Marshall Best's Blog, page 2
November 13, 2014
The History Behind the Guiamo Chronicles
The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stolo are fantasy novels; however, they are so much more than just entertainment. They are historical fantasy in which the author has taken the utmost care to hold true to actual history, myths and legends within the frame of his story line. All battles in book one are real battles that Mr. Best has described as best he could. As in other historical fiction novels, he takes known facts and fashions a story around those facts to fill in the gaps of what we do not know. What makes it fantasy is the fantastical creatures and magic that accompany it.
Three celebrations are mentioned in the novels which were actual ancient holidays. Marshall Best gives plausible reasons for the institution of these celebrations.
SamfuinAlthough the more modern name for it is Samhain, this name was actually derived from the Old Irish word Samfuin, which Marshall uses in his books. Read below how Samfuin was celebrated in the story of Cumoro and why in the excerpt below from book two of The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stolo.
“Our men have fought in battle against the Fomori many times and came away victorious. Torques and arm bands have been awarded to the brave who survived the battles. And yet, these men and women we have honored are not the only ones who gave us a land free of the vile orcs and Luprech hounds; a land where our sons and daughters can be raised in safety. Many of our sons and brothers have fallen in battle, and the memory of their brave deeds must also be preserved for all the ages.
“I declare that the day of the full moon of this month, the month of Samonios, shall be a day of remembrances, of telling our children of Nuada and the valor of our dead, of victory, and of a land strewn with orc corpses, for our dead must be remembered. It shall be a day of celebration, of song and feasting, and demonstrations of swordplay and horsemanship.”Guiamo could see from the smiles forming on the faces of his men that his plan was met with tremendous approval. He continued, “Each tribe shall build a fire upon this field where you now sit to remind us of the deceiving fires I set upon the plain of Tuired where Nuada was slain to confuse the orc host with the direction of our attack.“In the midst of these fires, we shall create a great bonfire which shall burn throughout the long hours of the night to symbolize the huge pyre needed to burn the corpses of the orcs.“Before the sun sets on that day, all the fires in the homes around Temair shall be extinguished. Then the hearth fires shall be lit anew from the great bonfire, in remembrance that only through the deaths of the Fomori could our homes be made warm and secure.“The rekindling of the fires is to be a constant reminder that we must slay and burn all our enemies who threaten our lands in years to come. The lighting of the fires in our homes must be done to remind us of the brutal battles we endured this summer.“This day of celebration shall mark the end of this year of bloodshed and the beginning of a new year where the Pritana and Cruthin dwell in peace in the land.”
Lughnasadh and Belotenia Lughnasadh and Belotenia are two other ancient holidays that were celebrated. You can see below how Best has woven these seamlessly into his story in this excerpt from book 3, Morlanos.
“Speaking of celebrations, I have been thinking of proclaiming two new festive days for us to celebrate.”Abartach was intrigued, “What would you propose, Mórlános?”Guiamo replied, “We remember the Pritana dead who fell to the Fomori and speak of their valor. Some have come to call that day Samfuin, referring to the celebration to be forever held at the end of each summer, but there is more that must be celebrated. What our brothers did must always be remembered, but I wish to specifically honor Nuada who fell in battle. That battle upon the field of Tuired occurred in the month of Giamonios and I should like to begin this celebration by lighting fires at night to remember the juniper fires I lit to face the Fomori slóg of the orcs Balor, Indech and Tethra in the wrong direction. On this day we shall honor the memory of Nuada.”Abartach replied, “This is a worthy event, significant to both Pritana and Cruthin. I am in agreement that it is worthy of remembrance. What other celebration do you propose?”Guiamo answered, “I wish to remember the final destruction of the Fomori, the day when the last orcs and Luprech hounds were slain in the month of Aedrinios. It should be not so much focused on them, but rather upon us, a time of new beginnings and peace, the day that peace came at last to our land. It was a day when we could build our homes and take the harvest from our fields without fear of fire and death. It should be a day of dancing and feasting, of joyous song and games of strength and skill, and of families reuniting in peace.”Abartach asked, “These days must be given names for all to use. Have you given thought to this?”Guiamo replied, “Belotenia is a word which means ‘lighting of the bright fires.’ This would be fitting as a name to honor Nuada. I have not decided on a name for the festive days of renewal from the destruction of the Fomori.”Abartach answered, “We should celebrate this as a day to honor you, Mórlános. We shall name this day Mórlánosnasadh, the ‘assembly of Mórlános.’ ”Guiamo demurred, saying, “But I am known by many names. To Etarlám’s people, I am Cúmóro. Some remember me as Lugh, and only recently have I become known as Mórlános. To Ursius, I am Guiamo, the name given to me by my mother and father.”Sreng laughed and said, “I do not care what others may call me, just so they call me for supper.”Abartach smiled at Sreng’s jest and nodded in agreement. He turned back to Guiamo and said, “The people will use whatever name for you with which they are familiar. Whether it be Mórlánosnasadh, Lughnasadh, or Cúmóronasadh, they will all love you for the deliverance you brought and give honor to your memory.”Sreng nodded in enthusiastic agreement. “It shall be as you say among both our peoples. Over the next days we will send word across the land to announce this so that all may participate in their lands as we shall at Temair.”
Calendars and Language of the Guiamo Chronicles In reading the excerpts above, I'm sure you came across some strange sounding months! Samonios and Aedrinios are not what we are used to hearing. In writing The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stolo, Marshall Best has used two different calendars. In book one, Guiamo, you will find the Roman calendar being used as it takes place in Gaul under Roman rule. In subsequent novels, the author switches between Roman calendar months and Old Celtic calendar months depending on who is speaking. Guiamo and Ursius are Romans, so when they refer to the calendar, they use the Roman names. All others use the Old Celtic names of the months. It's interesting to note that all but three of the months in the Roman calendar are recognizable compared to the modern, whereas the Old Celtic are completely foreign. Below are lists of both calendars. You will notice in the middle column the approximate time of each month. They usually overlapped with our traditional months. Although scholars debate which of our modern months correlate to the ancient calendars, Best has just chosen the one that seemed best to him.
Old Celtic Months Modern Day Roman Months
Anagantios January/February Ianuarius Ogronnos February/March Februarius Cutios March/April Martius Giamonios April/May Aprilis Simivisonna May/June Maius Equas June/July Iunius Elembiu July/August Quintilis Aedrinias August/September Sextilis Cantlos September/October September Samonios October/November October Dummanios November/December November Rivras December/January December
Throughout the books, there are an abundance of words referred to that are Latin and Old Irish. Best has said many times that he would love to have an expert in Latin and Old Irish read his books to critique the use of the words. He wishes it to be as authentic as possible. It is one of his greatest frustrations that he does not know how to pronounce many of the words. When asked how to pronounce certain words, his answer will be, "I have no idea!." Old Irish is the oldest recorded language in the region and can be tied back to around 500 A.D. which is much later than the period in which the stories take place. As with other things in the story, because there are so many holes in ancient history, an author must make a choice and Old Irish seemed best to use. Many of the Latin and Old Irish terms are listed below with their meanings. As with the months, when Guiamo or Ursius are speaking, Latin terms are used. Old Irish is used elsewhere. In the back of each book, Best has provided a glossary to help the reader in understanding the many new terms.
Commonly Used Latin Words Commonly Used Old Irish
oppidum - Fort Ard ri - high king, literally, "High horse rider" Druidae - druid Drui - druid Druides - druids Druide - druids scorpio - giant crossbow bocoit - shield gladius - Roman short sword Bandrui - female druid clavicula - key bairgen - loaf of bread clostellum - lock claideb - sword legio - legion coimetaid - guardian milites gregarius - veteran soldier coiced - division pugio - dagger cruisech - spear passum - paces longphort - encampment volumen - scroll Ri Coiced - king of a division of the Cruthin regnator - king Ri Tuaithe - tribal king Mare Internum - Mediterranean Sea cairptui - chariots
Three celebrations are mentioned in the novels which were actual ancient holidays. Marshall Best gives plausible reasons for the institution of these celebrations.
