Linnea Tanner's Blog, page 47
April 3, 2018
Life in Ancient Britannia as Depicted in Apollo’s Raven
The following is a reblog of my guest post, Life in Ancient Britannia as Depicted in Apollo’s Raven by Linnea Tanner, that was originally published on 12 March 2018 at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots. This is the official blog of Historical Fantasy Author, Mary Anne Yarde, and home to The Coffee Pot Book Club. Be sure to visit this website for everything mythological, as well as historical.
Also check out Mary Anne Yarde Author Interview at this site for information regarding her and her Arthurian series, The Du Lac Chronicles.
Life in Ancient Britannia as Depicted in Apollo’s Raven by Linnea Tanner #History #AncientBritain @linneatanner
History Revisited in Ancient Britain
The historical backdrop of Apollo’s Raven is based on recent archaeological evidence that revisits the accepted history of Ancient Britannia (Britain) prior to the Roman invasion of 43 AD. According to archaeological experts, the invasion never happened, at least not in the way it was depicted in the historical records of the Roman Emperor Claudius. He proclaimed his conquest matched the great accomplishments of his forefather, Julius Caesar. Roman forces of 40,000 heavily armored soldiers landed in Kent and trailed a bloody path northward to Camulodunum (modern day Colchester) where he claimed Britannia for Rome.
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White Cliffs of Dover Near Location of Roman Invasion
Yet recent archaeological fieldwork has uncovered evidence of a significant Roman presence in Britannia well before 43 AD. There was widespread trade between Britannia and Rome after Julius Caesar’s futile incursions into Britannia in 55 and 54 BC. At the time, Caesar demanded hostages to ensure the British rulers met their treaty agreements. It was also a method in which the young Britons were acculturated to accept the Roman way of thinking more in line with the elites.
Hostages from British royal families were often raised and educated in Roman households. They were not treated as prisoners, but were allowed to move freely in public places with minimal security measures to prevent their escape. When they returned to their homeland as young adults, they could speak and write Latin, and many of them adopted Roman customs.
There may have been a Roman military presence in Britain at least three decades before Claudius. Two British kings from northern Hampshire and Eastern Kent sought refuge in Rome, hoping to persuade the Emperor Augustus to intervene in regaining their kingdoms in 7 AD. It is possible that Augustus sent troops to Britannia, but his goal to conquer the isle may have changed due to the annihilation of three Roman Legions in the forests of Germany in 9 AD.
Claudius’s predecessor, the emperor Caligula, also attempted an invasion in 39 AD, but his plans ended in fiasco. The Roman historian Dio Cassius writes that Caligula was primarily aggrieved ‘at his lieutenants who won some slight successes’ in the war against Britannia, suggesting Roman troops may have already landed. Modern historians presume Caligula’s men had mutinied and were punished for not carrying out his plans.
Life in Apollo’s Raven
Book 1: Apollo’s Raven is set in 24 AD southeast Britannia (modern day Kent) during the reign of the Roman Emperor Tiberius. There is significant Roman influence over the politics and lifestyle of the ruling tribal kings. Legionary forces have been sent there to settle the political differences between two Celtic kings. One of the kings rules the Cantiaci kingdom (modern day Kent) while the other has sovereignty over the Catuvellauni territory (modern day Colchester). Both rulers were raised and educated as hostages in Roman households.
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Map of Southern Britannia
The agricultural area in southeast Britannia is rich in grains and livestock. The rural population live in thatched-roof round houses alongside their plots of land. The ruling class lived in hilltop fortresses whose structures have been influenced by Roman architecture.
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Ancient Celtic Roundhouse
The Celtic ruling class consists of noble warriors whose status is often gained through combat with each other at festivities. Although the Celtic society has become more patriarchal, women still have significantly more rights than their Roman counterparts. They can own property and be military commanders, Druids, and rulers. The heroine, Catrin, is based on the recorded historical accounts of fighting Celtic women and warrior queens. The warrior queen, Boudica, united various British tribes and almost expelled Roman occupation in 61 AD.
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Vision of Catrin, Celtic Warrior Princess
Fantastical elements inspired by Celtic mythology and legends from Wales and Ireland are interwoven into the historical backdrop of Apollo’s Raven. Magical powers included the abilities to prophesy, to shape-shift, and draw on the forces of nature. Celts believed the soul reincarnated into other animal and human forms, consistent with the views of the 500 BC Greek philosopher, Pythagoras. Several Celtic healing sites are named after Apollo, probably as a result of the blending of religious beliefs.
References:
John Manley, AD 43 The Roman Invasion of Britain: A reassessment; Tempus Publishing, Inc., Charleston, SC, 2002.
Graham Webster, Roman Invasion of Britain, Reprinted 1999 by Routledge, London.
Julius Caesar, translated by F. P. Long, The Conquest of Gaul; United States: Barnes & Noble, Inc., 2005.
Cassius Dio, Roman History, published in Vol. VII of the Loeb Classical Library, Edition 1924; Book LX
http://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Roman/Texts/Cassius_Dio/60*.html
Miles Russell, Roman Britain: Ruling Britannia, Published in History Today, Volume 55 Issue 8 August 2005. http://www.historytoday.com/miles-russell/roman-britain-ruling-britannia
Linnea Tanner
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Linnea Tanner, Author
Apollo’s Raven Series
Linnea Tanner weaves Celtic tales of love, magic, adventure, betrayal and intrigue into historical fiction set in Ancient Rome and Britannia. Since childhood, she has passionately read about ancient civilizations and mythology which held women in higher esteem. Of particular interest are the enigmatic Celts who were reputed as fierce warriors and mystical Druids.
