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Love Can Overcome Hate
LIGHT of the MAGOS: The Spark Within follows two teens living in a magical society who are from families that do not get along and have drastically different ideologies on the study of magic. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
It was a matter of deciding what elements I wanted to include. I knew I wanted magic, a young love story, and something to feud about. After that, the development of the two families came together.
Faith and Colby are from feuding families, but they do not let that stop them from building their own relationship. What was the inspiration for the relationship that develops between the characters?
I wanted to show that love can overcome hate. The two father’s, Lonnie and Wayne, still do not exactly like each other, but they have softened towards one another.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wanted there to be a few different themes. I wanted love, having fun, helping someone in need despite feelings of dislike, and a crime that involved the CIA.
Will this novel be the start of a series or are you working on a different story?
This is the first of a series. I am almost finished with book one of another series, Rise of the Chosen, then I will start book two of this LIGHT of the MAGOS series.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter
When Colby Custer starts his first year at the International School for the Intellect and Gifted, the talented young Magos is excited to learn more about his magical powers. But studying magic has never been more dangerous, thanks to the ongoing conflict between the Gifted and the Intellect.
On one side, the Custer family supports the study and sharing of magic with those they call Gifted. On the other, the Jenkins family perpetuates the hereditary lines of Magos called the Intellect. The feud between the two families is alive and well, but it’s about to get more complicated as a shared threat emerges.
What would happen if the Custer and Jenkins families team up?
For Faith Jenkins, Colby represents a future her father can’t accept. As she researches the mysteries of her family’s ancient lineage, Faith navigates the difficulties of love, social expectations, and the family feud. Romancing a Custer is out of the question, right?
Faith and Colby’s adventures at school are just the beginning. While the two teens come into their powers and tackle the threat to Faith’s life, their family feud becomes complicated by other mysteries: a clandestine spy op, a shady corporation, and an eerie creature.
Join Colby and Faith, Wayne and Lonnie, on a rollicking adventure of spies, feuds, magic, and mystery. And remember…
Ní conquers olc riamh. Evil never conquers.
Step into a world where magic and technology collide, where young heroes unravel genealogical secrets, explore extraordinary powers, and forge their own destinies.
Augie Doyle and the Dead Boy
In Augie Doyle and the Dead Boy by Dylan Blackwood, readers are thrust into a perplexing and eerie scenario. The story begins with Augie Doyle and his classmates witnessing the unexpected return of Oliver Hackl, who was declared dead just five days earlier. This baffling incident sets the stage for a riveting narrative that intertwines the paranormal with the mysteries of everyday life.
Augie, a character with a keen interest in the paranormal, is convinced that supernatural forces are at play. His determination to unravel the truth behind Oliver’s reappearance propels the plot forward as he and his friends delve deeper into a web of mysteries and unexplained events. The novel excels in maintaining suspense, constantly posing questions about the reality of Oliver’s death and the possibility of otherworldly influences.
The character development in this young adult novel is a standout feature. Augie and his friends – Ben, Ethan, Caleb, and Fiona – are portrayed with depth and authenticity, each contributing uniquely to their collective quest. Their interactions and the dynamics of their friendship add a layer of realism to the story, making the characters relatable to readers of all ages.
Blackwood’s narrative style is engaging, successfully drawing readers into the heart of the mystery. The book’s pacing is well-managed, keeping readers invested and eager to uncover the truth alongside the protagonists. Incorporating elements such as the mysterious Creeper character, who is rumored to be a voodoo priest, adds an intriguing and chilling aspect to the story.
While labeled as a young adult novel, Augie Doyle and the Dead Boy holds a broad appeal, captivating adult readers with its blend of mystery, suspense, and supernatural elements. The novel sets a high standard for the subsequent books in this series, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Dylan Blackwood’s novel is a commendable addition to the young adult genre, offering a story that is as much about the bonds of friendship and the resilience of youth as it is about solving a supernatural mystery. This book promises to engage, thrill, and leave readers pondering the thin line between reality and the paranormal.
