Caroline Sciriha's Blog, page 6
December 8, 2023
L is for Lake Monsters, plus upcoming series – Fire Dance
The graphic designer has started working on the cover for the new book. However, he’s suggested splitting the title to Fire Dance rather than Firedance as it fits better in the space. It does look better and bolder, so I think it’s a good decision though it was difficult to let go of the one-word title. What do you think? Should I have kept it?
I’m looking forward to seeing what the final version of the cover will be like and you can be sure that I’ll be sharing it here, too.
In the last newsletter I wrote about the protagonist – Maia. But what’s a protagonist without a love interest? Fire Dance centres around a tragic love triangle in the protagonist’s distant past which still has repercussions and echoes in her present life. The love of her life is Ryse, a prince from an enemy country, whom Maia was forced to marry to seal a treaty between their countries. Except in this novel, he’s more Sammy the pirate than prince…
To continue with what I started in the previous newsletter, this is part of Ryse’s character chart. Again I’ve had to leave a lot out so as not to reveal too much.
On to today’s fantasy creature…
L is for Lake Monsters
Who hasn’t heard of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster? Yet Nessie is only the most famous of several monsters that live in deep and icy-cold lakes, swamps or other watery places around the world. Many eyewitnesses swear to have seen large, worm-like creatures with a horse or giraffe-like head which calls to mind a water dinosaur (the Plesiosaur).
The Loch Ness Monster is found in the Scottish Highlands in a 755-foot-deep lake which is 23 miles long. Nessie seems to be around 30 feet long as several humps have been seen above the water. It has small horns at the top of its head.
The first written account of a Nessie sighting dates back to 565 AD.
References: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Loch-Ness-monster-legendary-creature
Happy Holidays or Happy Christmas
I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you all a wonderful break shared with family and friends. Since the next newsletter would have been due on the weekend before Christmas, I’m re-scheduling it for the week after Christmas.
Some self-promo!
When sixteen-year-old Shael helps a mortally wounded messenger, he entrusts her with delivering to the queen three magical statuettes stolen from the Hyllethans, her country’s feared enemies. But Shael accidentally cuts her fingers while handling the statuettes and magic links her to them—any breakage or pressure on the clay is felt on her flesh. Shael’s fate is now inexorably tied to the Hyllethans, the statuettes, and the political turmoil in the land.
If you like magic, enemies to lovers, twists and turns, harrowing escapes and family drama, then you’ll enjoy The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy.
Dawn of Purple and Grey, Days of Wind and Snow, and Night of Rites and Wraiths (The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy) are available through Amazon as ebooks and paperbacks or as a Complete Series Box Set in ebook format.
Till next time,
Caroline
November 24, 2023
K is for Kelpie, plus upcoming sci-fi fantasy series
What do fire, space travel and having memories that don’t belong to you have to do with each other? It’s not a trick question – it’s the What If? which led to my forthcoming series: The Firedance Chronicles. I’m excited to say that I’m finally about to send the first book—Firedance—off to my editor. I’m aiming for an early 2024 publication date.
The protagonist of Firedance is seventeen-year-old Maia. At the beginning of the book, Maia is looking forward to becoming invested as the Goddess of Light’s newest Sentinel. She hides her ability to not get burnt by fire as well as to release fire from her skin since these traits mark her as abnormal, a demon’s child. She is focused and hard-working, but cold to pleas for kindness, bending of rules and ‘family’ problems. She knows that some of her dreams—or are they nightmares?—might actually not be a figment of her imagination. But how can she find out why she remembers experiences she’s never had in these 17 years? Her greatest fear is being found out and condemned to death as a demon’s child.
When creating characters I fill in a chart with their characteristics. I thought you might like to see Maia’s.
In reality, my handwritten copy is much messier than what you can see, with multiple rubbing offs and overwriting! As you can see, too, I’ve only included half the chart as revealing how the character changes at the end would reveal too much of the plot 
There are no fantasy creatures in the first two books of the Firedance Chronicles which I’ve written so far—unless you count creatures that are mentioned in passing that might appear in future books. So in today’s ABC series of Fantasy Creatures, I’m going to focus on a creature found in Scottish folklore: the kelpie.
K is for Kelpie
Kelpies are water creatures that can be found in Scottish freshwater lochs and fast moving rivers. Kelpies can shapeshift and often take on the form of a human or a beautiful horse or pony. However, beware attempting to catch one of them in the form of a horse and riding it. The creature’s magical back will not allow riders to dismount and it will gallop into high water and drown them. Their victims are then eaten.
Kelpies are also known to have the power to summon floods to drown their victims.
A Kelpie’s weakness is its bridle as whoever manages to get hold of it will be able to control the creature. This is a great advantage as kelpies are stronger than ten horses.
