Annie Douglass Lima's Blog, page 36
November 17, 2016
Fantastic Creatures: An Anthology with a Scavenger Hunt!
To celebrate the release of Fantastic Creatures, The Fellowship of Fantasy has planned a Release Extravaganza! Join our open house-style Facebook party today (Nov 17) from 3:30 - 7 pm to meet many of our anthology authors and get a peek at the fantastic creatures highlighted in our stories. There will be fun, games, and, of course, DRAGONS! You can also join our Fantastic Creatures Scavenger Hunt from Nov 17-20th. Each of twelve stops will feature a post with exclusive content from one of our authors. Many will also include a mini-giveaway... Visit all the stops and collect the clues--a number featured in each post--and you could win a Kindle Fire plus a 12-book digital library! Make sure to scroll down to find the list of Scavenger Hunt stops and get started right away!
Here be dragons ... and selkies and griffins and maybe even a mermaid or two. Twenty fantasy authors band together to bring you a collection of thrilling tales and magical monsters. Do you like to slay dragons? Or befriend them? Do you prefer to meet cephalopods as gigantic kraken or adorable tree octopuses? Each story focuses around a fantastic creature from folklore or mythology, and they range from light and playful tales for the whole family to darker stories that may make you wish to leave the lights on. These stories carry the Fellowship of Fantasy seal of approval. While our monsters may be horrifying, you won't stumble into graphic sex and constant swearing. Perfect for the fantasy lover who can't get enough of mythical beasts.
Get it on: Amazon | B&N (Nook) | Kobo | More!And find out more at the Fellowship of Fantasy website.
The Fantastic Creatures Scavenger HuntVisit these authors' blogs to find the numbers hidden in each post, discover exclusive content about the stories in our anthology, and find a few mini giveaways along the way! Each author is hosting a different author's post, so be sure to visit them all. Once you've collected all the numbers, add them together and enter the total in the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win a Kindle Fire and 12 book digital library!Scavenger Hunt StopsKandi J. Wyatt A. R. Silverberry Bokerah Brumley H. L. Burke Lea Doué Morgan Smith Jessica L. Elliott Caren Rich Julie C. Gilbert Nicole Zoltack D. G. Driver Intisar Khanani
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November 14, 2016
Realm Explorers Part CXVI: Visit Trabor and Shayal with Kristen Kooistra
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don't forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Kristen Kooistra
Title of book and/or series: Heart of the Winterland
Brief summary of the story: In the heart of snow-cursed Trabor, a princess and her guardian live in a haze cast by an ancient spell. On the dawn of her 200th birthday, Princess Calisandra awakes with a clear mind. No longer happy to just sit idle, Cali and Voice set out to find what lies beyond their shielded kingdom.
Joined by Angel—a fiery redhead that delights in ruffling Cali's feathers—they soon find themselves fleeing from the legendary Captain Kota who is determined to capture Angel. Cali's perfect vision of her journey is shattered and it takes all of her strength just to keep up in a world she doesn't understand. Everything is a new experience and tests Cali physically and mentally.
Will she ever find out what happened to her kingdom? And what will Voice's purpose be when Cali no longer needs her?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:Heart of the Winterland takes place in two countries, Trabor and Shayal. Princess Cali and Voice live in Trabor, but leave it within the first few chapters and spend the rest of the journey in Shayal. There is both a past and present storyline, while Cali’s in the present, Amee is in the past and her story takes place in Trabor.
At the time of the present, Trabor is devoid of human life except for Cali and is completely covered in snow. Shayal is like a medieval European country.
If we were to visit Shayal as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?Visit Rokuhai! They have all sorts of entertainment from the traveling performers, to food and wares on every corner, and of course local eating establishments and sailing ships.
What dangers should we avoid in Shayal? Definitely the Duke and his men, mainly the captain of the guard, Kota.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Shayal?There is little travel between cities and villages, most food is homecooked meals that consist of local products and whatever that particular village raises/grows.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Shayal?Swords and daggers are the most common by far. Only nobility and the Guard are allowed to have such weapons. Hunters may carry bows or a hunting knife. To prevent rebellion, the people are kept as powerless as possible.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Shayal? Most people walk or ride horses, though some of the wealthier people will travel in carriages. Cali and Voice started their journey from Trabor to Shayal in a sleigh that converts into a carriage when needed.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Trabor or Shayal that we don’t see on Earth?Ooh, I don’t want to give away too many spoilers. Hmm, Winterland primarily focuses on the characters. It’s a character-driven story where the friendships involved and the characters growing and discovering themselves are the main focus. There is a snow-fountain tree, which only grows from the tears of a certain group of people. We see hints of other races. There’s a immortal, magical women who is the last of her race, an invisible, shapeless protector of a book, and there’s quite a few characters who are Sjadians—a race discovered more thoroughly in book 2 and 3—which are long-lived and some of them possess magic.
And there’s a few more surprises that I won’t give away.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Trabor and Shayal? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.Magic is almost unheard of in both countries. Trabor had no experience with it until recently, and well, that didn’t go so well. Shayal has forbidden magic and that’s why Tera—the sole survivor of her race—is hiding out in her forest, and why she’s the last.
Sjadians do occasionally have magic, and since some of them have immigrated to this continent, there are instances of magic in Amee’s timelime. The magic works differently for each race that has such powers. For Sjadians, they can see deep into the magical plane that covers everything. They can see lines of power that connects everything and they use spells to command those lines to twist reality into doing whatever they need.
Each magic wielder has a certain amount of power. Think a rechargeable battery. One battery may hold a lot longer charge, and people with a higher max capacity can do greater spells and more of them. When not using magic, they slowly recharge back to full. In that way they are limited somewhat, and can’t just cast spells willy nilly unless they want to overextend themselves which has consequences, the least being that they won’t have enough power to do a spell even if their life depends on it.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Shayal/Trabor as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?Oh yes, goodness, I can’t imagine coming up with new time cycles. The one holiday that is referenced is the annual Winter Festival from Trabor’s past where the royal family set up a field full of events and free food.
What is the political or government structure in Shayal and Trabor? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?Both Trabor and Shayal are monarchies, though Duke Bludgaard of Shayal has managed to weasel quite a bit of control and though it’s not stated, I’d say the king is more of a puppet.
Cali is the crown princess of Trabor, but there’s no people there! So there’s no one to rule over. She’s not sure what kind of leader she’d be anyway. She has no training when it comes to leading or even interacting with people. Maybe there’ll be people in her kingdom someday and then she’ll find out if she’s cut out to be a ruler.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?I live in Michigan, so the idea for Trabor and the never-ending winter came from my personal loathing of winter and thinking it’d be horrible if I didn’t get a few months off. I’ve met a lot of people over the years, and I used bits of personalities to form a lot of my characters.
A Scottish friend of mine became Captain Rebol, a sea captain with a cat that I named after one he’d lost.
Dikala was inspired by a young man I met whose future was mapped out for him because of his cultural upbringing. His parents made the plans, and he was expected to follow them. He never really thought to do otherwise, and I brought that into the character of Dikala.
My favorite inspiration though was a mute friend of mine who never let her inability to talk hinder her. She had a strong presence of character and it never felt like she was outside of the conversation. When I created Captain Kota, I knew she was going to emulate those strong characteristics and this is a minor spoiler, but I love it when people don’t realize Kota doesn’t speak for quite awhile. I like to think it’s because she’s such a force to be reckoned with, that we notice that and not what she’s missing. Being mute is a part of her, but it doesn’t define her and it’s certainly not going to hold her back from achieving her goals.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? Hmm, not so much for this book, maybe with the next one. There are seeds of some racial discrimination, but I think that becomes more of a central theme with the next book. I hope most of the themes for this book are ones that people can agree with, for the most part. Friendship, family being more than just blood, accepting responsibility, admitting when you’re wrong, redemption, open hearts, and not trying to be someone else, but rather be the best YOU that you can be.
Author Autobiography:
Kristen Kooistra fell in love with reading at a young age and never resurfaced. She loved solving mysteries, riding across the prairie, and sailing on the open sea. But her favorite books were those that held the fantastical. So when the time came for her to seriously approach publishing a book, it had to be fantasy!
Living in Michigan (her own winterland) with her husband, three kids, and two cats, she has lots of free time . . . Okay, so more like she squeezes in writing time late at night when only the cats are awake to pester her.
"Heart of the Winterland" is Kristen's first novel, and though it started as a whim, it grew into so much more and has inspired a sequel (in progress), "Heart of the Sorceress".
Tucked into a quiet countryside, Kristen spends most of her time being Mommy. She loves spending time with her family and hopes that her writing will entertain and inspire them as well.Besides writing, Kristen enjoys reading (of course!), chatting with her writer's group, sewing, swimming, gardening, and cooking (please no baking!).
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book? Amazon. Available as paperback or ebook for Kindle. https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Winterla...
Where can readers connect with you online? http://www.kristenkooistra.com/http://kristenkooistra.blogspot.com/https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15298428.Kristen_Kooistrahttps://twitter.com/KristenKooistrahttps://www.facebook.com/kristen.kooistra/https://www.facebook.com/author.kristen.kooistra
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Trabor and Shayal. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXVII!-Annie Douglass Lima
Author’s name: Kristen Kooistra
Title of book and/or series: Heart of the Winterland
Brief summary of the story: In the heart of snow-cursed Trabor, a princess and her guardian live in a haze cast by an ancient spell. On the dawn of her 200th birthday, Princess Calisandra awakes with a clear mind. No longer happy to just sit idle, Cali and Voice set out to find what lies beyond their shielded kingdom.
Joined by Angel—a fiery redhead that delights in ruffling Cali's feathers—they soon find themselves fleeing from the legendary Captain Kota who is determined to capture Angel. Cali's perfect vision of her journey is shattered and it takes all of her strength just to keep up in a world she doesn't understand. Everything is a new experience and tests Cali physically and mentally.
Will she ever find out what happened to her kingdom? And what will Voice's purpose be when Cali no longer needs her?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:Heart of the Winterland takes place in two countries, Trabor and Shayal. Princess Cali and Voice live in Trabor, but leave it within the first few chapters and spend the rest of the journey in Shayal. There is both a past and present storyline, while Cali’s in the present, Amee is in the past and her story takes place in Trabor.
At the time of the present, Trabor is devoid of human life except for Cali and is completely covered in snow. Shayal is like a medieval European country.
If we were to visit Shayal as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?Visit Rokuhai! They have all sorts of entertainment from the traveling performers, to food and wares on every corner, and of course local eating establishments and sailing ships.