Depending on the time of day and season of the year, you will find her exploring and researching ancient and medieval history, mythology and archaeology to support her writing. As the author of the Apollo’s Raven series, she has extensively researched and traveled to sites described within each book.
A native of Colorado, Linnea attended the University of Colorado and earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry. She lives in Windsor with her husband and has two children and six grandchildren.
Linnea loves to hear from readers, you can find her: Website Blog Twitter Amazon Author Page Facebook Linked-in Pinterest Google Goodreads
Apollo’s Raven
An ancient curse threatens the fates of a Celtic warrior princess and her people in 24 AD Britannia.
British tribal kings hand-picked by Rome to rule are fighting each other for power. King Amren’s former queen, a powerful Druid, cast a curse at her execution which foretells Blood Wolf and the Raven will rise and destroy him.
King Amren’s daughter, Catrin, is swept into a political web of deception and betrayal when envoys sent by the Roman Emperor Tiberius demand allegiance from their kingdom. King Amren takes Marcellus, the great-grandson of Mark Antony, as hostage and demands Catrin spy on him.
Drawn to the magnetic pull of Marcellus, Catrin discovers she is the Raven and must find a way to block the curse. Torn between her forbidden love for the enemy and loyalty to her people, she urgently calls upon the magic of the Ancient Druids to alter the dark prophecy that awaits her.
Amazon Barnes and Noble IndieBound Bookotop
Thank you for your continued support during the maintenance of this website.
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Best wishes,
Linnea Tanner
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February 18, 2018
Celebrate New Apple Awards Apollo’s Raven
Dual New Apple Book Awards
I am honored that Apollo’s Raven has been chosen as the “Official Selection” in the Cross Genre category in the 2017 New Apple Annual Book Awards! This award is in addition to the 2017 New Apple Summer E-Book Awards for which Apollo’s Raven was chosen as the “Official Section” in the Historical Fiction category.
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New Apple e-book Award
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New Apple Book Award
Celebrate Awards & Republication
I am pleased to announce the e-book and softcover book of Apollo’s Raven have been republished. Revisions were based on feedback I received from reviewers regarding word choice and inconsistencies. Quotes within the book have been deleted at the beginning of each chapter.
As an author, I value readers’ reviews and constructive feedback, as this helps me to write quality books that each of you can enjoy. Feel free to contact me if you have any feedback or questions. A major twist in Empire’s Anvil is based on a question that a reader asked me: What happens to the soul of a person who is possessed by another soul?
More to come!
To celebrate the New Apple book awards, the republished e-book of Apollo’s Raven will be offered at Amazon for the Bargain price of 99 cents through February 23rd. Click on the following to purchase:
The softcover book of Apollo’s Raven on which the New Apple Award is based is also available at Amazon. Also check out the audio-book of Apollo’s Raven that is available at Audible and Apple Store. The narrator, Kristen James, did an amazing job narrating the book.
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Kristin James, Narrator of Apollo’s Raven
Future Giveaways
As a preferred e-mail subscriber, you will be eligible to win monthly giveaways beginning in March 2018 through the Fall. The giveaway will be announced each month and could include an Amazon gift card, signed hardcover special edition or e-book of Apollo’s Raven, or an advanced copy of Empire’s Anvil (anticipated summer 2018).
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Book Cover Empire’s Anvil
The March 2018 Giveaway will be a signed copy of the special hardcover edition of Apollo’s Raven.
Photographs of Readers with Apollo’s Raven Book
For those who have bought the Apollo’s Raven book, send me a photograph of yourself holding the book at linnea@linneatanner.com. Indicate what city you are from, and I’ll post the photograph on my website.
Below are some recent photographs, including Joni’s cat that loves to sleep next to the Apollo’s Raven book.
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Joni’s Cat with Apollo’s Raven
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Donna Cordova with Apollo’s Raven
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Lewis Bustos with Apollo’s Raven
Thank you for your continued support!
As always, I appreciate your support and would love to hear from you.
Best wishes,
Linnea Tanner
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The post Celebrate New Apple Awards Apollo’s Raven appeared first on Linnea Tanner - Author of Apollo's Raven.
January 7, 2018
Exploring Magical Powers of the Celts
Contributed Post
The post, Exploring Magical Powers of the Celts, was contributed by Jane Johnson, a freelance writer and editor. She has written for both digital and print across a wide variety of fields. Her main interest is exploring how people can improve their health and well being in their everyday life. And when she isn’t writing, Jane can often be found with her nose in a good book, at the gym or just spending quality time with her family.
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Overview of the Celts
The earliest pre-Christian Celts were mysterious and captivating pre-Christian individuals with a history filled with legends and romance – a history of wizards, fairies, wizards, heroes and above all, magic. Julius Caesar was once quoted as saying that the Celts were brave but impetuous and headstrong. The various clans migrated from Central Europe and went on to populate much of Western Europe, Ireland and Britain until they were ultimately displaced by first the Romans and later Christianity.