References: https://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/The-Kelpie/; https://mythus.fandom.com/wiki/Kelpie
Some self-promo!
When sixteen-year-old Shael helps a mortally wounded messenger, he entrusts her with delivering to the queen three magical statuettes stolen from the Hyllethans, her country’s feared enemies. But Shael accidentally cuts her fingers while handling the statuettes and magic links her to them—any breakage or pressure on the clay is felt on her flesh. Shael’s fate is now inexorably tied to the Hyllethans, the statuettes, and the political turmoil in the land.
If you like magic, enemies to lovers, twists and turns, harrowing escapes and family drama, then you’ll enjoy The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy.
Dawn of Purple and Grey, Days of Wind and Snow, and Night of Rites and Wraiths (The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy) are available through Amazon as ebooks and paperbacks or as a Complete Series Box Set in ebook format.
Till next time,
Caroline
November 10, 2023
Fantasy author interview: Laura Winter, plus K is for Kraken
Book: The Curse of Broken Shadows
Genre: Fantasy / Romantic Fantasy
Author: Laura Winter
I’m very pleased to welcome fantasy author Laura Winter. Hello Laura, can you tell us something about your book?
Laura: The Curse of Broken Shadows deals with shadow magic, which is extinct. The Veil Worshippers who honor the shadow god’s wall are hunted for their artifacts, including the Veil shards that break off the wall in Valisea.
With the dagger of her people and a Veil shard embedded in her collarbone that has infected her with shadow-cursed magic, Brela remains in hiding.
Until the infuriatingly handsome and tainted magic wielding Captain Cason Valkip captures her. Forced to work together to discover the source of the breaking wall, there’s more than just mythical beasts setting his fire magic ablaze. There’s a connection he can’t deny, but she threatens the very position he’s tried so hard to build.
But the wall is breaking, and to survive, she will have to work with the one man who could burn her, and he’ll have to learn to leave his past behind.
What do you consider to be something unique about your work?
Laura: One of my favorite chapters comes when we meet the sand sprites in the desert. I wanted a different take on the sprites, especially desert-dwellers, so imagining an entirely new kind of species led to some really fun beasts, magic, and narcissistic crown princes.
The other benefit of building ancient species and magic is coming up with a new language! This book actually features two languages with real translations as well as sign language.
That’s so interesting. I love books that create new languages, and including sign language is fascinating. I’m looking forward to reading The Curse of Broken Shadows. What are your plans for the future?
Laura: The Bones of Crystal Sand is a collection of six prequel stories following Brela’s adventures from Valisea and Rooke to the Crystal Desert. You can discover how Brela came to be the most feared assassin in the forest, while picking up a few strays along the way. Book 2, The Wings of Shattered Fire, is coming soon.
Sounds like you’ve built a complex world. Who is your favourite character in the series?
Laura: Obviously, I want to say Brela, but I think Oni is probably the one that stole my heart in the end. He’s an absolute turd in the best way possible.
Thank you so much for joining me today. One last question: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
Laura : https://www.facebook.com/groups/1067753047476264/
About the Author:
Laura: I’m an indie author of fantasy and romantic fantasy (that’s fantasy with a dash (or a dump) of spicy). I love writing stabby female characters, found family, and magic that packs a punch.
I live in Huntsville with my husband, 1-yr old girl, a dog, and two cats.
Link to book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3cUOr
On to this week’s fantasy creature.
K is for Kraken
Kraken are fearsome sea creatures responsible for destroying ships and their crews. Those who are ‘fortunate’ enough to see one and survive, often describe it as an enormous octopus or squid.
According to Norwegian legends, kraken are found close to Norway and Greenland. Norwegian fishermen fear kraken especially as if they inadvertently entangle a kraken in their nets or hooks, it will attack them. Apparently one defence is to call out its name as that will encourage it to retreat to the depths of the sea.
Giant squid, that could grow up to 15 metres long, could have given rise to various sightings of what people believed to be kraken. Similarly, underwater volcanic activity, especially found in Icelandic waters, could give rise to the surface bubbles, and sudden currents that are considered signs of the unseen presence of kraken.
Reference: https://about-mythical-creatures.weebly.com/kraken.html
Some self-promo!
When sixteen-year-old Shael helps a mortally wounded messenger, he entrusts her with delivering to the queen three magical statuettes stolen from the Hyllethans, her country’s feared enemies. But Shael accidentally cuts her fingers while handling the statuettes and magic links her to them—any breakage or pressure on the clay is felt on her flesh. Shael’s fate is now inexorably tied to the Hyllethans, the statuettes, and the political turmoil in the land.
If you like magic, enemies to lovers, twists and turns, harrowing escapes and family drama, then you’ll enjoy The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy.
