Ana Ban's Blog, page 2

December 11, 2024

Building a Kickass World: Part Two

Creating a captivating world for your novel is like weaving a rich tapestry—each thread plays an essential role. In Part One, we covered the basics of world-building, but now it’s time to dig deeper: establishing the rules of magic. Magic can be a powerful storytelling tool, and having clear governance is crucial for its effectiveness. Let's explore how to craft a magical system that is both enchanting and believable.


Defining the Source of Magic


The first step in constructing your magic system is identifying its source. Is it a natural phenomenon? A divine gift? Or perhaps a remnant of lost technology? Understanding where magic comes from is fundamental to shaping your story.


For example, if your magic emerges from nature, its flow could be affected by environmental conditions. Consider a scenario where a forest's magic weakens when trees are cut down, impacting not just the landscape but also the creatures and civilizations that depend on it. In contrast, if magic is a divine gift, your characters could strive for favor from their gods, leading to various quests and conflicts over divine blessings.


The source should also reflect societal structures. If magic is scarce and demanding to harness, only a select few might be powerful. This creates a social hierarchy, where magic users hold significant influence. On the other hand, in a world where magic is abundant—say, 70% of the population possesses magical abilities—societies might need regulations to manage its use, leading to interesting political dynamics and world-building opportunities.


Rules and Limitations


Next, it's essential to establish clear rules regarding how magic operates. Effective magic systems are defined by their limitations and costs. This not only heightens tension within your story but also keeps the magical elements grounded in reality.


Consider these questions: What capabilities does magic offer? What are its boundaries? Are there specific events or rare items that enhance magic’s potency?


For instance, if every time a character casts a spell, they lose a year of their life force as a cost, this creates moral dilemmas. They may struggle with the decision to use their powers for the greater good or to preserve their own lifespan—leading to compelling character arcs and unexpected plot twists.


Types of Magic and Specializations


Creating distinct types of magic can add rich layers to your world. Think about incorporating various schools or disciplines, each with its unique practitioners and traits.


Imagine a realm with elemental magic, healing arts, illusions, and even necromancy. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, allowing for dynamic interactions between characters. For example, a fire mage might feel overshadowed by a time manipulator, leading to rivalry and driving the plot forward as they both vie for the same goal.


You could even introduce statistics to give the reader a clear understanding of each magic type's prevalence. For example, 40% of the population might practice healing, while just 10% dabble in the dark arts, illustrating how magic shapes society.


Cultural Influences and Beliefs


Magic significantly impacts how cultures form their beliefs and practices. The perception of magic can differ vastly from one society to another. Some might eagerly celebrate magic users as heroes, while others could see them as threats, fearing they summon dark forces.


Explore how these beliefs affect characters and plot lines. For instance, what happens when someone raised in a culture that vilifies magic discovers their own powers? This conflict can add emotional depth as characters navigate personal identity and societal expectations.


Consider a society that believes in magical trials; every generation, young sorcerers face challenges to prove their worth. This can lead to suspenseful narratives full of character development and growth.


Consequences of Magic Use


Finally, it's important to consider the consequences that come with using magic. Each action should spark a reaction, especially in a fantasy setting. This could manifest as societal backlash, personal vendettas, or even shifts in the natural environment.


Perhaps casting spells in a cursed location leaves behind permanent scars on the land. This creates a sense of risk and could influence character decisions throughout the story. For instance, a character might be tempted to use a forbidden spell for personal gain, but the repercussions could endanger their community.


Imagining these consequences not only raises the stakes but also keeps your narrative engaging. It encourages readers to think critically about the characters’ choices and the broader impact of their actions.


Fantasy magic system illustration


Wrapping It Up


Establishing the rules of magic in your world plays an essential role in crafting an engaging and cohesive narrative. By carefully defining the source, implementing rules and limitations, exploring cultural effects, and highlighting the consequences of magic use, you'll enrich your world-building and provide a more immersive experience for your readers.


Take the time to refine these elements in your story. The magic that weaves through your narrative will shape the adventure—so make it unforgettable! Check out Part One and next month we'll dive into in Part Three.




What are you in the mood for?


Fantasy Romance?

Murder Mystery Romance?

Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?


Happy Reading!


Always,

Ana

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Published on December 11, 2024 23:00

November 27, 2024

Writing Update 11-28-24

As we transition from Thanksgiving into the bustling holiday season, it's natural to pause and reflect on what fills our hearts with gratitude. This time of year is not just about festive celebrations; it also offers a chance to share exciting developments in my writing journey. Specifically, I’m thrilled to provide an update on Book Three of The Strangers Saga.