SamfuinAlthough the more modern name for it is Samhain, this name was actually derived from the Old Irish word Samfuin, which Marshall uses in his books. Read below how Samfuin was celebrated in the story of Cumoro and why in the excerpt below from book two of The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stolo.
“Our men have fought in battle against the Fomori many times and came away victorious. Torques and arm bands have been awarded to the brave who survived the battles. And yet, these men and women we have honored are not the only ones who gave us a land free of the vile orcs and Luprech hounds; a land where our sons and daughters can be raised in safety. Many of our sons and brothers have fallen in battle, and the memory of their brave deeds must also be preserved for all the ages.
“I declare that the day of the full moon of this month, the month of Samonios, shall be a day of remembrances, of telling our children of Nuada and the valor of our dead, of victory, and of a land strewn with orc corpses, for our dead must be remembered. It shall be a day of celebration, of song and feasting, and demonstrations of swordplay and horsemanship.”Guiamo could see from the smiles forming on the faces of his men that his plan was met with tremendous approval. He continued, “Each tribe shall build a fire upon this field where you now sit to remind us of the deceiving fires I set upon the plain of Tuired where Nuada was slain to confuse the orc host with the direction of our attack.“In the midst of these fires, we shall create a great bonfire which shall burn throughout the long hours of the night to symbolize the huge pyre needed to burn the corpses of the orcs.“Before the sun sets on that day, all the fires in the homes around Temair shall be extinguished. Then the hearth fires shall be lit anew from the great bonfire, in remembrance that only through the deaths of the Fomori could our homes be made warm and secure.“The rekindling of the fires is to be a constant reminder that we must slay and burn all our enemies who threaten our lands in years to come. The lighting of the fires in our homes must be done to remind us of the brutal battles we endured this summer.“This day of celebration shall mark the end of this year of bloodshed and the beginning of a new year where the Pritana and Cruthin dwell in peace in the land.”
Lughnasadh and Belotenia Lughnasadh and Belotenia are two other ancient holidays that were celebrated. You can see below how Best has woven these seamlessly into his story in this excerpt from book 3, Morlanos.
“Speaking of celebrations, I have been thinking of proclaiming two new festive days for us to celebrate.”Abartach was intrigued, “What would you propose, Mórlános?”Guiamo replied, “We remember the Pritana dead who fell to the Fomori and speak of their valor. Some have come to call that day Samfuin, referring to the celebration to be forever held at the end of each summer, but there is more that must be celebrated. What our brothers did must always be remembered, but I wish to specifically honor Nuada who fell in battle. That battle upon the field of Tuired occurred in the month of Giamonios and I should like to begin this celebration by lighting fires at night to remember the juniper fires I lit to face the Fomori slóg of the orcs Balor, Indech and Tethra in the wrong direction. On this day we shall honor the memory of Nuada.”Abartach replied, “This is a worthy event, significant to both Pritana and Cruthin. I am in agreement that it is worthy of remembrance. What other celebration do you propose?”Guiamo answered, “I wish to remember the final destruction of the Fomori, the day when the last orcs and Luprech hounds were slain in the month of Aedrinios. It should be not so much focused on them, but rather upon us, a time of new beginnings and peace, the day that peace came at last to our land. It was a day when we could build our homes and take the harvest from our fields without fear of fire and death. It should be a day of dancing and feasting, of joyous song and games of strength and skill, and of families reuniting in peace.”Abartach asked, “These days must be given names for all to use. Have you given thought to this?”Guiamo replied, “Belotenia is a word which means ‘lighting of the bright fires.’ This would be fitting as a name to honor Nuada. I have not decided on a name for the festive days of renewal from the destruction of the Fomori.”Abartach answered, “We should celebrate this as a day to honor you, Mórlános. We shall name this day Mórlánosnasadh, the ‘assembly of Mórlános.’ ”Guiamo demurred, saying, “But I am known by many names. To Etarlám’s people, I am Cúmóro. Some remember me as Lugh, and only recently have I become known as Mórlános. To Ursius, I am Guiamo, the name given to me by my mother and father.”Sreng laughed and said, “I do not care what others may call me, just so they call me for supper.”Abartach smiled at Sreng’s jest and nodded in agreement. He turned back to Guiamo and said, “The people will use whatever name for you with which they are familiar. Whether it be Mórlánosnasadh, Lughnasadh, or Cúmóronasadh, they will all love you for the deliverance you brought and give honor to your memory.”Sreng nodded in enthusiastic agreement. “It shall be as you say among both our peoples. Over the next days we will send word across the land to announce this so that all may participate in their lands as we shall at Temair.”
Calendars and Language of the Guiamo Chronicles In reading the excerpts above, I'm sure you came across some strange sounding months! Samonios and Aedrinios are not what we are used to hearing. In writing The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stolo, Marshall Best has used two different calendars. In book one, Guiamo, you will find the Roman calendar being used as it takes place in Gaul under Roman rule. In subsequent novels, the author switches between Roman calendar months and Old Celtic calendar months depending on who is speaking. Guiamo and Ursius are Romans, so when they refer to the calendar, they use the Roman names. All others use the Old Celtic names of the months. It's interesting to note that all but three of the months in the Roman calendar are recognizable compared to the modern, whereas the Old Celtic are completely foreign. Below are lists of both calendars. You will notice in the middle column the approximate time of each month. They usually overlapped with our traditional months. Although scholars debate which of our modern months correlate to the ancient calendars, Best has just chosen the one that seemed best to him.
Old Celtic Months Modern Day Roman Months
Anagantios January/February Ianuarius Ogronnos February/March Februarius Cutios March/April Martius Giamonios April/May Aprilis Simivisonna May/June Maius Equas June/July Iunius Elembiu July/August Quintilis Aedrinias August/September Sextilis Cantlos September/October September Samonios October/November October Dummanios November/December November Rivras December/January December
Throughout the books, there are an abundance of words referred to that are Latin and Old Irish. Best has said many times that he would love to have an expert in Latin and Old Irish read his books to critique the use of the words. He wishes it to be as authentic as possible. It is one of his greatest frustrations that he does not know how to pronounce many of the words. When asked how to pronounce certain words, his answer will be, "I have no idea!." Old Irish is the oldest recorded language in the region and can be tied back to around 500 A.D. which is much later than the period in which the stories take place. As with other things in the story, because there are so many holes in ancient history, an author must make a choice and Old Irish seemed best to use. Many of the Latin and Old Irish terms are listed below with their meanings. As with the months, when Guiamo or Ursius are speaking, Latin terms are used. Old Irish is used elsewhere. In the back of each book, Best has provided a glossary to help the reader in understanding the many new terms.
Commonly Used Latin Words Commonly Used Old Irish
oppidum - Fort Ard ri - high king, literally, "High horse rider" Druidae - druid Drui - druid Druides - druids Druide - druids scorpio - giant crossbow bocoit - shield gladius - Roman short sword Bandrui - female druid clavicula - key bairgen - loaf of bread clostellum - lock claideb - sword legio - legion coimetaid - guardian milites gregarius - veteran soldier coiced - division pugio - dagger cruisech - spear passum - paces longphort - encampment volumen - scroll Ri Coiced - king of a division of the Cruthin regnator - king Ri Tuaithe - tribal king Mare Internum - Mediterranean Sea cairptui - chariots
April 18, 2014
A Productive Day to You All!
I wanted to wish everyone a "productive day" today. Recently, I have had some health issues pop up which have kept me away from social media completely. I'm mending and glad to see that the Guiamo Chronicles Blog continues to have steady traffic despite my absence. Our readers and followers from all over the world are GREATLY appreciated. If this is your first visit, take a bit to look around! We welcome you! You'll find articles that include sources of help for authors and readers alike. I like to think we're like one big happy family out here on the internet.