What dangers should we avoid in Shayal? Definitely the Duke and his men, mainly the captain of the guard, Kota.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Shayal?There is little travel between cities and villages, most food is homecooked meals that consist of local products and whatever that particular village raises/grows.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Shayal?Swords and daggers are the most common by far. Only nobility and the Guard are allowed to have such weapons. Hunters may carry bows or a hunting knife. To prevent rebellion, the people are kept as powerless as possible.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Shayal? Most people walk or ride horses, though some of the wealthier people will travel in carriages. Cali and Voice started their journey from Trabor to Shayal in a sleigh that converts into a carriage when needed.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Trabor or Shayal that we don’t see on Earth?Ooh, I don’t want to give away too many spoilers. Hmm, Winterland primarily focuses on the characters. It’s a character-driven story where the friendships involved and the characters growing and discovering themselves are the main focus. There is a snow-fountain tree, which only grows from the tears of a certain group of people. We see hints of other races. There’s a immortal, magical women who is the last of her race, an invisible, shapeless protector of a book, and there’s quite a few characters who are Sjadians—a race discovered more thoroughly in book 2 and 3—which are long-lived and some of them possess magic.
And there’s a few more surprises that I won’t give away.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Trabor and Shayal? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.Magic is almost unheard of in both countries. Trabor had no experience with it until recently, and well, that didn’t go so well. Shayal has forbidden magic and that’s why Tera—the sole survivor of her race—is hiding out in her forest, and why she’s the last.
Sjadians do occasionally have magic, and since some of them have immigrated to this continent, there are instances of magic in Amee’s timelime. The magic works differently for each race that has such powers. For Sjadians, they can see deep into the magical plane that covers everything. They can see lines of power that connects everything and they use spells to command those lines to twist reality into doing whatever they need.
Each magic wielder has a certain amount of power. Think a rechargeable battery. One battery may hold a lot longer charge, and people with a higher max capacity can do greater spells and more of them. When not using magic, they slowly recharge back to full. In that way they are limited somewhat, and can’t just cast spells willy nilly unless they want to overextend themselves which has consequences, the least being that they won’t have enough power to do a spell even if their life depends on it.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Shayal/Trabor as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?Oh yes, goodness, I can’t imagine coming up with new time cycles. The one holiday that is referenced is the annual Winter Festival from Trabor’s past where the royal family set up a field full of events and free food.
What is the political or government structure in Shayal and Trabor? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?Both Trabor and Shayal are monarchies, though Duke Bludgaard of Shayal has managed to weasel quite a bit of control and though it’s not stated, I’d say the king is more of a puppet.
Cali is the crown princess of Trabor, but there’s no people there! So there’s no one to rule over. She’s not sure what kind of leader she’d be anyway. She has no training when it comes to leading or even interacting with people. Maybe there’ll be people in her kingdom someday and then she’ll find out if she’s cut out to be a ruler.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?I live in Michigan, so the idea for Trabor and the never-ending winter came from my personal loathing of winter and thinking it’d be horrible if I didn’t get a few months off. I’ve met a lot of people over the years, and I used bits of personalities to form a lot of my characters.
A Scottish friend of mine became Captain Rebol, a sea captain with a cat that I named after one he’d lost.
Dikala was inspired by a young man I met whose future was mapped out for him because of his cultural upbringing. His parents made the plans, and he was expected to follow them. He never really thought to do otherwise, and I brought that into the character of Dikala.
My favorite inspiration though was a mute friend of mine who never let her inability to talk hinder her. She had a strong presence of character and it never felt like she was outside of the conversation. When I created Captain Kota, I knew she was going to emulate those strong characteristics and this is a minor spoiler, but I love it when people don’t realize Kota doesn’t speak for quite awhile. I like to think it’s because she’s such a force to be reckoned with, that we notice that and not what she’s missing. Being mute is a part of her, but it doesn’t define her and it’s certainly not going to hold her back from achieving her goals.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? Hmm, not so much for this book, maybe with the next one. There are seeds of some racial discrimination, but I think that becomes more of a central theme with the next book. I hope most of the themes for this book are ones that people can agree with, for the most part. Friendship, family being more than just blood, accepting responsibility, admitting when you’re wrong, redemption, open hearts, and not trying to be someone else, but rather be the best YOU that you can be.
Author Autobiography:
Kristen Kooistra fell in love with reading at a young age and never resurfaced. She loved solving mysteries, riding across the prairie, and sailing on the open sea. But her favorite books were those that held the fantastical. So when the time came for her to seriously approach publishing a book, it had to be fantasy!Living in Michigan (her own winterland) with her husband, three kids, and two cats, she has lots of free time . . . Okay, so more like she squeezes in writing time late at night when only the cats are awake to pester her.
"Heart of the Winterland" is Kristen's first novel, and though it started as a whim, it grew into so much more and has inspired a sequel (in progress), "Heart of the Sorceress".
Tucked into a quiet countryside, Kristen spends most of her time being Mommy. She loves spending time with her family and hopes that her writing will entertain and inspire them as well.Besides writing, Kristen enjoys reading (of course!), chatting with her writer's group, sewing, swimming, gardening, and cooking (please no baking!).
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book? Amazon. Available as paperback or ebook for Kindle. https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Winterla...
Where can readers connect with you online? http://www.kristenkooistra.com/http://kristenkooistra.blogspot.com/https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15298428.Kristen_Kooistrahttps://twitter.com/KristenKooistrahttps://www.facebook.com/kristen.kooistra/https://www.facebook.com/author.kristen.kooistra
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Trabor and Shayal. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXVII!-Annie Douglass Lima
November 10, 2016
Swim Season: a Young Adult Sports Novel
Book blurb:
Short: The swim team is ripped apart when two girls vie to break a longstanding school record with a 50,000-dollar scholarship prize.
Longer: Sometimes winning is everything.
Champion swimmer Aerin Keane is ready to give up her dreams of college swimming and a shot at the Olympics. As she starts senior year in her third high school, Aerin's determined to leave her family troubles behind and be like all the other girls at Two Rivers. She's got a new image and a new attitude. She doesn’t want to win anymore. She's swimming for fun, no longer the freak who wins every race, every title, only to find herself alone.
But when her desire to be just one of the girls collides with her desire to be the best Two Rivers has ever seen, will Aerin sacrifice her new friendships to break a longstanding school record that comes with a $50,000 scholarship?
Excerpt:
Aunt Mags didn't say a word on the way to the high school and neither did I. We were up and out too early for anything more than, "Got everything?" "Uh huh," and "Let's go." We'd left the house before her first cup of coffee and she was not in a talkative mood.
It was just after dawn, the moon still visible as the sun peeked out over the horizon. A chill in the air hinted at summer's end. I regretted leaving my sweatshirt behind, although after swim practice the sun would be shining and we'd be back to the mid-August heat.
We arrived at the school and a deserted parking lot. Mags parked her minivan at the athletics entrance.
"Are you sure it starts at 6:45?" she asked.
"Positive," I said.
She yawned. "Looks like you're the first one here."
"I doubt it."
Today was the first day of swim season. Tryouts started at 7 a.m. The coach had instructed all wannabe swimmers to be on the pool deck no later than 6:45. My experience as a varsity athlete told me that anyone with any degree of competitiveness had already arrived. I had five minutes to spare.
"Want me to walk in with you?" Mags asked.
My horror at her suggestion must have been all over my face, because she said, "Sorry. Having a teenager is new to me. My girls would beg me to walk them into that big, scary building." We looked at the three-story hodgepodge put together to house Two Rivers High School.
"I can take it from here." I was sure I'd remember the meandering route to the pool area from the tour we took when we registered for my senior year.
She still looked anxious. "Sure you're all right?"
"Don't worry. I've got this routine down pat." Two Rivers would be my third high school. I played the role of new girl so well I deserved an Oscar.
I opened the door and hopped out. "Don't hang around waiting for me to call for a ride home," I said, reaching back to grab my bag. "I'm not sure when I'll get out, and I don't want to mess up your day. I'm okay to walk."
Aunt Mags nodded, and I shut the door.
"Don't forget we're going back-to-school shopping later on," she said through the open window.
"Got it."
"Go get 'em, Aerin." She gave me a thumbs-up.
I shot her a grin, hoisted my bag over my shoulder, and went off to join the Two Rivers High School Girls Varsity Swim and Dive Team.***Minutes later, I stood on the pool deck with an odd blend of girls vying to earn a place on the team. I spotted the usual huddle of newbies benched together at the far end of the bleachers, glancing at each other nervously and at the seasoned swimmers with something like awe. On the opposite end were the members of last year's championship team, all wearing team T-shirts and chatting like old pals, ignoring everyone else. In the middle was a bunch who looked like they wanted to go back to bed, the ones whose parents pushed them into a sport and who chose swimming because we did it indoors and it looked easy. Most of them wouldn't make it.
I found a place to stand against the wall and blocked out the curious glances shot my way, using the time before practice began to check out my surroundings. Aunt Mags had said the natatorium, built just a few years ago, was state-of-the-art.
Banners hung from the rafters and on clean white walls, touting the team's success, and an enormous leaderboard listed all of their champions and their accomplishments.
A wall of windows on the farthest side and a ceiling loaded with skylights filled the room with light.
The six-lane pool had blue and white flags and lane lines, and the Trailblazers logo – a torch - was laid out in blue tiles on the bottom.
The floor tiles were a mosaic of white and three shades of blue.
The air was thick with the smell of chlorine.
I checked my expression, not wanting anyone to catch me gaping over the finest natatorium of any team I'd joined. The thought of swimming in it, of calling it "home" for the next few months caused a thrill of excitement in my belly. Around me, the other girls talked and laughed, none of them seeming to appreciate the beauty of the pool and the privilege to use it.
"Good morning girls." A man's voice cut through the chatter, and each girl sat up at attention. "Let's get started."
The voice belonged to an older man with bushy white hair and bifocals, dressed in the school's colors: navy blue shorts and a white polo shirt. Coach Steven Dudash. I hadn't met him yet – he was out of the building when my father and I visited the high school – but Maggie and her husband, Pat, gave him high praise. He'd coached the Two Rivers boys and girls swim teams for more than twenty years, and they were both winning teams.
He pulled a chair behind him, positioned it in front of the bleachers, sat down, and organized the pile of paperwork on his clipboard. "Good morning," he said again, studying us over the rim of his bifocals. "I'm happy to see last year's team back for another year. And welcome to those of you here for the first time. I'm glad you decided to give us a try."