A Time for Gratitude


Thanksgiving is a special occasion celebrated by many. It brings families together, allowing for cherished gatherings filled with delightful food and moments to cherish. It is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the small yet significant joys—like laughter shared over a family meal and conversations that warm our hearts.


Gratitude fosters a positive outlook on life and nurtures a sense of belonging. For writers, recognizing the encouragement we get from readers, friends, and family is essential. Each like, comment, and supportive word fuels my passion for storytelling. For example, reader feedback can often highlight themes and character developments that resonate. Recently, I received a message from a reader sharing how one character’s challenging journey mirrored their own experience, underscoring the powerful connection we create through our stories.


A family gathering around a Thanksgiving table filled with food.


This season is also about giving back. Whether it’s donating supplies to a local food bank or offering support to a neighbor in need, every small act of kindness creates waves of positive change. Such values inform our narratives and help develop well-rounded characters who resonate with readers, making our stories come to life in meaningful ways.


Writing Journey Updates


Let's now focus on the main highlight of this post: the update on Book 3 of The Strangers Saga.


I am pleased to report that the draft for Book Three is complete! After putting in over 200 hours of rewriting and refining, the story is taking shape beautifully. This book follows Savannah, the happy-go-lucky best friend of Sadie (from Book One), and Grant, a defense lawyer taking on the case of Levi Jones -- and Savannah's high school sweetheart.


Find out how their separate lives unexpectedly converge, catch up with Sadie and Declan, and unravel just a bit more of the mystery surrounding the death of Lola Vasquez.


An open notebook with handwritten notes and a steaming cup of coffee beside it.


What’s Next?


Book Four will tell the story from Inali Grayson's point of view. Grief has turned into determination to find the truth, and she'll get help from a most unexpected source.


Facts will be uncovered, and secrets will be revealed -- but more about that next month.


The Importance of Community


Looking back, I’ve come to appreciate how vital community is in our growth as writers. Engaging with readers, valuing their input, and remaining open to their critiques has not only shaped the saga's direction but has also been instrumental in my development as an author. Tools like social media and book clubs have proven invaluable in cultivating this sense of belonging.


As December unfolds, a month filled with both holidays and reflection, I encourage everyone to connect with local literary communities. Attend events, book signings, and reading sessions. These gatherings can open new doors for collaborations and friendships that enrich our shared experiences.


In closing, I’m genuinely grateful to each of you for being part of this journey. Your support fuels my passion and makes the hard work worthwhile. I am filled with excitement for the upcoming releases, and I can't wait for you all to return to the world of The Strangers Saga.


A Season of Reflection


As we embrace this holiday season, let’s take a moment to appreciate the connections we've built along the way, the stories we've woven, and the journeys we've embarked on together. Writing can often feel isolating, yet it is also a collaborative experience powered by our shared interests and dreams.


As the year draws to a close, let us uplift one another. Whether you are a writer crafting your stories or a reader eagerly waiting for the next chapter, remember your role is invaluable. Here’s to an inspiring writing adventure in the months to come and a joyful holiday season. Thank you for being here and stay tuned for more updates on The Strangers Saga!


If you missed last month's post about Book Two, check it out here.


To catch up before Two-Five release, check out Book One here.



What are you in the mood for?


Fantasy Romance?

Murder Mystery Romance?

Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?


Happy Reading!


Always,

Ana

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Published on November 27, 2024 23:00

November 13, 2024

Building a Kickass World: Part One

Constructing an Epic Universe for Your Fiction


Creating a captivating world is one of the most thrilling aspects of writing fiction, especially in genres like sci-fi and fantasy. This is your chance to unleash your imagination and invent a universe all your own. But how do you craft a believable and immersive world that resonates with readers? In this blog post series, we’ll explore the essentials of world-building and show you how to create an epic universe for your stories.


Understanding the Foundation of Your World


Before diving into specifics, it’s crucial to establish a solid foundation for your world. Think of it as a living entity with its own rules, cultures, and histories. Here are key questions to guide your world-building:


Geography: What does the landscape look like? For instance, if you imagine a world with two main continents and vast oceans in between, how do these affect trade and travel?

Inhabitants: Who lives in your world? Are they humans, aliens, or mythical creatures? For example, the diverse cultures within J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth range from the peaceful Hobbits to the warlike Orcs.

