Helen Garraway's Blog, page 10
August 9, 2024
Sentinals Awaken audiobook $1.99 deal on Chirp
For a limited period (one week from August 8th, 2024) you can get the audiobook of Sentinals Awaken via CHIRP for $1.99.
Start my award winning epic fantasy series in audio! The first four books are now available in audiobook from a platform of your choice, via my online store and via Chirp in the USA.
Looking for a complete epic fantasy series, immersing you in a magical world filled with myth, legend and engaging charcters? Then the Sentinal series is for you.
When a long-forgotten threat starts to reemerge, one man stands as the last defense against darkness…
Jerrol Haven serves his king without question. When he finds evidence of corruption and is attacked, the loyal soldier’s mind spins after his touch of a sacred tree awakens the dormant spirit of a three-thousand-year-old protector. But he fears he has failed after the crown prince accuses him of treason and orders his execution…
Fleeing the city, Jerrol is stunned when the goddess appears to him, appoints him captain of her warriors, and charges him with a quest to find artifacts that can save the realm. And as he runs into danger and more betrayals, the steadfast hero discovers a rare gift that may be the world’s only hope…
Can Jerrol rally the forces of good to stop a rising evil?
Sentinals Awaken is the first book in the Sentinal epic fantasy series. If you like endearing characters, immersive world-building, and gritty conflict, then you’ll love Helen Garraway’s award-winning tale.
Want to know more and follow my journey? Then make sure you sign up to my newsletter below.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring
By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.
By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.
August 3, 2024
2024 Global Book Award Finalists
Very excited to announce that both Harmony, my standalone dystopian fantasy and Sentinals Across Time, Book Four of the Epic Fantasy Sentinals series are finalists in the 2024 Global Book Awards.
Medal placements are announced on August 15th, 2024.
Sentinals Across Time is a finalist in the Epic Fantasy category.
Sentinals Across Time is the fourth book in the saga of Remargaren, a vibrant, ancient world of high fantasy suffused with magic and adventure.
Jerrol’s fragile balance between duty and family life took two years to refine and one brief moment to tear apart as the Lady Leyandrii and the Oath conspire in a desperate bid to protect the Birtolian Empire. As a result, Jerrol finds himself stranded in the middle of an ocean, lost across land and time and seas.
Unsure what is expected of him, Jerrol learns to appreciate the idyllic life of the Birtolians, the vibrant people and the beautiful coastline. To his growing horror, he realises the devastation which lies in their future.
Can Jerrol prevent the destruction of the gentle people he has grown to love? Is he meant to? Desperate to find a way home, he begins to leave clues in anything he thinks will survive the test of time. Taelia and the Sentinals are his only chance of ever returning to his own life but can they find him before the Lady sunders the Bloodstone and changes the Birtolian Empire forever?
The fourth installment of the Sentinal Series takes us to the beautiful Island Empire of Birtoli. Only once, it wasn’t an archipelago of islands, it was a land of majestic mountain ridges, mystical forests and exquisite sandy bays joined as one to the southern Vespiri borders.
Harmony is a finalist in the Dystopian Science Fiction/Fantasy category.
He’s always tried to do what’s right. When ugly truths surface on their sentient planet, will he have the courage to vindicate the wronged?
Kiefer Gallante yearns to prove his worth. Son of two prominent scientists, the dedicated soldier is determined to ensure their legacy and protect their new home’s caring native sentience. So when a power sabotage by rebels leaves a destitute population vulnerable, the heroic young man throws himself into the conflict.
Shocked to discover much of what he’s been taught is a lie, Kiefer reels after learning how his superiors are exploiting the world. But when the revolutionaries plead with him to join their cause, the thoughtful idealist is torn between the life he loves… and fighting for justice for the people.
With the fate of millions at stake and enemies in his inner circle, can Kiefer restore hope for humanity?
Harmony is a page-turning, standalone dystopian science fiction novel. If you like compassionate heroes, awakening to the truth, and immersive world-building, then you’ll love Helen Garraway’s gripping adventure.
Want to know more and follow my journey? Then make sure you sign up to my newsletter below.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring
By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.
By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.
July 27, 2024
Book Review Alert: Scarlett Legacy by Shelli Rosewarne
Reviewed: July 26th, 2024
Released: April 4th, 2024
Genre: Fairytale Retelling
Natalia doesn’t believe in fairytales. Until she’s thrown headfirst into one. Now she has to trust a big bad wolf with both her life and her heart.