He took a swig from an extra tall cup of coffee before continuing. "For those of you new to the team, meet Coach Denise." He gestured toward the young woman who accompanied him. "She's my daughter. I coached her for six years when she swam for Two Rivers and got her name on the leaderboard."
I checked out the leaderboard and saw she held the record in the 200 IM and the 100 breaststroke. Good creds.
"This is her second year as assistant coach," he said. "She did a terrific job last year so I invited her back."
The young blonde smiled at him and the swimmers cheered.
"Yay Coach D!" a few seniors shouted.
"It's great to be back," she said. "Ready to win another championship?"
The shouts and applause were deafening.
"During the next two weeks," Coach said when the noise died down, "you'll all be working hard, doing drills both in the pool and in the weight room, four hours a day, six days a week. During the season, you'll be practicing from after school until five or six every weekday, and four hours on Saturday. Sunday is a resting day. And, of course, you will compete in swim meets at least twice a week. So, if you don't think you can make it through the first two weeks, you might as well leave now." He paused, waiting for anyone to opt out before we even got started. No one moved.
"Okay," he continued. "Most of you know that Two Rivers won the Division Championship last year, and the two years before. I plan to win again. When we do, and I say when, not if, we will be the first team in the division to ever win four consecutive division titles."
Last year's team broke out in wild applause and cheers. Coach waited for the outburst to die down before he continued.
"I need performers," he said, "swimmers who aren't afraid to push themselves, to try new things and discover where they best support the team. So, in practice you're all going to swim every stroke, you're all going to swim distance, and you're all going to swim sprints. Each person will do all she can to defend our title."
Silence filled the pool deck as the girls looked each other over, wondering where each would fit in.
"That's the good news." He paused for effect. No worries. He had everyone's riveted attention. "But I've got some bad news. For years, the school board has been supportive of our team, and we've reciprocated by working as serious athletes and turning in winning records. Most years, the team can support as many as thirty-eight swimmers. This year, due to a budget crisis in our school district, our funds have been cut, and I can only put twenty-eight girls on the team."
Raised eyebrows and shocked inhalations followed this bit of news. I counted bodies: thirty-six.
"Yeah, eight of you will be cut, either at the end of this week or the end of next. Anyone want to leave now?"
Again, no one moved.
Coach Dudash smiled. "I like your level of commitment. Let's see if you can keep it under pressure."
He spent the next half hour reviewing team policies and the season's schedule. I'd heard such talks before from other coaches and tuned him out while I studied the other girls, trying to figure out what their positions might be.
Most of them focused on Coach's every word, but last year's champs ignored him and whispered among themselves. One of them, a lanky girl with sun-bleached hair and a killer tan, looked over the group of wannabes and held up her fingers one to five, scoring them, I guess, on whether or not they had a chance. Her friends snickered, trying to act as if they were paying attention to Coach instead of fooling around.
At last, the lanky girl's frosty blue eyes rested on me, and I met her gaze straight on. We stared at each other for a few seconds before she looked away first, then held up three fingers. It seemed she was ambivalent. I could go either way.
I was ambivalent too. I joined this crowd as a walk-on, someone with no history with the team and questionable ability. In their eyes, I was no better than a wannabe who needed to prove herself to gain a spot on the team and the other girls' respect.
I showed up because it's what I did at the start of every school year. Swimming was my only sport, and I was good at it. Really good. Still, I almost skipped tryouts today. The truth was, I didn't have the energy to join a new team, in a new school, for the third time. If anyone found out I’d won championship titles in club and varsity last year they'd expect great things from me, and I didn't want the pressure. Swimming was no longer the focus of my life. It was my therapy, and I wouldn't let anyone mess that up.
The glimmer of challenge in the way the lanky girl looked at me caused a stirring in my gut, and I shot it down. I didn't come here to get involved in any personal challenges. I came here to swim, and not make any waves. My plan was to get through the senior year and go away to college, away from my troubles, and on to a new life that I could control.
Purchase Links:Swim Season is currently only available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback.Amazon USAmazon UKAmazon CanadaAmazon Australia
About the Author:
During swim season, you can find Marianne Sciucco, a dedicated Swim Mom for ten years, at one of many Skyline Conference swim meets, cheering for her daughter Allison and the Mount Saint Mary College Knights. Marianne is not a nurse who writes but a writer who happens to be a nurse. A lover of words and books, she dreamed of becoming an author when she grew up but became a nurse to avoid poverty. She later brought her two passions together and writes about the intricate lives of people struggling with health and family issues. Her debut novel Blue Hydrangeas, an Alzheimer's love story, is a Kindle bestseller; IndieReader Approved; a BookWorks featured book; and a Library Journal Self-e Selection. She also has two short stories available on Kindle, Ino's Love and Collection. A native Bostonian, Marianne lives in New York's Hudson Valley, and when not writing works as a campus nurse at a community college.Why did I write a book about girls' varsity swimming? An interview with Marianne Sciucco
Connect with Marianne Sciucco: Website
November 6, 2016
Realm Explorers Part CXV: Visit the Magical Realm with Diane Rapp
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don't forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Diane Rapp
Title of book and/or series: Dragon Knight: And the Heart’s Blood Curse
Brief summary of the story:
While sleeping off a large meal, Dragon is rudely awakened by a foul-tempered witch. Bellatrix becomes hysterical upon learning that Dragon ate her daughter, and the witch performs an irrational act. Dragon tried to explain that the girl was already dead when she arrived in his cave, but the witch wouldn’t listen to reason. She invokes the Heart’s Blood Curse which transforms Dragon into a human knight—a disgusting situation. To reverse the horrid spell, Dragon must perform a brave deed for a young sorceress, who is the only being that can return him to his magnificent dragon-form once again. Dragon must learn to fight in human guise to save humans from a vile demon. Many obstacles lie in his path, and he must learn to get along with humans to complete the quest—revolting idea.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
This fractured fairy tale takes place in two separate realms, a magical realm and a mundane world (modern Earth) that are linked by a common history. The magical realm was separated from the mundane world in centuries past, after ordinary people stopped believing in the power of magic. Of course magic had to go somewhere and the magical realm formed. Both realms are threatened by the Underworld, where demons and ghouls exist. As you might guess, it’s a very hot place.
The magical realm was a happy and safe place until the demon Sandoval arrived from the Underworld. He learned to capture dead musicians from the mundane world and use their potent music to change people into vile creatures, such as vampires, zombies, giant spiders, harpies, and ghosts.
If we were to visit the magical realm as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Tourists could visit a western ghost town, the zombie castle, a vampire villa, or a black canyon filled with giant spiders. As you might guess, there are dangers in each place. It is recommended that visitors hire a magical fairy for a guide if they wish to survive the journey.
What dangers should we avoid in the magical realm?
Regular people in the magical realm fall victim to mundane music when Elvis, John Lennon, Janice Joplin, Johnny Cash, or Jimmie Croce sing! Be sure to bring heavy-duty ear plugs to avoid hearing these famous dead musicians, or you might become a giant spider, zombie, ghost, vampire, or harpy.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in the magical realm?
Human food is similar to the mundane world. However, Dragon’s favorite dish is “maiden” and he enjoys water liberally laced with brimstone. A human knight could hardly imbibe such exotic fare, therefore, Dragon consumes bland human food and drink during the journey—a disgusting idea.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in the magical realm?
The magical realm favors the Earthly time period when knights defended feudal kingdoms. Swords, bows and arrows, and magic are the weapons employed by knights and wizards. When the demon uses mundane music as a potent weapon, local wizards were caught off guard and had no spells to counteract his attack.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in the magical realm?
Horses and travel by foot are common unless you happen to possess wings like dragons and fairies. It’s slow travel for Dragon with many dangers to face along the trail.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in the magical realm that we don’t see on Earth?
Animals and people originated from the same stock as the mundane realm, however, new creatures evolved from centuries of concentrated magic. Creatures like fairies, unicorns, ogres, and dragons are commonplace in the magical realm. Since pure magic dripped down stalactites onto eggs, dragons emerged as the most magnificent creatures of power. Vibrant waves of magic (similar to northern lights) changed colors in the sky and plants or trees fed by magical rain.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in the magical realm? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic is in the air and in the water and it fuels all power in the magical realm. As most formidable magical creatures in the kingdom, dragons were slaughtered by Sandoval’s minions. Dragon may be the last of his kind to exist and the only creature capable of killing Sandoval. As magic gets sucked away while musicians perform their songs, Sandoval becomes stronger.
There is also a different kind of magic in the mundane world. When wizards cross into the mundane world, they discover that magic wands turn into smart phones, magical transportation exists in a Prius automobile. They learn about the magic in music and must prevent the demon from capturing Jimmy Buffett. They pray that Dragon and Robyn can destroy Sandoval in the magical realm before all is lost.
What is the political or government structure in the magical realm? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
This is a feudal society with castles and kings, sorcerers and knights, the usual fairy tale stuff. Wizards are governed by the Ministry of Magic which creates rules. A Ministry guide is sent to help wizards navigate through the mundane world, and he provides mundane money and advice about using smart phones and laptops.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I enjoyed reading fantasy stories like The Princess Bride and the Xanth series by Piers Anthony—a very funny series full of puns about mythical creatures. I decided to add humor that might appeal to adults in this fairy tale and hope readers might enjoy a bit of fun. (I also included three short stories to provide a sample of my more serious writing for readers.)
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
In this story “Global Warming” is caused when the demon cracks the barriers between the worlds and lets heat leak through from the Underworld. He plans to use Jimmy Buffett’s volcano song to destroy the barriers between the worlds and allow the Underworld to rule supreme!
Author Autobiography:
Diane Rapp became an entrepreneur when she opened her own dog grooming salon in Santa Barbara, California. She spent the next thirty years as a small business owner; she sold real estate, started an office supply/copy center, and performed free-lance advertising design. During all those years Diane wrote stories as a cure for insomnia.
After teaming up with her daughter to write a tour guide book to the Caribbean, Diane’s daughter gave her the idea of writing a mystery set on cruise ships in the Caribbean. The result became three High Seas Mysteries. But Diane’s favorite genre is science/fantasy. Diane’s love of animals shines through in a series that incorporates telepathic wolves and dogs into her stories. (There are dragons in the series as well.) Readers can enjoy four novels with more in planning stages.
Diane’s most recent release is a combined historical adventure and modern mystery. “Golden Legacy” features two stories in one novel. A journal written by Ginny in 1888 becomes important to familiar modern characters from Diane’s High Seas Mysteries. The characters use Ginny’s journal and other clues left by subsequent ancestors to find a hidden family treasure near Ouray, Colorado. Diane includes actual old-time photos in the book to enhance readers’ enjoyment during the adventure.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Dragon Knight: And the Heart’s Blood Curse is available in Kindle and Print formats exclusively from Amazon at viewBook.at/DKnight
Where can readers connect with you online?