Dawn of Purple and Grey, Days of Wind and Snow, and Night of Rites and Wraiths (The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy) are available through Amazon as ebooks and paperbacks or as a Complete Series Box Set in ebook format.
Till next time,
Caroline
October 27, 2023
Author Interview: Astrid HLGoossens, plus J is for Jack O’Lantern
Books: Eos
Genre: SF
Author: Astrid HL Goossens
Today, I’m happy to welcome SF author Astrid HL Goossens. Hello Astrid, can you tell us something about your book?
Eos started as a Dutch short story, but I realised it would reach a lot more people if I translated it to English. It is a short e-story about Earth where the inhabitants live in complete darkness. Janna, the main character, has a boring life until she drops the word Eos.
Eos is also the title of your story. Why did you choose this title?
Eos means dawn, which is lacking in that world. It can also refer to a new beginning and this refers to the changes in the boring life of Janna.
What do you consider to be something fascinating about your work?
The world in the book can be seen as the world we know now, except for the darkness. It doesn’t take the reader to a fantasy world, but to a possible future of Earth.
Tell me more about your protagonist.
She has a boring life, hardly any social connections or friends. Work is the only thing that fills her days. And all of the sudden it changes and she takes the opportunity to discover that change.
How did you get the idea for this book?
A writers’ competition. I entered the Dutch version (but didn’t win )
What are your thoughts behind the choice of design for your cover?
I was standing outside my house during the morning. It was still dark, but when I looked East, I could see the first signs of dawn. So I took a picture and used that as the cover.
Who inspired you to write and why did you choose SF?
I’m not sure if there ever was a person who inspired me to write. My favourite writer is Tanith Lee who wrote Scifi and Fantasy. So she probably inspired my choice of writing Fantasy/SF.
Is this your first book?
No, I already have two books in Dutch (POD), a Dutch manuscript searching for a publisher, and a lot of other books in progress.
What are your plans for the future?
I have already started a series about Witchcraft. ‘Wicca Adventures’ #1 Water, New Beginning and #2 Fire, Finding your passion. I’m currently working on the third and fourth.
Thank you so much for joining me today. One last question: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
www.astridhlgoossens-schrijfsels.com There is a separate page for my English E-books.
About the Author: A Belgian author, with a degree in psychology (bsc) and a private practice. For a few years now, she spends more time writing than counselling.
Link to book on smashwords : https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1309606
On to this week’s fantasy creature.
J is for Jack O’Lantern
We’re in Halloween season and we’re used to seeing carved pumpkins yet I for one didn’t know the legend that could have led to this tradition.
In Celtic myths, Jack O’Lantern or Stingy Jack was a blacksmith who made a pact with the Devil and got him to promise that he would not take his soul into Hell.
When Jack died, he was not admitted into Heaven because of his stinginess and cruelty but the Devil also kept his promise and didn’t accept him in Hell.
So Jack continues to wander around the countryside of Ireland to this day carrying a burning coal or ember which the Devil threw him and which he placed within a hollow turnip.
References: https://www.irish-genealogy-toolkit.com/jack-o-lantern.html; https://www.pumpkinnook.com/facts/jack.htm
Some self-promo!
When sixteen-year-old Shael helps a mortally wounded messenger, he entrusts her with delivering to the queen three magical statuettes stolen from the Hyllethans, her country’s feared enemies. But Shael accidentally cuts her fingers while handling the statuettes and magic links her to them—any breakage or pressure on the clay is felt on her flesh. Shael’s fate is now inexorably tied to the Hyllethans, the statuettes, and the political turmoil in the land.
If you like magic, enemies to lovers, twists and turns, harrowing escapes and family drama, then you’ll enjoy The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy.
Dawn of Purple and Grey, Days of Wind and Snow, and Night of Rites and Wraiths (The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy) are available through Amazon as ebooks and paperbacks or as a Complete Series Box Set in ebook format.
Till next time,
Caroline
October 13, 2023
Author Interview: C.J. Sahadeo, plus J is for Jack-in-Irons
Book: Ierie
Genre: Folklore Fantasy
Author: C.J. Sahadeo
[image error]In today’s newsletter, I’m excited to interview fantasy author C.J. Sahadeo. Hello and welcome! Can you tell us something about your book?
Ierie is a folklore fantasy novel which brings to life the Ole Mas carnival characters of the Caribbean islands Trinidad and Tobago. These characters, like the stickfighter and the midnight robber, must use the abilities granted to them by the island of Ierie to foil a terrible plot to the native people of the island.
Why did you choose this title for the book?
The original name for the island of Trinidad was Iere. Ierie is a twist on that and also sounds a lot like the word ‘eerie’ which is something a lot of the characters are!
How did you get the idea for this book?