Since I am not as accessible as I had been, if you have a question, please forward it to Marshall at mbest at mbestsecurity dot com. We look forward to talking with those interested in the books. My guess is that writing on book five has slowed a bit, but Marshall is very invested in this series.....the show will go on!
HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY AND FIND SOMETHING TO BE THANKFUL FOR
Tracey
Since I am not as accessible as I had been, if you have a question, please forward it to Marshall at mbest at mbestsecurity dot com. We look forward to talking with those interested in the books. My guess is that writing on book five has slowed a bit, but Marshall is very invested in this series.....the show will go on!
HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY AND FIND SOMETHING TO BE THANKFUL FOR
Tracey
March 4, 2014
Read An E-Book Week Sale!
It seems like forever since I've posted on the blog. With the last tour ending right before Christmas, I've taken a bit of a break from the blog and book promotion to focus on the family more. Know that you, our readers and followers, are still greatly appreciated! If you ever need to contact us, you can reach us via Twitter @ancumer, our Facebook page, or better yet, e-mail us at Marshall dot Best at myninestar dot net.
This week is Read an E-book Week and all books will either be free or discounted 50% on Smashwords through March 8th. Choose a link below to the book of your choice.
Discount codes will be found on the right hand side of the product page. Enter them at checkout and voila, you're on your way to a reading adventure! There are many other authors offering their books at discounts this week. Take a look around and discover other authors as well.
Guiamo - Free
Cumoro - 50% Off
Morlanos - 50% Off 
Inis Emain Ablach - 50% Off
Princess Meredith Bedtime Tales - Free
December 12, 2013
The Legendary Tour Grand Finale!
On Tour with Prism Book Tours...
The Legendary Tour Grand Finale
As the lighting blazed in a dancing, arcing column to the sky, a voice deep and powerful as thunder said, “My son, today my powers are bestowed upon you.” Special Tour Price!!!$3 off each book through Createspace.
(Click on the cover to take you there.)
Use coupon code: GS9D2K7C Combining legitimate legends with actual historical events, Marshall Best weaves an epic story that portrays the ancient world as it might have been, a world which the ancient historians recorded as fact; a time when gods ruled the earth and strange creatures dominated the land. It is the era of civilized conquerors exploring distant and primitive new lands. Scant recordings left to us today only touch on the fringe of the fantastic and brutal reality that existed in those distant lands of the west.
Into this age, young Guiamo enters the world stage as the great game-changer, and by his hand the gods and beasts become destined to disappear into myth and legend.
Find out more about the writing of The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stoloand his world from where we stopped along the tour:
11/25: Launch
11/26: My Love for Reading Keeps Growing - Reviews of all four books
"With every book I keep thinking that it cannot get more intense but it seems that Marshall Best has a fabulous way of describing battle scenes. I know I have said it before but I am still surprised at how much I love this series because it’s not something I would have read if not given this opportunity to review."
+ Beck Valley Books - Guest Post*Interviewed by the author!*
The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stolo, like many stories before them, would never have come to be if it were not for the love of a father. Having written The Princess Meredith Bedtime Tales for his six year old daughter, Marshall Best decided to begin writing stories for his other children as well. He began with 10 year old William, fashioning Guiamo, the main character in his series, after his son.
11/27: Cu's Ebook Giveaways - Guest PostMarshall’s son, although a typical boy with a temper, is also very caring. He respects the older generation a great deal, looks out for the weak or downtrodden around him and is kind to children. These characteristics come out in Guiamo as he interacts with the brigands and their leader, Actus, the “Driven One”, as well as Suadusegus, Guiamo’s teacher. His actions toward them are anything but ordinary.
11/29: Mel's Shelves - Reviews of Guiamo and Cumoro
"The author has definitely done his research. I like the way certain details are brought back into the story later on so I feel that every part of the story is significant. I also love what I'm learning from Guiamo's character and how he deals with the situations he finds himself in."
12/1: Life as Leels - Review of Cumoro
* Review of Guiamo *
"I thoroughly recommend the entire The Chronicles of Guiamo series. I really don’t think there is “one audience” that this appeals to. Whether you be man, woman or young adult reader, I think this series appeals to all."
12/2: The Wonderings of One Person - Guest Post
Ancient history, especially, is filled with myths and legends galore of fantastical creatures, gods intermingling with man, fierce beasts and quests of heroes battling against evil.
12/3: Tressa’s Wishful Endings - Guest Post
In this region, Old Irish is the oldest recorded language and can be tied back to around 500 A.D. which is much later than the period in which the stories take place.
12/4: Bookworm Lisa - Guest Post
All battles in book one are real battles that Mr. Best has described as best he could. As in other historical fiction novels, he takes known facts and fashions a story around those facts to fill in the gaps of what we do not know. What makes it fantasy is the fantastical creatures and magic that accompany it.
12/5: Mythical Books - Review of Cumoro
* Review of Guiamo *
"What this volume brings extra? Action! Yes, action with a capital A! You will have full pages of atrocious battles, of bloody fights whose outcome will oscillate to one side to the other. There will be no more the elegant and brilliant Caesar's maneuvers that could win a battle like a game of chess. Will be the wild frays of those feral times and places.
12/6: All Fantasy Worlds - Review of Guiamo
Oh, how I love a well written book with a carefully built plot!
. . . One of the things I loved about this book is that the main character, Guiamo, needs to learn in order to become a great man."
12/8: Pieces of Whimsy - Guest Post
One fun example of something that was crafted by Credne was a clostellum or lock, with a very special key, clavicula. The reason this is fun is that it shows how authors put a part of themselves into their stories. Marshall Best is from a family with a long history in the locking industry. He is involved in collecting locks and knows a lot about ancient locks as well.
12/9: Mother Daughter Book Reviews - Author Interview
4. What is YOUR favorite part of the book?I really like the parts where Guiamo learns about the ancient gods, Roman, Greek and Egyptian, when they lived among us as the men and women they were in the ancient days.
12/10: My Devotional Thoughts
Did you answer this quiz correctly?Q: What is special about the spear given to Guiamo by Mars?A: It can understand Guiamo and take orders.This is true when Guiamo commands it in the ancient tongue.
12/11: Colorimetry
Marshall hopes to travel to England and Ireland someday to see and experience the places in his novels. We asked him to share where he would plan to visit...
+ Jessica's Casserole - Review
"This series has a VERY well developed plot and distinctive characters. I had an easy time keeping the characters straight and following the story. There was plenty of imagery that inspired my imagination to really get involved with the book."
+ Interview with author, Christy Nicholas, about Ireland
The Hill of Tara plays a major role in the Guiamo Chronicles books. Can you tell us a little bit about its history and the myths surrounding it?
The Hill of Tara is one of many sacred sites in Ireland. It has been the site, for hundreds of years, where the High King is crowned. For any potential king, he must pass several tests. One is that he must drive his chariot between two standing stones, which form a V. These two stones must widen to let him pass, an indication that the land has accepted him as High King. Another test is that he must drive his chariot over the Lia Fáil, another standing stone, and it would screech in response. That screech showed to the surrounding countryside that Queen Madb, the goddess of the land, has accepted him as king...
12/12: Books for Kids - Guest Post
"Now that part of the story pertains to a stone that was discovered that is red and white and looks like a big eyeball, and is involved with activities at a big lake. Then I turned to the map just north of Limerick, and there I found an enormous lake, Lough Derg... Then I read the meaning of its name. It means “loch of the Red Eye.” Who would have thought such a coincidence would present itself so fittingly."
+ Dalene's Book Reviews - Guest Post
Marshall also enjoys putting real life issues into his books, delving into a bit of philosophy while entertaining with orcs, dragons, magic and battles...
