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: Dianne Astle
Title of book and/or series: The Six Worlds: Book 1. Ben the Dragonborn; Book 2. Ben and the Watcher of Zargon
Brief summary of the story:
There are six worlds under the care of one known as the Guardian. Each of the six worlds has a Watcher with a mystical connection to the Guardian and the world they serve. The Watcher guards the portals and is the Principal of a school where those chosen by the Guardian are trained. The Chosen of the Guardian are sent through the portals to other worlds so that they might protect and serve the cause of justice and peace.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: On Earth the school is on a mist shrouded island off Canada’s west coast. To get to the school requires a boat, a float place or use of special portals that connect the school to the far corners of the world. My main character goes through a portal to a world named Lushaka in the first book. It is a world covered in water, which is a problem, because Ben is afraid of being in water over his head. When Ben arrives in Lushaka, he finds that humans are about to go to war with the merfolk.
If we were to visit Lushaka as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
The Guardian’s school is only for those with a special invitation so I would recommend visiting the human community. However, think twice if they are on the verge of a war, because they become very suspicious of strangers.
What dangers should we avoid in Lushaka?
It is best to avoid any of the larger islands on Lushaka. The land tends to have very dangerous creatures on it. Of course this is the very place where Ben needs to go. He needs to travel to the top of one of the bigger islands.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Lushaka?
Ben was served raw fish, eggs, pickled sea slugs, sea cucumbers, and a seaweed and snail salad.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Lushaka?
Those who travelled with Ben carried a spear and a knife, both of which they used to fight off spiders.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Lushaka?
The portals that link one spot to another within the world are normally used for travel by the Chosen who go to Lushaka. Ben could not use the portals because he was not given the gift of being able to breathe under water. Ben travelled on the back of an orca-like whale and in a boat. At the end of the book some of the characters travelled on the back of a dragon.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Lushaka that we don’t see on Earth?The two sentient groups are merfolk and human. The humans live in huge trees that grow up from the bottom of the ocean. In and around the trees are cork lily pads. On these lily pads the humans keep some animals. The land is dangerous. The island Ben went to had piranha like sand creatures, large spiders and huge birds that sometimes carry away children and small adults.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Lushaka? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
There are supernatural abilities given by the Guardian of the Six Worlds to those who are going through a portal to do the Guardian’s work on a world not their own. These gifts are returned to the Guardian when the quest is over. Ben receives the gift of becoming invisible and the gift of octopus hands and feet. When he is sent to Lushaka no one understands why he is only given two gifts. That mystery is revealed near the end of the book.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Lushaka and the other five schools.
Every school teaches a wide assortment of sports related skills. Hang gliding, parasailing, horseback riding, archery, sword play, tracking and outdoor survival, rope climbing, martial arts and much more. The Guardian’s school want to equip the Chosen for whatever challenges they face on a new world.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Lushaka as on Earth? There is a special medallion that reveals the day, month and year when the Chosen will go from one world to another which necessitates that the calendars be the same, although the special holidays will not be the same.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Lushaka?
The Six Worlds are similar to the Narnia series in that they are not explicitly Christian, but there are spiritual themes, particularly in the second book, Ben and the Watcher of Zargon. My characters do offer up prayers and blessings.
What is the political or government structure in Lushaka? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The merfolk have a king who is behaving unreasonably. He is insisting that the humans get his crown back if they want to continue to harvest food from the ocean. Getting the crown back involves travelling to the top of a very dangerous island. The humans have a council which has a hard time making decisions.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?I spent a few days on a float home moored near a small island off of Canada’s wild and wet west coast. I loved the area. It is my favorite place. An ancient castle makes little sense off the west coast where everything is relatively new, but I couldn’t imagine the school anywhere else. However, the place I spent a few days is a very lonely place. Very few people live in the vicinity or stay overnight in the area, so it is possible to imagine an ancient castle hidden away on a mist-shrouded island.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
In my mind there are no controversial topics. One of the themes in the book is finding friends where you expect to find enemies. The other is that we are more than we think we are and we need to find the treasure of our own true selves.
Author Autobiography:
Dianne Astle has worked at a variety of jobs in her life. She has been a draftsperson, a news correspondent for a radio station, a teacher’s aide, and most recently had the opportunity to practice servant leadership in a faith community. Dianne loves fishing, riding horses, and walking with her dog. She lives with her husband Doug, his three cats and her beloved dog Thomas
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.At the moment my books are only available through Amazon.