I was actually listening to a song on the radio, ‘buss head’ which is about stickfighting, and that combined with my desire to have a fantasy book set in my home with my people inspired me to write Ierie.
Who is your favourite character in the book?
My favourite character has got to be Amrika. She’s fierce and loyal and above all, she is kind. She gets her abilities activated because she chose to help a child. She goes into battle against her brother’s wishes. She steals from the rich and gives it away to needy families in her village. She’s awesome and I think the world deserves to know her.
What do you consider to be something unique about your work?
Ierie is a fantasy book placed in my island and with people like me. Growing up, I had never seen any books like that before. It also has bits of my local dialect in it!
One last question. What are your plans for the future?
I certainly plan to publish again, though it is not likely that there will be a sequel for Ierie. I have a few other sci-fi and fantasy projects in the works.
Thank you so much for joining me today. Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
I can be found on Instagram:
https://instagram.com/c.sahadeo_?igshid=YTQwZjQ0NmI0OA==
And on Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21276285.C_J_Sahadeo
Link to book on Amazon:
My book can be found on Amazon.com!
And also in Amazon uk:
I’m always amazed at how diverse epic fantasy books can be!. Now on to this week’s fantasy creature.
J is for Jack-in-Irons
Jack-in-Irons is a fearsome giant who roams lonely country roads, traditionally in Yorkshire. He carries a spiked club, and his torso is encircled by chains to which he hangs the heads of the people he’s killed. It’s not surprising, therefore, that they are sometimes employed as jailors or torturers.
If you’re on a lonely road and hear the clanking of chains, best run as fast as you can! 
ARC copies
Before I sign off, I’d like to introduce you to the work of a writer who set up the critique group I form part of. Cordia Pearson’s debut novel will be launched in the coming days and she’s offering free copies in exchange for a review. Just look at that cover: isn’t it gorgeous!
These are the links to her two giveaways:
LibraryThing: Book Giveaway for Iridesce by Cordia Pearson
Some self-promo!
When sixteen-year-old Shael helps a mortally wounded messenger, he entrusts her with delivering to the queen three magical statuettes stolen from the Hyllethans, her country’s feared enemies. But Shael accidentally cuts her fingers while handling the statuettes and magic links her to them—any breakage or pressure on the clay is felt on her flesh. Shael’s fate is now inexorably tied to the Hyllethans, the statuettes, and the political turmoil in the land.
If you like magic, enemies to lovers, twists and turns, harrowing escapes and family drama, then you’ll enjoy The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy.
Dawn of Purple and Grey, Days of Wind and Snow, and Night of Rites and Wraiths (The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy) are available through Amazon as ebooks and paperbacks or as an ebook Complete Series Box Set.
Till next time,
Caroline
September 29, 2023
Author interview: K. L. Small, plus J is for Jinn
Books: A Dress To Remember and The Magic Carousel
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Author: K. L. Small
Today I’m very pleased to welcome fantasy author K. L. Small. Hello Kathleen, can you tell us something about your books?
I write middle grade fantasy and have released two books this year (2023). My debut novel was A Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale. It is the story of strong-willed Princess Zarina who makes a deal with a mysterious dressmaker. The dress she receives is a magic black ballgown, not what she expected but what she needed. My second book is The Magic Carousel, which is Book 1 in The Brass Ring Series. Ten-year-old Russell gets a brass ring that turns each carousel ride into a time travel adventure. These adventures challenge Russell’s courage and help him face the bullies in his life.
Both sound so interesting! What are your plans for the future?
I’m planning to release The Christmas Carousel (Book 2 of The Brass Ring Series) later this year. The third book is The Haunted Carousel, which will be released in 2024.
Your covers are so striking. How did you come to work with Brandon Dorman?
During an online writing course in 2022, I asked the instructor how to find an illustrator for my book. He suggested looking at a book cover I liked and see who illustrated it. When I did that, I discovered Brandon Dorman was the illustrator. I found his website and filled out his contact form. I was thrilled that he was willing to work with me on my debut novel. After all, his art appears in middle grade series such as Goosebumps, Land of Stories, and Fablehaven. He is so talented and such a pleasure to work with.
Who is your favorite character?
My favorite character in The Magic Carousel is The Duchess. She is a fancy circus horse with a big personality. She was so much fun to write. Her diva attitude made me smile.
Who inspired you to write and why did you choose fantasy?
As a child, I loved the horse books written by Marguerite Henry and decided I wanted to be an author like her. In high school, I discovered J.R.R. Tolkien and became fascinated by fantasy. Another speculative fiction author who inspired me was Anne McCaffrey.
Thank you so much for joining me today. One last question: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
Readers can follow me at: www.kathleenlsmall.com and subscribe to my monthly newsletter to learn about my writing and horse life at Carousel Acres.