12/13: Celtic Myth Podshow - Excerpt
Julius Caesar, in his writings, De Bello Gallico, tells of the Brittani coloring their bodies blue. We see this portrayed in the movie Braveheart as well. Marshall Best, in his series The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stolo, has a new twist as to why these warriors painted themselves blue.
Read more, plus an excerpt at Celtic Myth Podshow...
+ Grande Finale
The Chronicles:
Guiamo
In 60 B.C., ten-year-old Guiamo Durmius Stolo, an exceptionally gifted Roman orphan, is abandoned in Gaul . Left to fend for himself, Guiamo is set onto a path of legend. Recognized by the gods as having world-changing talents, he is given a weapon that changes his destiny and the world’s forever.
Goodreads * Creatspace * Smashwords
Amazon * Amazon UK * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository
Excerpt
Cumoro
Guiamo Durmius Stolo sails in 55 B.C. with Rome’s 7th Legion as Julius Caesar invades Britain. But Caesar has not before encountered the Fomori, a dominion of wicked creatures which wage war against the human inhabitants and dominate much of Britain. Armed with his god-made spear, Guiamo joins with the tribal kings against their Fomori foe when Caesar departs.
Goodreads * Creatspace * Smashwords
Amazon * Amazon UK * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository
Morlanos
Having destroyed the Fomori in Britain , Guiamo Durmius Stolo decides in 51 B.C. to bring the Cruthin people, once slaves to the Fomori, to Ireland , but encounters the Fomori who reside there as well. Guiamo discovers that the gods venerated by the Druids are unworthy. The gods are displeased with him and begin to work against him.
Goodreads * Creatspace * Smashwords
Amazon * Amazon UK * Barnes & Noble
Inis Emain Ablach
In 50 B.C. Guiamo Durmius Stolo finds himself victor over the detested Fomori whose leader, Cichol, is slain and those few who survived are scattered. Guiamo explores the secret places where Cichol kept his most important secrets and discovers there the treasures of Cichol's master, the goddess Domnu.
Goodreads * Creatspace * SmashwordsAmazon * Amazon UK * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository
The Author:
Marshall Best is an avid reader, father of six and business owner. In the past several years he has found his love of writing as well. What began as a desire to write a story for his children has evolved into a nine book series.Marshall has done extensive research into the history behind the legends, people and places of England, Scotland and Ireland involved in his books. He loves being able to weave real people and legends into his stories making them come alive. He is definitely a writer that tends to the details often mapping out timetables, calendars, geneologies, etc. that pertain to his book to ensure that it is as realistic as possible.
Marshall also enjoys putting real life issues into his books, delving into a bit of philosophy while entertaining with orcs, dragons, magic and battles. He is someone who loves a grand adventure but makes sure it's not a shallow one.
Website * Goodreads * Google + * Facebook * Twitter
Tour-Wide Giveaway:
-One print set signed by author – world wide giveaway-One complete e-book set – codes provided to smashwords-Two winners: e-book of Cumoro and a $5 Amazon gift card each-Two winners: e-book of Morlanos and a $5 Amazon gift card each-Two winners: e-book of Inis Emain Ablach and a $5 Amazon gift card eachEnds 12/20. Please see restrictions on Rafflecopter.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Sign up to receive invites for upcoming Prism Tours HERE!Want to have us organize a tour for you? Go HERE.
December 10, 2013
Explore Ireland with Christy Nicholas on The Legendary Tour
The Legendary Tour may have sparked your interest in the ancient history of England and Ireland. Today we have a guest with us who has an intense love of Ireland. We thought it fitting to interview her as a part of our tour. She has generously offered one of her e-books for the giveaway to be paired with book 3, Morlanos, which takes place mostly in Ireland. Photographer of the Mythical, Magical, Mystical Christy Nicholas
First of all, Christy, let me say thank you for taking the time to share with us a little bit about your book, especially as you prepare to head over to Ireland once more. I was very excited to run across it as it not only has pictures of some of the mythical places in Ireland but includes the history as well. It’s one thing to tell people that Marshall has written a fantasy series that includes the history and myths of Ireland. It’s another thing to look at a book and read about the very characters I've heard him talk about for the past five years writing this series. I think your book would be a wonderful addition for anyone reading Marshall’s series to be able to envision some of the settings in his book.
What began your fascination with Ireland? Did you set out to write a book or did the book grow naturally from your love of the country?
I think I've always been in love with Ireland. When I was a child, my mom had an Irish Rovers album (The Unicorn) which I memorized early on. My first trip on my own, anywhere, was a 1996 vacation (traveling solo) to Ireland, London and Somerset, England. I remember having dreams about Ireland before I left, and they weren't far off the mark. I think my soul remembers the place somehow.
As for the writing, I have always made trip reports, telling where I drank, what stones I tripped over, who I met, etc., not only to share with others, but to help me remember later. This book sort of came out of that, and a desire to share the magic of the land with others.
In your opinion, what is the most fascinating place you have photographed in Ireland?
I have a love of the ancient, and one place where you can drink in the ancient and never be thirsty is Carrowmore. There are a dozen and more Neolithic sites within a mile radius, burial cairns, stone circles, all sorts of different sacred sites. Just walking around and realizing this was all created, with a great deal of effort, 5,000 years ago, is humbling and fascinating.
The Hill of Tara plays a major role in the Guiamo Chronicles books. Can you tell us a little bit about its history and the myths surrounding it?
The Hill of Tara is one of many sacred sites in Ireland. It has been the site, for hundreds of years, where the High King is crowned. For any potential king, he must pass several tests. One is that he must drive his chariot between two standing stones, which form a V. These two stones must widen to let him pass, an indication that the land has accepted him as High King. Another test is that he must drive his chariot over the Lia Fáil, another standing stone, and it would screech in response. That screech showed to the surrounding countryside that Queen Madb, the goddess of the land, has accepted him as king. These stones are on the site today, among many other earthworks and mounds, for you to explore.
I love the section labeled “History and ‘Myth’tery" in the book's introduction. Can you explain what you mean by that? I think it would help the reader to understand how authors can use so many of the actual historical figures from a time period and yet take poetic license to weave an enjoyable fantasy.
Irish history is full of myth, and its myth is full of history. For much of the past, the Irish did not use writing, but relied upon the Druids to maintain their history through memorized stories. When Christianity took over, many of these stories were either lost to time as the Druids died out, or were changed with a Christian perspective. Therefore, we have little archeological proof of what stories remain. Many of the myths do, though, have some archeological basis. For instance, the Book of Invasions tells us that the Sons of Míl (the Celtic tribes) came from Spain to Ireland. Recent DNA evidence suggests that this was, indeed, true.
During ancient times in Ireland, the land was divided into “fifths.” From your study of that time period, can you share with our readers why there would be a vast amount of material for an author to pull from to include in an action and adventure fantasy?
There are many tales within those that remain, full of adventure, war and love. The Irish have been, traditionally, a very warlike people, and would often start a war over things we might consider minor – such as boasting about having the best cow in the country, or because a great-grandfather once owned a spit of land.
Is there a particular photograph you would like to share with us from one of these five kingdoms and could you share its significance?
Sure! I’ve included one I took of the Lia Fáil, the stone I mentioned above at the Hill of Tara. I’m off to Ireland again in November to visit the Hill of Uisneach, the Hill of Tara, and many other sacred sites. As I have worked with Marshall more on his books, I have come to discover that the history of Ireland is very intricate and involved. What kind of research did you do to gather the historical information accompanying your photographs and how did you keep it all straight?
I have read several books of tales – translations into English, as while I am studying Irish, I am by no means fluent in it – as well as listened to some podcasts based on those tales. My favorites have been Celtic Myth Podshow and Irish History Podcast. Google has also been my friend, including little things, like the proper spelling and accent in Lia Fáil. :D
How long have you been working on this project?