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Statue of Dying Celt
The various Celtic clans and tribes were unified by their common priesthood known as the Druids who were said to possess magical powers. These Druid priests preserved religion, scholarship, science and law, and had supreme influence over everyone due to their sacred authority. The Druids were known to yield psychic abilities firmly yet responsibly. One of the most famous of Celtic legends involving Druids is that of King Arthur and the wizard Merlin. Merlin was a Druid wizard, bard, tutor and keeper of arcane secrets. He was also rumored to be the son of an incubus (demon) and a mortal woman who was first a princess and later became a nun.
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Druidic Ritual at Stonehenge
Druid Magic
The ancient Druids were also clergy as well as Shamans with their costumes including long white robes, feathered capes and elaborate headdresses. They also would often be seen wielding a rowan wood scepter as a sign of their power and that was often used as a magic wand when performing spells. The magic of Druids is all dependent on a strong and healthy awareness of nature itself as well as the gods and spirits who dwell in nature and is deeply rooted in the four elements earth, air, water and fire. Most Druid spells correspond to one or more of the elements with the 4 compass points each displaying a significant corresponding color: North-black, South-white, East-red, West-grey. Druid magic was known to combine the four natural elements with magic stones, color, direction, the lunar calendar and incense.
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Horn God Surrounded by Animals; Inner Panel Gundestrup Cauldron
Sacred Symbols
Birds such as the swan, goose, owl, raven and eagle were all considered sacred in Celtic culture. Other sacred animals included the cat, dog, wolf, bull, stag, boar, horse and butterfly with these animals often being depicted in very complex knotted patterns.
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Knotted Celtic Raven Symbol
The number 3 was also considered sacred to the Druids and was believed to have numerous magical powers. This belief is exemplified in the Celtic triquerta, trefoil, nonegram and the Triangle of Manifestation. Hallowed trees included the hazel, oak and yew, with the worship of the oak tree being very commonplace in both Celtic and non-Celtic Europe.
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Cork Oak Tree in Southern Britain
The Little People
Dwarfs, Brownies, Elves and Fairies made up a very intriguing aspect of Celtic culture and folklore. These tiny life-forms were seen as spiritual beings to whom the imprudence of mankind has assigned an imaginary existence. Fairies were referred to as the ‘good neighbours’ and were beautiful miniature versions of a divine human form. These cheeky little beings resided below ground or in little green dwellings and wore the most brilliant clothes. Leprechauns have become the self-appointed guardians of ancient treasure burying it in pots or crocks. Their association with rainbows and finding the pot of gold at the end of it has forever been associated with prosperity.
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Classic representation fairy with butterfly wings by painter Ricardo Falero
Healing powers
The esteemed Druids were the learned elite and the authority on just about everything including medicine and healing spells. Healing magic would often involve invoking a deity of health and healing such as Airmid (Irish), Diancecht (Irish), Meg the Healer (Scottish) or Ariadne (Welsh) to help heal the ill. Astrology and astronomy were also used extensively while making a medical diagnosis. The Celts worshipped the moon and the sun and had a rudimentary veneration of the closest planets in the solar system. Various plants and herbs were employed for medicinal purposes and often had associations with certain Celtic deities.
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Wildflowers on Dover Cliffs, Kent
The beauty and history of Celtic culture and magic have been preserved in various customs, legends, music, art, antiquities and literature for everyone to explore and enjoy. Through the continued study and appreciation of the magic and myth of the legendary Celtic culture, we are able to fully enjoy and treasure the influence of the most captivating of all people, the Celts.
Upcoming Posts
Upcoming posts based on my research to support the Apollo’s Raven series and another novel under development about a shipwrecked Roman tribune serving under Germanicus are as follows:
Celtic Goddesses
Mark Antony
Annihilation of Roman Legions in Germania and Aftermath
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January 3, 2018
Linus Treefoot Author Interview
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Linus Treefoot, Author, Bright Moon Ridge
Introduction
It is my pleasure to introduce Linus Treefoot, the debut author of Bright Moon Ridge. The book is a 2017 Apple Summer e-book Award winner: runner-up in the Historical Fiction category. Linus was born in the United States, but has lived most of his adult life in New Zealand. He has a fascinating life journey in which he has extensively researched and traveled to China in preparation for his debut novel.
Linus Treefoot graciously accepted my invitation to interview. Below is his biography, responses to my interview questions, and ways you can contact him. Click on the book cover below to purchase his book at Amazon.
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Bright Moon Ridge Book Cover
Biography
Linus Treefoot is an American who has lived in New Zealand for 47 years. He graduated from Stanford University in 1968, then spent about 10 years doing carpentry and farm work, traveling and having a good time. For many years he was a part time entertainer, playing guitar and singing solo or in bands. He has been a primary school and English (ESOL) teacher for about 35 years. He is married to a Chinese woman who grew up in the People’s Republic of China. They have two adult children. When he doesn’t have to work, his interests are music, reading, learning Chinese, swimming and hiking.
Interview Linus Treefoot
Would you provide an overview of the newest book that you have released in 2017?
Bright Moon Ridge is the story of a 19-year-old male, Johnny Bartooth, who is given a journal which was written by his father many years before. His father went to China in 1980 to find his mother, marry her and bring her to the USA. No one whom Johnny knows ever heard from either of them since.