Visit www.quicksilvernovels.com to learn more about all of Diane's books and connect by e-mail. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quicksilvernovels
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DianeRapp
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the magical realm. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the fantasy kingdoms of Trabor and Shayal, in Realm Explorers Part CXVI!-Annie Douglass Lima
Author’s name: Diane Rapp
Title of book and/or series: Dragon Knight: And the Heart’s Blood Curse
Brief summary of the story:
While sleeping off a large meal, Dragon is rudely awakened by a foul-tempered witch. Bellatrix becomes hysterical upon learning that Dragon ate her daughter, and the witch performs an irrational act. Dragon tried to explain that the girl was already dead when she arrived in his cave, but the witch wouldn’t listen to reason. She invokes the Heart’s Blood Curse which transforms Dragon into a human knight—a disgusting situation. To reverse the horrid spell, Dragon must perform a brave deed for a young sorceress, who is the only being that can return him to his magnificent dragon-form once again. Dragon must learn to fight in human guise to save humans from a vile demon. Many obstacles lie in his path, and he must learn to get along with humans to complete the quest—revolting idea.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
This fractured fairy tale takes place in two separate realms, a magical realm and a mundane world (modern Earth) that are linked by a common history. The magical realm was separated from the mundane world in centuries past, after ordinary people stopped believing in the power of magic. Of course magic had to go somewhere and the magical realm formed. Both realms are threatened by the Underworld, where demons and ghouls exist. As you might guess, it’s a very hot place.
The magical realm was a happy and safe place until the demon Sandoval arrived from the Underworld. He learned to capture dead musicians from the mundane world and use their potent music to change people into vile creatures, such as vampires, zombies, giant spiders, harpies, and ghosts.
If we were to visit the magical realm as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Tourists could visit a western ghost town, the zombie castle, a vampire villa, or a black canyon filled with giant spiders. As you might guess, there are dangers in each place. It is recommended that visitors hire a magical fairy for a guide if they wish to survive the journey.
What dangers should we avoid in the magical realm?
Regular people in the magical realm fall victim to mundane music when Elvis, John Lennon, Janice Joplin, Johnny Cash, or Jimmie Croce sing! Be sure to bring heavy-duty ear plugs to avoid hearing these famous dead musicians, or you might become a giant spider, zombie, ghost, vampire, or harpy.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in the magical realm?Human food is similar to the mundane world. However, Dragon’s favorite dish is “maiden” and he enjoys water liberally laced with brimstone. A human knight could hardly imbibe such exotic fare, therefore, Dragon consumes bland human food and drink during the journey—a disgusting idea.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in the magical realm?
The magical realm favors the Earthly time period when knights defended feudal kingdoms. Swords, bows and arrows, and magic are the weapons employed by knights and wizards. When the demon uses mundane music as a potent weapon, local wizards were caught off guard and had no spells to counteract his attack.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in the magical realm?
Horses and travel by foot are common unless you happen to possess wings like dragons and fairies. It’s slow travel for Dragon with many dangers to face along the trail.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in the magical realm that we don’t see on Earth?
Animals and people originated from the same stock as the mundane realm, however, new creatures evolved from centuries of concentrated magic. Creatures like fairies, unicorns, ogres, and dragons are commonplace in the magical realm. Since pure magic dripped down stalactites onto eggs, dragons emerged as the most magnificent creatures of power. Vibrant waves of magic (similar to northern lights) changed colors in the sky and plants or trees fed by magical rain.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in the magical realm? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic is in the air and in the water and it fuels all power in the magical realm. As most formidable magical creatures in the kingdom, dragons were slaughtered by Sandoval’s minions. Dragon may be the last of his kind to exist and the only creature capable of killing Sandoval. As magic gets sucked away while musicians perform their songs, Sandoval becomes stronger.
There is also a different kind of magic in the mundane world. When wizards cross into the mundane world, they discover that magic wands turn into smart phones, magical transportation exists in a Prius automobile. They learn about the magic in music and must prevent the demon from capturing Jimmy Buffett. They pray that Dragon and Robyn can destroy Sandoval in the magical realm before all is lost.
What is the political or government structure in the magical realm? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
This is a feudal society with castles and kings, sorcerers and knights, the usual fairy tale stuff. Wizards are governed by the Ministry of Magic which creates rules. A Ministry guide is sent to help wizards navigate through the mundane world, and he provides mundane money and advice about using smart phones and laptops.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I enjoyed reading fantasy stories like The Princess Bride and the Xanth series by Piers Anthony—a very funny series full of puns about mythical creatures. I decided to add humor that might appeal to adults in this fairy tale and hope readers might enjoy a bit of fun. (I also included three short stories to provide a sample of my more serious writing for readers.)
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
In this story “Global Warming” is caused when the demon cracks the barriers between the worlds and lets heat leak through from the Underworld. He plans to use Jimmy Buffett’s volcano song to destroy the barriers between the worlds and allow the Underworld to rule supreme!
Author Autobiography:Diane Rapp became an entrepreneur when she opened her own dog grooming salon in Santa Barbara, California. She spent the next thirty years as a small business owner; she sold real estate, started an office supply/copy center, and performed free-lance advertising design. During all those years Diane wrote stories as a cure for insomnia.
After teaming up with her daughter to write a tour guide book to the Caribbean, Diane’s daughter gave her the idea of writing a mystery set on cruise ships in the Caribbean. The result became three High Seas Mysteries. But Diane’s favorite genre is science/fantasy. Diane’s love of animals shines through in a series that incorporates telepathic wolves and dogs into her stories. (There are dragons in the series as well.) Readers can enjoy four novels with more in planning stages.
Diane’s most recent release is a combined historical adventure and modern mystery. “Golden Legacy” features two stories in one novel. A journal written by Ginny in 1888 becomes important to familiar modern characters from Diane’s High Seas Mysteries. The characters use Ginny’s journal and other clues left by subsequent ancestors to find a hidden family treasure near Ouray, Colorado. Diane includes actual old-time photos in the book to enhance readers’ enjoyment during the adventure.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Dragon Knight: And the Heart’s Blood Curse is available in Kindle and Print formats exclusively from Amazon at viewBook.at/DKnight
Where can readers connect with you online?
Visit www.quicksilvernovels.com to learn more about all of Diane's books and connect by e-mail. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quicksilvernovels
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DianeRapp
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the magical realm. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the fantasy kingdoms of Trabor and Shayal, in Realm Explorers Part CXVI!-Annie Douglass Lima
October 31, 2016
Realm Explorers Part CXIV: Visit Sylvani with Jessica Leake (and Enter a Giveaway!)
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don't forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
This time you can also enter a giveaway to win an Amazon gift card or a free book!
On Tour with Prism Book Tours.
Author’s name:
Jessica Leake
Titles of books: Arcana
The Order of the Eternal Sun: A Novel of the Sylvani
Brief summary of the stories:
Arcana:
Amid the sumptuous backdrop of the London season in 1905, headstrong Katherine Sinclair must join the ranks of debutantes vying for suitors. Unfortunately for Katherine, she cannot imagine anything more loathsome—or dangerous. To help ease her entrance into society, Katherine’s family has elicited the assistance of the Earl of Thornewood, a friend and London’s most eligible bachelor, to be her constant companion at the endless fetes and balls. But upon her arrival in London, Katherine realizes there will be more to this season than just white gowns and husband hunting.
Through her late mother’s enchanted diary, Katherine receives warning to keep hidden her otherworldly ability to perform arcana, a magic fueled by the power of the sun. Any misstep could mean ruin—and not just for her family name. The Order of the Eternal Sun is everywhere—hunting for those like her, able to feed on arcana with only a touch of the hand.
But society intrigue can be just as perilous as the Order. The machinations of the fashionable elite are a constant threat, and those who covet Katherine’s arcana, seeking the power of her birthright, could be hiding behind the facade of every suitor—even the darkly handsome Earl of Thornewood.
With so much danger and suspicion, can she give her heart to the one who captivates her, or is he just another after her power?
Order of the Eternal Sun:In 1908 London, aristocrat Lucy Sinclair is finally making her debut into society, something she’s always dreamed about. But ballrooms and suitors quickly must take second place to a greater concern.
Her arcana, a magical talent that allows her to mentally enter any scene that she draws, grows stronger by the day. Again and again Lucy is compelled to draw a portal to her mother’s realm of Sylvania—and with each stroke of her pen, she risks attracting the attention of the Order of the Eternal Sun, the sinister brotherhood that steals the power of Sylvani blood for their own dark ends.
When a bold new suitor arrives from India, Lucy can’t help but be intrigued—though her family questions his mysterious past. But as Lucy’s own suspicions grow, and the threat of the Order looms larger, Lucy will have to learn to harness her unpredictable power or risk falling under the Order’s shadow forever.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this series:Sylvania is a realm outside of our own where its inhabitants practice an ancient magic called arcana. Their power is supplied by spirit animals—everything from the tiny ferrets to soaring phoenixes—and the Sylvani and animal form an unbreakable bond. When a Sylvani chooses to live in our realm, though, their spirit animal cannot follow, and they must seek out an alternate source of power—like our sun.
If we were to visit Sylvani as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? I would take a ride on an oryx (see below) to see ancient trees with a language of their own, with silver bark and lavender leaves; I would visit the city of Cascadia, where Lucy’s grandmother is queen, and see the ten waterfalls that cut through the city. Lucy’s visit is confined to Cascadia, but there are many other places to see in Sylvania, each with a different cultural background and history.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served?Because every Sylvani has a spirit animal, the food there is completely vegetarian, though milk and cheese is still consumed.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common there?It depends on the abilities of the Sylvani. Some have corporal abilities, where they can directly impact the body—with explosive power and channeling of the elements, for example. And some have spiritual power, where they can create some tangible things, but the majority of their power lies in the abstract. Lucy, the main character in The Order of the Eternal Sun, has this type of power. She can bring her drawings to life or even use them to transport herself to another realm.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Sylvani? Depending on the spirit animal, the Sylvani might travel by riding, particularly if it’s a large bird (like the queen’s phoenix) or other fast-moving animal. They also travel by oryx, which, as Lucy says, are much like an antelope, though these are drastically different in both coloring and size. The ones she saw were a dappled silver, and their massive backward-facing horns were as white as ivory tusks. They were as tall as horses, and their eyes were kind and intelligent. Most importantly, they’re fast and agile.