Cultures and Languages: What languages do your characters speak? In Game of Thrones, George R.R. Martin created distinct languages and cultures for the different houses, enriching the story.


By addressing these crucial elements, you’re laying the groundwork for an immersive experience for your readers.


World Map Concept


Every component should work together to create a believable setting. Strive to make your world feel authentic, deeply considering the implications of your choices.


Crafting a Unique History


Every universe has a narrative history that profoundly affects its present. Ask yourself:


Key Events: What major historical events have shaped your world? The Star Wars saga showcases the profound impact of the Clone Wars on the galaxy.

Figures and Myths: Are there legendary heroes or villains? Look at Harry Potter; figures like Voldemort shape the events and characters significantly.

Societal Impact: How does history influence current society? For example, in many dystopian novels, past mistakes lead to the current oppressive regimes.


Your world’s history not only defines its texture but also helps motivate characters and establish conflicts, enriching the narrative.



Balancing Detail with Ambiguity


As you flesh out your world, balancing detail and ambiguity is key. Too much detail can confuse readers, while too little leaves them lost.


One effective approach is to reveal significant elements gradually. Let your characters and readers discover the intricacies of your world together. This method maintains reader involvement and interest, preventing excessive exposition from bogging down the narrative.


The Art of World-Building


World-building is essential in crafting an engaging narrative, especially in sci-fi and fantasy. By establishing a strong foundation, developing a rich history, creating consistent magic rules, and exploring cultural aspects, you can construct an epic universe that pulls readers in.


Remember, maintaining a balance between detail and ambiguity invites readers to explore your world at their own pace. With thoughtful planning and creativity, your fictional universe can become a vibrant backdrop for unforgettable stories. So, grab that pen (or keyboard) and start building your kickass world!



With these tips, you’re on the right path to crafting a universe that captivates your audience and leaves them wanting more.


Check out Part Two on December 12, which will dive into creating a magical system!




What are you in the mood for?


Fantasy Romance?

Murder Mystery Romance?

Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?


Happy Reading!


Always,

Ana

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Published on November 13, 2024 23:00

November 6, 2024

Crafting Characters: 5 Tips for Making Them Truly Memorable

Creating memorable characters is like cooking a gourmet meal—you need the right ingredients and a touch of seasoning. If you want characters that leap off the page and stay with readers long after they finish your story, you need to invest time and effort in their development. Over the years, I’ve found that this aspect of writing is not only rewarding but also enjoyable. Here, I’ll share five actionable tips that have helped me create characters with distinct voices, motivations, and flaws.


Character Development


Understand Your Character’s Background


To create realistic and relatable characters, it’s essential to explore their backgrounds. Every character’s history influences their current choices and actions. Ask yourself:


Where did they grow up? A character from a bustling city will likely behave differently than one from a small town.

What was their family life like? This could shape their views on relationships or authority. For instance, someone raised in a strict household might struggle with independence.

What pivotal events influenced their personality? Did they experience trauma, success, or a major failure?


Investing time in your character’s backstory can reveal their motivations, driving your story forward. Consider creating a character profile that includes key details about their upbringing, relationships, and experiences. This guide can help you stay consistent as you write. For example, a character who was bullied in school may exhibit different traits and reactions than one who was popular.


One of the best pieces of writing advice I ever saw was to help develop an interesting character, write out their backstory but don't use it directly in the book. Let pieces of it come up naturally or not at all; this will make them more intriguing.


Define Their Voice


Once you have a robust background, defining your character’s voice is crucial. Their unique way of speaking reflects their experiences and emotions. Focus on:


Speech Patterns: Does your character use formal language, or do they prefer slang? For instance, a college professor might speak differently than a street-smart teenager.

Vocabulary: Are they articulate or do they struggle with words? A character who reads widely may use a rich vocabulary compared to one who has had limited education.

Tone: Is their tone optimistic, sarcastic, serious, or humorous? A character with a sarcastic tone can provide comic relief, while a serious one may add tension.


Try writing dialogue scenes to practice your character’s voice. You’ll find that an authentic voice makes your characters more relatable and engaging. For example, if your character uses specific slang common in their community, it will help readers visualize them more clearly.



Give Them Motivations


What drives your character? Well-rounded characters have clear motivations that influence their decisions. Think about the following:


Goals and Desires: What does your character want most? For example, a detective might be driven by justice while a thief may seek wealth.

Fears: What are they afraid of losing? A character who fears rejection can make choices based on that fear, impacting the story.