Ben the Dragonborn at Amazon
Ben the Dragonborn at Createspace https://www.createspace.com/5713690
Ben and the Watcher of Zargon at Amazon
Ben and the Watcher of Zargon at Createspace https://www.createspace.com/5598284
Where can readers connect with you online?
Twitter @bendragonborn
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Lushaka. 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 _____ world of ______, in Realm Explorers Part LXXVIII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the _____ world of ______, in Realm Explorers Part LXXVIII!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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: Cameron Glenn
Title of book and/or series: Delano in Hollyhook
Brief summary of the story: Delano Farnsworth is one of the few ‘lucky unfortunates’ chosen to receive an invitation to the magical Camp Hollyhook. After he arrives, however, he quickly discovers that not is all as it seems. With his new camp friends the ‘quirky’ Jackie, the ‘dour’ Lenore and the ‘lonely’ Wheeze, Delano seeks to uncover the sinister true purpose of the camp, as well as learn about his missing parents who abandoned him when he was three, his kidnapped uncle as well as his own self and destiny.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: Camp Hollyhook is a magical summer camp within the larger fantasy kingdom of Hollybrook. Within the camp are playing fields, Gold Lake, Butterfly Island, Fire Island, Friendship Pier, Creepy Castle, Monster Mountain, Counselor Castle, the main stage, The Bubble Cave, and a cafeteria and cabins.
If we were to visit Camp Hollyhook as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? So much! First, you’d have to get a special invitation in order to go. The head camp mother, Madam Siren, has a soft spot for misfits, the misunderstood and outcasts and wishes to reward them with fun. There are camp games on the playing fields, swimming with friendly lake serpents in Gold Lake, riding the roller coaster and other amusement rides on fire island, participating in the scavenger hunt, riding the Ferris Wheel on Friendship Pier, checking out the ghost band in Creepy Castle, eating the delicious and addictive candy bark from the candy bark trees, the dance party in The Bubble Cave and really, whatever you want! The only limit is your imagination. You might like it so much you’ll never want to leave! In fact, you can choose to stay forever if you wish.
What dangers should we avoid in Camp Hollyhook? It is forbidden to go to Butterfly Island and Monster Mountain. Butterfly Island, where the Butterfly Children live, is guarded by unfriendly sea serpents who will kill you if you get too close to them. And Monster Mountain probably has monsters on it. Also, be wary of the ‘Angries’ group. They can be pretty mean sometimes. Fortunately the camp security led by the Bat Demon are around to protect the campers.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Camp Hollyhook? Yes! I already mentioned the candy bark. Delicious! The camp also has its own cook who will make you whatever you want. Want chocolate ice-cream for breakfast? You can have it! And you won’t even get sick from it. That’s a camp promise. The air in the camp doesn’t allow for any sicknesses.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Camp Hollyhook? Wands that shoot paint are provided during the popular capture the flag contests. Each camp group have their own fighting styles. The Angries like to pound, the Dours don’t really put up much of a fight, The Quirks zip around pretending to be bees, and so on.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Camp Hollyhook? A magical zeppelin piloted by a robot chauffer will escort you to the Camp. That’s the only way to get there.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Camp Hollyhook that we don’t see on Earth? There are friendly monkeys in the trees who hand out the candy bark when you first enter through the gates. There’s Bim-Bot the robot who is a guide and who runs the Share Shack, where you can get anything you want. The Counselor to the Quirks is a Mermaid and the Counselor to the Lonelies is a goat man. Butterfly Children fly overhead and playfully interact with you. Sea serpents act as speed boats pulling you behind them as you water-ski in Gold Lake. There’s so much more to discover.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Camp Hollyhook? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used. There’s a lot of whimsy but magic is more muted and not so obvious at the camp. The head mechanic makes wonderful inventions and robots. No camper is a witch or wizard or anything; just normal kids.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Camp Hollyhook? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples. There is! The Mechanic can make wonderful robots that want nothing more than to please the campers. He has a hobby of making special robot birds, his favorite one named Max, but he rarely gives these out to campers. There has to be a good reason for him to.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Camp Hollyhook. The Play Fields has whatever you want on them. Just press a button and a basketball court will appear. During the capture the flag contest the whole field becomes like a giant trampoline, which is so fun! There’s a popular scavenger hunt contest campers can participate in. There’s a talent show. The Counselors job is to make sure the campers are active and never bored.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Camp Hollyhook as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there? Time is strange there. It’s hard to decipher. Also, memories of events from earth are weakened while in Camp Hollyhook. The more time spent there, the harder it is to remember the events which happened on earth.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Camp Hollyhook? Please describe what it involves. Campers are free to continue believing whatever they wish to believe.