Pages: 138 | ASIN : B0C9YTR56J
A Love Letter to the Sea
Jigsaw of Light follows a fifteen-year-old boy who receives a cryptic message asking for help from his father, who disappeared three years ago. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The DNA of this story has actually been in my head since I was a boy. While some kids may think it would be cool to have a magic carpet or a flying broomstick or something similar, I always wondered what it would be like to have a surfboard that could shoot off across oceans and go anywhere in the world. I’ve also always been fascinated with Atlantis and stories of ancient civilizations and myths. And lastly, like many people, I look at all the crazy stuff that is happening today, and I wonder what we’d actually need to do in order to save the world and make it better. And these were the key elements that inspired Jigsaw of Light. Of course, to find out exactly how all these things come together, you’ll have to read the book!
What was your writing process to ensure you captured the essence of the characters?
I approach characters like the advice I would give to anyone going to a party: dress up, not down, as you can always take some clothes off! So, I go into a lot more detail with my characters than ever makes it onto the page. I draw up a whole backstory so I know exactly who they are, what they’ve done, dreams, fears, motivations and so on. I’m quite a visual person, so I also make sure I can see them vividly in my mind. I often take certain personality traits from people that I know or have met before (but couldn’t possibly name names!) and play around with these (often magnifying them). I find this also helps when I’m trying to visualize how they speak, which then helps with dialogue.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Jigsaw of Light is a love letter to the sea and the calming, healing powers it has. Zeb is basically fairly broken at the start of the story and throughout his journey the ocean plays a big part in his healing process. Loss is another theme and for me surfing provides a good metaphor. You can catch a great wave and then that wave is gone forever. But knowing that there will always be more waves, is a good mindset to equate to life. And much of the subject matter in the book, history, myth, quantum mechanics, and so on, it’s all waves. Probably the main theme of the book is about balance, or rather duality. How good and evil can’t exist without the other, chaos and order, desire and apathy, sweet and sour, hot and cold – everything needs balance and this is key to many of the mysteries explored in the story. And surfing is all about balance. Basically, I think if I had titled my story The Philosophy of Surfing, that still would have made sense!
Can you tell us what the second book will be about and when it will be available for fans to purchase?
Hopefully, Jigsaw of Light provides a satisfactory ending, but it is merely the start of a series, and so (no spoilers here!) some of the things that are not fully revealed by the end will be explored in the second. The second story picks up about six months after Jigsaw of Light ends. Zeb, and the characters still around at the end of Jigsaw, are continuing to seek out the mysteries of Atlantis and its lost technology and knowledge. The trail leads them to a mysterious island where a deadly new threat is emerging. War is coming and Zeb must pick a side. But nothing is as it seems.
The second story will be released in the second half of 2024.
Hunted by ruthless assailants who will stop at nothing to obtain this technology, Zeb goes on the run. He teams up with Kaia, a Hawaiian surfer who may know what happened to his father. Soon they find themselves in a high-stakes race around the world to complete the mythical Jigsaw of Light, a deadly test that will change the world for the better or destroy it.
The Road To Nowhere
LaRae L. Ivy’s The Road to Nowhere emerges as a compelling entry in the fantasy genre, unfolding within the enchanting realm of Khwarree. This narrative introduces us to Tobias, a masterful Master Talmid, embarking on a crucial mission to thwart the malevolent Barbaros and rally Magi throughout the kingdom. Among these allies is the talented Prince Kasper, adding depth to the tale.
Ivy excels in world-building, presenting Khwarree as a realm imbued with rich details and a history that is as intriguing as it is elaborate. The narrative deftly weaves in elements of past conflicts and ancient legends, providing just enough insight to captivate the reader without overwhelming them. A particular strength of the book is its character development, especially in the cases of Tobias and Prince Kasper, who are portrayed with enough complexity to allow readers to empathize with their challenges.
Exploring the relationship between Prince Kasper and his brother, Prince Dariun, offers a unique narrative opportunity. Their rivalry, pivotal to the story, is presented with an intriguing level of nuance, adding a layer of complexity to their interactions. This subtlety leaves room for interpretation and further development in future installments. Similarly, the portrayal of the Magi and their abilities is presented with a sense of mystery, hinting at a realm of untapped potential and enchanting secrets waiting to be unveiled. The narrative unfolds at a measured pace, captivating readers with depth and detail. The conclusion of this volume cleverly sets the stage for the next, leaving readers in eager anticipation of the storylines that are yet to be resolved. This approach maintains interest and heightens the sense of engagement with the saga, building excitement for what the next installment will reveal.