Obstacles: What challenges do they face? Identifying obstacles creates tension and conflict. If your character wants love but fears intimacy, this internal struggle makes for a compelling narrative.


Creating a character motivation chart can help track each character’s driving forces. When faced with challenges, ensure their responses align with their established motivations. This authenticity resonates with readers. For instance, if a character who values honesty is tempted to lie, readers will feel the weight of that decision.


Bonus tip: once you know what they want, make sure they don't get it (at least until the end). Once you know what they're afraid of, make them face it. You get the idea.

Dialogue Practice


Embrace Their Flaws


Memorable characters are often defined by their flaws, making them relatable. Everyone has imperfections, and recognizing these in your characters adds depth. Consider:


Personality Traits: Are they overly ambitious, competitive, or perhaps naïve? An ambitious character might push others away while pursuing their goals.

Situational Flaws: In what scenarios do they struggle? For instance, someone who excels at work may falter in personal relationships.


Flaws create opportunities for character growth, allowing readers to connect emotionally. Watching characters confront their weaknesses can evoke empathy. For example, if a perfectionist character learns to embrace mistakes, it creates a satisfying arc.


Allow for Growth and Change


The best characters evolve throughout the story. They learn, adapt, and sometimes even transform their core beliefs. This growth adds richness to your writing. Ask yourself:


What lessons will your character learn?

How do these lessons affect their motivations?

Will they become a better or worse version of themselves?


Map out your characters’ arcs to deepen the narrative and engage readers emotionally. For example, a selfish character who learns the value of friendship can create a powerful journey that readers will root for.


Final Thoughts


Character development is crucial in storytelling and can elevate your narrative. By understanding your characters’ backgrounds, defining their voices, identifying meaningful motivations, embracing their flaws, and allowing them to grow, you can create characters that resonate with readers.


Writing is a journey, both for your characters and yourself as a writer. Use these tips to guide you in crafting characters that are as complex and rich as real life. So grab your pens (or keyboards) and start creating those unforgettable characters!


Happy writing!



What are you in the mood for?


Fantasy Romance?

Murder Mystery Romance?

Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?


Happy Reading!


Always,

Ana

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Published on November 06, 2024 23:00

October 24, 2024

Writing Update 10-24-24

It's been a wild ride working on the remaining books of The Strangers Saga: Baton Rouge, but I'm excited to share a little behind-the-scenes look at the journey.


First off, let me say that the second novel kicked my butt creatively. I had such a clear vision when I started--previous to the release of the first book in {2019!}--but a few things happened between then and now that made me hit the brakes, flip around a few times, and finally come through the smoke with something brand new, a little unexpected, and wholly awesome.


Rae and Jaser will be the focus of Book Two, and I'm not sure how else to say this, so I'm going to come out and say it: these are minority characters, and I am not a minority. Before 2020, before the insane turn that particular year took and all of the world events since, I felt confident writing their story. I've always loved to dive into other cultures and, I hope, to bring them to life in a respectful way.


But with the focus on #blacklivesmatter and the {necessary!} shift in lifting minority voices, suddenly I no longer felt that I was the right person to bring these characters to life.


I struggled with this for quite a while, which is why there has been such a delay in the release of Book Two. After much conversation with friends and some soul searching, I came to a conclusion: these stories need to be told, even if by me. Sometimes, when a voice has been silenced, another needs to speak. And that's not pandering or misappropriation, it's being an advocate.


So once I dived back into Rae and Jaser's story, a second thing happened: I had no idea how to really tie them into the overarching plot of the murder mystery. In Book One, Declan was the detective on the case. In books Three, Four, and Five, we'll meet the defense lawyer, the main witness, and the prosecutor, but how could I connect Rae and Jaser as closely?


More struggles ensued. And then it hit me, and I leaned into it, hard. And you know what? That's the magic of writing fiction. After an identity crisis, these characters took on a life of their own when I let them be who they are. Fleshing out their story was trickier than I anticipated {more than five years ago when this all started} but now I can't wait for you to (re)meet them.


I'm aiming to have at least Book Two ready to release by Mardi Gras of 2025, which is March 4. I will keep you updated on this, and not to worry, I won't make you wait for the next three books of the series--the goal is to release one a month until the series is complete.


Thanks for your patience as I jumped an endless amount of hurdles to finally arrive at the finish line. That's right--the rough draft of Book 2 is officially complete, and Book 3 isn't far behind--but more on that next month.