Natalia is done with men. Her cheating scumbag of an ex-boyfriend just the latest in a line of disappointments. She’s definitely not going to be taken in by a sexy Scotsman with an honest-to-God castle, a disturbing affect on her libido, and a shit-ton of secrets.
Damian knows she’s his fated mate. He’s waited his whole life for her after all. But Natalia doesn’t believe in destiny, or wolf shifters, and she sure as hell won’t trust him to keep her safe. But if she doesn’t then her life and his whole pack are in danger.
Scarlett Legacy is the first in the Highland Wolves series, a set of stand-alone but interconnected paranormal romance stories. If you like fairytale retellings and sexy Scotsmen in kilts, then you’ll love this fast-paced shifter romance. Read My Thoughts…
Book Review Alert: Solomon’s Compass by Carol Kilgore
Reviewed: July 23rd, 2024
Released: March 23rd, 2013
Genre: Contemporary fiction
One USCG Commander + One Veteran Navy SEAL = Fireworks from Stem to Stern
When Coast Guard Commander Taylor Campbell returns to Rock Harbor, Texas, to tend to her uncle’s estate, she meets a veteran Navy SEAL, Jake Solomon, and learns her uncle didn’t drown accidentally. His murder was one in a string of murders of a group of Vietnam veterans who called themselves the Compass Points.
Before her uncle died, he sent Taylor a message with the location of his buried treasure. Unearthing it will place her squarely in the killer’s crosshairs, but she’s determined to fulfill her uncle’s last wish.
Jake, sent to protect her and find the killer, has other plans. Despite the fact she’s a feisty dynamo in a pint-sized package, his mission would be much easier to accomplish if he could forget how good she’d tasted when he kissed her. Read My Thoughts…
Book Review Alert: Solomon’s Compass by Karen Kilgore
Reviewed: July 23rd, 2024
Released: March 23rd, 2013
Genre: Fairytale Retelling
One USCG Commander + One Veteran Navy SEAL = Fireworks from Stem to Stern
When Coast Guard Commander Taylor Campbell returns to Rock Harbor, Texas, to tend to her uncle’s estate, she meets a veteran Navy SEAL, Jake Solomon, and learns her uncle didn’t drown accidentally. His murder was one in a string of murders of a group of Vietnam veterans who called themselves the Compass Points.
Before her uncle died, he sent Taylor a message with the location of his buried treasure. Unearthing it will place her squarely in the killer’s crosshairs, but she’s determined to fulfill her uncle’s last wish.
Jake, sent to protect her and find the killer, has other plans. Despite the fact she’s a feisty dynamo in a pint-sized package, his mission would be much easier to accomplish if he could forget how good she’d tasted when he kissed her. Read My Thoughts…
Author Interview – Michelle M. Pillow
Helen: Welcome Michelle. Congratulations on your new series. I am very excited to learn more about your books. Tell us a little about them.
Michelle: My new release is an urban fantasy, Merely Mortal. It features a young woman, Tamara, a mortal who is born into a supernatural family. Being the odd one out, she’s been raised like a delicate little butterfly who needs to be protected. Everyone expected her to die first, as her natural lifespan is human. The story begins with her attending her family’s funerals. The police suspect her as the one responsible for the fire that killed them, and she’s forced to go on the run. That is when she meets Paul and his five-year-old daughter, who are dealing with their own loss. Things unravel from there.
I am especially excited to share that it marks the beginning of a brand new series and is my first venture into writing in the first person POV. This fresh perspective allows you to dive deeper into Tamara’s world, experiencing her emotions, conflicts, and victories firsthand. It’s been exciting to explore this new writing style, and I believe it adds an intimate layer to the storytelling. I can’t wait for you to join Tamara on her journey and experience the magic and mystery from her unique viewpoint.
Helen: I love the sound of your books, more to add to the TBR list! Your covers are beautiful. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?
Michelle: A big theme in Merely Mortal is Tamara’s transformational arc as she tries to find her place in the world. As a mortal, she’s been told by her supernatural family that she is not special and has an expiration date. The butterfly represents her change and coming into her own. There are also other symbolic meanings in the book, but I don’t want to give away spoilers.
Helen: Is there any special meaning behind the title?