What is the political or government structure in Camp Hollyhook? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? Madam Siren runs the camp. She is beautiful and seems like a nice lady. She has three daughters with beautiful voices.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Camp Hollyhook? Through the opening welcoming ceremony you will be placed where you are most comfortable, with other people like yourself, whether you’re a Dour, a Quirk, an Angry, an Orphan, a Lonely, or a Sick.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book? My nieces, ages nine and twelve, helped me to brainstorm up some ideas.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? It’s an all ages above eight or so appropriate book, so nothing too controversial, although there are some complex ideas and messages about fantasy, escape, destiny and sacrifice, if a reader chooses to seek them.
Author Autobiography:
Cameron Glenn grew up the third of seven children in Oregon. As a child he dedicated hours to the pursuits of basketball and cartooning, as well as waking up way too early for his paper route in order to earn money to buy toys, candy and comic books. He also loved to read and write, which he continues to do voraciously. He currently lives in Salt Lake City after having earned a BA in literature from Boise State.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book?
On Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and iBooks
Where can readers connect with you online? My email is [email protected]
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Camp Hollyhook. 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 sci-fi world of Lushaka, in Realm Explorers Part LXXVII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the sci-fi world of Lushaka, in Realm Explorers Part LXXVII!
-Annie Douglass Lima
My third National Novel Writing Month has finally ended, and it’s been an exciting experience! I’ve braved the 4:30 alarm clock almost every weekday morning, gained motivation and focus from word wars and sprints with other authors online, and squeezed writing into almost every spare moment I’ve had in the month of November. And now that it’s over, I have just over 97,000 words under my belt, plus a completed rough draft of my new young adult science fiction novel, Heartsong. I’ve enjoyed every step of this journey with my characters, especially when new characters not in the original outline decided to jump in and join the adventure.
I can hardly wait to dive back into the story from the beginning and start editing and touching things up, but alas, that will have to wait. The Gladiator and the Guard (the novel I drafted for last year’s NaNoWriMo and the sequel to The Collar and the Cavvarach) is next in line, since I’m hoping to publish it in the spring. The fourth book of my Annals of Alasia series, tentatively titled King of Malorn, is next.
But in the meantime, for anyone who’s curious, below is the first chapter of Heartsong. (Please bear in mind that it’s still a pretty rough draft – just a sneak preview for those who are interested, and not the final polished version.) Many thanks to my many Facebook friends who have already contributed with helpful hints about the science involved – I’m sure I’ll have lots more questions in a few months when I get back to working on it, since this is my first foray into science fiction!
I can hardly wait to dive back into the story from the beginning and start editing and touching things up, but alas, that will have to wait. The Gladiator and the Guard (the novel I drafted for last year’s NaNoWriMo and the sequel to The Collar and the Cavvarach) is next in line, since I’m hoping to publish it in the spring. The fourth book of my Annals of Alasia series, tentatively titled King of Malorn, is next.
But in the meantime, for anyone who’s curious, below is the first chapter of Heartsong. (Please bear in mind that it’s still a pretty rough draft – just a sneak preview for those who are interested, and not the final polished version.) Many thanks to my many Facebook friends who have already contributed with helpful hints about the science involved – I’m sure I’ll have lots more questions in a few months when I get back to working on it, since this is my first foray into science fiction!
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| Screenshot of my Word Count Page on the NaNoWriMo Site |
Heartsong
Chapter 1
My love of reading started the whole thing.
The best place to read on the Laika was on the lifeboats. I had discovered that on the first part of the trip, during the flight from Earth to the jump point by Phoebe. I mean, what else is there to do when you’re not close enough to any planet or moon to see much through the viewports? The view is exciting when there is one, but when you’re far away from anything, space all looks the same.
The hyperspace jump had been quick, of course, so no time to get bored there. And after we came out of it at the jump point by Somav, the flight toward Soma I was pretty exciting, too. I couldn’t stop staring as we passed Somavia, the blue and gray and white planet none of us would probably ever see that close again. It was awesome to think of the aliens who lived there and wonder what they were really like. The few decent pictures taken by the Forerunner left everyone asking more questions than they answered. And what about the planet itself? Of course we knew it was cold, being further from Somav than Earth is from our Sun. But it did have a thin but breathable atmosphere. If it hadn’t been for the alien race who already lived there — and the tirtellium that we were going to mine on Soma I — The Corporation might have decide to set up the Colony on Somavia instead of on its moon.