I started writing the Irish book when I returned from my last trip, which was May 2011. That had been my fourth trip to Ireland. I had self-published a couple of books before, mostly trip reports with lots of photos, but this was my first work that offered other information, such as the history, the hidden places, travel tips and the like. I finished it in January 2013, and found a great publisher, and voila!
Do you have other books planned for the future?
I just sent a similar book to the publisher, but for Scotland. It will likely be out after the New Year. Now I’m working on my first novel – a story based on my parents’ love story.
Is there anything else you would like to share with us about your book?
I think it’s good for people who want a decent founding in the myth and history of the island, even if they aren’t planning a trip there. For those that want to go, however, I think it would be an invaluable resource. I try to offer places off the beaten path – things you might not find on a regular tour or travel book.
Thanks once again for joining us during the Legendary Tour! We appreciate you taking the time and hope you’re having a wonderful time over in Ireland as our readers have enjoyed hearing more about Ireland and it’s connection to Morlanos, book 3 in The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stolo.
Thank you so much for hosting me!
We have a couple more days on the tour and then the Grand Finale! If you haven't had a chance to enter the giveaway or have missed posts, click below for more information.
Visit The Legendary Tour
About Christy
My name is Christy Nicholas, also known as Green Dragon. I do many things, including digital art, beaded jewelry, writing and photography. In real life I'm a CPA, but having grown up with art and around me (my mother, grandmother and great-grandmother are/were all artists), it sort of infected me, as it were. I love to draw and to create things. It's more of an obsession than a hobby. I like looking up into the sky and seeing a beautiful sunset, or a fragrant blossom, a dramatic seaside. I then wish to take a picture or create a piece of jewelry to share this serenity, this joy, this beauty with others. Sometimes this sharing requires explanation – and thus I write. Combine this love of beauty with a bit of financial sense and you get an art business. I do local art and craft shows, as well as sending my art to various science fiction conventions throughout the country and abroad. AUTHOR WEBSITES
www.greendragonartist.com
www.facebook.com/greendragontravel
www.facebook.com/greendragonartist
Publisher's Website http://www.tirgearrpublishing.com/authors/Nicholas_Christy/ireland-guide.htm
November 24, 2013
It's Time!!! Guiamo Chronicles on Tour
On Tour with Prism Book Tours...
We're excited to be working with Prism Book Tours over the next few weeks as we explore The Chronicles of Guiamo Durmius Stolo in more detail. We look forward to discussing many elements of the adventure with you, the readers. Below is just a taste of what we will cover.
New Reviews History, Myths and Legends of the Story Lessons in Ancient Languages A Character Study of Guiamo Sight Seeing Tour of Places in Guiamo Chronicles Discussion About the Ancient gods Question and Answer Time with the Author Giveaways, Giveaways, Giveaways Special Discounts on Print Copies for Christmas!
Check In Each Day to See What's Happening!
The Legendary Tour
This tour goes back to the age of legends. The author has taken a deep dive into rich history, bringing his love of fantasy with him. The result?
"Guiamo by Marshall Best is an outstanding historical novel of life and times in the ancient Roman era."
"There were times I had to remind myself this was fiction. It was easy to follow the story and keep up with each new twist and turn. I really had trouble putting this book down."
- Larry B. GrayFollow the Chronicles of Guiamo as they unfold on the tour!
11/25: Launch11/26: My Love for Reading Keeps Growing + Beck Valley Books 11/27: Cu's Ebook Giveaways 11/29: Mel's Shelves 12/1: Life as Leels 12/2: The Wonderings of One Person 12/3: Tressa’s Wishful Endings 12/4: Bookworm Lisa 12/5: Mythical Books 12/6: All Fantasy Worlds 12/8: Pieces of Whimsy 12/9: Mother Daughter Book Reviews 12/10: My Devotional Thoughts 12/11: Colorimetry
+ Jessica's Casserole
+ Interview with author, Christy Nicholas, about Ireland 12/12: Books for Kids
+ Dalene's Book Reviews12/13: Grande Finale
+ Celtic Myth Podshow
Special Tour Price!!!$3 off each book through Createspace.
(Click on the cover to take you there.)
Use coupon code: GS9D2K7C About the Series
Combining legitimate legends with actual historical events, Marshall Best weaves an epic story that portrays the ancient world as it might have been, a world which the ancient historians recorded as fact; a time when gods ruled the earth and strange creatures dominated the land. It is the era of civilized conquerors exploring distant and primitive new lands. Scant recordings left to us today only touch on the fringe of the fantastic and brutal reality that existed in those distant lands of the west. Into this age, young Guiamo enters the world stage as the great game-changer, and by his hand the gods and beasts become destined to disappear into myth and legend.
A ring of great power....not from Mordor
As the lighting blazed in a dancing, arcing column to the sky, a voice deep and powerful as thunder said, “My son, today my powers are bestowed upon you.”
One of the most vivid scenes in Guiamo is where the god Lugus bestows special powers upon him.....as you read it you can almost see the scene as it would play out in a movie....the excerpt is below. This scene finds Guiamo with his druid teacher Susama.
Guiamo brought Susama to the sacred grove atop the high hill near Gobedbiacum. Guiamo noticed that while the cold weather carried a wind, it was not strong enough to move the limbs of the trees which swayed dramatically along their way.Read the rest of the excerpt here .
Susama noticed the activity of the trees, too, and observed, “Lugus eagerly awaits your arrival.” They trudged along watching the branches moving energetically around them. Guiamo pointed out that the trees a short distance farther were nearly still.
Susama asked, “Durmi, did you bring the unformed gold?”
He reached into his bulla praetexta pouch and pulled out a lump of gold...
The Chronicles:
Guiamo
In 60 B.C., ten-year-old Guiamo Durmius Stolo, an exceptionally gifted Roman orphan, is abandoned in Gaul . Left to fend for himself, Guiamo is set onto a path of legend. Recognized by the gods as having world-changing talents, he is given a weapon that changes his destiny and the world’s forever.
Ebeth says, "In telling this story, Best is able to richly lay out the history of the land and the people - and he does so without confusing the reader. That is a gift and a talent."Goodreads * Creatspace * Smashwords
Amazon * Amazon UK * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository
Cumoro
Guiamo Durmius Stolo sails in 55 B.C. with Rome’s 7th Legion as Julius Caesar invades Britain. But Caesar has not before encountered the Fomori, a dominion of wicked creatures which wage war against the human inhabitants and dominate much of Britain. Armed with his god-made spear, Guiamo joins with the tribal kings against their Fomori foe when Caesar departs.
"Just finished Book 2. Any writer who wants to write about epic battles, should read the battle against the orcs. A great example of swordplay and magic combined!" - Mary WolderingGoodreads * Creatspace * Smashwords
Amazon * Amazon UK * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository
Morlanos
Having destroyed the Fomori in Britain , Guiamo Durmius Stolo decides in 51 B.C. to bring the Cruthin people, once slaves to the Fomori, to Ireland , but encounters the Fomori who reside there as well. Guiamo discovers that the gods venerated by the Druids are unworthy. The gods are displeased with him and begin to work against him.
The third book in an excellent series and again the authors understanding and research into the myths and legends add excitement and interest to the story.
The writer totally enthralls and absorbs the reader into a time gone by and again you feel you are there fighting and wanting to warn Morlanos of the danger he is facing.
Anyone who is interested in legends and has an vivid imagination and believes strange creatures and magic (or the belief that wizards/witches existed) governed the thoughts of the people and their lifestyles will find this an excellent read. - beckvalleybooksGoodreads * Creatspace * Smashwords * Amazon * Amazon UK * Barnes & Noble
Inis Emain Ablach
In 50 B.C. Guiamo Durmius Stolo finds himself victor over the detested Fomori whose leader, Cichol, is slain and those few who survived are scattered. Guiamo explores the secret places where Cichol kept his most important secrets and discovers there the treasures of Cichol's master, the goddess Domnu.