What are you in the mood for?


Fantasy Romance?

Murder Mystery Romance?

Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?


Happy Reading!


Always,

Ana

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Published on October 24, 2024 04:49

April 22, 2024

New Release: Clash at Midnight

The long wait is over! Clash at Midnight is now available on kindle, kindle unlimited, and paperback. (Click on the one you want for a direct link)




Also included with the reunion book is After Midnight, where in this post we found out we'll be traveling back to Atlantis!



Can't wait to hear what you think!


There are a ton of characters, so if you need some help, make sure to check out the Gifted Family Tree.


Need to catch up? Find the reading order for the Gifted Series here.

 



What are you in the mood for?


Fantasy Romance?

Murder Mystery Romance?

Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?


Happy Reading!


Always,

Ana

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Published on April 22, 2024 18:05

April 19, 2024

Book Update: After Midnight

Like in the first reunion book of The Gifted Series (number 7, Vows at Dusk), Clash at Midnight will also contain a bonus novella, titled After Midnight.


In case you missed it, click here for the pre-order link!


The cover for After Midnight won't be included in the book, but I imagine it would look something like this:




And here is the book description to whet your appetite:



Delfina Galanos has returned to her homeland of Atlantis to claim her rightful place as high king. But haunted by doubt and burdened by the weight of her new responsibilities, she flees into the night—only to find herself rescued by a mysterious farmer named Likos.


As Delfina and Likos grow closer in his cozy cottage, sharing stories by firelight and working side-by-side in the fields, an irresistible spark ignites between them. Yet Delfina hides a secret that could tear them apart forever: she is the daughter of the tyrant king who once destroyed Likos' dreams.


Duty soon calls Delfina back to her throne, where she must navigate cutthroat politics, simmering unrest, and the suspicions of the nine kings who rule beside her. Only by relying on her elemental magic—and following her heart—can Delfina forge a new future for Atlantis. But will her budding love for Likos survive when the truth comes to light?


An intoxicating blend of sizzling romance, courtly intrigue, and magic that will transport you to the lush and perilous isles of Atlantis, After Midnight is a spellbinding story of star-crossed soulmates fighting to reshape a broken kingdom.


Are you excited for Clash at Midnight and After Midnight? I sure am!


There are a ton of characters, so if you need some help, make sure to check out the Gifted Family Tree.


Need to catch up? Find the reading order for the Gifted Series here.




 

What are you in the mood for?


Paranormal Romance?

Murder Mystery Romance?

Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?


Happy Reading!


Always,

Ana

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Published on April 19, 2024 16:16

April 17, 2024

Book Update: Clash at Midnight

Hello lovelies! It has been too long.


Fear not, I have a few exciting things to share. First, we are less than one week away from the release of Clash at Midnight: Book Fourteen of the Gifted Series. This is a reunion book, so you will get to catch up with all of the characters so far!


Check out the beautiful cover:




And here is the description, a special early preview for you!





In the electrifying reunion book of The Gifted Series, the fate of the worlds hangs in the balance as an ancient evil reawakens, threatening to plunge all into eternal darkness. As the clock strikes midnight, unlikely allies brace for the ultimate battle against Balor, the malevolent dark lord determined to reign supreme.


Amidst the breathtaking culmination of magic, romance, and betrayal, the stage is set for a final confrontation that will reshape the future of all the worlds. Elementals, daemons, and long-lost allies converge, each harboring their own agendas and heart-wrenching choices that will test the very fabric of their alliances.


As the war between realms escalates to new heights, Ferghus finds himself at a crossroads, torn between his unwavering duty and a growing desire for redemption that could alter the course of his destiny. Meanwhile, Galvyn must confront the ultimate question: can the unbreakable bonds of brotherhood triumph over the all-consuming darkness that threatens to engulf everything they hold dear?


With pulse-pounding action, heart-wrenching romance, and a vividly imagined fantasy world, Clash at Midnight is a mesmerizing tale of courage, redemption, and the enduring power of love in the face of insurmountable odds. Embark on an unforgettable journey where the fate of realms, and the hopes and dreams of those who inhabit them, become forever intertwined.




More news will be coming soon--like a preorder link and the included novella reveal, titled After Midnight.


There are a ton of characters, so if you need some help keeping them straight, make sure to check out the Gifted Family Tree.


Need to catch up? Find the reading order for the Gifted Series here.




 

What are you in the mood for?


Paranormal Romance?

Murder Mystery Romance?

Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?