Author Autobiography:
Jessica Leake has been in love with historical England ever since her first literary crush: Mr. Darcy. After embarking on a quest to bring her own intriguing and headstrong characters to life, she decided to quit her day job as a clinical therapist and spend her time weaving arcana with words. She lives in Greenville, SC with her brilliant husband, four painfully cute children, and two mischievous dogs.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
Order of the Eternal Sun:
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble │ Book Depository │ IndieBound
Arcana:
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble │ Book Depository │ IndieBound
Where can readers connect with you online? Website │ Goodreads │ Facebook │ Twitter │ Pinterest
Tour Schedule
October 30th: Launch
October 31st: Rockin' Book Reviews, Mel's Shelves & Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima
November 1st: Christy's Cozy Corners & Katie's Clean Book Collection
November 2nd: Wishful Endings, Falling Leaves & Nicole's Book Musings
November 3rd: Adventures Thru Wonderland, The Silver Dagger Scriptorium & Deal Sharing Aunt
November 4th: Jessica and Gracie's Tree & Zerina Blossom's Books
November 6th: Grand Finale
Tour Giveaway
$25 Amazon eGift Card and an ebook of ARCANA (open internationally)Print copy of ARCANA plus swag (US only)
Ends November 11th
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Sylvani. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXV!-Annie Douglass Lima
This time you can also enter a giveaway to win an Amazon gift card or a free book!
On Tour with Prism Book Tours.
Author’s name:Jessica Leake
Titles of books: Arcana
The Order of the Eternal Sun: A Novel of the Sylvani
Brief summary of the stories:
Arcana:
Amid the sumptuous backdrop of the London season in 1905, headstrong Katherine Sinclair must join the ranks of debutantes vying for suitors. Unfortunately for Katherine, she cannot imagine anything more loathsome—or dangerous. To help ease her entrance into society, Katherine’s family has elicited the assistance of the Earl of Thornewood, a friend and London’s most eligible bachelor, to be her constant companion at the endless fetes and balls. But upon her arrival in London, Katherine realizes there will be more to this season than just white gowns and husband hunting.Through her late mother’s enchanted diary, Katherine receives warning to keep hidden her otherworldly ability to perform arcana, a magic fueled by the power of the sun. Any misstep could mean ruin—and not just for her family name. The Order of the Eternal Sun is everywhere—hunting for those like her, able to feed on arcana with only a touch of the hand.
But society intrigue can be just as perilous as the Order. The machinations of the fashionable elite are a constant threat, and those who covet Katherine’s arcana, seeking the power of her birthright, could be hiding behind the facade of every suitor—even the darkly handsome Earl of Thornewood.
With so much danger and suspicion, can she give her heart to the one who captivates her, or is he just another after her power?
Order of the Eternal Sun:In 1908 London, aristocrat Lucy Sinclair is finally making her debut into society, something she’s always dreamed about. But ballrooms and suitors quickly must take second place to a greater concern. Her arcana, a magical talent that allows her to mentally enter any scene that she draws, grows stronger by the day. Again and again Lucy is compelled to draw a portal to her mother’s realm of Sylvania—and with each stroke of her pen, she risks attracting the attention of the Order of the Eternal Sun, the sinister brotherhood that steals the power of Sylvani blood for their own dark ends.
When a bold new suitor arrives from India, Lucy can’t help but be intrigued—though her family questions his mysterious past. But as Lucy’s own suspicions grow, and the threat of the Order looms larger, Lucy will have to learn to harness her unpredictable power or risk falling under the Order’s shadow forever.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this series:Sylvania is a realm outside of our own where its inhabitants practice an ancient magic called arcana. Their power is supplied by spirit animals—everything from the tiny ferrets to soaring phoenixes—and the Sylvani and animal form an unbreakable bond. When a Sylvani chooses to live in our realm, though, their spirit animal cannot follow, and they must seek out an alternate source of power—like our sun.
If we were to visit Sylvani as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? I would take a ride on an oryx (see below) to see ancient trees with a language of their own, with silver bark and lavender leaves; I would visit the city of Cascadia, where Lucy’s grandmother is queen, and see the ten waterfalls that cut through the city. Lucy’s visit is confined to Cascadia, but there are many other places to see in Sylvania, each with a different cultural background and history.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served?Because every Sylvani has a spirit animal, the food there is completely vegetarian, though milk and cheese is still consumed.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common there?It depends on the abilities of the Sylvani. Some have corporal abilities, where they can directly impact the body—with explosive power and channeling of the elements, for example. And some have spiritual power, where they can create some tangible things, but the majority of their power lies in the abstract. Lucy, the main character in The Order of the Eternal Sun, has this type of power. She can bring her drawings to life or even use them to transport herself to another realm.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Sylvani? Depending on the spirit animal, the Sylvani might travel by riding, particularly if it’s a large bird (like the queen’s phoenix) or other fast-moving animal. They also travel by oryx, which, as Lucy says, are much like an antelope, though these are drastically different in both coloring and size. The ones she saw were a dappled silver, and their massive backward-facing horns were as white as ivory tusks. They were as tall as horses, and their eyes were kind and intelligent. Most importantly, they’re fast and agile.
Author Autobiography:Jessica Leake has been in love with historical England ever since her first literary crush: Mr. Darcy. After embarking on a quest to bring her own intriguing and headstrong characters to life, she decided to quit her day job as a clinical therapist and spend her time weaving arcana with words. She lives in Greenville, SC with her brilliant husband, four painfully cute children, and two mischievous dogs.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
Order of the Eternal Sun:
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble │ Book Depository │ IndieBound
Arcana:
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble │ Book Depository │ IndieBound
Where can readers connect with you online? Website │ Goodreads │ Facebook │ Twitter │ Pinterest
Tour Schedule
October 30th: Launch
October 31st: Rockin' Book Reviews, Mel's Shelves & Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima
November 1st: Christy's Cozy Corners & Katie's Clean Book Collection
November 2nd: Wishful Endings, Falling Leaves & Nicole's Book Musings
November 3rd: Adventures Thru Wonderland, The Silver Dagger Scriptorium & Deal Sharing Aunt
November 4th: Jessica and Gracie's Tree & Zerina Blossom's Books
November 6th: Grand Finale
Tour Giveaway
$25 Amazon eGift Card and an ebook of ARCANA (open internationally)Print copy of ARCANA plus swag (US only)
Ends November 11th
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Sylvani. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXV!-Annie Douglass Lima
October 24, 2016
Realm Explorers Part CXIII: Visit St. Louis in an Alternate Reality with Juliann Whicker
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don't forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Juliann WhickerTitle of book and/or series: Butcher, Baker, Vampire SlayerBrief summary of the story: Urban Fantasy retelling of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night.Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: My story is Urban Fantasy set in an alternate reality St. Louis. The action takes place at the all boys school, Calder, training grounds for the next generation of Butchers.
If we were to visit Calder/Alternate reality St. Louis as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? You should visit the sculpture park, eat some baked goods, and ride the metro.What dangers should we avoid in Alternate St. Louis? In fiction as well as in reality, don’t run out of gas on the North side. In fantasy, werewolves, zombies and vampires roam, and where in reality, 149 murders are committed every year.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Calder? The baked goods are magical, but might make you sick if you aren’t in need of extra strength, skill, or healing from a werewolf bite.What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Calder? Whips and Butcher’s knives are your average weapon for the Butcher, while a Baker wields a mean rolling pin.What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Calder? You can take the train downtown, or a car. There is a tank parked in the garage in case of emergencies.What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Calder? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used. A Baker bakes a batch of muffins which feeds the Butchers making them super fast, super strong. The Butchers are super humans after they make the transformation, genetically disposed to the change from ordinary human to Butcher’s boy and then eventually full-fledged Butcher.
What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there? All Hallow’s Eve celebrates the beginning of the days of darkness and is when there is a great battle followed by an enormous feast. Twelfth Night celebrates the end of the days of darkness with a ceremony at the werewolf seal, closing another year of hunting.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Calder? Please describe what it involves. Calder is a Catholic boys school. They have mass and other conventional religious observances.What is the political or government structure in Calder? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? The C.M. is in charge over all the Butchers in the district, but over Calder, Orion Daughtry is head Butcher, strong, perfect, but struggles to relate to other Butchers who aren’t as naturally talented as he is.Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book? I would not have written this book if I hadn’t done a homeschool unit on Twelfth Night, and gotten lost on the North side with my kids. It’s a desolate, horrible place. I’ve never seen such a sad thing. A teddy bear lying on the road, empty lots, every building barred and shuttered, people wandering, vacant eyed… It made an impression. Luckily, I did not run out of gas.
Author Autobiography: Juliann C. Whicker was raised with chickens, goats, and a cow named Mrs. Mooley who everyone (neighbors included) chased down the street in a small college town. She now lives in Saint Louis with her five children, husband, and all the free museums and zoos a soul could crave.She works painting in oil and ink, writes clean fiction that's too dark for those with delicate stomachs, and has a marvelous time hanging out with her friends and family.Some hobbies include: Sewing, Painting, Photography, Writing, Ballroom Dancing, Hiking, Biking, and Gardening.Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? You can get my book from Amazon in either ebook or paperback!Where can readers connect with you online? Facebook Twitter http://juliannwhickerwriter.blogspot.com/
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to alternate reality St. Louis. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in Realm Explorers Part CXIV!-Annie Douglass Lima
Author’s name: Juliann WhickerTitle of book and/or series: Butcher, Baker, Vampire SlayerBrief summary of the story: Urban Fantasy retelling of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night.Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: My story is Urban Fantasy set in an alternate reality St. Louis. The action takes place at the all boys school, Calder, training grounds for the next generation of Butchers.
If we were to visit Calder/Alternate reality St. Louis as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? You should visit the sculpture park, eat some baked goods, and ride the metro.What dangers should we avoid in Alternate St. Louis? In fiction as well as in reality, don’t run out of gas on the North side. In fantasy, werewolves, zombies and vampires roam, and where in reality, 149 murders are committed every year.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Calder? The baked goods are magical, but might make you sick if you aren’t in need of extra strength, skill, or healing from a werewolf bite.What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Calder? Whips and Butcher’s knives are your average weapon for the Butcher, while a Baker wields a mean rolling pin.What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Calder? You can take the train downtown, or a car. There is a tank parked in the garage in case of emergencies.What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Calder? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used. A Baker bakes a batch of muffins which feeds the Butchers making them super fast, super strong. The Butchers are super humans after they make the transformation, genetically disposed to the change from ordinary human to Butcher’s boy and then eventually full-fledged Butcher.
