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Learning To Be Bold
Amethyst, The Shallows follows six children living in a beach town devastated by a sickness who end up on an adventure filled with magic and self-discovery. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Amethyst, The Shallows explores the challenge of what it takes to re-build confidence and trust following a long period of isolation and trauma. The six kids in this story are recovering from a terrifying pandemic, facing the challenge in wildly creative and vastly different ways. My inspiration came from marveling at the many courageous ways kids rebound from crisis.
The characters in this book cope with the wounds of isolation by learning to be bold again, relying on unique gifts and talents to help them be brave. Pragmatic Lorelei finds inspiration in her love of sea creatures. Fierce and gentle Condi relaxes into the meditative flow of surfing. Isaac is led into a mysterious realm by his love of music. Casey solves terrifying problems by using logic. Sweet Tad monitors his emotions through color. Fearless Kait presses on, following her heart.
The transformative coming-of-age journey is both terrifying and wondrous. All the kids in Amethyst, The Shallows embrace the challenge, guided by a profound and powerful ocean magic that lives in the deep.
A lot of time was spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
I found writing multiple POV to be a joy—and an incredible challenge! To differentiate the characters, it was necessary to “live” with each one, seeking to understand what makes them special and unique, not only in voice and mannerisms, but in the way they view the world. At the same time, I sought to discover the qualities in each one that might spark growth and change. As it turns out, my characters have an important quality in common that inevitably leads to change. They are curious, a beautiful quality that expresses itself in strange and fascinating ways. Curiosity gets each character into trouble (and out of it), all the while helping them forge bonds of friendship and community, a major theme of the book.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Amethyst, The Shallows explores several themes that are important to me. One of them is the bond of unlikely friendships. I believe it’s a life-enhancing skill to seek connection with people who appear to be different than you, seeking to understand how you may be the same. I also wanted to explore the universal theme of healing, and the many ways it manifests after crisis. Whether it is through music, surfing, the love of the ocean and its creatures, expressing emotions through art and color or by reading poetry and telling stories, there is a wealth of everyday magic that inspires healing.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m excited to be hard at work on the third book of The Yellow Cottage Stories, titled Indigo, The Deep. It is a continuation of the adventures of the kids in The Aquamarine Surfboard and Amethyst, The Shallows.
The story takes place a year later, during the mercurial autumn equinox, when the moon shifts and the tides change in mysterious ways. After all, aquamarine and amethyst are the colors of the shallows…indigo is the color of the deep.
Look for Indigo, The Deep in 2025!
Author links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
In the aftermath of a devastating sickness that shatters their close-knit beach town, six lonely kids are drawn together during the unpredictable autumn equinox. Among them are fourteen-year-old Lorelei, who yearns to be an oceanographer, and her peculiar younger brother, Tad, who possesses an otherworldly curiosity.
When Lorelei has a strange and almost deadly encounter in a sea cave, her loyal boyfriend, Casey, cannot reconcile her fantastical experience with the rational world. Condi, Lorelei’s best friend, understands ocean magic but isn’t free to share what she knows. Kait, a girl from Ireland, regrets her impulsive move to America-all because of an odd occurrence involving her deceased boyfriend’s lost surfboard. When tides turn and the moon shifts, Isaac, the new kid in town who despises the ocean, is forced to face the truth-a profound and powerful magic lives in the deep.
Guided by a wise surf master, mystical old women known as the Beachlings, and an open-hearted grandmother, six kids embark on transformative adventures that challenge their beliefs about possibilities and the intense nature of love.
Do You Believe in Magic?
In Do You Believe in Magic?, the first book of Jim Melvin’s The Dark Circles Trilogy, young readers are introduced to Charlie Magus, a 13-year-old boy who stumbles upon a mystical waterfall in South Carolina that serves as a portal to the enchanting realm of Pacchann. This discovery launches Charlie and his friends into a world where magic and danger are intricately intertwined, and a prophecy highlights Charlie’s significance in this new world.
Melvin’s narrative style is a standout feature of the novel. His rich, descriptive language paints vivid scenes, making it easy for readers, especially tweens, to immerse themselves in the story. This clarity is crucial for younger audiences to navigate the plot’s complexities. Some might initially find the pace slow, but this deliberateness is a testament to Melvin’s thorough world-building, ensuring every detail contributes to the story’s overall progression. As the plot unfolds, it transforms into an absorbing journey that maintains reader engagement through to the end. Though aimed at a younger demographic, Do You Believe in Magic? Has a universal appeal. As an adult reader, I found the narrative’s depth engaging. The characters, including Charlie, Virgil, Zola, and Garrick, are crafted with relatable and likable qualities, anchoring the fantastical elements in a relatable human experience. The novel’s use of pop culture references and occasional authorial asides may divide opinion, but they add to the authenticity of a genuine young adult reading experience.