About the Author: Kathleen “K. L.” Small writes fantasy stories, both short stories and novels, for the young and young at heart. She lives in Florida on a ranch called Carousel Acres, with her husband, two horses, four cats, and assorted wildlife. She is a three-time award winner in the Florida Writers Association’s Royal Palm Literary Award competition.
Link to books on Amazon:
A Dress To Remember: https://a.co/d/8OWMfzg
The Magic Carousel: https://a.co/d/9LtvnOK
Now on to this week’s fantasy creature.
J is for Jinn
Jinn (or djinn or genies) are shape-shifting spirits and have amazing powers. While Jinn can be found everywhere, such as underground, in the air or in fire, and wield their powers freely, they are often popularly depicted inhabiting various objects, such as oil lamps, and are enslaved or bound to them. Jinn can be troublemakers but whoever gains control of a jinn has a powerful weapon at his disposal!
With these qualities, who wouldn’t want to read about them more!
One great epic fantasy book that features jinn is An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir. Would you like to see more jinn in fantasy or do you think they have too much power to be a fun creature to read about? Perhaps setting a jinn as a formidable antagonist might result in a great read.
Some self-promo!
When sixteen-year-old Shael helps a mortally wounded messenger, he entrusts her with delivering to the queen three magical statuettes stolen from the Hyllethans, her country’s feared enemies. But Shael accidentally cuts her fingers while handling the statuettes and magic links her to them—any breakage or pressure on the clay is felt on her flesh. Shael’s fate is now inexorably tied to the Hyllethans, the statuettes, and the political turmoil in the land.
If you like magic, enemies to lovers, twists and turns, harrowing escapes and family drama, then you’ll enjoy The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy.
Dawn of Purple and Grey, Days of Wind and Snow, and Night of Rites and Wraiths (The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy) are available through Amazon as ebooks and paperbacks or as an ebook Complete Series Box Set.
Till next time,
Caroline
September 15, 2023
Author Interview: Lucy A. McLaren, plus I is for Ichthyocentaur
Today’s post is a milestone for me – the 50th newsletter – and I felt this needed to be celebrated. As a thank you to all of you who have followed me on this journey, Dawn of Purple and Grey, book # 1 of The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy will be FREE on 20 September. The 20th is also Stuff your Kindle Day where thousands of e-books are discounted to Free. So if there’s that one book you’ve been dying to read, including mine ( ), head over to Amazon on the 20th and check it out!
Now on to today’s Author Interview:
Book: Awakening: The Commune’s Curse Book 1
Genre: Fantasy
Author: Lucy A. McLaren
I’m excited to welcome fantasy author Lucy A. McLaren. Hello, Lucy. Can you tell us something about your book?
Lucy: Hello! Thank you for having me, Caroline. I’m Lucy A. McLaren, a fantasy author and lover. My debut book, Awakening: The Commune’s Curse Book 1, is a multi-POV, character-focused story featuring found family, ancient powers, animal companions, an authoritarian government, toxic love, mental health exploration and LGBT+ representation.
Why did you choose Awakening as title for the book?
Lucy: Awakening may feel a bit generic but it also applies well to what happens in the story. Each of the four main characters awakens about an aspect of their past and present experiences throughout the book. It fits, it just could have been better! (Hindsight, eh?)
What do you consider to be something unique about your work?
Lucy: There’s a lot of focus on mental health because I am very passionate about that. I’m a counsellor and utilise psychological theories to create more realistic, relatable characters.
That’s so interesting. What are your plans for the future?
Lucy: The second book in The Commune’s Curse series is largely written and to be edited. In the meantime, I am writing a standalone dark fantasy story inspired by Jack the Ripper/Victorian London.
Your cover is so striking. What are your thoughts behind this choice of design?
Lucy: Thank you! I love it. The idea with this cover is to represent main character Evelyn. That is her battered sword depicted. The white flowers are called Veritarra’s Gift and are an essential part of the plot of the three books. Book 2’s cover will represent main characters Hector and Raif, and Book 3 will represent Commander Jonah Sulemon.
Thank you so much for joining me today. One last question: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
Lucy: You can learn more about my writing and sign up to my newsletter to receive a free bonus chapter at my author website: lucyamclarenauthor.com. You can also follow me on social media, my most active being Instagram @lucy_a_mclaren.
About the Author:
When not writing, you can find me looking after my toddler, playing video games, reading, watching TV or films, and taking photographs of nature/old castle ruins. I’m a fantasy nerd in many ways!
Link to book on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ATCCB1
I is for Ichthyocentaur
An Ichthyocentaur, or sea-centaur, is a sea-dwelling creature with the torso, arms and head of a man, the forelegs of a horse and the lower body and tail of a fish. Sometimes they have a pair of lobster-claw horns on their heads.