Johnny’s curiosity is ignited and he resolves to go to China to search for his mother and father. Most of the book is about this search for a family he never had.
What or who inspired you to become a writer?
No person in particular. From high school on, I enjoyed expressing myself through writing – at first through poetry and songs more than any other genre.
What inspired you to write Bright Moon Ridge about a young man’s search for his missing parents in China?
My first motivation was to record and fictionalize my life as a hippy in the hills of California and in the backwaters of New Zealand in the 1970s – some outrageous stories and eccentric characters. The germ of the story of Bright Moon Ridge came when in 1990 I met a guy who had just returned from China; he told me that he had had a stealthy affair with a married woman doctor. I expanded on his story in my imagination and intertwined it with those stories I had been considering for years based on my wild life as a hippy. Through many stages of rewriting and editing, the hippy stories were deleted in order to have a more cohesive novel.
How much research was involved in writing your book? How did you go about it?
In 1990 also I met and married my lovely wife, Ma Yue Ying, who grew up during the Cultural Revolution; tales from her own and her family’s history were put into the mix. I developed a strong interest in Chinese history and culture, and began to blend political and historical elements into the story. I did a considerable amount of research through reading and through travelling in China, including two trips to Hainan Island. My wife helped a great deal in translating conversations and some books written in Chinese. Writing this novel was an obsessively absorbing task for me.
How often do your characters surprise you by doing or saying something totally unexpected?
They don’t usually act outside of what I consider their temperament and personality, but sometimes do uncharacteristic things. For example, gentle Mei, when attacked by her fellow prisoners, eventually strikes out in a surprisingly violent way
Have you received reactions/feedback to your work that has surprised you? In what way?
The reviews have been consistently very positive, which has been an encouraging and pleasant result.
Do you have any other books planned? If so, would you give an overview of what the book(s) are about?
In the short term, no. But I think I have at least one more novel in me. There is all the material that I deleted from my original drafts of the novel.
What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
Probably being chosen to work as an English teacher in Massey University. It was a major goal of mine for more than 10 years previous. That was the best job I ever had; I worked there for more than 15 years.
What are the most important traits you look for in a friend?
Kindness is to me the most valued trait. I also highly appreciate a good sense of humour (translated: someone who laughs at my jokes) and I appreciate someone who can converse about politics and literature.
If you could have one skill that you don’t currently have, what would it be?
Being able to play the piano very skillfully.
What might we be surprised to learn about you?
I left the USA when I was 24 in protest over the Vietnam war and the way the government worked. I was almost ecstatic to arrive in relatively backward New Zealand where – without having any friends or acquaintances — I enthusiastically began a new life.
What makes you laugh?
A punch line that is completely different from what you’d expect, e.g. “If you give a man a fish, he will escape hunger for one day. But if you teach a man how to fish, he will sit in a boat all day and drink beer.” Or alternatively, a joke or story in which the teller pretends to be exceedingly stupid, e.g. “Do you know about the tick inspector? If a man comes to your door and says he is a tick inspector and asks you to take off all your clothes and turn around and around, don’t do it! He’s not the real Tick Inspector…. I only wish someone had told me before.”
What simple pleasure makes you smile?
Walking through the bush and looking at the trees and patterns of sun and shade.
You can contact Linus Treefoot as follows:
Bright Moon Ridge can be purchased at AMAZON.
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December 27, 2017
Mary Anne Yarde Author Interview
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Mary Anne Yarde, Author, The Du Lac Chronicles
Introduction
It is my pleasure to introduce Mary Anne Yarde, an English novelist and historian. She is the award-winning author of the International Best Selling Series — The Du Lac Chronicles. Set in the period after the fall of King Arthur, the series takes you on a journey through Dark Age Briton and Brittany. It is is based on both legends and historical fact. The Arthurian legends are some of my favorite reads.
Mary Anne graciously accepted my invitation to interview. Below is her biography, responses to my interview questions, and ways you can contact her. Click on book covers to purchase at Amazon.
Biography
Mary Anne Yarde is the multi award-winning author of the International Bestselling series, The Du Lac Chronicles.
Yarde grew up in the southwest of England, surrounded and influenced by centuries of history and mythology. Glastonbury–the fabled Isle of Avalon–was a mere fifteen-minute drive from her home, and tales of King Arthur and his knights were part of her childhood.
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Du Lac Chronicles Book 1
Interview Mary Anne Yarde
Would you provide an overview of the newest books that you have released this year?
The Du Lac Princess (Book 3 of The Du Lac Chronicles)
War is coming they said. But now it is here…
The Knights Code of Chivalry, which High King Arthur and Lancelot du Lac wrote, has been thrown on the rubbish heap. It is every man for himself. But amongst the chaos, there is one woman who refuses to bow down to tyrants. Lady Amandine du Lac was mistakenly left behind by her kin during the uprising against King Budic du Lac. Now she faces a life of scorn and ridicule because she so happened to be on the losing side. But Amandine has an inner strength that even she was unaware of. No matter what they do to her, no matter what they say, she will remain loyal to her kin and to the man she loved with her whole heart.
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Du Lac Princess Book 3
What inspired you to write the Du Lac Chronicles which take you on a journey through Dark Age Briton and Brittany after the death of King Arthur?