Michelle: The title Merely Mortal reflects Tamara’s struggle with her human limitations while being born into a powerful supernatural family. It underscores her journey of self-discovery and the realization that her humanity is both a vulnerability and a strength. The phrase merely mortal challenges the notion of mortality as a weakness, instead highlighting the resilience and depth of the human spirit.
Helen: A bit of reverse psychology, maybe? What made you write this particular book?
Michelle: The themes of identity, belonging, and self-discovery are universal, and I wanted to explore them through the lens of urban fantasy. I liked amplifying these themes by showing how an ordinary human would navigate a world filled with extraordinary circumstances, and what it means to find one’s place in such a setting.
Helen: I love creating my own worlds, and I agree, fantasy gives you plenty of opportunity for unusual situations. The Merely Mortal series is urban fantasy, do you write in any other genres?
Michelle: I am a multi-genre author. Over my career, I’ve published everything from historical to futuristic, contemporary to fantasy to mystery to gothic. However, I primarily write paranormal and sci-fi romance, as well as urban fantasy. These genres allow me to blend elements of romance, adventure, and the supernatural, creating rich, unique worlds. The flexibility enables me to explore complex themes and characters.
Helen: Who is your protagonist and why did write him/her?
Michelle: Tamara, the protagonist, is a complex and relatable character—just like we all are. I wrote her to explore the theme of self-discovery in a world that constantly challenges her sense of identity. This is something I feel many can relate to. Her journey is one of growth and resilience, reflecting the universal struggle of finding one’s place in the world, especially when you don’t feel like you belong in your own family.
Helen: If Tamara could answer this question, why would she say we should read your book?
Michelle: LOL, she’d probably beg you to read it because she doesn’t want it to be over. She’d probably beg someone to take over for me since I haven’t been the nicest to her.
Helen: We are so mean to our characters!! But we have to keep our readers hooked, so we don’t have much choice. How do you find new ideas for your books?
Michelle: Ideas for new books often come from a mix of personal experiences, random observations, and what if scenarios. Sometimes, a single image or a snippet of conversation can spark an entire story. I also draw inspiration from history, mythology, and various cultures, weaving these elements into my fictional worlds.
Helen: I’m one for the ‘what if’ questions. They do lead you down interesting paths. With all these ideas bubbling, what are you working on next?
Michelle: My current work-in-progress is Mostly Shattered, the second book in the Merely Mortal series. This installment will delve deeper into Tamara’s journey, uncovering new threats and alliances in the supernatural realm. The themes of mortality and belonging will continue to play a central role as Tamara grapples with her evolving identity and the responsibilities that come with it.
Helen: Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?
Michelle: I remind myself of the reasons I started writing in the first place, and I rely on the support of my writing community and family. I also remind myself to take breaks. Burnout can lead to negativity and doubt.
Helen: Have you ever experienced writer’s block, and if so, what do you do to overcome it?
Michelle: Switching gears and working on admin or marketing before returning to the book with fresh eyes helps. Sometimes you just need to step away and let it breathe.
Helen: I find that the most difficult, leaving the book to stand for a while, but you are right, a fresh pair of eyes will make all the difference. What is the best thing that’s happened since you began writing?
Michelle: The best thing has been the connection with readers. Their support and enthusiasm for my stories are incredibly rewarding. Knowing that my books have touched their lives and provided escape and inspiration is the most fulfilling aspect of my career.
Helen: Most authors are great readers. What is your favourite book?
Michelle: One of my favorites is Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. I love it for its witty dialogue, stubborn characters, and observations of human nature. Also, Mr. Darcy’s first botched proposal. It never fails to make me sigh and laugh at the same time. Austen’s ability to weave romance and strength within the confines of the social norms of her time is something I greatly admire.
Helen: It has been wonderful chatting to you. Thank you so much for joining me today. Before we close was there anything else you’d like to add?
Michelle: The camaraderie and support of the writing and reading communities are invaluable. These are friendships I cherish. I truly believe rising tides can lift all boats.
Thank you for having me.
About the Author
Michelle M. PillowMichelle M. Pillow is a prolific NY Times & USA TODAY bestselling author with over a million books sold. Though she writes in many genres, she is best known for romance and mystery. Her rich world building creates portals for the imagination. She is a winner of the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. Fan favorites include the Qurilixen World (a multi-series collection), Order of Magic series, and Warlocks MacGregor series. She loves to interact with readers. Visit her at MichellePillow.com.