The author springs yet more surprises and again shows expert research and intense historic knowledge. - beckvalleybooksGoodreads * Creatspace * Smashwords
Amazon * Amazon UK * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository
The Author:
Marshall Best is an avid reader, father of six and business owner. In the past several years he has found his love of writing as well. What began as a desire to write a story for his children has evolved into a nine book series.Marshall has done extensive research into the history behind the legends, people and places of England, Scotland and Ireland involved in his books. He loves being able to weave real people and legends into his stories making them come alive. He is definitely a writer that tends to the details often mapping out timetables, calendars, geneologies, etc. that pertain to his book to ensure that it is as realistic as possible.
Marshall also enjoys putting real life issues into his books, delving into a bit of philosophy while entertaining with orcs, dragons, magic and battles. He is someone who loves a grand adventure but makes sure it's not a shallow one.
Website * Goodreads * Google + * Facebook * Twitter
Tour-Wide Giveaway:
-One print set signed by author – world wide giveaway-One complete e-book set – codes provided via smashwords-Two winners: e-book of Cumoro and a $5 Amazon gift card each-Two winners: e-book of Morlanos and a $5 Amazon gift card each-Two winners: e-book of Inis Emain Ablach and a $5 Amazon gift card eachEnds 12/20. Please see restrictions on Rafflecopter.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
November 18, 2013
Venturing Into the Writing and Publishing World? You Need to Read This!
Nearly a year ago when I began helping to market the Guiamo Chronicles, I started with a crash course on blogging and Twitter. Facebook I pretty well understood. Twitter was a foreign land and blogging looked fun but confusing. As I stumbled along I met many people glad to lend a helping hand. I also ran across many articles that helped me tremendously. Things that seem second nature once you've been on Twitter for awhile can be very baffling to start. Lists are wonderful tool, for example, but I had no idea how to use them.
Most sites such as Twitter, Hootesuite, and Blogger have tutorials, but let's face it, most of us don't take the time to read them. It's on our to do list that never really gets done. Time is a precious commodity, especially in my case as a mother of six children trying to help her husband. Because of this, the kind people who passed along their knowledge made a huge difference. I'm still learning but I've come along way. As a way to say thanks to those whose help made a difference, I wanted to pass along their posts that helped me on my journey. Below you will find articles on everything from Twitter etiquette (and yes, I made some mistakes) to using YouTube to your advantage as a writer. I hope it will encourage and help others who may feel a bit lost as I did.
Articles Discussing Publishing & Writing Related Issues
Press Releases, Part II (link to Part I in article) - shared by Cate Russell- Cole Six Things You Should Be Including in Your EBook (and Probably Aren't) Facebook Groups for Indie Authors - Cate Russell-ColeFrom the archives: Tolkien’s Top 10 Tips for Writers. shared by @LiterateIndySecrets to Getting Your Book Into Libraries 50 Best Websites for Indie Authors shared by @GodfreyKnaggs46 Top Websites to Promote Your Book for FreeGreat list of blogs discussing books for boys! compliments of @MaggieLyonsYouTube for Writers: 5 Tips to Tap Into A BILLION Unique Users shared by @angee
Articles Giving Information on Twitter Basics
"Drowning in Tweets: A struggling author tries to understand Twitter." - Scott D. Southard 44 Essential Twitter Hashtags Every Author Should Know - Caitlin Muir, @scribblinghappy0 - 4000 in a Snap! How to Build a Quality Twitter Following FAST - Molly GreeneArticle on Bitly and Creating Short Links - Annette Mackey6 Essential Twitter Tools to Find and Connect With Influencers - shared by Molly GreeneA beginners guide to Hootsuite shared by @GodfreyKnaggsHow to use HootSuite for Social Listening by @Mike_alltonTool to create multi-regional URL's for your books- compliments of @KUForum
Articles Regarding Reviews - How, How Not To and Where to Find Reviewers
A list of review sites that will review self-published books, from TheIndieView. - shared by @SelfPubBkCovers How to Get Your Book Reviewd - Molly Greene5 Tips for Approaching Reviewers (from an AMZN Hall of Fame Reviewer)
Articles Regarding Blog Tours & Blogs/Websites
How to Run a Blog Tour - Beth BaranyWhy your ‘about’ page is completely wrong shared by @GodfreyKnaggsHow to sell books from your website: ecommerce solutions shared by @GodfreyKnaggsCh 4.8 Get Thee A Mailing List
Do you remember when you first started using Twitter or blogging? Do you have a funny story or something that has helped you to pass along? If so, we'd love to hear it. Please take a few minutes to leave a comment below. Twitter is a wonderful community. I hope you enjoy your stay!
Most sites such as Twitter, Hootesuite, and Blogger have tutorials, but let's face it, most of us don't take the time to read them. It's on our to do list that never really gets done. Time is a precious commodity, especially in my case as a mother of six children trying to help her husband. Because of this, the kind people who passed along their knowledge made a huge difference. I'm still learning but I've come along way. As a way to say thanks to those whose help made a difference, I wanted to pass along their posts that helped me on my journey. Below you will find articles on everything from Twitter etiquette (and yes, I made some mistakes) to using YouTube to your advantage as a writer. I hope it will encourage and help others who may feel a bit lost as I did.
Articles Discussing Publishing & Writing Related Issues
Press Releases, Part II (link to Part I in article) - shared by Cate Russell- Cole Six Things You Should Be Including in Your EBook (and Probably Aren't) Facebook Groups for Indie Authors - Cate Russell-ColeFrom the archives: Tolkien’s Top 10 Tips for Writers. shared by @LiterateIndySecrets to Getting Your Book Into Libraries 50 Best Websites for Indie Authors shared by @GodfreyKnaggs46 Top Websites to Promote Your Book for FreeGreat list of blogs discussing books for boys! compliments of @MaggieLyonsYouTube for Writers: 5 Tips to Tap Into A BILLION Unique Users shared by @angee
Articles Giving Information on Twitter Basics
"Drowning in Tweets: A struggling author tries to understand Twitter." - Scott D. Southard 44 Essential Twitter Hashtags Every Author Should Know - Caitlin Muir, @scribblinghappy0 - 4000 in a Snap! How to Build a Quality Twitter Following FAST - Molly GreeneArticle on Bitly and Creating Short Links - Annette Mackey6 Essential Twitter Tools to Find and Connect With Influencers - shared by Molly GreeneA beginners guide to Hootsuite shared by @GodfreyKnaggsHow to use HootSuite for Social Listening by @Mike_alltonTool to create multi-regional URL's for your books- compliments of @KUForum
Articles Regarding Reviews - How, How Not To and Where to Find Reviewers
A list of review sites that will review self-published books, from TheIndieView. - shared by @SelfPubBkCovers How to Get Your Book Reviewd - Molly Greene5 Tips for Approaching Reviewers (from an AMZN Hall of Fame Reviewer)
Articles Regarding Blog Tours & Blogs/Websites
How to Run a Blog Tour - Beth BaranyWhy your ‘about’ page is completely wrong shared by @GodfreyKnaggsHow to sell books from your website: ecommerce solutions shared by @GodfreyKnaggsCh 4.8 Get Thee A Mailing List
Do you remember when you first started using Twitter or blogging? Do you have a funny story or something that has helped you to pass along? If so, we'd love to hear it. Please take a few minutes to leave a comment below. Twitter is a wonderful community. I hope you enjoy your stay!
November 17, 2013
Wading Through the Sea of Books
For those who love to read, there is always a quest to find that next great book. No one wants to
waste their time on a book not worth reading. In the process of trying to announce the Guiamo Chronicles series to the world, we have found many places that love to assist readers in finding bargains and discovering books in their preferred genres. Below are just a few places you may want to look into. Some will send you daily e-mails with suggestions of books for you to read. Others are just places where you can find many authors and their work. If you're constantly on the look out for a good book, why not give some of these places a try? The first one below is The Fussy Librarian. If you want to see Guiamo in their listing of suggestions....tomorrow it will be featured. If you join today, you'll receive the e-mail tomorrow.