As a child, I adored the legends of King Arthur and his Knights. I grew up near Glastonbury, England, where the story of King Arthur is woven into the very land itself. Many times I have witnessed Glastonbury Tor rise from the Fata Morgana — the mist — and every time I see it I am enthralled. It is so easy to believe the stories of Arthur when set against such a backdrop.
After Arthur’s tragic death the story comes to a sudden halt. No more is heard of Arthur’s famous knights, and all we are left with is a whispered promise, that when Briton is in peril, Arthur and his Knights will ride again. I always thought this was a terrible way to end the story. What an anti-climax. I wanted to write a story about what happened after Arthur’s death, and my series explores this.
How much research was involved in writing your books? How did you go ABOUT researching the legends associated with King Arthur and the aftermath of his death?
The history of a historical Arthur is not written in stone but is, instead, engraved in folklore, and that brings its own set of challenges. It is very much like chasing a phantom or going on a treasure hunt with no map and only rumours to help you!
I have dedicated almost twenty years researching Arthurian legends. I have visited many of the locations in which Arthur’s story is set in. I have so many books on Arthur and his Knights that I have a whole bookcase dedicated to the topic. I find his story absolutely fascinating. Is it an obsession? Probably!
I am also a historian. I actually tutor modern history, but my favourite era by far is the Dark Ages. My books are set in Dark Age Britain, Brittany, and France. I have dedicated more hours than I dare to count researching the Dark Ages in these three countries and it is still an ongoing progress. There is always something new to learn! I think I spend more time researching than I do writing.
Do you have a favorite character from any of the books in the Du Lac Chronicles? Explain why.
That is quite a difficult question to answer. I adore all my characters. But I think if push came to shove I would have to say, Merton du Lac. Merton is a wonderfully complex character, and as a writer he really challenges me.
How often do your characters surprise you by doing or saying something totally unexpected?
All the time! Sometimes it feels that I am not so much writing a book but going along for the ride.
Have you received reactions/feedback to your work that has surprised you? In what way?
My biggest surprise was when my books started to be compared to George R. R. Martin’s, Game of Thrones by reviewers. To be compared to an author like Mr Martin is very humbling.
Do you have any other books planned? If so, would you give an overview of what the book(s) are about?
I am currently working on Book 4 of The Du Lac Chronicles. This book continues with the story.
If you could have one skill that you don’t currently have, what would it be?
I would love to be able to draw and paint. But, that is never going to happen!
What makes you laugh?
My husband. He makes me laugh all the time.
What simple pleasure makes you smile?
Dairy-free chocolate cookies!!
You can contact Mary Anne Yarde as follows:
Other Books by Mary Anne Yarde:
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DuLac Devil: Book 2
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The Pitchfork Rebellion
The post Mary Anne Yarde Author Interview appeared first on Linnea Tanner - Author of Apollo's Raven.
December 11, 2017
Book Signing Colorado Author Linnea Tanner Barnes & Noble
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Barnes and Noble Storefront
Support Colorado Authors on December 13th
BARNES AND NOBLE
Book Signing Colorado Authors Throughout Day
Award-Winning Author Linnea Tanner signing copies of Apollo’s Raven between 2-3 pm.
Date: Wednesday, December 13th
Hours: 9 am to 10 pm
Address: 960 S Colorado Blvd., Glendale, CO 80246
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Barnes & Noble is donating a percentage to support Authors in Colorado and the new Colorado Authors of Fame that will launch next year.
Author Schedule for Book Signing:
Time
Author
Genre
Title
10-11
Kathy Schultz
Political Thriller
The Bystander
11-12
Susan Planck
Adventure Memoir
Piping Hot
12-1
Georgann Hall
Military Memoir
Parachuting for Gold in Old Mexico
1-2
Mara Purl
Women’s Fiction
Where the Heart Lives; What the Heart Knows
2-3
Linnea Tanner
Historical Fiction
Fantasy
Apollo’s Raven
3-4
Laurel Becker
Juvenile
Tales from Beaver Pond
4-5
Connie Pshigoda
Women’s Health
The Wise Woman’s Almanac
5-6
Lisa Reinicke
Children’s
Arnold the Cute Little Pig; Wings and Feet; Bart’s Escape; David’s Christmas Wish
6-7
Natli VanDerWerken
Juvenile
Red Dragon’s Keep
ALL DAY:
Judith Briles – Writing | Publishing – AuthorYOU
How to Avoid 101 Book Publishing Blunders; Bloopers & Boo-Boos; Snappy Sassy Salty; The Crowdfunding Guide for Authors & Writers
John Maling – Juvenile –The Alphabet Menagerie
Inspiration | Poetry – Have You Ever Held a Mountain
Hope to see you on Wednesday, December 13th. Thank you for your support!
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December 7, 2017
Apollo’s Raven Linnea Tanner Updates
Website Revamp
Be sure to visit my new website which as been revamped to correct persistent issues with the previous website design and host server. The overall appearance of this website is similar to the previous one, but the functionality should be improved. Most of the glitches in the cut over to the new website should now be resolved, but feel free to contact me if you encounter any problems.
Hopefully, with the website issues now resolved, I’ll be posting more frequently regarding updates to the Apollo’s Raven Series and other books underway, research to support my writing, author interviews, and book reviews.
