Blog Archives
A Ghoulish Good Time – Tales to Make You Scream
Dive into the spine-tingling world of A Ghoulish Good Time: Tales to Make You Scream, a standout installment in the Daerk Cemetery series. This enthralling anthology brings together six short horror stories, each masterfully crafted to captivate and send shivers down the spines of its readers. The collection weaves a tapestry of tales that traverse the shadowy realms of fear, guilt, and the supernatural, offering an array of narratives rich in suspense and intrigue. “Soul Stones” chronicles the emotional turmoil of Chris Whitaker, haunted by her role in her best friend’s tragic death. “The Vanishing” follows Leta Tyler’s eerie encounter in the mysterious town of Wakefield after a car accident. “The Change” depicts Sara Crew’s devastating realization after her wish inadvertently wipes out humanity. “Pumpkin Parts” explores themes of betrayal and the existence of true evil through Charlie’s harrowing experiences. “All Hallows’ Eve” describes Sam Monroe’s terrifying ordeal of being hunted in a strange new town on his first day of high school. “Monsters Adeep” reveals the chilling revelation to Charles Devereaux that humanity is not at the top of the food chain.
Michele L. Sayre’s book stands as a monumental achievement in horror literature. Her unique approach to storytelling not only captivates with its suspense and imaginative creations but also enriches the reader’s understanding of life’s uncertainties. Each tale in this collection transcends the typical horror narrative, evolving into powerful allegories that emphasize vigilance and impart profound lessons. The book’s true brilliance is in its ability to weave rich scenes of suspense, masterfully bringing to life monstrous entities that are both terrifying and fascinating. Sayre’s writing is a perfect blend of eloquence and tension, making each story a riveting journey. The depth and complexity of the narratives promise to leave a lasting impact, inviting readers to ponder and reflect long after the last page. The anthology excels in its exploration of the eternal conflict between good and evil, presented in a way that is consistently engaging and thought-provoking. This clear delineation does not simplify the tales; instead, it adds layers of meaning and relevance, demonstrating Sayre’s skill in crafting stories that resonate on multiple levels.
In A Ghoulish Good Time, Michele L. Sayre has not only created a collection of horror stories but has also issued a compelling invitation to delve deeper into the realms of horror and human psychology. Her work is not just a display of narrative excellence but a celebration of the genre itself, offering readers a rich, multifaceted experience that is as enlightening as it is entertaining. This anthology is a must-read for anyone interested in the depths and potential of horror literature, affirming Michele L. Sayre’s place as a masterful storyteller and visionary in the field.
Pages: 252 | ASIN : B0CLJYW34Z
LIGHT of the MAGOS: The Spark Within
In LIGHT of the MAGOS: The Spark Within, T.A.C. Wilson crafts a world that balances the familiar and the fantastical, weaving a narrative where magic is as much a part of life as the air the characters breathe. Set on a planet where the mystical and the mundane coexist, the novel explores the dichotomy between two distinct groups within this magical society: the Intellects, inheritors of magical prowess, and the Gifted, a growing faction advocating for the democratization of magical education.
The story centers around Colby, a newcomer to the International School for the Gifted and the Intellects. His journey, alongside his friends, is set in a school where magic is the norm, bringing unique challenges and dangers. The plot thickens with Faith’s brush with mortality, propelling the narrative into a complex web of family rivalry, where Colby becomes an unwitting pawn. Faith’s newfound knowledge becomes pivotal in unraveling the family feud, adding depth to her character.
Wilson’s narrative is rich with literary and historical echoes, drawing parallels to classics like Romeo and Juliet, yet it distinguishes itself with a modern twist. The novel deftly integrates elements of magic, fantasy, and technology, making it resonate with contemporary readers. The pacing is brisk, keeping the reader engaged with its quickly unfolding events. The author combines a harmonious blend of the magical and the everyday, creating a captivating world that appeals to a wide audience. Wilson’s character development shines in her story with relatable and compelling personalities that further enhance the reader’s experience.
Targeted at young adults, LIGHT of the MAGOS: The Spark Within satisfies those who revel in fantasy, romance, and intricate family dynamics. Wilson’s debut novel is a testament to her ability to craft a story that is both engaging and fulfilling and leaves readers eager for more.
Pages: 314 | ASIN : B0CJ463L4Y
I’m Undeniably a Pantser
We Are Shadows: An Irish Ghost Story follows three sisters with unique abilities who use their talents to solve cold-case murders. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration came initially from stories about my Irish ancestors. My Connolly great-grandfather emigrated from Ireland in the Famine Years and panned for gold with his brothers in Alaska during the Alaskan Gold Rush in the Klondike. The three sisters are named for my Irish cousins whom I finally met in person this past year. They were extremely helpful in getting the slang correct.