What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there? All Hallow’s Eve celebrates the beginning of the days of darkness and is when there is a great battle followed by an enormous feast. Twelfth Night celebrates the end of the days of darkness with a ceremony at the werewolf seal, closing another year of hunting.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Calder? Please describe what it involves. Calder is a Catholic boys school. They have mass and other conventional religious observances.What is the political or government structure in Calder? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? The C.M. is in charge over all the Butchers in the district, but over Calder, Orion Daughtry is head Butcher, strong, perfect, but struggles to relate to other Butchers who aren’t as naturally talented as he is.Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book? I would not have written this book if I hadn’t done a homeschool unit on Twelfth Night, and gotten lost on the North side with my kids. It’s a desolate, horrible place. I’ve never seen such a sad thing. A teddy bear lying on the road, empty lots, every building barred and shuttered, people wandering, vacant eyed… It made an impression. Luckily, I did not run out of gas.
Author Autobiography: Juliann C. Whicker was raised with chickens, goats, and a cow named Mrs. Mooley who everyone (neighbors included) chased down the street in a small college town. She now lives in Saint Louis with her five children, husband, and all the free museums and zoos a soul could crave.She works painting in oil and ink, writes clean fiction that's too dark for those with delicate stomachs, and has a marvelous time hanging out with her friends and family.Some hobbies include: Sewing, Painting, Photography, Writing, Ballroom Dancing, Hiking, Biking, and Gardening.Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? You can get my book from Amazon in either ebook or paperback!Where can readers connect with you online? Facebook Twitter http://juliannwhickerwriter.blogspot.com/
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to alternate reality St. Louis. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in Realm Explorers Part CXIV!-Annie Douglass Lima
October 20, 2016
Aboard Providence: Historical Fiction by Keely Brooke Keith
In November 1860, Jonah Ashton boarded the Providence with a plan to escort his family to their new settlement in South America and then return to medical school in Pennsylvania before rumors of Southern rebellion erupt into all-out war. What he didn’t count on was getting lost at sea… and Marian Foster. When they finally reach land, Jonah makes a startling discovery that changes everything, but will it change his heart?Available now!Order online at CrossRiver Media or Amazonor from your favorite local bookstore
What authors are saying about the book:
“A delightful adventure reminiscent of Swiss Family Robinson, Aboard Providence is one of those novels that will stick with me because I feel I've lived it. A captivating, well-researched, and deftly written tale I can confidently recommend to a wide range of readers.” –Heather Day Gilbert, author of Amazon Norse bestseller God's Daughter
“With vivid settings and multi-layered characters, Keely Brooke Keith whisks her readers off on a page-turning journey, not just across the ocean, but within the heart. You won’t be able to put Aboard Providence down until the final word is read and then you will long for more.” –Brenda S. Anderson, author of the Coming Home series
“A blend of history and romance with a compelling inspirational message, Keith expertly weaves an intriguing tale. Fans of the Uncharted Series won’t want to miss this journey.” –Heidi McCahan, author of Unraveled
“Keely Brooke Keith is a master storyteller, weaving adventure, love, and wonderful characters into a vivid story that will take readers on an unforgettable voyage to a new place. Full of inspirational messages and tales of God’s love, readers will find themselves longing for more. Keely’s story teaches all of us that the journey is just the beginning!” –Christina Yother, author of the Hollow Hearts series
Author Bio:Keely Brooke Keith is the author of the The Land Uncharted (Edenbrooke Press) and Aboard Providence (CrossRiver Media). Her novels are known for blending genres in unconventional ways. When she isn’t writing stories, Keely enjoys playing bass guitar, preparing homeschool lessons, and collecting antique textbooks. Originally from St. Joseph, Missouri, Keely resides with her husband and their daughter on a hilltop south of Nashville where she dreams up stories, hoping to encourage, comfort, and inspire readers. She is a member of ACFW.Social Media Links:Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads
Find Keely’s books online: Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ iTunes ~ Audible ~ Book Depository
Excerpt from Aboard Providence
Marian tried to control the click of her heels on the long hallway. As she approached the staircase, intending to go downstairs, Jonah gave her a slight smile, so she passed the stairs and walked to him. “May I ask you something?”
He stepped forward, closing the distance between them. “Yes, of course.”
“Since you will be our physician now—”
He lifted a hand and whispered, “It is only temporary.”
“Yes, of course,” she replied at an equally quiet volume. “But since Doctor Ashton is injured, my mother will need you if...” It was too difficult to say aloud. She waited for the lump in her throat to release.
Jonah’s brow furrowed. “Do you think there is something wrong with your mother or the baby?”
“No... not yet.” She didn’t mean to reveal her doubt, so she tried to cover with a mild grin and optimistic tone. “I’m sure everything is fine.”
He slipped his hands into his pockets, emitting casualness, and inclined his head toward her, engendering concern, but he continually glanced at the stairway behind her. “Marian, I know about your mother’s medical history. She has asked my mother to serve as midwife again. I won’t intervene in the delivery unless it becomes necessary.”
Marian nodded, comforted by his understanding of the situation. “If it does become necessary, which I pray every waking moment that it does not, but if you must intervene, are you comfortable with that?”
“I am fully trained in obstetrics if that is what you mean.”
“No, it isn’t. It’s good to know, but I’ve been there with her during her last three deliveries and—” Her voice cracked. She looked down at the empty water pitcher in her hands. “Those babies were my siblings—two girls and a boy—all born dead. Mother is thirty-eight years old now and pregnant for what she and my father swear is the last time. She depends on me and I’ll be with her for this delivery too, but if this baby is stillborn...”
Jonah’s brown eyes glanced at the stairway again then back at her. He put his hand on her shoulder, neither drawing her closer nor holding her off. “If she goes into labor before my father resumes his duties, I will do everything in my power to help her and the baby, I promise.”
“Thank you.” Marian began to look away, but Jonah held her gaze. She felt the heat from his hand through the fabric of her sleeve and hoped he intended more than comfort, but that hope felt wrong, considering the seriousness of their conversation. He was only reassuring her with a friendly touch.
Ashamed for being infatuated with the man who would be her mother’s doctor, she scolded herself for her immaturity. He wasn’t staying with the settlement, so falling in love would only lead to heartbreak. But no matter what she told herself, standing near him, alone and connected in the dark hallway on a gloomy afternoon, she was fully aware that if he even breathed a hint of attraction to her, every joint in her body would go limp. The empty pitcher she held would hit the floor with a crash, the room would go round as her dizzy head spun, and she would soften into a puddle of spineless flesh and melt down the crimson carpet of the staircase, one achingly grand stair at a time. When she reached the bottom step, all that remained of her would be a calico dress, shards of the broken pitcher, and her teeth clamped in a blissful smile.
Aboard Providence (CrossRiver Media Group). Used with permission.
October 19, 2016
Christmas at the Grand Hotel
On Tour with Prism Book Tours.
Christmas at the Grand Hotel
(White Pine Island Novellas #1 & #2)by Amie Denman & May WilliamsAdult Contemporary Romance, Christmasebook, 179 pagesOctober 1st 2016
Welcome to White Pine Island! Just a few miles off the coast of Georgia, this island is accessible only by boat, plane, and your imagination. Many residents call the island home year-round, but day visitors and tourists bring plenty of excitement with them. Like other resort islands, there are quaint shops, cool restaurants, and friendly bars. There are several resorts on the island, but the queen of them all is the elegant Grand Hotel on a bluff with an ocean view. Owned by the extensive, multi-generational Phillips family, the Grand Hotel offers elegant service, five course dinners, and plenty of romance.
Ned & Bethany by May Williams
Sometimes the heart hits a hole in one…
Bethany Hinkle arrives at White Pine Island’s Grand Hotel for her sister’s wedding and to do a little environmental snooping. She snaps pictures of the hotel’s pristine golf course to ensure its compliance with EPA standards. Soon, she realizes that the course’s manager is as attractive as the course he so carefully protects.
Ned Phillips feels the weight of family expectations squarely on his broad shoulders. The Phillips Family has owned and operated the Grand Hotel for three generations. For now, he manages the hotel’s golf course and makes plans for its future—plans that could be destroyed by Bethany’s spying. He gets close to the lovely environmentalist to watch for her next move until he gets too close to let her go.
Ellen & Pete by Amie Denman
What happens when you fall in love with your best friend just when it’s too late?
All her life, Ellen Phillips has loved working for her family’s Grand Hotel on White Pine Island. Flying the hotel’s airplane and piloting the island ferryboat while knowing someday she will inherit the luxurious resort is a fairy tale existence she has no desire to change. She’s always loved Pete McCormack, too. After all, he’s her best friend, confidante, and playmate. Until she suddenly sees him in a different light just before Christmas.
Pete McCormack has made sacrifices for his family’s golf cart rental business on the island, choosing to stay home and run it instead of pursuing his dream of his own career on the mainland. When his parents announce their plans to sell the business so Pete can leave the island, he has to choose between the future he thought he always wanted and his newfound love for the woman he would be leaving behind.
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│ iBooks │ Kobo
Christmas Away from Home
Waking up on Christmas morning at home and padding downstairs to see what’s under the tree by the fireplace is priceless. However, I’ve had quite a few joyous holidays on the road. If you love over-the-top decorations, fine food, and none of the worries of having company coming over, you may love Christmas in an elegant hotel.
My first Christmas away from home was on my honeymoon. My husband and I married in December and took a trip over the holidays to Key West, Florida. I used many of the experiences from that trip in one of my first beach books Blue Bottle Beach. Is there any place more unique than Key West? We stayed in an elegant hotel, and I remember thinking how strange it was to hear Christmas music while wearing sandals and beachwear. I’m from the snowy Midwest where Christmas apparel is flannel. And more flannel.
One of the most beautiful places I’ve seen at Christmastime is the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. If you ever have the chance to see that amazing home built by a man for his new wife (how romantic!), you should go during the holidays. There is a candlelit tour, and the entire mansion sparkles with decorations.
Because I have family in Orlando, I’ve spent the Christmas and New Year’s holidays enjoying the Disney parks and hotels many times. No one can have any doubt that Disney knows how to celebrate. The ornate trees and garlands in the theme parks are larger than life, and the hotels are beautifully decorated. One of their hotels has a carousel made of gingerbread and chocolate, and another has a life-sized house made of gingerbread. It’s magical.
Perhaps my favorite memory of traveling at Christmastime was something you might not expect. My husband and I took our sons to Washington, DC, for a long weekend. We saw the National Christmas Tree on the Capitol grounds, the train display in front of the White House, and we even ice-skated on a temporary pond in front of the National Archives building.