But we had passed Somavia three days ago, and we had been in orbit around Soma I ever since. Which was also exciting at first. I couldn’t wait to get to my new home — my permanent home. A home I would never have to leave again, never be taken away from just when I was starting to settle in. A home that I would get to help put together, along with the scientists and the miners and the rest of the Young Colonists.
The moon was prettier to look at than the planet, though not by an awful lot. It was brown and gray, with little splotches of green and blue here and there where the lakes were. There wasn’t much water, no actual oceans, but enough to support a little plant and animal life. Nothing too dangerous, at least as far as we could tell from the Forerunner’s pictures. Some fish and crustaceans that might or might not turn out to be edible to humans. Some amphibian or maybe reptilian creatures that lived in and around the lakes. Insects and a handful of different mammals, all tiny, that lived on the plains. Nothing likely to bother two hundred human colonists setting up a new home on their world.
Of course, there were the Somavian miners. We knew the Somavians had developed a limited form of space travel; we knew they had mines on Soma I too. But whatever they were mining for, it wasn’t tirtellium, and it was only in a few little spots relatively close together. We planned to set up our colony hundreds of miles away, where with any luck, they wouldn’t even know we were around. Forerunner’s sensors had not detected any other artificial satellites in orbit around either Somavia or Soma I, and as far as we knew, they had no way of knowing Forerunner was there or that we were coming.
The adults all said that hopefully we would never even have to see any Somavians, but every kid in the group hoped we would. I mean, why would anyone not want to see aliens? Anyway, from the Forerunner’s pictures, they sure seemed to be a peaceful culture, with no evidence of any wars going on down on their home world. If they did find out about us being on their moon, hopefully they wouldn’t get mad. We wouldn’t bother them, and hopefully they wouldn’t bother us. If they did get mad, well, the Laika did have some weapons. Not a lot, but enough to defend ourselves if we absolutely had to.
Of course the two hundred of us on board could hardly wait to get down there and get started with our new life. But here we were stuck in orbit, as we had been for the last three days. Three painfully long and boring days. Earth days, that is; it had been nearly five Soman days.
Atmospheric storms and solar flares. No one had anticipated that they would go on this long. At first, I was glad of the opportunity to orbit the moon and see what it was like. I had an aisle seat, though, and it was a pain to lean past three people just to see out the window. And after a while, when everyone’s excitement faded, most of them turned grouchy as they got more and more bored and impatient. The movies and games preloaded on our tablets just weren’t good enough to keep everyone happy for that long when the adventure we’d waited over a year to start was being put on hold, and I’d never been a big fan of video games and movies anyway.
So I did what I usually do when real people get too annoying. I pulled out my Kindle and turned to my true friends, the ones who would always be there for me, who I never had to say goodbye to. And I went to the one place I had found on board where nobody would bother me or interrupt my adventures to ask what I was reading or exclaim over their new high score in who-cares-what-virtual-adventure.
The Laika was designed to be taken apart when we arrived. Its decking and bulkheads would be used to help create the buildings in the colony until we could create more permanent buildings from local rock, and that was one of the reasons it was so large. But big though it was, it had no extra empty space. Every compartment was full of freeze-dried food items, mining equipment, packages of seeds for genetically modified crops designed to grow well in the moon’s dry soil, or educational resources for the youth, because even on an interstellar adventure, there was no escaping school in some form.
So I had discovered in between Earth and Phoebe that the lifeboats were the best place to read. I’m not sure if I was really supposed to be in them, but there was no lock, because after all, what would be the point of locking a place that people would have to get to in a hurry in an emergency?
And so I sat curled up on a seat in one of the lifeboats, alternating reading and looking out the viewport to see if there was anything interesting to see down below. But the lifeboat’s position was such that the window mostly looked out on space, with just a tiny sliver of Soma I visible from one edge. I could have turned on the screen, but that might trigger some sort of alert, and I didn’t want anyone coming to tell me I wasn’t supposed to be in here.
So I traveled with Caz and her friends across the Granbo system, caught up in an imaginary space adventure, since my own real space adventure had been put on hold. It would be at least another two hours until they served lunch, so I might as well get comfy and enjoy myself.