Ichthyocentaurs are tough creatures, fast swimmers and can raise or calm storms. They can also communicate underwater with other water creatures. Ichthyocentaurs live long lives, sometimes for centuries.
Ichthyocentaurs are peaceful, wise creatures who value family and friends and rarely have issues with other sea creatures.
In Greek mythology, the first two ichthyocentaurs were the sons of the Titan god Kronos and the nymph Philyra. They have often been depicted in ancient mosaics and relief sculptures.
One of the more benign fantasy creatures, don’t you agree? This creature reminded me of a short story I wrote about a shape-shifting hippocampus. You can read Whisper of the Waves online here.
Some self-promo!
When sixteen-year-old Shael helps a mortally wounded messenger, he entrusts her with delivering to the queen three magical statuettes stolen from the Hyllethans, her country’s feared enemies. But Shael accidentally cuts her fingers while handling the statuettes and magic links her to them—any breakage or pressure on the clay is felt on her flesh. Shael’s fate is now inexorably tied to the Hyllethans, the statuettes, and the political turmoil in the land.
If you like magic, enemies to lovers, twists and turns, harrowing escapes and family drama, then you’ll enjoy The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy.
Dawn of Purple and Grey, Days of Wind and Snow, and Night of Rites and Wraiths (The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy) are available through Amazon as ebooks and paperbacks or as an ebook Complete Series Box Set.
Till next time,
Caroline
September 1, 2023
Author Interview: Craig Montgomery; plus H is for Hydra
In today’s post, I’m very pleased to chat with fantasy author Craig Montgomery.
Book: A Circle of Stars
Genre: Fantasy
Author: Craig Montgomery
Hello Craig can you tell us something about your book?
Craig: A Circle of Stars is about an 18-year-old boy who is abducted across the universe to a hidden lunar city where he is told he must be these strange people’s chosen one or die.
Interesting! What do you consider to be something unique or fascinating about your work?
Craig: The magic system is unique, and readers have responded really well to it. I also am really fond of the fact that the romance between the two lead characters is very healthy and is still compelling to read.
What are your plans for the future?
Craig: I’m writing a little novelette that I’ll be sending out to my newsletter audience in the next few months. And I’m also working on book 2 of this duology.
Tell me more about your protagonist? Why did you choose to write him?
Craig: Casper is an 18-year-old queer kid from Chicago who grew up in a very religious household. I wrote his story because it’s the one I needed when I was a kid. We are seeing so much more representation in fiction these days, but I never got to see a character that was like me go off on a fantasy adventure and fall in love. So, I wrote that story.
Who is your favourite character in the book?
Craig: I think maybe Helix. I’m not good at picking favorites, but I think we all need a Helix in our life.
Who inspired you to write and why did you choose Fantasy / SF?
Craig: I’ve been telling stories since I have memories. I was home schooled as a child, so I would imagine up stories while playing in the yard to occupy myself. I chose to write SFF because they are the stories I’ve always gravitated toward. I love the fantastic. It’s so excited to imagine different kinds of worlds and the magic that can fill them.
Thank you so much for joining me today. One last question: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
Craig: Thank you for having me! I can be found at my website www.craigmontgomerybooks.com and on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram @craigmontgomerybooks.
About the Author:
Craig has always been drawn to the fantastical. Whether it’s sword and sorcery, superheroes, or faraway galaxies, he’s along for the ride, happily ever after preferred. He recently moved to the San Francisco Bay Area with his husband and their two cats, where he tries to spend as much time with trees as he can.
Link to book on Amazon:
H is for Hydra
This week’s fantasy creature in our ABC of Fantasy Creatures series is the Hydra.
In Greek mythology, hydras are huge serpent-like creatures with (usually) nine heads. They are found in marshy or wet areas.
A hydra is difficult to kill as beheading one of the heads leads to two more heads emerging from the cut (this means that the number of heads a hydra has could change). Moreover, its blood and breath are poisonous to humans.
Killing a hydra was one of Hercules’ 12 labours. He succeeded because he had help. As soon as he cut off one head, his nephew cauterised the wound so no new heads sprouted out.
Not a creature I’d like to meet. Don’t you agree?
Some self-promo!
In the Inner Lands, there are three ways sixteen-year-old Shael can get herself and her family killed—by looking like the enemy; by working with the enemy; by becoming the enemy.
When sixteen-year-old Shael unknowingly helps a mortally wounded thief, he entrusts her with delivering three figurines to the lord of her castle. Too late, Shael discovers that the figurines were stolen from the Hyllethans, her country’s feared enemies. And since she cut her fingers on the figurines while handling them, she is now linked to them. Any breakage or pressure on the clay is felt on her flesh.