Did you create an outline for the characters in the story before you started writing or did the character’s personalities grow organically as you were writing?
I’m undeniably a pantser; the story and characters developed as I wrote. I would put the sisters in a scene then listen to what they said to each other and frantically try to write it all down before I lost it. They definitely took on a life of their own!
How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?
I write a scene, then let it simmer and stew for a while to see where it will go. Ideas often come in the liminal state before waking each morning. I keep a notebook by my bed to jot down keywords then hope I remember the gist when I’m fully awake and ready to write.
Can you tell us what the second book will be about and when it will be available for fans to purchase?
I traveled to Ireland this past summer and got several ideas for the Gallagher Girls’ continuing adventures. Two of my favorite spots were Brú Na Boínne and the Aran Islands. These locations will be the setting for the next book, which is about half-way written. I hope to get it finished and edited, ready for release in the Spring 2024.
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Moira’s ability to talk with the dead gives her detective agency, Gallagher Investigations, an edge in uncovering secrets the past has buried. With the help of her sisters, Nuala and Deirdre, she assists those unsettled spirits in finding peace by righting the wrongs done to them before they found themselves on the Other Side. The past collides with the present as these Irish sisters solve cold-case murders and mayhem through their dreams, paranormal visitations, and spunk.
If you enjoy a cozy mystery, ghosts of the friendly and not-so-friendly variety, or anything Irish, you’ll love We Are Shadows.
We Are Shadows: An Irish Ghost Story
We Are Shadows: An Irish Ghost Story by Gail Grant Park delves into the captivating world of three sisters: Moira, Deidre, and Nuala Gallagher. Each sister possesses a unique gift – Moira can see ghosts, Deidre is passionate about herbal healing, and Nuala has a knack for experiencing distinctive dreams. Stemming from a childhood incident where Moira witnessed a tragic event, she, along with her siblings, embarks on investigations into paranormal happenings. As readers journey with them, they encounter eerie entities, mysterious haunted homes, and the eternal struggle of light versus dark.
Moira stands out as an optimistic beacon of courage, while Deidre’s inquisitive nature keeps her intrigued by Moira’s spectral encounters. Nuala, talented in the kitchen, also navigates the intricacies of love with her love interest, Sean. It’s refreshing to see a narrative where sisterly bonds are cherished and not tainted by constant conflict. Grant Park emphasizes the importance of family, a sentiment further bolstered by the role of the sisters’ mother, whose research aids them immensely. The story is painted against the scenic backdrop of Ireland, giving the narrative an added layer of mystique, making one wonder about the secrets concealed within its age-old residences.
The story is engaging with its suspense-laden atmosphere and gripping action sequences. Each chapter beckons readers further into the heart of the tale, with unexpected twists ensuring they remain on their toes.
While I enjoyed the story, I think it would make the narrative more enjoyable if there were stronger adversaries challenging the sisters, providing them with more formidable obstacles to overcome. However, fans of paranormal fiction and family-centered stories will undoubtedly find this book to be a delightful read.
The story serves as a testament to the power of family and the mysteries that lurk in places both familiar and foreign. The book is a memorable journey that any reader with a penchant for the supernatural should not hesitate to embark upon.
Pages: 247 | ASIN : B0CK57LZJ2
Nature Has a Voice
Soar a Burning Sky follows a group of warriors from Earth who are tasked with saving Earth and its counterpart, Eonthera, who have a symbiotic relationship. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’m taken with two stories. The first is, of course, the ultimate ensemble in fantasy, The Lord of the Rings. Simply put, it states the needs of the many can be solved by the very few IF those very few bear the right heart. The second tale I was inspired by is more woeful, primarily given its urgency: An Inconvenient Truth. There’s nothing to add towards its application. We’re in dire straits, and we need to be honest about that.
If you take to heart the challenges these two books present, and you combine the simple yet powerful nature of their champions, you land somewhere near my conceit. From there, I simply extrapolated along the lines of the epiphany I had, which became the foundation of this story: “what happens to the body affects the soul.”
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Culpability, primarily. Responsibility second. Accounting, third. Duplicity is in there too. Then there’s the awareness that Nature has a voice as well—that was at the top of my list. Let’s hear from Nature for once.