In Christmas at the Grand Hotel, some of the characters are year-round residents of the island and some are there for a special holiday, but all of them have a Christmas they’ll never forget.
— Amie
Amie Denman lives in Ohio with her husband, sons, cats, and dog. When she's not reading or writing, she enjoys walking and playing outside. Born with an overdeveloped sense of curiosity, she's been known to chase fire trucks on her bicycle just to see what's going on. Amie believes that everything is fun: especially roller coasters, wedding cake, and falling in love.
Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest
May Williams is convinced that she read every book in the public library of her hometown as a kid. Today, her house sags under the weight of books. If she’s not reading or writing, May can be found pursuing her other two passions – sewing and running. May lives happily in a little town on the shores of Lake Erie with her husband, two children, three cats, and one oversized dog.
Website │ Goodreads │ Facebook │ Twitter │ Pinterest
Tour Schedule
October 16th: LaunchOctober 17th: Katie's Clean Book Collection & Book Lover in FloridaOctober 18th: Nicole's Book Musings & The Silver Dagger ScriptoriumOctober 19th: Falling Leaves & Letters from Annie (Douglass) LimaOctober 20th: underneath the covers & Beck Valley BooksOctober 21st: Brooke Blogs & Teatime and BooksOctober 23rd: Grand Finale
Tour Giveaway
1 winner will receive Under the Boardwalk and Carousel Nights by Amie Denman (US only)1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)Ends October 28th
a Rafflecopter giveaway
October 17, 2016
Realm Explorers Part CXII: Visit Rizkaland with Kendra E. Ardnek
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don't forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Kendra E. Ardnek
Title of book and/or series: The Rizkaland Legends – in particular, the second book of the series, Lady Dragon, Tela Du
Brief summary of the story:
A thousand years have passed since Amber’s most recent imprisonment on the Isle of Banishment, and it’s time for her to claim her promised fifty years ruling Rizkaland. Only one person stands in the way of her making the rule permanent – the Tela Du, a girl prophesied to share her face and to be the only one capable of ending Amber’s life.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Rizkaland is a cylindrical world divided into a mainland and six islands, with thick bodies of water known as Rivs flowing between them. Water flows in every color of the rainbow, each color with its own distinct flavor and use. Also, they have something against the letter c for some reason.
If we were to visit Rizkaland as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
I’d recommend that you start your tour in Loray, the castle at the heart of the mainland, where you’ll find not only the Bookholder’s library containing the complete history of the world, but also Alphego’s Hill, where Alphego stood to create the world. You can use the Hill to travel to the replicas built on the islands and do more exploring.
What dangers should we avoid in Rizkaland?
It is generally considered a Bad Idea to be caught by Amber – for not only can she turn people to ice, but she can turn herself into a dragon. She’s only a problem when she’d not on the Isle of Banishment, though. There are also a number of vicious animals, such as kirats – a large, bear-like creature you don’t want to tangle with – in Rizkaland’s forests.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Rizkaland?
Mistletoe muffins!
And Spiced Pomella Cider is a general favorite among visitors to the world.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Rizkaland?
Predominately swords, bows, and a form of martial arts.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Rizkaland?
Predominately the horse, but on the mainland they have Haric Doors that are doormats that you can use to travel quickly to Loray and back. And Alphego’s Hill and its replicas on the islands can be used for travel.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Rizkaland that we don’t see on Earth?
Plantlife in Rizkaland is every color but green (except in autumn, when it ALL turns green).Animals? Well, as well as kirats, there are shwazles, a reptilian beast that has a head resembling that of a camel; etrinas, a catlike creature the size of a bobcat; kloradies, a yellow bird that resembles a canary, but with a longer beak; korrens, a yak-like beast of burden; and quaggleshumps, which are birds that resemble pelicans, but are much larger, with purple feathers and donkey-like ears.The predominate sentient race – or Eliue in the Rizkan language – apart from the humans are the elves. And on the Isle of Talking Beasts you’ll find four races of horse-like creatures called the harandas, the hinequas, the rowandas, and the kiandas.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Rizkaland? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Each elf has a semi-unique gift such as invisibility, flight, healing, a heightened sense, or some other such. The kings and queens on the mainland are given similar gifts.The hinequas have the ability to lessen the effects of gravity, which they use for flight. Kiandas can turn themselves invisible. It is suspected that Rowandas have the ability to slow time – in any rate, they move so fast, it’s hard to tell. Harandas have the power of telepathy and teleportation, and it is with hairs from their tales that the Haric Doors are made.The Hills function on a supernatural level.During Tying Ceremonies, a magical cord is used to bind the couple together.The Bookholder – the highest rank a elf can hold – owns a special Book that contains prophecies and orders from Alphego, the words of which will change depending on the need. Daughters of the Bookholder, known as Bookdaughters, have the ability to Speak prophecies.Alphego will occasionally gift certain people with gifts beyond that to perform certain tasks.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Rizkaland? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Nothing unusual compared to our world, but there is electricity in Loray and the five castles on the Isle of Klarand.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Rizkaland.
Variations of the medieval tournaments are popular, and they do have a few ball sports, though nothing organized on the level that earth sports are these days. Royalty enjoys balls, while barn dances, of a sort, are frequent among the common people. There is a nightly recitation of the Legends – what histories are called in Rizkaland – at Loray and the Kastle by the Bookholder or a Bookdaughter, and there are a few acting companies that travel through Rizkaland and Klarand presenting plays of their own invention and ones based on the Legends.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Rizkaland as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Rizkaland has a day and year equal to ours, but their year is divided into ten months named for the original rulers of the island of Klarand, and the weeks are eight days named for the original rulers of the mainland. The New Year is celebrated much like we celebrate Christmas, and there are a few other special days, mostly commemorating past defeats of Amber.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Rizkaland? Please describe what it involves.
Almost everyone acknowledges the existence of Alphego, even if they don’t personally believe in him. The Hill and its replicas are regarded as places of worship, and most people will at least try to seek the advice of the Bookholder or a Bookdaughter before making major decisions. Tying Ceremonies – which are technically engagement ceremonies, but with wedding vows – are held on the Hill or one of its replicas, and are officiated by the Bookholder or a Bookdaughter if at all possible.
What is the political or government structure in Rizkaland? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Rizkaland has a monarchy, with four kings and four queens, as it is believed that it isn’t good for any one person to have absolute power. Their chief advisor is the Bookholder, and they have a number of officials and such below them to help carry out laws.The island of Klarand and the Isle of Talking Beasts are both subject to the Rizkan monarchy, though they are recognized as separate governments. Klarand has a monarchy with only one king and queen, but the island is divided into four quarters and their power is diffused through the Lord and Lady reigning over each section.The Isle of Talking Beasts is ruled by the Sentaur who as his name suggests, is half-human and half-horse, and is immortal as far as anyone can tell. He rules with the help of a council of seven elected from among his people.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Rizkaland?
Rizkans don’t shake hands. They press a fist to their heart and, depending on their rank, will hold eye contact, bow, or glance towards Alphego’s country or the nearest Hill. They refer to north, south, east, and west as up, down, ea, and wea.As mentioned earlier, they don’t like the letter “c” and will only use it to make the “ch” sound, in which case, it is used alone. In every other situation, it is replaced with “k” or “s” as applicable.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Probably, but I’m having trouble remembering anything off the top of my head. There are the boxes that the elves possess, inspired by a typo by a friend of mine, though. And the Rowandas and Hinequas come from a story game my sister and I did in the backyard once.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I never outright address the issue, but I do deal with gender norms and women in power a lot in my writing. Also predestination vrs. free will came up in LDTD, which can be a pretty controversial subject. And there was a moment when old earth vrs. new earth was mentioned.
Author Autobiography:
Kendra E. Ardnek is a homeschool graduate who picked up a pen at an early age and never put it down. The eldest of four, she makes her home in the Piney Woods of East Texas with her parents, younger siblings, giant herd of giraffes, and honor guard of nutcrackers.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
The first book of the series, Water Princess, Fire Prince is available on kindle and in paperback. Lady Dragon, Tela Duis currently available for preorder on kindle.
Where can readers connect with you online?
They can find me on my blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads, and Pinterest.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Rizkaland. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXIII!-Annie Douglass Lima
Author’s name: Kendra E. Ardnek
Title of book and/or series: The Rizkaland Legends – in particular, the second book of the series, Lady Dragon, Tela Du
Brief summary of the story:
A thousand years have passed since Amber’s most recent imprisonment on the Isle of Banishment, and it’s time for her to claim her promised fifty years ruling Rizkaland. Only one person stands in the way of her making the rule permanent – the Tela Du, a girl prophesied to share her face and to be the only one capable of ending Amber’s life.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Rizkaland is a cylindrical world divided into a mainland and six islands, with thick bodies of water known as Rivs flowing between them. Water flows in every color of the rainbow, each color with its own distinct flavor and use. Also, they have something against the letter c for some reason.
If we were to visit Rizkaland as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
I’d recommend that you start your tour in Loray, the castle at the heart of the mainland, where you’ll find not only the Bookholder’s library containing the complete history of the world, but also Alphego’s Hill, where Alphego stood to create the world. You can use the Hill to travel to the replicas built on the islands and do more exploring.
What dangers should we avoid in Rizkaland?
It is generally considered a Bad Idea to be caught by Amber – for not only can she turn people to ice, but she can turn herself into a dragon. She’s only a problem when she’d not on the Isle of Banishment, though. There are also a number of vicious animals, such as kirats – a large, bear-like creature you don’t want to tangle with – in Rizkaland’s forests.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Rizkaland?
Mistletoe muffins!
And Spiced Pomella Cider is a general favorite among visitors to the world.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Rizkaland?
Predominately swords, bows, and a form of martial arts.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Rizkaland?
Predominately the horse, but on the mainland they have Haric Doors that are doormats that you can use to travel quickly to Loray and back. And Alphego’s Hill and its replicas on the islands can be used for travel.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Rizkaland that we don’t see on Earth?