Empire’s Anvil Book Cover Revealed
I’m excited to reveal the cover of Book 2, Empire’s Anvil, in the Apollo’s Raven series targeted for release in summer 2018. I’ll be providing excerpts on this site and Bublish.
Empire’s Anvil continues the epic Celtic tale of forbidden love, magical adventure, and political intrigue in Ancient Rome and Britannia. War looms over 24 AD Britannia where rival tribal kings are fighting each other for power. The Romans threaten to invade to settle the rulers’ political differences. The decision made by the Celtic Warrior Princess Catrin to alter the future results in dire consequences. Her Roman lover, Marcellus, seriously wounds her father in an ambush at the prisoner exchange. Consequently, Catrin is accused of treason for aiding Marcellus. The curse transcribed on the dagger again alters and threatens the fates of Catrin and her people.
To redeem herself, Catrin must prove her loyalty to her father. She spins a plot to draw Marcellus into a political web of deception so he can help her sister escape the Roman encampment. Yet, when Catrin reunites with Marcellus, she must face her greatest challenger that could destroy her freedom, humanity, and life.
Facebook Event Dec 10th
On December 10th, there will be a Let It Snow Read Event sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers. I’ll be participating in the event from 1:00 – 1:30 p.m. Mountain Standard Time. Join the fun and meet Colorado authors. Click on below for more information.
E-Book Distribution and Giveaway
The e-book of Apollo’s Raven is currently only available through Amazon so I can take advantage of their Select program for special price promotions. For the holiday season, the e-book of Apollo’s Raven will be offered free on December 14-16th.
Order Signed Hard Cover
You can now purchase a signed, hard cover book of Apollo’s Raven at a reduced price of $17 + free shipping in the USA. To purchase through Paypal, click on below.
Happy Holiday Season
Thank you for your continued support. Best wishes for a happy holiday season!
Linnea
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November 9, 2017
Lindsay Townsend Author Interview
Introduction
It is my pleasure to introduce Lindsay Townsend, an English author from Yorkshire. I had the privilege of reviewing her historical romance, Dark Maiden, for the Historical Novel Society. When I first started reading this story, I had no idea of how much I would enjoy reading a tale set in plague-stricken England in 1350. Not only did I enjoy the romantic elements in the story, I also learned about the chaos and superstitions that arose as a result of the plague. The humor sprinkled throughout the story ultimately made this an entertaining read from beginning to end. The novel was selected as the Editor’s Choice in the Historical Newsletter HNR Issue 82 (November 2017).
I enjoyed learning more about Lindsay in her interview below.
Biography
Lindsay Townsend lives in Yorkshire, England, where she was born. Lindsay started writing stories at an early age. Always a voracious reader, she took a degree in medieval history and worked in a library for a while, then began to write full-time after marriage.
She is fascinated by the medieval and ancient world, especially medieval Britain. When not writing or researching her books, she enjoys walking, reading, cooking, music, going out with friends and long languid baths with scented candles (and perhaps chocolate).
Interview Lindsay Townsend
Would you provide an overview of newest books that you have released this year?
I have written and released several medieval historical romances this year including my full length novel, Dark Maiden, published by Prairie Rose, and a sensual romance novella, The Virgin, the Knight and the Dragon, part of my Medieval Creatures series with Siren-Bookstrand. I’ve also reissued A Knight’s Vow, now self-published for Kindle. I’ve also self-published a sweet medieval novella, Plain Harry. For Christmas I’m part of the One Yuletide Knight anthology, with my novella, Sir Constantine and the Changeling.
What inspired you to write the historical romance, Dark Maiden, about a black female exorcist in plague-infested England?
I’ve always been fascinated by ghost stories and authors such as MR James. I studied medieval history at University and reading about the Black Death (or Great Pestilence) and its massive, shattering impact on society stayed with me. This was a time when “normal” customs and morals were almost destroyed in some areas of Europe, as shown by accounts by contemporary writers such as Boccaccio. Reading Philip Ziegler’s vivid history of this time in his book The Black Death, I was struck by a passage concerning Ralf of Shrewsbury, the medieval bishop of Bath and Wells. In 1349, when the pestilence was spreading through England, devastating society, Ralf wrote a letter to his priests and in it he explained “you should …persuade all men…that if they are on the point of death and can not secure the services of a priest, then they should make confession to each other…or, if no man is present, then even to a woman.”
That phrase “even to a woman” got me thinking and the germ of a story began to form. It was shaped further by reading of the appearance of strange cults, such as the Flagellants, and the belief throughout Europe that this killer disease presaged the end of times. The dead and dying clearly dominated people’s minds during this period, as seen by the appearance of skeletal avatars of death in manuscripts and in church paintings and tombs.
The dead and dying and ghosts and a hero to help them. A different hero, one outside the usual customs of the time. Considering these factors, Yolande came into my mind, emerging almost complete from a dream. I knew the medieval church revered the black saint Maurice. I knew from archaeology and historical sources that England has always been multi-cultural, with a rich blend of races. I wanted to celebrate that heritage in my story.
How much research was involved in writing your books? How did you go ABOUT researching the various evil entities for Dark Maiden?