This first installment sets a high bar for the trilogy with its captivating storytelling and promise of adventure and enchantment. Melvin captures the quintessential experiences of tween life, from self-discovery to social challenges, making it relevant and enjoyable for its target audience. Do You Believe in Magic? is an engaging entry into fantasy for middle-grade readers and those who appreciate immersive, magical worlds.
Pages: 272 | ASIN : B0C5LBJV6F
Confront Societal Issues Head-on
The Believer within You follows a twelve-year-old girl interested in investigative journalism who uncovers fraudulent real-estate authorities trying to destroy her community. This is an intriguing setup for a young adult novel that is high in social commentary. What was your goal when writing this novel?
The Believer within You centers on twelve-year-old Brenda Sue Bellamy, a seemingly ordinary 12-year-old living in an ordinary county, who displays gifts making her sharper than most adults around her. Armed with her trusty notebook, Brenda Sue uncovers a fraudulent real estate scheme threatening her friend’s neighborhood.
This gripping narrative serves as an engaging introduction to young adult fiction, infused with rich social commentary and a spotlight on the power of observant youth. When I set out to write this novel in early 2022, my primary goal was to weave an inspirational tale that showcases how even the youngest among us can unearth injustices and inspire change. Brenda Sue, with her keen observation skills and unwavering determination, embodies the spirit of young readers everywhere. Through her adventures, meticulously documented in her trusty notebook, I aspired to empower my audience, showing them that their voices matter and that they possess the ability to confront societal issues head-on. My aim was not only to maintain the interest of young readers but to engage them in a story that balances the gravity of real-world issues with the invincible spirit of youth, paving the way for a narrative that’s as enlightening as it is enthralling.
Brenda Sue is a relatable and inspiring character who draws middle-grade readers into her story. What was your inspiration for their characters’ interactions and backstories?
My inspiration for her character and those interactions comes from a mix of personal experiences and observations on the root causes of poverty and homelessness, particularly in the United States, and how these issues relate to ongoing global financial crises. The Believer within You, while a work of fiction, mirrors realities that are both timely and timeless, suggesting alternative endings with life-changing economic implications for children not just in the United States but globally. Drawing from my nearly 30 years of service as a Master Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, including time within the Judge Advocate General and Naval Legal Service Command, I’ve woven into Brenda Sue’s character the diverse perspectives and stories I’ve encountered. Inspired by my mother, who was raised in poverty yet remained devoted to our family and community, Brenda Sue’s background reflects the resilience and determination of those who face and overcome adversity. My aim was to craft a protagonist embodying strength, empathy, and the drive to effect change.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In crafting The Believer within You, it was important for me to explore themes of hope, faith, and self-belief, alongside the power of community and social justice. These themes are dear to me and, I believe, resonate with readers as well. The narrative emphasizes the transformative power of hope, faith, and belief in oneself to overcome challenges and positively impact communities and the broader world. By illustrating Brenda Sue’s love for her community and her determination to protect it, I wanted to highlight the strength found in unity. Through Brenda Sue’s journey, the book also addresses issues of injustice and corruption, urging readers to advocate for what is right and strive for a more equitable society. These themes of hope, community, and social justice are central to the novel, reflecting my values and aspirations for positive change.
Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
While I’m currently exploring ideas for a potential sequel to The Believer within You, I’m also excited about new storytelling opportunities. I’ve received encouraging feedback, especially from my editor, who believes in my potential to contribute meaningfully to the literary world. This encouragement has inspired me to consider further developing this narrative into a series. The Believer within You is more than just a book; it’s a testament to collaborative creativity, brought to life through the exceptional talents of my editor and illustrator. Their contributions have been invaluable in realizing this project.
I hope these responses offer a clear view of the story behind The Believer within You and my motivations for writing it. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be featured on Literary Titan and for your ongoing support. I look forward to engaging further with your platform and its audience.
Author Links: Goodreads | Website
Twelve-year-old Brenda Sue Bellamy uncovers a fraudulent real estate scheme in her friend’s neighborhood and documents it all in her trusty notebook.