The Fussy Librarian
When you sign up for The Fussy Librarian, you choose from 40 genres and indicate preferences about content and then the computers work their magic. It's a great way to find out about authors you may not have heard of before.
Indie Book Bargains (UK)
Similar to the Fussy Librarian, Indie Book Bargains will send you regular e-mails with suggestions of books at a discounted price. In order to be listed, you have to have several good reviews on Amazon UK. Indie Book Bargains also has a list of books that authors have offered free to reviewers. A great way to discover a new read.
Self Publishers Showcase
Founded by an avid reader as a way to support some of his favorite authors, Self Publisher's Showcase has several authors in each genre to choose from. They feature author interviews as well as reviews. You can read more about them in our post, A New Meeting Place for Readers and Writers
We hope you will join us for The Guiamo Legendary Tour coming up November 25 - December 13.
Be looking for a post of the schedule. We'll have interesting articles regarding the history behind the novels as well as giveaways and possibly a chance to chat with the author himself!
Look tomorrow for a post that will be helpful for writers with links to many helpful articles I've run across over the last year.
Have a great day and happy reading!
September 27, 2013
Discover New Independent Authors
It's Friday once again and a perfect day to share some places where you might find your next favorite author. This is Independent Author Promotion Month and thanks to Cate Russell-Cole of CommuniCate Resources for Writers, there are several blog hops where you can discover new authors.
Pick a blog hop or two to explore and when you're done there, you might want to head over to Self Publisher's Showcase, a new site to connect readers and writers. You'll find interviews, reviews and more.
Since Marshall is a fantasy writer, we'd also like to share with you the list we've put together of fantasy authors we've met on Twitter. Just one more place to connect with some great talent. The imagination is boundless it seems.
If you have discovered an independent author you enjoy who isn't listed, comment in that genre to share with the rest of us. You may also want to contact them and encourage them to add their blog to the hop.
Have a wonderful weekend and happy reading!
Romance Writers Christian Works Paranormal/Horror Crime, Thriller and Suspense Young Adult Memoir/Autobiography/Life Story Science Fiction/Fantasy Non-Fiction Authors Poetry*
*Poetry will be live on October 1st.
Pick a blog hop or two to explore and when you're done there, you might want to head over to Self Publisher's Showcase, a new site to connect readers and writers. You'll find interviews, reviews and more.
Since Marshall is a fantasy writer, we'd also like to share with you the list we've put together of fantasy authors we've met on Twitter. Just one more place to connect with some great talent. The imagination is boundless it seems.
If you have discovered an independent author you enjoy who isn't listed, comment in that genre to share with the rest of us. You may also want to contact them and encourage them to add their blog to the hop.
Have a wonderful weekend and happy reading!
Romance Writers Christian Works Paranormal/Horror Crime, Thriller and Suspense Young Adult Memoir/Autobiography/Life Story Science Fiction/Fantasy Non-Fiction Authors Poetry*
*Poetry will be live on October 1st.
September 17, 2013
A New Meeting Place for Readers and Writers
Many times in life, our job is just that - work. It's a joy when our vocation can intersect with our passion. Today, I'd like to introduce you to someone who has taken something they enjoy immensely and created an enterprise of sorts from that love. I ran across Paul Martin in the twitter-verse one day as he was preparing to launch his new endeavor. He has been very kind in helping us present Guiamo Chronicles to a new group of readers. If you're looking for a place for readers to connect with new writers, spend a few minutes with me while I talk to Paul regarding Self Publisher's Showcase.
~Thanks for taking the time to spend a few minutes sharing with us about Self Publishers Showcase.
Anytime, Tracey. Thanks for having me; it certainly makes a pleasant change to be answering the questions.
~First, can you tell our readers a little about yourself and your background.
I’m a ‘thirtysomething’ married, father of 5 very hyperactive youngsters. My background, for the most part, is rooted in luxury hospitality in both the UK and the US. It may not be immediately clear how I have managed to end up where I am now(even to me) but I have always had a deep love of the written word; it was only always a matter of time before I found myself doing something in the world of literature. When I’m not Showcasing the work of a fantastically talented group of Authors I can also occasionally be found working with many author’s ‘elixir of life’ through a great Artisan Coffee Start-up in ‘eightpointnine’. Definitely worth a look for any UK based readers.
~Transforming an idea into an actual product or organization takes time. Can you share with us some of the background of Self Publisher’s Showcase and what inspired you?
This really should be the part where I explain the months, if not years, of arduous preparation. But it really hasn’t been that way. Around 12 months ago I found myself in conversation with a few authors whose work I had enjoyed, through social media. I then approached a close friend in Steve Taylor-Bryant at The Cult Den.com about the possibility of doing some interviews with these authors, that could then be published on his site. Having enjoyed the experience immensely and seeing the positive reactions of my author friends I set about coming up with a way to do this on a grander, all-encompassing scale. The idea for The Showcase was finalized after a period of brainstorming and went from the ideas stage to the launch stage in a relatively short space of time.
~There are many sites on the web offering publicity for authors. What sets Self Publisher’s Showcase apart from all the rest?
I had a clear idea in my head from the outset of how I wanted the site to work. Luckily working on the site myself has fortunately allowed me to keep incredibly close to these ideals. Other sites that I’ve visited have in my opinion always fallen down in 2 or 3 areas: A lack of good, fresh content, a lack of personality and most notably the ability to take what should be a clean and simple platform and turn it into a jumbled mixture that can turn finding something of interest to you into a kind of scavenger hunt...The Showcase, to me at least says: Great original content – Whether it’s Interviews, Reviews, Short Fiction etc. A constant helpful presence; if you need us for anything we are always at hand. And, an easy to navigate site; If you come to us looking for something new in Fantasy to get your teeth into it won’t take you half a day to find what you are looking for.
~I know you represent many authors, but if you had to pick three stories that have personally intrigued you from the books that you offer, what would they be?
I’m going to cheat here and tell you about four, though in fairness one book predates the Showcase so maybe we can just pretend that it’s three after all? Firstly, I’ve always been a big Fantasy reader so it’s no great surprise that the first couple are Fantasy books. Before the Showcase was launched I came across ANGST from DavidPedersen, an author we are now lucky enough to feature on the site. The main character is a middle-aged, reluctant hero and the story is to this day one of my absolute favourites.
Secondly I was immediately intrigued by Marshall Best’s GUIAMO novels (someone I think you may be familiar with). The story shows such commitment to research and weaves fiction with legend seamlessly. In fact I am currently around two-thirds of the way through Cumoro, the second book in the planned 9 book series as we speak.
Moving out of Fantasy, my third choice would be DEAD WEST, a Weird Western / Zombie mash-up that is the start of what promises to be a very interesting series, co-written by Tim Marquitz, J.M. Martin and Kenny Soward.
Finally, well out of my comfort zone, I recently picked up a copy of James Knight’s HEAD TRAUMAS and I have to say, the intrigue paid off in a big way. It is not something I would normally have read, and for me that just goes to prove what we are trying to achieve here at The Showcase. It really does pay to try something different every now and again, you really do find some absolute gems.
~What can readers expect to find when they visit your site?
If everyone sees the site as I do, and I really hope they do, they’ll find a plethora of fantastic authors across a multitude of genres. Many incredibly open and honest interviews, book reviews, original short fiction and giveaways. We’ve also just this week added a new section to the site. Some of our authors are utilising crowd funding to get amazing projects off the ground, so we’ve now made it possible for our readers to get involved without any hassle. There are some great incentives on offer and it goes without saying, any donations are greatly appreciated by our authors. All of this is presented in what we consider to be a fresh and well-designed platform; easy to navigate and a great place to visit time and time again.