Follow Michelle:
Author WebsiteAmazon Author PageFacebookTwitterInstagramPinterestYouTubeTiktokGoodreadsBookbubPurchase Michelle’s book, Merely Mortal
Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback
Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback
As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring
By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.
By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.
July 21, 2024
What a busy month! Interviews, Events, Blogs and Author talks.
Goodness, July has been a busy month for my writing journey. A month of firsts! I was a guest on BBC Radio Berkshire on July 17th, talking about my books and attended the Bracknell Book Fair at the Easthampstead Works on July 20th, where I gave my first ever formal live Author talk.
I was up early on wednesday, though not as early as Paul Coia the host of the BBC Radio Berkshire Breakfast show, thank goodness. I am typically a night owl, and early mornings and I do not mesh!
I met the Bracknell Book Fair organiser and fellow Fantasy author, Emma Williams, at the radio studio in Reading, and we were live guests on the breakfast show. It was a great experience and the team were very welcoming.
We talked about the Book Fair and my writing journey, and you can find the recording on my press and events page.
I then went on to the Bracknell book fair at the Easthampstead works, which was a great venue and spent all day chatting about books. There were 20+ plus authors in attendence and it was a really well organised.
At 1pm I was off to the Bracknell Library to give my first ever live author talk which went really well, and I had lots of wonderful questions, and I must admit I could have talked for an hour instead of my allotted 30 minutes.
And then back to my table to meet more readers and talk books, books, books! Such fun, and the day flew by!
And then, home to soak in a bath and early bedtime! I was exhausted. But it was well worth it.
I was also a guest on two blogs in July, you can find my interviews here:
Want to know more and follow my journey? Then make sure you sign up to my newsletter below.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring
By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.
By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.
July 19, 2024
Author Interview – Ben Schenkman
Helen: Welcome Ben. Congratulations on your new release. I am very excited to learn more about your series. Tell us a little about it.
Ben: My current books are the first two in my series, The Devil You Know.
The first, My Boss is the Devil, focuses on a barista named Nick who is stuck in a dead-end job and dissatisfied with his life. He goes to work for the Devil and has to grapple with the concepts of good and evil. It subverts expectations, because the Devil isn’t what you expect in this story. He has to decide if the ends justify the means, and if it’s worth his soul to make a difference in the world.
The second, Dueling Shoulder Angels, which is just being released now, is a continuation of the story. No spoilers on the first book, but where the first book focused on the Devil, the second introduces God. It also expands the role of Amy, the goth witch/love interest from the first book, and has a redemption arc for another.
Helen: Your covers are very distinct. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?
Ben: I adore my cover(s)! The first book focuses on Lucifer, so has a devilish silhouette behind a faceless man in a suit. I always intended for the main character to be a bit of a mirror for the reader and let them put themselves in his shoes. The cover is a bit of a play on that, with the lack of physical details. There are also coffee icons throughout, which is one of the through-threads of the story. The color is perfect, it was always going to be red and fits with the Devil motif.
The second, introducing a secondary main character and God Themself, adds similar figures for those characters. We add occult symbols to the icons floating around, and change the imagery a bit. The green color is a nod to the “millennial green velvet couch” that appears in the book. My partner, in real life, has that couch.
Helen: You have chosen unusual book titles. Is there a special meaning behind the title?
Ben: My Boss is the Devil is a double entendre. It’s a colloquialism, but in this case it’s also literal. I started writing this book back in 2006, finished the first draft during NaNoWriMo in 2014, and shelved it until 2023. It’s always had the same title, I was very fond of it. I’ve had to reassure bosses of mine that the book is fiction, and not about them.
The second book, Dueling Shoulder Angels, is a play on the trope of the angel and the devil sitting on someone’s shoulders, whispering in their ears. Except Lucifer is a fallen angel, right? So it’s actually two angels, dueling for influence and control.
Helen: Sometimes the title just leaps out at you, and others it is hard work trying to find the right name. I have a new series and I am struggling to find the right titles! What made you write this particular book?
Ben: I was Nick, to an extent, when I started writing the first book. I was working a job with little prospects, and wasn’t sure about my future. I took some of that inspiration and asked, “What if someone like that got a chance to work for the Devil? What would happen?”
Helen: Writers are such curious folk. We are always asking question, which is why we come up with such great stories! When did you first realise that you had a passion for writing?