And I did — until the ship vibrated and the fasten seat belts sign flicked on.
For a moment I wondered if I should return to my seat. But what would be the point? I would be just as safe here in the lifeboat, and if the turbulence got bad, it would be a better idea not to walk around the ship with it lurching under me.
I fastened my seatbelt and kept reading. We had encountered turbulence lots of times in the last few days, thanks to the solar flares. It was no big deal.
But the vibrations got stronger, and in a moment the ship really was lurching under me. I set down my Kindle and looked around, not that there was anything to see in the little lifeboat. No clues as to what was going on. But the stars were jumping and jerking outside the window, and if it hadn’t been for my seatbelt, I knew I would have been thrown around and probably injured already. Now I wished I had returned to my seat while I could. Whatever was happening, I would rather face it with the others in the main cabin, where I could hear any announcements from Captain Tyler over the intercom and know what was going on.
Without warning, the lights in the lifeboat flickered and then went out. At the same moment a blaring alarm started screeching on and off. Now that was a first. I gasped, really worried for the first time since we had left Earth. The stars swirled and zigzagged outside the window, sending faint but frightening shadows thrashing through the escape pod around me like alien spirits trying to take over the ship. For a second I wondered if that could actually be what was happening. Maybe the Somavians had powers we didn’t know about. Maybe they were trying to drive us out of their system.
But then the emergency lights embedded in the deck by my feet glowed to life, and I let out my breath in relief. The navigational computer two rows ahead of me came on automatically, its screen lighting up green.
My relief was short-lived, though. The alarm was still blaring its warning: Screech! Silence. Screech! Silence. Screech! The turbulence was worse than ever, and now it felt like the Laika was a wild horse, bucking and leaping and trying to throw its rider off. The rider being me, gripping the edge of my seat all alone there in the lifeboat, wondering what in the universe was happening.
Suddenly the stars were gone and Soma I swung into view, filling the viewport ahead of me, a blur of gray-brown-blue-green-brown-gray. I barely had time to stare before it was gone, and the streaking stars were back. Then there was the moon again. My stomach was spinning as fast as the ship. Thank goodness I had inherited the Smith Stomach of Steel, or my breakfast probably would have ended up all around me. I could only imagine what a nasty experience that would be with the ship thrashing all around like this.
A new noise caught my attention. A mechanical noise, a series of clicks and clinks and the sliding of metal against metal. I had only ever heard it before in simulations, but I knew right away what it was. My heart caught in my throat. “No!” Not that there was anyone around to hear me yell.
Words flashed across the computer screen, big enough to read from where I sat. Lifeboat launching.
My heart hammered in terror. “No! I yelled again. I fumbled for the seatbelt clasp and flung myself across the tiny cabin the moment I was free, lunging for the manual override button beside the door. Not a smart move, I have to admit, considering how wildly everything was moving around me, but I was panicking. None of our training, none of the simulations, had dealt with what to do if the lifeboat you were sitting in alone accidentally detached from the ship.
I knew what to do if a lifeboat didn’t detach when it was supposed to. I knew which lifeboat everyone in my seating section was supposed to board in an emergency. It wasn’t this one, though they were all the same. I knew who my lifeboat buddies would be — a fairly even cross-section of the ship’s crew in terms of age and skills, so everyone would have the best possible chance of survival on the surface in case not every lifeboat made it. I knew how to steer the lifeboat and bring it down for a controlled landing, even though I wasn’t the assigned helmsperson in my group. We had all learned all those things, just in case.
But what I didn’t know was how to survive on the surface on my own, if the rest of the ship didn’t land close by or shortly after I did. There were emergency rations and survival gear stashed in every lifeboat, of course, but not enough to live off of indefinitely. Of course the lifeboat would emit a signal that the ship’s sensors would pick up — it was picking it up already, I knew, as of the moment the lifeboat had started to detach — but what if they couldn’t come and get me right away? What if they weren’t able to land for days or even weeks? What if I ended up on the opposite side of the moon from where our colony was supposed to be? Our little 4-wheel-drive trucks were designed for carrying tirtellium back from the mining site, and harvested crops from the fields to the settlement. Not for making cross-country trips across rough terrain to the opposite side of the moon to rescue a stranded kid who shouldn’t have been reading in an escape pod in the first place.
And what if the Somavians found me before my own people did?