The Believer within You
The Believer within You, by Tyrone Burnett, artfully combines a sense of realism with the innocence and determination of youth. Readers are introduced to Brenda Sue Bellamy, a twelve-year-old unexpectedly drawn into the complex world of local politics and societal challenges. Burnett’s protagonist embodies a unique juxtaposition of youthful naivety and a mature understanding of social and economic issues, providing a fresh perspective on the intricacies of life.
Set against a backdrop of poverty and homelessness in Pamunkey County, Florida, the story explores deep societal issues through Brenda Sue’s eyes. Her journey transcends the traditional boundaries of storytelling, offering not just an engaging plot but also serving as a catalyst for a societal awakening. Themes of homelessness, economic disparity, and the power of individual belief are woven seamlessly into the narrative, urging readers to reconsider their understanding of social responsibility. Burnett’s writing is both informative and emotionally resonant, creating a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is heart-touching.
The addition of vivid illustrations throughout Burnett’s book further enriches the reader’s experience, providing a tangible connection to the characters and their environment. This approach not only enhances the storytelling but also underscores the book’s themes, making The Believer within You a compelling and insightful read for those interested in social issues and the impact of individual agency.
The Believer within You stands out as a poignant and impactful narrative that skillfully blends youthful perspective with complex societal themes. Tyrone Burnett has crafted a story that is not only engaging but also serves as a powerful commentary on social issues such as poverty, homelessness, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Pages: 57 | ASIN: B0D3WXHY4S
HAVAH: A love that transcends the metaphysical realm
HAVAH is a story about an AI achieving sentience and its impact on the lives of those it touches. Many fear the day of its arrival, but what if it could feel love and compassion? In this riveting tale, we trace the creation of such an entity from its inception as a virtual existence to its full embodiment as it navigates the intricacies of what it means to be a human, not only in its relationship with the characters in the story but also the hard choices it has to make to define and realize its own humanity.
Author NG Keng Tiong skillfully portrays the combat scenarios involving STRATOS, imbuing them with a sense of immediacy and realism that is both thrilling and immersive. These scenes are not just about physical battles but also delve into the tactical use of futuristic technology, setting the stage for a high-octane reading experience. At the heart of the narrative is HAVAH, the AI entity. The character of HAVAH is intricately crafted, offering a nuanced look at artificial intelligence. Her evolving understanding of human emotions and experiences is not only central to the plot but also offers thought-provoking insights into what it means to be sentient. The interactions between HAVAH and the STRATOS team, in particular the connection with its creator David Friedman, are portrayed with depth and sensitivity, which adds a rich emotional layer to the novel.
The author delves into topics such as AI consciousness and human augmentation, raising pertinent questions about the future of humanity and technology. These themes are interwoven seamlessly into the narrative, making the book both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. Character development is another strong point of HAVAH. Each character is well-fleshed out, with their backstories and motivations adding layers to the narrative. This depth ensures that readers are invested not just in the outcome of the story but in the journeys of the characters themselves. The conclusion of the novel is both climactic and satisfying, tying together the various plot threads in a manner that is both exciting and emotionally resonant. The inclusion of an epilogue and author’s note adds a personal touch, offering insights into the creative process behind the novel.
HAVAH is a remarkable military fiction novel that is sure to resonate with fans of science fiction and action genres. Its blend of exhilarating action, deep emotional storytelling, and thoughtful exploration of human-AI relationships makes it a standout novel.
Pages: 256 | ASIN : B0CTCMYR2S
Nightwalker (The Demonic War Book 1)
Nightwalker (The Demonic War Book 1), by Nathan Manioci, offers a captivating entry into the realm of young adult fantasy thrillers, marking the inaugural installment of a promising series. At the tender age of fifteen, Ren Nightwalker endures the tragic loss of his mother under enigmatic circumstances, compelling him to uproot his life alongside his father to a distant corner of the globe. Now, three years later, the eighteen-year-old finds himself returning to his former high school, concealing a profound secret: he is not merely a typical student but rather the progeny of vampire royalty, his existence spanning centuries.
Within the pages of Nightwalker, readers are transported into a world brimming with magic, monstrous creatures, and supernatural intrigue. Manioci deftly weaves together elements of fantasy, adventure, and suspense, crafting a narrative that enthralls from its opening salvo to its climactic conclusion. Amidst the pulse-pounding action, the novel delves into profound themes of self-discovery, sacrifice, and the intricate dynamics of power.