The Road to Nowhere stands as an engaging introduction to the Brookshire Saga. It is a narrative tapestry rich in fantasy elements, vibrant characters, and immersive world-building. While certain elements might benefit from deeper exploration in subsequent volumes, the book sets the stage for what promises to be a captivating journey for fans of the fantasy genre. Ivy’s next installment is keenly awaited, promising to expand this fascinating world further.
Pages: 324 | ASIN : B0CLGSN2TD
Jigsaw of Light
Jigsaw of Light by JC Button is a compelling blend of contemporary urban fiction and young adult fantasy. It centers on Zed, a 15-year-old student who receives a coded message from his father, presumed lost at sea years earlier. This discovery sets Zed on an unexpected path, revealing his father to be more than just an ordinary fisherman. As Zed delves into his father’s enigmatic possessions, he uncovers a responsibility of great magnitude, compelling him to complete the ‘jigsaw’ to avert looming catastrophes.
Button skillfully crafts a narrative brimming with suspense and intrigue. The book’s vivid, graphic descriptive style enhances its action-packed scenes, making the chaotic events more tangible for the reader. The author’s use of detailed descriptions not only vividly portrays locations but also adds a layer of enchantment to the storytelling. Incorporating elements of mythology, Button infuses the story with a sense of magic, mystery, and mystique, elevating it beyond the ordinary. The diverse array of characters, each with their own distinct and engaging personalities, further enriches the narrative, adding depth and variety to the story. While the book thrives on its thought-provoking plot and engaging dialogue, complete with unexpected twists, it does leave some questions unanswered, potentially paving the way for future sequels. This open-ended conclusion may leave some readers yearning for more closure but also keeps anticipation high for the next installment.
Jigsaw of Light stands out for its captivating storyline and imaginative use of mythological elements, making it a notable addition to the genres of urban fiction and young adult fantasy.
Pages: 326 | ASIN : B0CJBZFG4D
Dark Clowder Cats
Clowder Cats: Dark Clowder Cats, Book Two, by Ruby Knight, offers readers an intriguing journey through the eyes of Storm, a young kit and the daughter of the legendary Bushytail. The narrative unfolds in a world where her father’s legacy looms large, setting high expectations for Storm as the future leader of High Clowder. When a mysterious illness threatens their community, Storm’s courage and leadership are tested in a compelling tale of adventure and trials.
Storm’s character is a blend of sweetness and spirit, showing remarkable development throughout the story. Her companions, Slash and Rain, are skillfully crafted, each contributing uniquely to the narrative. Additional standout characters include Storm’s brother, Still, and the enigmatic Bristle. Knight excels in character development, ensuring each one evolves meaningfully as the plot progresses. The pacing of the story strikes a delicate balance, neither rushed nor sluggish, and the settings—from the High Clowder territory to the human realms—are vividly portrayed. The action sequences are well-measured, offering enough excitement to captivate fans of animal fiction without overwhelming the story’s other elements. Knight’s world-building is notably detailed and immersive. While the shift in perspective from Bushytail in the first book to Storm in this installment initially surprised me, Storm’s character is engaging enough to carry the story forward effectively.
Dark Clowder Cats, with its blend of light and dark themes, action, and compelling narrative, is a noteworthy contribution to both the series and the broader genre of animal fiction. I eagerly anticipate the next installment and am hopeful for more than three books in this captivating series. Ruby Knight has certainly gained a new admirer in her storytelling.
Pages: 231 | ASIN : B0CM8TSMR1
Horror Often Gets a Bad Rap
A Ghoulish Good Time: Tales to Make You Scream is a short story collection centered around horror, good vs. evil, and the supernatural. Where did the idea for this anthology come from?
I have always loved horror. The story goes that my mother never liked horror, but the entire time she was pregnant with me, she watched horror movies. After I was born, she never watched them again, but I did. Several of these stories were first conceived of when I was a nanny and looking after kids. Soul Stones was conceived when the two kids I looked after were considered like a devil and angel to their family. The kids used to goof around on the steps to the point that I thought someone would get hurt one day. In the story, they do.
Do you have a favorite short story in the collection? A character you especially enjoyed writing for?
