Union, the book bans and seahorse protests really got to me, especially when students were negatively impacted. Who protests seahorses? So I wrote a book about it. And I wear a hat with a seahorse. Sometimes a shirt with a seahorse, too.
You’ve used satire to critique education policies. Why did you choose this genre, and how did it influence the way you communicated your message?
I had an ethnocentric socialization growing up in rural USA with a surface-level understanding of the outside world and a limited ability to appreciate absurdity, although I am told my sarcastic powers were strong even as a three-year-old. Sometimes, too strong. When I went to college, I discovered the Onion and Comedy Central about the same time I began to understand other cultures (wow, mine isn’t the only one!) and learned to think for myself. I thought Greg Kinear was the funniest person alive. Then Jon Stewart blew my socks off because he connected humor and social critique. SNL was even more hilarious now that I “got it” but my feet were cold because I had no socks. I read Vonnegut, Heller, etc. but Trevor Noah is my all time favorite and has taken political satire/comedy to another level. He is genius and I would very much like to shake his hand or arm or thumb wrestle him. However, the latter two events would be unfair because obviously I would crush him as I am a fiction author, who are the most powerful people in the world, except for teachers, and I am both. These role models and many other authors, comedians, and very funny colleagues taught me that humor can break down walls and offer new perspectives in ways other approaches cannot, even with serious topics involving climate change, discrimination, etc. Although sarcasm doesn’t always work so well as a starting point in conversation, or ever with my partner, or with angry people, or with people who don’t appreciate sarcasm. You saw that conversation with me and the seahorse protester. Didn’t go as planned. But if it wasn’t for that knucklehead, I wouldn’t have met Blaze.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
This book is a political satire about culture wars that are grounded in misinformation, fueled by animosity and willful ignorance, and are antithetical to a functioning democracy. I’m still astonished by citizens who don’t understand other perspectives, who avoid understanding them, and/or assume they have the only correct one – even when it’s to their own detriment. Or when their side does the exact same thing that they just lambasted the other side for doing. The other related theme is the social construction of prejudice and discrimination, which typically falls along racial, gender, cultural, sexual orientation, and other social identity lines. On Puddin’ Head Island, I was shocked to learn they discriminated based on hand size, which as you see in the book had an absurd historical origin. So I wanted to explore these themes, in part, by asking a question: How ridiculous do the consequences of absurd beliefs and actions need to be, in education and the world, before people realize they are indeed absurd? The movie Don’t Look Up explored a similar question. My book also has a subtle existential theme, with the question here being, What is the meaning of life in an absurd world? I won’t give spoilers, but it is an ongoing question I’m still asking myself.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I have spin off books I’m drafting. But educating takes priority over writing, so I don’t have a timeline. Enjoying the journey as they say. Blogging is a possibility, but right now I’m excited to see readers’ responses to Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website
Read this ludicrous story written by the alter ego of a life-time educator that is “highly conversational, reads with ease, and is accessible to young adults and full-grown adults alike” (Reedsy Discovery).
WWII Fighters and Dragons?
The Lost Son follows the journey of a teenager who is transported to the mystical land of Zargothia, where he navigates a battle of good versus evil with a unique band of allies. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The original inspiration came from a quote I read from a famous scientist where he thought that Atomic Bombs could potentially form a ripple or open a hole in space to another world. So I was actually going to use the Enola Gay, which dropped the Atomic Bomb but decided not to as to not cause offense. So I really wanted WWII planes attacking dragons in the opening chapter, so when I read about the Flight 19 incident that occurred in 1945, that sparked an idea. As for Henry, he was a character in another short story that was going nowhere. So I sat down and had a rethink and decided to combine some of the characters from Henry’s short story with the idea of the WWII Plane attacking dragons over the Bermuda Triangle. It took a bit of tweaking, but it eventually was a happy marriage of the two ideas coming together.
Can you elaborate on the process of creating your characters, particularly Henry Simmons, and making them relatable to your young readers?
Some of Henry’s characteristics are based on mine, but when I create a character, I always create an Excel spreadsheet where I have several headings like name, age, description, hobbies, dislikes, pet peeves, etc. By doing this and focusing on each character, it allows me to make them more realistic. To me, it fleshes them out and helps give each their own individuality or personality.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I think for me, the main themes are: accepting and believing in oneself, overcoming our greatest fears, and you are enough to overcome any obstacle in life.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I loved writing the dogfight between the WWII Plane and the dragons. I also loved writing the epic battle scene at the end. The latter proved tough because it took a couple of days to finish it and re-edit it, but I love writing high-octane action scenes/battles like that. My tip is to play a song that makes you feel energized or upbeat beforehand, and that will get you ‘into the groove’. The song that I played to help me write the battle scene at the end was John Williams’ Superman The Movie theme tune.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website
Henry Simmons is your average seventeen-year-old kid until one day, he isn’t.
All Henry cares about is gaming and ogling his long-time crush, Tracey Maxwell. It feels to him that the universe has granted his wishes when he stumbles upon a mysterious gold coin in his family’s garden.
From manipulating physical objects to getting Tracey to go to prom with him, Henry basks and revels in the power he believes the coin has granted him. Until one day, he finds himself mystically transported to an entirely new dimension, a realm of war and bloodshed.
Henry’s life takes a 180, as he is trapped in this dimension and given the responsibility of helping to save its people from King Zakarius and his bloodthirsty Sadarkian army. He must fight for the humans in this realm alongside the human king, or he stands to lose his life and his way back home.
While Henry is burdened with this ambiguous task, he makes a few unexpected allies, from former World War II pilots to his neighbor’s cat who can now talk. Will Henry and his little troop defeat King Zakarius’s army, or will they fail and be trapped in this strange world forever?
LITERARY TITAN 