It really depends on the story I’m creating. I love telling stories, so to me that’s always the most important, then come the characters within the tale, then the research so the world of the story is real to readers. I look at primary sources, such as contemporary accounts, plus the art, music, food, fashions of the period I’m writing about. I also read folk stories and sometimes base my fiction on retelling of such tales. So I re-worked the story of Beauty and the Beast into my medieval novel The Snow Bride and the story of Sleeping Beauty into my fable A Christmas Sleeping Beauty. For Dark Maiden I read books on Medieval Magic, (especially Kieckhefer’s Magic in the Middle Ages), Medieval Graffiti, The Medieval Underworld by McCall, Jusserand’s English Wayfaring Life in the Middle Ages, and the encyclopedia Folklore, Myths and Legends of Britain. The Medieval Underworld by McCall covered beliefs concerning ghosts and magic during the fourteenth century and how people could deal with revenants and other spiritual threats. Google and Wikipedia are also superb sources, with many articles.
Is there any story of a sub-character who the female exorcist, Yolande, meets in Dark Maiden that is your favorite? Explain why.
I have a real soft spot for Geraint, the foil and hero to Yolande. He’s a tumbler and juggler, a light-fingered Welshman who always has her back. I like the way he’s a commoner, not a noble, and the way he doesn’t back down. I wanted a tumbler hero ever since learning the old legend of the Virgin Mary and the Tumbler—the version I was told by my mother was that the tumbler had no Christmas gift to present to the statue of the Virgin except for his juggling, but his “gift” and skill pleased her the most.
I also enjoyed introducing Theodore in the third part of Dark Maiden. He’s a little person who has been kept almost as a pet by a greedy noble, has escaped and is determined to make his own destiny henceforth—which he does, decisively. I like Theo because he is a mass of surprises and not someone to under-estimate.
How often do your characters surprise you by doing or saying something totally unexpected?
Quite regularly, I think. I have a plan in my mind of each character and their cardinal virtues, fears and secrets (not their flaws since no characters are evil to themselves) and keep those key words in the front of my head as I write each scene. However, the degree to which a character reacts can surprise me. In Dark Maiden I was startled, as I wrote, just how angry Geraint was against the medieval church and churchmen. I was surprised how patient Yolande remained in dealing with intolerance.
Have you received reactions/feedback to your work that has surprised you? In what way?
I am always grateful for feedback to my stories, especially when I feel a reader has understood and appreciated what I have attempted to show in my work. Harsh reviews are upsetting, particularly if I feel they are unjustified. I recently had a review on a light romantic suspense, A Secret Treasure, set in late 1930s Rhodes where a particular reader complained I had not gone into sufficient detail about the Italian occupation of the Greek island. Since my story was a sweet romance, I felt this was a little unfair.
What are three things you think we can all do to make the world a better place?
Be kind to everyone and give to charities.
Don’t waste resources. Don’t shop till you drop—what’s the point?
Try always to put yourself in the shoes of others.
What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
My ruby and diamond engagement ring from my husband.
What are the most important traits you look for in a friend?
Kindness. Empathy. Laughter.
If you could have one skill that you don’t currently have, what would it be?
To tumble and do back flips. I sometimes spot football players doing back flips during a celebration after scoring a goal and I always envy them that.
What might we be surprised to learn about you?
I’m utterly useless at ball games where the ball is head height or higher. My instinct is to duck, not catch.
What makes you laugh?
Buster Keaton movies. The timing and skill of those scenes, contrasted with his marble-solid face, always makes me laugh.
What simple pleasure makes you smile?
Seeing a baby, a rainbow, a new flower, hearing birdsong or music, smelling deep red roses or wild garlic.
You can contact Lindsay Townsend as follows:
Website: lindsaytownsend.co.uk
Twitter: @lindsayromantic
Other Books by Lindsay Townsend
For information on all of Lindsay Townsend’s books, check out Amazon Lindsey Townsend Author Page
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November 7, 2017
Award Winning Apollo’s Raven Giveaways
Book Awards
Exciting news! I am pleased to announce that Apollo’s Raven has been awarded the “Official Selection” in the Historical Fiction category of the 2017 New Apple Summer E-Book Awards.
2017 Official Selection New Apple Award
As indicated previously, Apollo’s Raven has also been recognized as a Bronze Medal Winner in the 2017 Global Ebook Awards for Fantasy / Historical.
2017 Bronze Medal Global Ebook Awards
Below are some excerpts of reviews for Apollo’s Raven:
“Apollo’s Raven is a historical fantasy with strong elements of romance, political intrigue, and magic. Many surprising twists enrich the historically-drawn plot. Points of view shift between different characters effectively, heightening the tension from one moment to the next. I love the scenes contrasting the cultures of Celtic Britannia and Rome, during which Tanner’s research really shines.” — Historical Novel Society
“The requisite fantasy elements of magic and mystery abound…Tanner also does an admirable job weaving in the politics and mythology of a bygone people. A complex and promising start to a new fantasy series.” —Kirkus Reviews
To celebrate these awards and recognition, I am pleased to offer the following GIVEAWAYS highlighted below to my fabulous supporters!
Amazon Giveaway
For a limited time from November 7 through November 8, you’ll be able to download the e-book of Apollo’s Raven free on Kindle. Get it now at Amazon.