Happy Reading!


Always,

Ana

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Published on April 17, 2024 08:57

March 21, 2023

New Release: Beyond the Veil

Two of my favorite things have arrived: spring and a new book!

Book 13 of The Gifted Series is now available, and you can get yours by clicking here. Just for fun, here is the cover and the blurb:

Born in an unforgiving land, Hope has only ever been able to count on her parents and twin sister. A chance encounter with three fierce women shows Hope there is more to everyday life than fight or flight.

Jeremiah has taken it upon himself to protect those he considers family from the constant threat of Fomorians. When a rescue mission turns into a battle for his life, Jeremiah stumbles across the one thing he never expected: his mate.

The thought of returning home had become a distant fantasy, but when Jeremiah and Hope decide to live their lives surrounded by danger, they will do anything to turn that fantasy into reality.

For more years than she can count, Rika has been held prisoner by the Fomorians. Cut off from all contact, Rika battles each day for her own sanity. This is the Fomorians tactic, bending their hostages until they become pliant—but Rika refuses to break.

Daku is dropped into a strange, harsh world with one goal: find the girl from his dreams and get out. When Jeremiah takes him under his wing, Daku realizes his task may not just be difficult, it may be impossible.

Refusing to give up, Daku trains in fighting and survival and is relentless in his search for Rika. As years pass and the boy turns into a man, Daku remains as devoted to his mission as he is to his new family.

What that family doesn't realize is, Daku is the key to their greatest desire: going home again.

I can't wait to hear what you think of this one! There are a ton of new characters, so if you need some help, make sure to check out the Gifted Family Tree.

Need to catch up? Find the reading order for the Gifted Series here.

What are you in the mood for?

,Paranormal Romance?

,Murder Mystery Romance?

,Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

,Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?

Happy Reading!

Always,

Ana

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Published on March 21, 2023 04:00

March 1, 2023

Cover Reveal: Beyond the Veil

It's that time again! Possibly my favorite part of releasing a new book: The Cover Reveal.

And because you're here and I'm in a sharing mood, I will leave an unofficial blurb for your viewing pleasure (after the pleasure of viewing the new cover, of course).

Here it is, the cover for book thirteen of The Gifted Series:

How much do you love it? And yes, there are two women on the cover because this book will be told from two different points of view.

Scratch that...THREE points of view. However, the main love stories will be for Hope (she's on the left) and Rika (on the right.)

This book has been so fun to write. Not only does it have so many colorful characters that you haven't met yet, but the entire thing takes place in another dimension. We get to see how life goes on even in the direst of circumstances, meet new creatures and animals, and maybe even see things from a bad guy's point of view.

All of this will lead up to the fourteenth book, which will be a reunion featuring ALL of the characters that you know and love. A battle is brewing, but don't worry, it won't be the end--it will be a whole lot of new beginnings.

Unofficial blurb:

Born in an unforgiving land, Hope has only ever been able to count on her parents and twin sister. A chance encounter with three fierce women shows Hope there is more to everyday life than fight or flight.

Jeremiah has taken it upon himself to protect those he considers family from the constant threat of Fomorians. When a rescue mission turns into a battle for his life, Jeremiah stumbles across the one thing he never expected: his mate.

The thought of returning home had become a distant fantasy, but when Jeremiah and Hope decide to live their lives surrounded by danger, the hunger to find a way home for them, their village, and any children they might have, becomes a living, breathing thing.

For more years than she can count, Rika has been held prisoner by the Fomorians. Cut off from all contact, Rika battles each day for her own sanity. This is the Fomorians tactic, bending their hostages until they become pliant--but Rika refuses to break.

Daku is dropped into a strange, harsh world with one goal: find the girl from his dreams and get out again. When Jeremiah takes him under his wing, Daku realizes his task may not just be difficult, it may be impossible.

Refusing to give up, Daku trains in fighting and survival and is relentless in his search for Rika. As years pass and the boy turns into a man, Daku remains as devoted to his mission as he is to his new family.

What that family doesn't realize is, Daku is the key to their greatest desire: going home again.

There you have it! Beyond the Veil will be available March 21, 2023. Check back soon for the official blurb, a quote or two, and maybe even a sneak peek!

What are you in the mood for?

,Paranormal Romance?

,Murder Mystery Romance?

,Crime (oh wait...with romance)?

,Young Adult Crime (yeah okay, there's some romance too)?

Happy Reading!

Always,

Ana

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Published on March 01, 2023 16:08

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