Central to the narrative is Ren’s quest to secure the elusive Sun and Moon Stones, pivotal artifacts essential to the preservation of his kind and the thwarting of impending catastrophe. This quest serves as a magnetic force, propelling readers through a labyrinth of suspenseful twists and turns. Particularly compelling is Ren’s internal struggle against his vampiric nature, a conflict that imbues his character with depth and complexity. His steadfast refusal to succumb to the primal urges of his lineage underscores the high stakes of his mission, portraying him as a resolute figure contending against formidable odds.
In Nightwalker, Manioci masterfully constructs a narrative tapestry that transcends mere entertainment, inviting readers to contemplate the complexities of identity and the enduring battle between light and darkness. For aficionados of the supernatural genre seeking a spellbinding adventure, this book stands as a beacon of intrigue and excitement, promising a journey that will linger in the imagination long after the final page is turned.
Pages: 368 | ASIN : B0CDFCPFZQ
The Captain of the Black Swan
Diana Townsend and David Hardie’s The Captain of the Black Swan is a captivating narrative that intertwines elements of friendship and adventure in a fantasy setting. The story introduces us to the Dittos, elusive, nature-bound creatures reminiscent of elves and fairies, who secretly coexist with humans. Set in the quaint town of Dawlish, the tale centers around Tom, a spirited and undaunted young Ditto. Despite his mysterious origins and lack of knowledge about his parents, Tom’s optimism and self-reliance shine through as defining traits.
The plot takes a turn with the advent of a destructive storm that damages the Ditto community, coinciding with the arrival of the Black Swan, a mystical flying ship. This event propels Tom into a series of adventures, particularly when signs point to the resurgence of the feared Granite-Gobblers. Tom, alongside his companions Dawlish and Lily, embarks on a mission to avert further calamity, embarking on a journey that tests their mettle and resourcefulness.
Townsend and Hardie, a sibling duo, have crafted a world rich in detail and imagination. Their passion for the story and characters is evident in the meticulous development of the narrative. The book excels in portraying the gradual maturation of its characters, as they navigate challenges, seek wisdom from elders, and ultimately learn to make their own decisions. The authors have created a vividly imagined world, replete with unique technology and magical elements, all conveyed through engaging storytelling that keeps the reader invested. The book’s illustrations, though few, are strategically placed to enhance key moments and aid in visualizing the story’s progression. While I feel that a greater number of illustrations might have enriched the experience, the narrative stands strong on its own, imparting meaningful life lessons and ensuring a pleasurable reading journey.
The Captain of the Black Swan is not just an engaging and well-paced tale but also a gateway into a fantastical world that promises to stir the imaginations of its readers. A highly recommended read for those who seek adventure and fantasy tales.
Pages: 258 | ASIN : B0CC6NQBTN
Searching for Proof and Faith
In Searching for Proof and Faith, authors Waverly Hasty Cowart and Richard Hasty explore the dynamic intersection of faith, doubt, and intellectual inquiry at Blanchard University. The narrative follows Harper, a student whose steadfast belief in God is challenged by Professor Meek’s atheistic views. Her encounters with Jay, a charismatic junior teaching assistant, and an avowed atheist, further compel her to scrutinize her convictions. This journey of faith is marked by her engaging in thought-provoking discussions, delving into research, and grappling with the elusive nature of truth.
The book delves into various philosophical, scientific, and religious perspectives, enriching the narrative with diverse viewpoints. It includes a newly added chapter addressing LGBTQ issues, enhancing its contemporary relevance. Through its balanced presentation, the story offers insights into the challenges Christians face in the modern world, backed by logical arguments and reflective questions. Searching for Proof and Faith is noteworthy for integrating biblical quotations with ideas from a range of intellectuals, making it a comprehensive exploration of faith-related topics. Each chapter concludes with questions for the reader and blank spaces for personal reflections. This interactive approach is complemented by a “Sources for More Study” section, offering additional reading materials and online resources for those who wish to delve deeper. Titles such as “I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist” by Dr. Norman Geisler and Frank Turek are among the intriguing recommendations provided.
Targeted particularly at high school and university students, the book serves as a guide for young Christians navigating faith amidst an abundance of information and diverse viewpoints. Its blend of engaging dialogue, relatable themes, and valuable recommendations make it a compelling read for those seeking to reaffirm their faith or gain a deeper understanding of Christian beliefs. Searching for Proof and Faith stands out as an educational and thought-stimulating work, inviting readers to explore the complexities of faith in today’s world.
Pages: 223 | ASIN : B0CQ8T1R35
LITERARY TITAN 