My goal has always been to search, if not find, the simplest way to a solution. Words can glorify a point of view, but they can also obscure it. I wanted my readers to not only recognize themselves as part of the problem, but more importantly, to also see themselves as the ultimate solution. If Nature’s point of view, regardless of the fantasy, can help with that realization, then more power to the conceit.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
I tend to write from the character’s point of view, which could be inferred as being organic (if I was schizophrenic). All kidding aside, I need my characters to recognize their worth in the conversation and have to position their POVs accordingly. Ultimately, I need their words to sound authentic to who and what they are, and why they’d say the things they would. I guess that takes some thinking. Unfortunately, that doesn’t come organically with me.
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
This is but the first book of four. All are outlined, but given publication issues this is the only one written. You have to understand I have a bit of a conundrum on my hands. My concept extols the need to be more aware of this big blue jewel we call Earth. It is our home, our ONLY home, and sooner or later our bill will come due regarding the toll it’s taken—which we’ve caused. That said, if I were to follow the traditional route of printing on basic paper stock (like EVERYONE else), I’d reek of hypocrisy. That, in turn, would nullify the power of Soar‘s message. My challenge is to find a way to print my manuscript on 100% recycled paper, and yes, if I can, include a sapling, a tree, to go along with it.
My goal is simple…when you’re done reading the first book, simply go plant it somewhere. Three more books will come in time. Come back in five years and voila, you’ve got a beautiful tree on your hands. Do this four times, and you’ve started your very own forest. You can’t say that every day. And yes, that’s where I want to take my readers—to their very own woods. There they will find the voice of Nature just waiting to chat. Until then, I plan to release a large portion of my saga digitally, where its carbon footprint will remain minuscule and always within my control.
Soar a Burning Sky: Echoes of EonThera: Book One
Consider a world where our living planet thrives, where even the vast oceans and the smallest streams remain so pristine that they invite both leisurely swims and the purest sips. In this idyllic realm, lush forests and vibrant jungles are teamed with a rich tapestry of plant and animal species, while the air remains as pure as the breath of a newborn, entirely free from the ominous presence of contaminants. Such a paradise is none other than Eonthera, often referred to as Earth’s spiritual counterpart—a realm intricately intertwined with our own. However, a pertinent question arises: What if this utopian sanctuary becomes entangled in the dilemma that currently afflicts our Earth?
Soar a Burning Sky, by Steven Michael Beck, is a captivating and thought-provoking fantasy novel that takes readers on a journey into the interconnected realms of Earth and its hidden utopia counterpart, Eonthera. The author tells a story about mutual reliance and symbiotic life in the face of the impending peril posed by abrupt climate change on Earth. To save both realms from collapsing, Eonthera urgently demands action in response to this impending threat, which acts as a ticking time bomb. The story moves forward and keeps readers interested because of the tangible tension this sense of impending disaster creates throughout.
The unlikely Earthly warriors who must save both realms from a fiery end are introduced to readers along with a wide array of characters in this story. Every character is likable and relatable since they each bring their own talents and weaknesses to the table. There is a strong narrative arc as they learn the value of their duty and the repercussions of inaction. The examination of the effects of human stupidity in Soar a Burning Sky is among its most striking features. The main enemy is recognized as Earth’s ignorance and disrespect for the environment. Beck presents a clear picture of how our deeds, or lack thereof, can cause the environment we live in to deteriorate. Because of how pertinent this theme is to the modern world, the book is both a compelling commentary on environmental issues and an enjoyable read.
Soar a Burning Sky explores the entwined fates of Earth and Eonthera in a beautifully written fantasy book. The narrative conveys significant lessons about the need to protect the environment, the adverse effects of ignorance, and the possibility of repentance. This book serves as a timely reminder of our duty to safeguard the Earth we call home and is a gripping piece of fiction. For those who value complex character development, sophisticated world-building, and stories with a strong environmental message, this is a must-read.
Pages: 481
Six Moons, Seven Gods
In Robert A. Walker’s Six Moons, Seven Gods, loyalty and treachery entwine, friendships are tested, and dangerous secrets are held close to the heart. As deadly schemes unfold, an assassin’s life takes unexpected turns. At the same time, old acquaintances are revived from oblivion, and cryptic messages are delivered in this powerful plot that’s filled with many uncertainties. Additionally, rumors of murder spread about the land and threaten all who dwell within its borders. In this mystical world, chaos is propagated by the one sworn to the people, a daring assassination is set in motion, and the fate of a powerful captive is left yet to be decided. Six Moons, Seven Gods is a political tale that involves an intriguing mix of characters, including lovers, assassins, rulers, thieves, and a dreamer.