Ben: I’ve been writing off and on since I was a child. I remember writing stories in elementary school instead of playing outside with the other kids. I even won an award for a short story I wrote in middle school. I wrote poetry all through high school and into college, but then it sort of faded as a hobby with time. Getting back into writing in the past year has really been eye opening, reminding me that I still have stories to tell.
Helen: I’m glad you rediscovered your love of writing. Which genre do you typically write?
Ben: I write primarily contemporary/urban fantasy. I love the genre because there are so many interesting and magical things about the real world. It’s a way to blend mythology and magic with the intricacies of city life. All of my stories, so far, are set in New Haven, Connecticut. I went to college there, and it’s still one of my favorite stomping grounds. Urban fantasy is also one of my favorite genres to read, so I’ve read a lot of work in the genre.
Helen: How do you find the ideas behind your stories?
Ben: A lot of ideas just come to me when I’m not paying attention to anything in particular. I’ve got two new concepts in the background to work on that just came out of nowhere. I had a big document that I keep my ideas in, because otherwise I’d forget them just as quickly as they came. I love talking these things through with my partner, and my friends, and the best way to get ideas for stories is to just talk about them sometimes.
Helen: I agree, a friend of mine is my sounding board. She always gets to hear about my ideas first. Now you have caught the writing bug, what are you working on next?
Ben: My current WIP is the third book in my series. The current working title has been “The Devil’s in the Details” but I’m expecting to rename it before publication. It’s another continuation of the story, but adding in even more mythology. It’s the last book in the current series, but it leaves it open enough that I could write more in the same world later.
Helen: So you are busy writing, how do you fit it in to your daily routine?
Ben: I have a full-time job, a son at home (my eldest is engaged and lives with his fiance), a partner, a fire performance troupe, and other hobbies. The best thing I can do is to carve out a little time most days to write, even if it’s just thirty minutes. I mostly write when my son is asleep, after I’ve done all my other chores and exercise. But I also carve out time where I can. My partner and I do “coffee shop time” where we each bring a hobby (she’s an artist, knits, and is an avid reader) to a coffee shop and use that time for our creative pursuits. It’s a delight.
Helen: It sounds wonderful. Do you find you have to do much research for your books?
Ben: It really depends on the book, but I tend to do research in the moment. There are some things I need to work out ahead of time, but a lot of my research ends up being open Chrome tabs while I’m writing. If I’m hitting a part of a scene that I’m not sure of, that’s the time I’m going to take a quick break and do just enough research to make sure I’ve got it going in the right direction. My next book concept is going to take more up front research, though, and I’ve got a couple books on the specific culture/mythology I’m going to be working with.
Helen: It’s funny how we are constantly learning new things in order to write our books. Do you plan your books in advance?
Ben: I call myself a pantser with an outline, so I don’t know if that’s called a plantser? I tend to write linearly, with the story evolving in my head and making its way onto the page. The outline is ever-evolving, and I make notes throughout the writing of the book. But I don’t do a lot of pre-plotting, other than trying to map out rough word count beats. I like the “save the cat” story beats, and use at least a rough version of that in my writing process.
Helen: I think you have to use the method that works for you. Everyone is different, and as long as you are writing, that is all that matters. If you didn’t write urban fantasy is there another genre you would like to try?
Ben: If I didn’t write urban fantasy, I think I’d try and write epic fantasy or speculative fiction. My books would be much shorter than the chonks that a lot of authors seem to be putting out though. I’ve got an idea brewing in the back of my mind for a more epic style fantasy, but it’s going to be a minute before I get to that one.
Helen: I love world building so I tend to write epic fanatsy. Like you, I write what I love to read. What books have you read recently?
Ben: I’m currently reading the Debt Collection series by Andrew Givler, starting with Soul Fraud. He’s another contemporary/urban fantasy indie author. I would definitely recommend them, and it’s been really great seeing another author’s take on similar subject matter as my own books. I listen to a lot of audiobooks, and the narrator he has is very good.
Helen: Hmmm … More books to add to the tbr list! Thank you so much for joining me today. It has been lovely learning about you and your books. Just to close us out, do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
Ben: First, just keep writing. Words on the page are what matter. Second, decide why you want to write. If it’s about getting your story out there, and you don’t care about making money doing it, then your strategy is going to be different than if you’re trying to be a full-time author. You have to make a lot of choices in this business. Do you pursue traditional publishing vs self publishing? What genre you write in matters if you want to write books that “sell.” Considerations like these are important. You’ll save yourself some disappointment if you figure out what you want, to help guide you on how to do it.