Despite her reluctance to aid the enemy, Shael teams up with three Hyllethans to retrieve the figurines and break the connection. Shael is caught in the tussle for the thrones of the two lands. To avoid becoming a pawn—or dangle from a hangman’s noose—she has to regain possession of the figurines and face the unsuspected secrets of her lost past.
Three thrones. Two power-hungry mages. One girl standing in their way.
Exiled in Hylletha, sixteen-year-old Shael longs to return to the land of her birth but her brother Iysel, the new, terrifying mage-king of the Inner Lands, wants her dead. Shael’s very existence threatens Iysel’s right to the throne since she is the holder of the magical Gift of Touch, which is traditionally held by the monarch.
To ensure peace, Theis, the young man Shael loves, goes to Iysel’s court to negotiate the reunification of Hylletha and the Inner Lands under one ruler. But when Shael’s young foster brother is abducted and held prisoner in the Inner Lands, Shael has only her limited knowledge of spellcraft to help her stay out of Iysel’s reach, rescue her foster brother and make sure Theis doesn’t bear the brunt of Iysel’s rage.
Complicating matters further, Iysel has won the unexpected support of their wily cousin—the son of the king of a neighbouring land and an extraordinary mage—who has his own reasons for wanting to get hold of Shael.
The stability of the three realms lies in the balance. Faced by intrigue and betrayal from all sides, Shael must choose between protecting the lives of those she loves or taking up her role as princess and heir to the thrones to safeguard the welfare of the people.
She’ll be crowned queen—if she lives that long.
With her coronation fast approaching, Shael fears the debilitating effects of poisoning resulting from her stint in the dragons’ birthing grounds will make her unfit to rule. But this becomes the least of her worries when her brother Iysel turns up claiming he’s the true King of Hylletha as well as heir to Dragonia. Shael is determined to protect the realms from the merciless mage, but the documents that challenge Iysel’s right to the thrones have disappeared.
Protecting the realms isn’t the only reason for finding the missing documents. Proving Iysel’s duplicity is the surest way of saving Theis, the love of Shael’s live, whom Iysel has accused of desertion and treason.
With time running out, with assassins stalking her every move and her health failing, Shael sets out to unravel the tangled web of deceit and greed ensnaring her and the kingdoms. Unfortunately, the most obvious culprit isn’t always the only enemy.
Dawn of Purple and Grey, Days of Wind and Snow, and Night of Rites and Wraiths (The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy) are available through Amazon either as individual books or as a Complete Series Box Set.
Till next time,
Caroline
August 18, 2023
Author Interview: Rachanee Lumayno, plus H is for Harpy
Book: Heir of Amber and Fire
Genre: Epic Fantasy, YA Fantasy
Author: Rachanee Lumayno
Today, I’m very pleased to chat with fantasy author Rachanee Lumayno. Hello Rachanee, can you tell us something about your book?
Rachanee: Hi, thank you for interviewing me! My book, Heir of Amber and Fire, is the first in the Kingdom Legacy series. When Princess Jennica’s father announces her arranged marriage, it uncovers some long-buried family secrets. To uncover the truth of her past, she teams up with a band of dragon Seekers to find the dragon that once kidnapped her mother. But her new friends have secrets of their own that may force her to betray them.
Royalty and secrets! Sounds like a fun read. You’ve already published a number of books in the Kingdom Legacy series. What are your plans for the future?
Rachanee: Heir of Crowns and Curses, book 4 in the Kingdom Legacy series, was just released earlier this month (on 10/10/23)! And I’m hoping to release book 5 in February or March of 2024. I’ve got seven books planned for this series, and then it’s on to a new series—and a potential spinoff of the Kingdom Legacy series.
Tell me more about your protagonist? Why did you choose to write her?
Rachanee: The main character, Princess Jennica, was actually based off a character I was supposed to play in a Dungeons and Dragons campaign. The campaign never happened, but her story stuck with me.
Thank you so much for joining me today. One last question: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
Rachanee: You can learn more about me at http://www.rachanee.net (and sign up for my newsletter there too, to keep in touch!). And the Kingdom Legacy books can be found on my website and at all book retailers (Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Google, Kobo, etc).
About the Author:
Headshots by Los Angeles photographer Robert OlinRachanee Lumayno is an actress, voiceover artist, screenwriter, avid gamer and amateur dodgeball player. She grew up in Michigan, where she spent way too much of her free time reading fantasy novels, so when she decided to try her hand at writing a book, it made sense that it would be in her favorite genre. The Kingdom Legacy series marks her debut as an author. She is also a staff writer for two comics, Criminal King and The Glove.