Robert A. Walker weaves themes of action, power, friendship, and love to create a brilliant, compelling narrative that hooks the reader from start to finish. I found myself turning the pages quickly as I couldn’t wait to unravel the next part of the plot. I especially enjoyed the author’s depiction of caramadie and friendship, as the characters are seen joking and teasing one another with statements like “You couldn’t rob a blind man if he left his doors unlocked.” Furthermore, the vivid descriptions make it a joy to picture the characters. For example, one character is described as having “chiseled facial features, skin browned by the sun, and thick crown of black curly hair.”
Six Moons, Seven Gods is told through multiple perspectives and involves various characters from different walks of life. I especially like Mari, as she blacks out and has visions that make her seem mysterious and intriguing. This is also the first book in the Legends of Baelon series, so keep in mind that this novel is setting up the whole series.
Fans of books set in a medieval, magical world will be captivated by this book. Amidst assassination plots and arrow attacks, visionary characters and mystical incidents leave you with suspense and deep questions that keep you turning the pages for more. Readers will find themselves laughing, their hearts racing, and their minds engaged with its intricate plot.
Pages: 307 | ASIN : B0CJ5ZG487
Found Family
Queen of Deception follows a woman who dies and comes back to life as a child with all her memories from her past life, into the world of her favorite fantasy novel. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Reincarnation has always been an interesting subject for me. I even have it as a part of my Helena Hawthorn series. There is just something about the idea of being reborn into a new life after death that I absolutely love.
The inspiration for Queen of Deception came from feeling listless during the pandemic. I was pregnant with my first son and on a publishing hiatus. In Asian countries, it is a much more explored subject, and there is plenty of media that covers it. So, I dived head-first into Japanese Manga, Korean Manhwa, Light Novels, and Anime. At some point, I could not find what I wanted and decided to write a story of my own, telling the tale of morally grey characters that do not revolve around only romance.
Since I have always been a fan of Fantasy, it wasn’t hard to put together Emilia’s new world. What was difficult was all the research, which is still ongoing, that comes with the story.
There was a lot of time spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
I wanted each of the characters to have their strengths and flaws.
Emilia is strong-willed, determined, and kind to those she deems close to her, but she has also lived through years of abuse and is bitter from that horrible experience. It is very hard to reach her heart.
Laurence is a character who takes life as it comes, but deep down, he resents himself for the life he lives. I always find his emotional journey surprising with each book.
And lastly, Prince Thessian—he is a guardian of the Hellion Empire his family has built and maintained. He is a man who had to wear the masks of a perfect prince and a brutal conqueror who’s willing to make sacrifices. Yet, when he comes to learn more about the darker side of his family, he, too, evolves from his strict mindset.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The main focus is found family. I want my characters to find their place in the world while discovering themselves, their limitations, and possibly even changing their goals along the way.
Can you tell us where the book goes and where we’ll see the characters in the next book?
After the slaughter of the Dante Royal Family, Emilia takes on the role of Queen with the support of the enemy nation’s prince. With aligned goals and a promise to help Thessian become Emperor, Emilia has her work cut out for her, especially since she is not the only one with royal blood in the kingdom. At the same time, she believes that joining Thessian’s side is the best course of action to save the fantasy novel in which she was reincarnated.
In Queen of Ashes (Book 2), she uncovers a sinister plot against her and a secret long hidden by the former king. So, Emilia does what she does best—she fights back with everything she’s got while trying to balance the royal lifestyle, politics, greedy nobles, and uncooperative subordinates.
I won’t go into any more detail as that may spoil the story for some.
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Emilia died. She thought it was all over but then she opens her eyes and realizes she’s a child with all the memories of her past life and her eidetic memory intact.
Not just that. She’s now living in a medieval world that resembles her favourite fantasy novel—The Cruel Empire. Instead of being a main character, she’s reborn into the role of a princess fated to die before the age of eighteen.
As years go by, and she realises she’s not waking from a dream, she settles into her new life with only a goal in mind—survival.
Having years ahead of her before her new life is cut short, Emilia pulls the strings and builds a network of friends that will help her with her goal—stop Prince Thessian from killing her with the rest of her despicable family and make him her ally.
If she can do this, she can rule to improve her kingdom’s conditions and support Thessian’s goal to become emperor of the neighbouring empire.
But when a side character messes with the main plot, what will happen to Emilia’s future now that she has no idea of what other events she has set in motion?
Find out in Queen of Deception, a thrilling Fantasy Novel by May Freighter.
LITERARY TITAN 