~What are your goals with Self Publisher’s Showcase? What will make you look back with satisfaction knowing you have succeeded in what you set out to do?
My goals, for all of the right reasons, are constantly being reassessed. I started with the modest goal of hoping to make a difference in perhaps 1 or 2 author’s daily lives. Perhaps helping increase sales and my work was done? Now though, with the constant stream of positive feedback, I just want to take the training wheels off and see how far I can take us. Every day the interest grows as more and more authors take the step to be pro-active and join us on our exciting journey. I would love to sit here in 5 or 10 years time and tell you how hundreds of authors have found their audience through the work The Self-Publisher’s Showcase has done. In fact, that’s a goal, right? Pencil that interview in 5 years from now. Easier questions though...
~Is this a one man show? If not, who else is involved?
It is to a degree... The day to day running of the site, the interviewing, the social accounts, the back and forth between the site and our fabulous authors is all me. But then I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m lucky enough to be involved in something I’m very passionate about and hopefully that comes across with everyone who interacts with The Showcase. That said, I’m also lucky enough to have a very dedicated review team in place already in James [Fox], Reece [Jones] and Matthew [Cunliffe]. As the site continues to grow I’m sure that there will come a time where I have to lessen the role I play in some aspects of the site, I’m just not ready to hand over too much of my baby right now.
~If you’re looking for a place to discover new books and new authors, take a moment and head over to Self Publisher’sShowcase. Thanks Paul for taking the time to talk with us!
My absolute pleasure, Tracey. If you’re reading this, do pop by and say ‘Hello’, it’s always great to hear from anyone with an interest in what we are trying to achieve. If anyone has any questions at all about what we do I can be reached directly via paul(at)selfpublishershowcase(dot)com or via twitter @selfpubshowcase.
Happy Reading Everyone!
~Thanks for taking the time to spend a few minutes sharing with us about Self Publishers Showcase. Anytime, Tracey. Thanks for having me; it certainly makes a pleasant change to be answering the questions.
~First, can you tell our readers a little about yourself and your background.
I’m a ‘thirtysomething’ married, father of 5 very hyperactive youngsters. My background, for the most part, is rooted in luxury hospitality in both the UK and the US. It may not be immediately clear how I have managed to end up where I am now(even to me) but I have always had a deep love of the written word; it was only always a matter of time before I found myself doing something in the world of literature. When I’m not Showcasing the work of a fantastically talented group of Authors I can also occasionally be found working with many author’s ‘elixir of life’ through a great Artisan Coffee Start-up in ‘eightpointnine’. Definitely worth a look for any UK based readers.
~Transforming an idea into an actual product or organization takes time. Can you share with us some of the background of Self Publisher’s Showcase and what inspired you?
This really should be the part where I explain the months, if not years, of arduous preparation. But it really hasn’t been that way. Around 12 months ago I found myself in conversation with a few authors whose work I had enjoyed, through social media. I then approached a close friend in Steve Taylor-Bryant at The Cult Den.com about the possibility of doing some interviews with these authors, that could then be published on his site. Having enjoyed the experience immensely and seeing the positive reactions of my author friends I set about coming up with a way to do this on a grander, all-encompassing scale. The idea for The Showcase was finalized after a period of brainstorming and went from the ideas stage to the launch stage in a relatively short space of time.
~There are many sites on the web offering publicity for authors. What sets Self Publisher’s Showcase apart from all the rest?
I had a clear idea in my head from the outset of how I wanted the site to work. Luckily working on the site myself has fortunately allowed me to keep incredibly close to these ideals. Other sites that I’ve visited have in my opinion always fallen down in 2 or 3 areas: A lack of good, fresh content, a lack of personality and most notably the ability to take what should be a clean and simple platform and turn it into a jumbled mixture that can turn finding something of interest to you into a kind of scavenger hunt...The Showcase, to me at least says: Great original content – Whether it’s Interviews, Reviews, Short Fiction etc. A constant helpful presence; if you need us for anything we are always at hand. And, an easy to navigate site; If you come to us looking for something new in Fantasy to get your teeth into it won’t take you half a day to find what you are looking for.
~I know you represent many authors, but if you had to pick three stories that have personally intrigued you from the books that you offer, what would they be?
I’m going to cheat here and tell you about four, though in fairness one book predates the Showcase so maybe we can just pretend that it’s three after all? Firstly, I’ve always been a big Fantasy reader so it’s no great surprise that the first couple are Fantasy books. Before the Showcase was launched I came across ANGST from DavidPedersen, an author we are now lucky enough to feature on the site. The main character is a middle-aged, reluctant hero and the story is to this day one of my absolute favourites.
Secondly I was immediately intrigued by Marshall Best’s GUIAMO novels (someone I think you may be familiar with). The story shows such commitment to research and weaves fiction with legend seamlessly. In fact I am currently around two-thirds of the way through Cumoro, the second book in the planned 9 book series as we speak.
Moving out of Fantasy, my third choice would be DEAD WEST, a Weird Western / Zombie mash-up that is the start of what promises to be a very interesting series, co-written by Tim Marquitz, J.M. Martin and Kenny Soward.
Finally, well out of my comfort zone, I recently picked up a copy of James Knight’s HEAD TRAUMAS and I have to say, the intrigue paid off in a big way. It is not something I would normally have read, and for me that just goes to prove what we are trying to achieve here at The Showcase. It really does pay to try something different every now and again, you really do find some absolute gems.
~What can readers expect to find when they visit your site?
If everyone sees the site as I do, and I really hope they do, they’ll find a plethora of fantastic authors across a multitude of genres. Many incredibly open and honest interviews, book reviews, original short fiction and giveaways. We’ve also just this week added a new section to the site. Some of our authors are utilising crowd funding to get amazing projects off the ground, so we’ve now made it possible for our readers to get involved without any hassle. There are some great incentives on offer and it goes without saying, any donations are greatly appreciated by our authors. All of this is presented in what we consider to be a fresh and well-designed platform; easy to navigate and a great place to visit time and time again.
~What are your goals with Self Publisher’s Showcase? What will make you look back with satisfaction knowing you have succeeded in what you set out to do?
My goals, for all of the right reasons, are constantly being reassessed. I started with the modest goal of hoping to make a difference in perhaps 1 or 2 author’s daily lives. Perhaps helping increase sales and my work was done? Now though, with the constant stream of positive feedback, I just want to take the training wheels off and see how far I can take us. Every day the interest grows as more and more authors take the step to be pro-active and join us on our exciting journey. I would love to sit here in 5 or 10 years time and tell you how hundreds of authors have found their audience through the work The Self-Publisher’s Showcase has done. In fact, that’s a goal, right? Pencil that interview in 5 years from now. Easier questions though...
~Is this a one man show? If not, who else is involved?
It is to a degree... The day to day running of the site, the interviewing, the social accounts, the back and forth between the site and our fabulous authors is all me. But then I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m lucky enough to be involved in something I’m very passionate about and hopefully that comes across with everyone who interacts with The Showcase. That said, I’m also lucky enough to have a very dedicated review team in place already in James [Fox], Reece [Jones] and Matthew [Cunliffe]. As the site continues to grow I’m sure that there will come a time where I have to lessen the role I play in some aspects of the site, I’m just not ready to hand over too much of my baby right now.
~If you’re looking for a place to discover new books and new authors, take a moment and head over to Self Publisher’sShowcase. Thanks Paul for taking the time to talk with us!
My absolute pleasure, Tracey. If you’re reading this, do pop by and say ‘Hello’, it’s always great to hear from anyone with an interest in what we are trying to achieve. If anyone has any questions at all about what we do I can be reached directly via paul(at)selfpublishershowcase(dot)com or via twitter @selfpubshowcase.
Happy Reading Everyone!