I think my favorite was the bad sister in Soul Stones. She’s snarky, she’s clever, and she can’t help being bad. It’s one of the funniest stories in the book.
What intrigues you about the horror and paranormal genres that led you to write this book?
I think horror often gets a bad rap. After all, there isn’t one person upon this planet who hasn’t had a nightmare at some point in our lives. Horror is part of the human collective unconscious. I’d much rather a reader satisfy any violent tendencies they have by reading about them rather than acting upon them. Our world is also filled with the paranormal. We don’t know everything about how our world interacts with the universe. As long as there are mysteries to solve, the human soul will always gravitate towards darkness.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book I’m working on is a children’s book about a very naughty elf who almost succeeds in destroying Christmas. It will be available just before Christmas this year. It has a lovely ending and my illustrator, Christina Cartwright, has designed some very beautiful artwork that I know everyone will enjoy. Her illustrations are truly inspired. This will be our fifth book together and the fourth one in the Happy Tails series.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Website
Soul Stones: How do you live with the consequences of a death when you, in some small way, helped contribute to its passing? That is the dilemma that Chris Whitaker faces as she remembers the events that led to the death of her best friend, Maggie Malone, and almost to her own.
The Vanishing: One of the most dangerous things a person can do when driving a car is fall asleep at the wheel. Just ask Leta Tyler – she crashed her car into a tree and managed to walk away from it. Her luck runs out, though, when she gets to the eerie little town of Wakefield where the residents are not what they appear to be and no soul is ever safe.
The Change: Sara Crew has done one of the worst things a person can do – she has just managed to wipe every living being off the face of the Earth with a wish. Even though it was made in anger against her sister, she had no idea when she made the wish how horribly it would backfire upon herself. When we unleash our inner monsters upon the world – how many of us are strong enough to survive them coming after us?
Pumpkin Parts: There are moments in Charlie’s life when she wished that she could just start the day over again . . . or skip it altogether. Anything would be preferable to experiencing a brother’s betrayal of his sister’s trust or having one’s eyes opened to the realization that true monsters exist in the world.
All Hallows’ Eve: Sam Monroe is having a bad day – a verybad day. As if starting high school in a new town wasn’t bad enough, now he’s being hunted down in unfamiliar woods and a creepy old cemetery by a bully who’s lost his mind. It’s all enough to make anyone lose their mental marbles, especially when you add the dead into the mix.
Monsters Adeep: Humankind thinks that we are at the top of the food chain. Charles Devereaux is about to find out that isn’t the truth. Some things in the universe are older than us and don’t have a tolerance for humanity’s inhuman treatment for the world around them.
Shadow Locked
In Shadow Locked, the protagonist, Seanna, grapples with the enigmatic advice of her father to avoid shadows, a directive that perplexes her during her peaceful yet ordinary life. At 15, Seanna’s world revolves around familial bonds with her brother James, her close friendship with Kaitlyn, and her duties in her father’s store. The narrative takes a dramatic turn with the sudden demise of her father, thrusting Seanna into the role of both sibling and surrogate parent to James, while simultaneously managing the family store.
The story intensifies with Seanna’s encounter with Nate, an elusive figure visible only in the shadows, who initially appears menacing. Intriguingly, Seanna forges a connection with Nate, evolving from fear to friendship and eventually to romantic feelings. This clandestine relationship, fraught with the challenges of secrecy and risk, forms the crux of the story.
Author S.T. Sanchez expertly captures the vibrancy of teenage life through Seanna’s character, reflecting her deep bond with her brother and her admirable sense of responsibility. The narrative delves into the complexities of her secretive relationship with Nate, raising questions about the nature of attraction and the costs of hidden love. The plot, weaving together elements of romance, mystery, and familial ties, becomes captivating with the enhanced suspense. The concise and relatable character cast adds to the novel’s charm, making it a suitable read for those seeking a modern fiction narrative infused with elements of romance and friendship.
Shadow Locked is perfect for readers seeking a story that combines elements of youthful energy, emotional growth, and the allure of the unknown. This book stands as a notable choice in contemporary fiction, particularly for those who appreciate a narrative rich in both character development and subtle intrigue.
Pages: 237 | ASIN : B0CLT5ZTBK
LITERARY TITAN 