Plantlife in Rizkaland is every color but green (except in autumn, when it ALL turns green).Animals? Well, as well as kirats, there are shwazles, a reptilian beast that has a head resembling that of a camel; etrinas, a catlike creature the size of a bobcat; kloradies, a yellow bird that resembles a canary, but with a longer beak; korrens, a yak-like beast of burden; and quaggleshumps, which are birds that resemble pelicans, but are much larger, with purple feathers and donkey-like ears.The predominate sentient race – or Eliue in the Rizkan language – apart from the humans are the elves. And on the Isle of Talking Beasts you’ll find four races of horse-like creatures called the harandas, the hinequas, the rowandas, and the kiandas.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Rizkaland? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Each elf has a semi-unique gift such as invisibility, flight, healing, a heightened sense, or some other such. The kings and queens on the mainland are given similar gifts.The hinequas have the ability to lessen the effects of gravity, which they use for flight. Kiandas can turn themselves invisible. It is suspected that Rowandas have the ability to slow time – in any rate, they move so fast, it’s hard to tell. Harandas have the power of telepathy and teleportation, and it is with hairs from their tales that the Haric Doors are made.The Hills function on a supernatural level.During Tying Ceremonies, a magical cord is used to bind the couple together.The Bookholder – the highest rank a elf can hold – owns a special Book that contains prophecies and orders from Alphego, the words of which will change depending on the need. Daughters of the Bookholder, known as Bookdaughters, have the ability to Speak prophecies.Alphego will occasionally gift certain people with gifts beyond that to perform certain tasks.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Rizkaland? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Nothing unusual compared to our world, but there is electricity in Loray and the five castles on the Isle of Klarand.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Rizkaland.
Variations of the medieval tournaments are popular, and they do have a few ball sports, though nothing organized on the level that earth sports are these days. Royalty enjoys balls, while barn dances, of a sort, are frequent among the common people. There is a nightly recitation of the Legends – what histories are called in Rizkaland – at Loray and the Kastle by the Bookholder or a Bookdaughter, and there are a few acting companies that travel through Rizkaland and Klarand presenting plays of their own invention and ones based on the Legends.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Rizkaland as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Rizkaland has a day and year equal to ours, but their year is divided into ten months named for the original rulers of the island of Klarand, and the weeks are eight days named for the original rulers of the mainland. The New Year is celebrated much like we celebrate Christmas, and there are a few other special days, mostly commemorating past defeats of Amber.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Rizkaland? Please describe what it involves.
Almost everyone acknowledges the existence of Alphego, even if they don’t personally believe in him. The Hill and its replicas are regarded as places of worship, and most people will at least try to seek the advice of the Bookholder or a Bookdaughter before making major decisions. Tying Ceremonies – which are technically engagement ceremonies, but with wedding vows – are held on the Hill or one of its replicas, and are officiated by the Bookholder or a Bookdaughter if at all possible.
What is the political or government structure in Rizkaland? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Rizkaland has a monarchy, with four kings and four queens, as it is believed that it isn’t good for any one person to have absolute power. Their chief advisor is the Bookholder, and they have a number of officials and such below them to help carry out laws.The island of Klarand and the Isle of Talking Beasts are both subject to the Rizkan monarchy, though they are recognized as separate governments. Klarand has a monarchy with only one king and queen, but the island is divided into four quarters and their power is diffused through the Lord and Lady reigning over each section.The Isle of Talking Beasts is ruled by the Sentaur who as his name suggests, is half-human and half-horse, and is immortal as far as anyone can tell. He rules with the help of a council of seven elected from among his people.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Rizkaland?
Rizkans don’t shake hands. They press a fist to their heart and, depending on their rank, will hold eye contact, bow, or glance towards Alphego’s country or the nearest Hill. They refer to north, south, east, and west as up, down, ea, and wea.As mentioned earlier, they don’t like the letter “c” and will only use it to make the “ch” sound, in which case, it is used alone. In every other situation, it is replaced with “k” or “s” as applicable.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Probably, but I’m having trouble remembering anything off the top of my head. There are the boxes that the elves possess, inspired by a typo by a friend of mine, though. And the Rowandas and Hinequas come from a story game my sister and I did in the backyard once.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I never outright address the issue, but I do deal with gender norms and women in power a lot in my writing. Also predestination vrs. free will came up in LDTD, which can be a pretty controversial subject. And there was a moment when old earth vrs. new earth was mentioned.
Author Autobiography:Kendra E. Ardnek is a homeschool graduate who picked up a pen at an early age and never put it down. The eldest of four, she makes her home in the Piney Woods of East Texas with her parents, younger siblings, giant herd of giraffes, and honor guard of nutcrackers.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
The first book of the series, Water Princess, Fire Prince is available on kindle and in paperback. Lady Dragon, Tela Duis currently available for preorder on kindle.
Where can readers connect with you online?
They can find me on my blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads, and Pinterest.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Rizkaland. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXIII!-Annie Douglass Lima
October 9, 2016
Reversal Zone
J. Grace Pennington has published four science fiction novels. They each have a unique bent to them, but this one is very different. Each book is a standalone, but as with any series, you get more of the story if you read them all in order. In Reversal Zone, the main character, Andi Lloyd, becomes the only one who can save the ship and crew. Can she do it in time?
About the Book
Nothing is as it should be.After weeks of boredom, Andi is excited when the Surveyor is called upon to rescue a freighter that mysteriously vanished in uncharted space. Excitement quickly turns to unease when the ship encounters an unknown phenomenon—a cloud that appears not to exist. But with the freighter's crew in danger, the Surveyor has no choice but to venture into unknown territory.
As soon as they enter the cloud, its unstable effects wreak havoc on the ship. They're flying blind. Every piece of equipment is malfunctioning. And every member of the crew is unable to think straight or act like themselves—except Andi.
Now she's expected to guide them through the predicament with no previous command experience and no one to turn to for support. And with each passing hour, it becomes clear that if they don't escape the cloud soon—they won't escape it at all.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LZV1ILB
Excerpt
When I reached the bridge, the whiteness of the windows startled me. There wasn't a cloudy quality to it anymore—other than a couple of faint bright spots, it was just pure, milky white. I was also surprised to find the Captain slouching back in his chair. I'd never seen him sit like that before, except in total defeat. “Second medical officer on the bridge.” The Captain sat up and turned around. “Need something?” I stared at him for a moment. As with Crash, his posture was odd and so was his tone. But I went on. “There's something I need to tell you.” “All right, tell me.” He sat back again. I looked around at the other bridge officers, who were all staring at me. “Do you... want to go to your lounge or something?” “No, go ahead, tell me.” I hesitated. I didn't love the idea of talking about the radialloy in front of people I wasn't close with. But an order was an order—and they all knew about it, anyway. “Tell me, tell me,” he insisted, waving his hand as if brushing away a speck of dust. “Well... you remember the radialloy, sir...” “You might need to speak up a little.” I cleared my throat and went on. “The... the radialloy, sir. You remember that?” “The... oh, right. Yes, of course.” This wasn't right. I stared into his eyes and they looked—dull. Flat. Not alert and intent as they usually were on a mission. “I... well, my knee started hurting a little when we entered the cloud.” “Oh, I'm sorry.” The silence around us was so thick that every system beep or blip seemed to slice it. I sucked in a deep breath. He was sorry? That was all? “I thought... the Doctor thought... the cloud might be making it hurt. I thought you might be able to figure something out about it... I...” I stopped, feeling a little queasy from the attention and awkwardness. All seven pairs of eyes were fixed on me. “Harrison! Can't you see the girl's trying to help? Why don't you sit up and pay some attention?” I froze. That could not be who it sounded like. It sounded like Guilders. Guilders never raised his voice, he never called the Captain “Harrison” on the bridge, and he had never, ever called me “the girl.” “Mr. Guilders, I realize that Andi is trying to help. I'm listening to her. That should satisfy you.” The words were calm, slow, and casual. “Captain!” I took half a step forward, willing him to understand. He blinked, looked at me, and sat up a bit straighter. “Hold on... wait...” He held up both hands, fingers stiffly separated. “Wait now. Something's wrong.” He looked over at Guilders, who lowered his bushy eyebrows and relaxed his shoulders slightly. “Something... something isn't right.” He stared at me again. “Andi. The cloud is making your knee hurt?” His eyes were alert now, but confusion furrowed his eyebrows. “Yes sir.” “I... I think that...” He pressed a hand to his forehead. “Ugh. I think... that's helpful. Thank...” He stood up and stumbled to one side a step. “Captain?” Guilders jumped up but he also stumbled. The Captain kept a hand pressed to his head. “I... Guilders, what's...” He shook his head, hard, several times. “I can't think, I don't...” The lights dimmed, then brightened, then dimmed again. I backed towards the door, watching as the Captain blinked and tapped his head with the palm of his hand. “I... can't... I don't...” The lights flickered again, and I looked around. Ralston and Yanendale both had their hands pressed against their heads, and August had gone even paler than usual. Whales and Mr. Orstin had both slumped back in their chairs and their eyelids were drooping. “I...” the Captain said one last time, then he wavered and dropped to the floor. “Captain!” I cried. Guilders dropped next, falling into his chair and hitting his head on the console in front of him. I winced, and watched in shock as August collapsed, rolling out of his chair onto the floor. Yanendale slumped over his console, motionless, Ralston went limp and fell against the wall, and Whales and Orstin's arms dropped and their eyes closed.
The lights dimmed, then flickered off, then red blinking lights illuminated everything, alarms sounded, and I was left on the bridge, alone, with seven unconscious men.
About the Author
J. Grace Pennington has been telling stories since she could talk, and writing them down since age five. Now she lives in the great state of Texas, where she writes as much as adult life permits. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading good books, playing movie soundtracks on the piano, and looking up at the stars.You can find out more about her writing at www.jgracepennington.com.
Giveaway
Grace is generously offering three prizes. A signed copy of each of her three previous novels in the series. They are each standalone stories, but they are also connected. If you would like to read more about them, you can read about them here: Radialloy, In His Image, Machiavellian.
To enter the giveaway, please fill out this form.
Tour Schedule Friday, October 7 Bookish Orchestrations-Tour IntroductionFathers and Sons-Sports and Life-Guest PostThe Destiny of One-Guest PostPerpetual Gardener, Writer, and Mormon-ExcerptRebekah Lyn Books-Author Interview
Saturday, October 8 Shout outs-Guest PostAuthor Franky A Brown-ExcerptShire Reviews-Book Review
Sunday, October 9 Letters from Annie Douglass Lima-ExcerptZerina Blossom's Books-Excerpt
Monday, October 10 Rachel Rossano's Words-Excerpt and Guest PostIn the Bookcase-Excerpt and Book ReviewWritings, Ramblings, and Reflections-Book Review
Tuesday, October 11 The Abrahamic Adventures-Book ReviewThe Overactive Imagination-Excerpt Morgan Elizabeth Huneke-Book ReviewLisa Swinton Queen of Random-Excerpt
Wednesday, October 12 Bookish Orchestrations-Giveaway Winner