Link to book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Heir-Amber-Fire-Kingdom-Legacy-ebook/dp/B08YR3JZY5?ref_=ast_author_mpb
Sounds like another series for my TBR list!
Now, let’s go to the fantasy creature section. Last week I uploaded on Instagram, Tiktok and Facebook a short reel about Goblins in the ABC of Fantasy Creatures series. You can watch it here. This week’s fantasy creature is Harpies.
H is for Harpy
Harpies have the head of a woman and the body of a bird. Some stories depict them as beautiful women with wings; others however describe them as hideous, with pale faces, sharp teeth and long cruel talons.
Their name means ‘snatcher’ and in fact they are known to steal food from their victims as well as snatch evildoers to subject them to punishment. Harpies are sadistic creatures who enjoy torturing their victims before killing and eating them.
Harpies are cunning but not too intelligent. They use their claws as weapons, or large bones as clubs. Their song however is their most dangerous weapon as it enables them to trap their victims by entrancing them even from afar.
In Greek mythology, harpies were considered wind spirits, anthropomorphic representatives the destructive forces of winds, as well as servants of the god Zeus.
Some self-promo!
In the Inner Lands, there are three ways sixteen-year-old Shael can get herself and her family killed—by looking like the enemy; by working with the enemy; by becoming the enemy.
When sixteen-year-old Shael unknowingly helps a mortally wounded thief, he entrusts her with delivering three figurines to the lord of her castle. Too late, Shael discovers that the figurines were stolen from the Hyllethans, her country’s feared enemies. And since she cut her fingers on the figurines while handling them, she is now linked to them. Any breakage or pressure on the clay is felt on her flesh.
Despite her reluctance to aid the enemy, Shael teams up with three Hyllethans to retrieve the figurines and break the connection. Shael is caught in the tussle for the thrones of the two lands. To avoid becoming a pawn—or dangle from a hangman’s noose—she has to regain possession of the figurines and face the unsuspected secrets of her lost past.
Three thrones. Two power-hungry mages. One girl standing in their way.
Exiled in Hylletha, sixteen-year-old Shael longs to return to the land of her birth but her brother Iysel, the new, terrifying mage-king of the Inner Lands, wants her dead. Shael’s very existence threatens Iysel’s right to the throne since she is the holder of the magical Gift of Touch, which is traditionally held by the monarch.
To ensure peace, Theis, the young man Shael loves, goes to Iysel’s court to negotiate the reunification of Hylletha and the Inner Lands under one ruler. But when Shael’s young foster brother is abducted and held prisoner in the Inner Lands, Shael has only her limited knowledge of spellcraft to help her stay out of Iysel’s reach, rescue her foster brother and make sure Theis doesn’t bear the brunt of Iysel’s rage.
Complicating matters further, Iysel has won the unexpected support of their wily cousin—the son of the king of a neighbouring land and an extraordinary mage—who has his own reasons for wanting to get hold of Shael.
The stability of the three realms lies in the balance. Faced by intrigue and betrayal from all sides, Shael must choose between protecting the lives of those she loves or taking up her role as princess and heir to the thrones to safeguard the welfare of the people.
She’ll be crowned queen—if she lives that long.
With her coronation fast approaching, Shael fears the debilitating effects of poisoning resulting from her stint in the dragons’ birthing grounds will make her unfit to rule. But this becomes the least of her worries when her brother Iysel turns up claiming he’s the true King of Hylletha as well as heir to Dragonia. Shael is determined to protect the realms from the merciless mage, but the documents that challenge Iysel’s right to the thrones have disappeared.
Protecting the realms isn’t the only reason for finding the missing documents. Proving Iysel’s duplicity is the surest way of saving Theis, the love of Shael’s live, whom Iysel has accused of desertion and treason.
With time running out, with assassins stalking her every move and her health failing, Shael sets out to unravel the tangled web of deceit and greed ensnaring her and the kingdoms. Unfortunately, the most obvious culprit isn’t always the only enemy.
Dawn of Purple and Grey, Days of Wind and Snow, and Night of Rites and Wraiths (The Hyllethan Gifts Trilogy) are available through Amazon either as individual books or as a Complete Series Box Set.
Till next time,
Caroline
August 12, 2023
G is for Goblins
Goblins are small, monstrous creatures or spirits who are mischievous at best, and more often malicious and vicious.
Goblins are characterised as bad-tempered beings and pranksters who relish playing all sorts of practical jokes.
They are often shown as having magical abilities, such as the means to change their appearance.
Goblins appear in several European folktales. In modern fantasy stories, J. R. R. Tolkien mentions goblins in The Hobbit – where they are described as evil creatures living in the Misty Mountains. Goblins also appear in Harry Potter, but here they are characterised as very intelligent, skilled bankers and craftsmen.
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