About the Author
Ben SchenkmanBen Schenkman likes many things in life: his 20-pound Maine coon cat, his family, his coffee, and his eclectic hobbies—not necessarily in that order.
Ben also likes to play devil’s advocate in his urban fantasy books by exploring the gray areas of good and evil with questions like, “Does the end really justify the means? Or is it all simply black and white?” Ben leaves these questions lingering in the ether to challenge readers’ conventional thinking and delve into the complexities of moral dilemmas.
As a native of Connecticut, Ben draws inspiration from his upbringing and college years in New Haven, where his novels take place. When he wants to escape being a writer, he’s a massive foodie who goes on gastronomic adventures, an overachiever who collects degrees in Theater, Nuclear Engineering, and an MBA, or the manager/performer of the fire dance troupe, HVBRIS—you know, the basics. No big deal.
Learn more about his work, or talk about coffee and cats, at his website.
Follow Ben:
Purchase Ben’s book, The Devil is my Boss:
Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback
Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback
As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring
By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.
By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.
July 18, 2024
Book Review Alert: Unexpected Witness by MJ Blehart
Reviewed: July 18th, 2024
Released: February 28th, 2021
Genre: Science Fiction
When a high-ranking businessman and two clones are murdered, Marshal Onima Gwok of the Confederation Bureau of Investigation (CBI) gets assigned the case. But nothing quite adds up. Is there something more insidious going on? There is just one witness – a clone. When the war ended ten years ago, the clones who had fought it were discarded, forgotten, and became second-class citizens of the new confederation. Jace Rojas, designated AC J7-2247, is an infantry clone. When he proves to be more helpful than just being a witness to a murder, Onima decides to bring Jace along to join her team as they look for answers across multiple solar systems. But every question seems to produce no answers – only more questions. Will this be the start of a new war – or something worse? Read My Thoughts…
July 15, 2024
It’s my turn to be interviewed!
Very excited to be a guest on both the Tranquilo Retreat book blog on July 7th, 2024 and also Christina Consolini’s blog on July 15th, 2004. I had such fun talking about my writing journey, my latest books, and what’s coming next.
Also very excited to be a guest on BBC Radio Berkshire on July 17th, talking about my books and attending the Bracknell Book Fair at the Easthampstead Works where I am giving an Author Talk about my writing journey and creating magical worlds at 1pm in Bracknell Library on July 20th. Hope to see you there.
When? Saturday 20 July, 2024.
Where? Easthampstead Works, Town Square, Bracknell, Berkshire, UK. RG12 1BH
Where’s that? Go past Fenwicks and it’s the big brutalist building right ahead. But don’t judge this ‘book’ by its cover! It may be old but it’s got a big heart (and a fab coffee shop!)
What time? 10am – 4pm.
How much? Entry is FREE!
A love of reading led to a love of writing.
Author Helen Garraway and I might write in different genres, but we certainly have (at least) two things in common: both of us inherited our love of reading from our mothers, and we started writing somewhat late in the game. Despite her delayed start, Helen is doing something exactly right: she’s an award-winning and USA Today and Amazon bestselling author whose books are called “intelligent,” “compelling,” and “amazing.” Read more …
My latest book:
OblivionGateHaving survived Apologia and faced down the Angelic Assembly, Demavrian has every right to be feeling triumphant, but the threat hanging over his head from the vengeful god, Kaenera, is enough to snuff out any celebrations.
His fledglings are distraught and in disarray, Solanji’s brother is still without a soul and Solanji has no idea how her SoulBreathing works. He has no idea how to manage the Oblivion Gate and even with his Gate Wraith’s help, the burden of the soulless banging on the door may be his undoing.
Kaenera is poised to strike back and if Demavrian doesn’t learn the secrets of the Oblivion Gate fast enough, he may be the shortest lived Gate Keeper in history.
OblivionGate is the third enthralling book in the Fantasy Romance SoulMist series full of vibrant characters, political intrigue and betrayal.
While you are here, check out my epic fantasy Sentinal Series.
The Complete SoulMist Series:
Book One: SoulBreather
Book Two: DragonBound
Book Three: OblivionGate
If you would like to read an ARC for my future novels, then sign up to my ARC team via the link in my linktr.ee. All I ask is that you leave an honest review on the week of the launch to as many platforms as you can!! (Amazon/Goodreads/Bookbub)