Great Kindle Giveaway
Beginning tomorrow on November 8th and running through November 30th, you will have a chance to win the Great Kindle Giveaway that will be preloaded with eight free novels from participating authors, including myself.
For more information on how to enter, click on below:
More to come on other GIVEAWAYS for the holiday season!
As always, I greatly appreciate everyone’s support.
Best wishes,
Linnea Tanner
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October 8, 2017
Luciana Cavallaro Author Interview
INTRODUCTION
It is my pleasure to introduce Luciana Cavallaro, an Australian historical fiction novelist and a secondary teacher. Luciana likes to meander between contemporary life to the realms of mythology and history. Luciana has always been interested in Mythology and Ancient History but her passion wasn’t realised until seeing the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. From then on, she was inspired to write Historical Fantasy.
Luciana has spent many lessons promoting literature and the merits of ancient history. Today, you will still find Luciana in the classroom, teaching ancient history and promoting literature. She recently released The Labyrinthine Journey, Book 2 in the Servant of the God series. Click below for more information:
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Tell us about your latest book, The Labyrinthine Journey? Is it part of a series?
The Labyrinthine Journey is Book 2 in the Servant of the Gods series. Evan and his companions need to locate the second sacred object of the Mother Goddess, and to do so they need to visit Pythia, the Oracle at Delphi, who reveals a few surprises. While on this epic journey, Evan grudgingly accepts that to get back to the 21st Century CE, he needs to take on the role as leader and use his knowledge to succeed in the quest. He’s still not happy and angry at Zeus, and we get to see a darker side to his personality.
How much research was involved in writing your book? How did you go about it?
There was a lot of research done to make sure the places Evan and his companions journey to were as accurate as I could describe. I want to give readers a vicarious experience of the locations and what it would have been like to live in the 6th Century BCE. I spent time researching books, read the works of Pausanias, Herodotus, and various texts where primary sources have been translated, read many authoritative websites, used maps and layouts of places, and watched documentaries.
I have notebooks where I write notes for each of my books. I make notes on description of the settings and buildings, what people wore, what was eaten, farming practices, the length to journey from place to place. It is all handwritten. I find this process is much more conducive for me to remember the little details and the big ones as well.
What is your inspiration for writing about the modern day hero, Evan, who is dragged back to 6th Century BCE, to fulfill a quest demanded by an ancient god?
Actually, the series didn’t start out that way. Evan’s character had a different name and started the quest with his Atlantean companions. I had the story critiqued, and well, let’s just say the person/s didn’t hold back on their opinion. The basic plot of the story remained the same, and after I had gotten over the harshness of the feedback, I reworked and rewrote the story. To make the story more accessible and for readers to accept Evan’s plight, I recreated his persona. The story and Evan’s character, as well as the others, are much more rounded, plus I introduced Phameas into the storyline. In the initial concept, he had a very minor role.
The critique and feedback I received did work in my favour, though at the time, it was hurtful and very difficult to overcome.
Is there something that Evan did in The Labyrinthine Journey that surprised you by what he did or said that was totally unexpected?
I am constantly surprised by Evan. I never know what is going to come out of his mouth, or how he is going to behave. Weird, probably as I am his creator, and I do have a profile of all my characters, however how they interact with each other, and what they say is all them. When Evan learns his half-brother Homer and his heckler, Hektor, both have families and children, he surprised me by vowing to complete the quest to make sure they get home. In Book 1, there was no way he would have considered that, but in The Labyrinthine Journey, he realises in order to get back to the 21st Century CE, he needs them to help him go home. I didn’t expect him to react that way.
Of all places that Evan and his companions visit, which place is your favorite and why?
Unfair question, Linnea! All the places Evan and his companions journey to are my favourite. If I really have to choose, then it is Thira, present day Santorini. For me, this place is where Plato gets his Atlantis story from. Visit Akrotiri and the palace of Knossos on Crete and not be convinced this isn’t the fabled city of Atlantis. There are too many similarities to his descriptions of Atlantis and what was found at Akrotiri. You just have to see the wall friezes of the island, the buildings and ships in the circular bay.
What else have you written? Have you received reactions/feedback to your work that has surprised you? In what way?
Besides the first book in the Servant of the Gods series, I’ve written a series of short stories that I published back in 2013 titled Accursed Women. Mostly, I have received positive feedback, but as you know, there are always going be negative reviews. Not easy to ignore those ones, and people are entitled to their opinion… as long as it is constructive. The best comment I had was for Aphrodite’s Curse, the first short story I ever wrote. A reader commented that though she “appreciated the author’s use of Greek spelling of names etc”, she didn’t like it, and as a result she gave the story one-star review.
What are the most important qualities you look for in a friend?
Generosity, camaraderie, honesty, loyalty, kindness, being a good listener, overall a good person. I know if I need to, I can call my closest and dearest friends any time of the day or night, and they will be there for me. They are very special people.
What is the best gift that you have received and why?
The best gift I have received was unexpected. It was a birthday I had, I wasn’t able to celebrate it with my family due to work, and unknown to me, my sister had arranged for my parents, grandmother, my younger sister and her husband with my 18-month nephew to come up and share the day with me. That was a special day, especially now that my grandmother has recently passed.
What simple pleasure makes you smile?
Being with my family.
Connect with Luciana
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