All that went swirling through my brain in a moment as I slammed my fist into the manual override button again and again. But nothing happened. That is, the hatch didn’t open to let me out into the ship’s corridor. But a second later, the incessant alarm went silent, and the frantic jerking and thrashing stopped, replaced by a slow, gentle twirl. As my feet drifted up off the floor, the dizzy feeling in my tummy told me that the ship’s artificial gravity had stopped working.
No, that wasn’t it. The lifeboat was no longer connected to the ship.
Too horrified even to yell again, I watched the Laika drift across the viewport like a big white bird against the blackness of space, still spinning and dancing as the solar flares played havoc with its electrical systems. And then I saw only stars again, and then the gray-brown of the moon, then more stars. And then there was the Laika once more, further away this time.
I pushed off from the bulkhead, thankful for the zero-gravity training. I had to get to the controls. I had to steer myself back to the ship. But as I grabbed the back of the helmsman’s chair and maneuvered my body into it, I realized I had no idea how to reattach the lifeboat to its port on the side of the ship. They had never taught us that. Were lifeboats even designed to reattach once they were separated?
I grabbed the seatbelt, twisting my ankles around the legs of the chair so I wouldn’t float off it before I could strap myself in. The controls in front of me looked just like the ones in the simulator. I could do this. It would be just the same as I had practiced.
Except this was no game, where I struggled to beat my classmates, to be the first to land my virtual lifeboat safely. This was a real emergency.
This was my life at stake.
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.
Also at the bottom: a FREE downloadable coloring page that goes with this story!
Also at the bottom: a FREE downloadable coloring page that goes with this story!
Author’s name:
Anna Lindsay
Title of book and/or series:
Eden Undone
Brief summary of the story:
What if Eve had said no?
Take the biblical tale of Creation. And then ask… what if Eve… had said no? Would evil have given up all attempt? Or would it instead have carried on, scheming, waiting to pounce? And what then? From that joy-filled world where the lion lies down with the lamb, where we are in perfect relationship with Glory and where there is neither death nor sadness nor dissonance… how would that Unfallen family, mirroring God’s heart, react to the Fallen – and the other way around?
By imagining a universe in which the Fall is deferred by a generation, the book allows us to go behind the scenes to live and experience the events and characters of Genesis 1-4 from the inside, rather than reading about them from the outside. From first temptation to eventual fall, and the unravelling of relationship leading to that first, most shocking, conclusion, and the grace which follows, we smile, laugh, wince, mourn and rejoice with those inhabiting those days. What might it really have been like before the Fall? In practical terms. And after?
The novel is in two halves. Part I is set in Eden, and traces the tale from first moments of consciousness to cataclysmic Fall. Part II follows Cain and his family as they build their lives outside Eden’s boundaries, and the relationships which are destroyed and rebuilt.
Two great Trees. Of Life, and of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Only one forbidden. What happens when the fruit of the forbidden one is eaten? And why?Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Part I: Eden, that place where the lion lays down with the lamb, and there is perfect relationship between human and God, human and human, and human and Creation.
Part II: Fallen Earth. How would you cope with the practicalities if you were suddenly stripped of your powers and exiled to a harsher land?
If we were to visit Eden as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Join in the Great Dance!
What dangers should we avoid in Eden?
Allowing that little voice to convince you that you are unloved and unloveable, or that you have rights but no responsibility, and that consequences of your actions are unfair and unjust.
Also: I recommend that you avoid eating the fruit of that Great Tree.
And after the Fall, on earth… well, avoiding fratricidal brothers might be sensible. And relegating Glory to distant religion…
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Eden?
The fruit of the Bassar Tree. It serves the nutritional function of meat. Best roasted, unless you’re a furred or feathered carnivore.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Eden that we don’t see on Earth?Dodos and other currently extinct creatures.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Eden? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
No magic. Merely Glory’s supernatural power, that binds up the broken and heals the wounded wing, that creates a universe with His Word, and loves beyond measure. And unmarred communication – including the ability to communicate telepathically between all creatures.
Until it’s all thrown away…
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Eden.
Flying with eagles. Diving with dolphins. Tending the earth with all creation. Anything involving positive creativity or ingenuity.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Eden? Please describe what it involves.
No religion. Merely relationship.
Religion and religiosity don’t come into the picture until after they have left Eden.
What is the political or government structure in Eden? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Glory. The best sort of leader!
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Yes. Both real-life and fiction (e.g. CS Lewis’ Narnia series)
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
God. Sin. Abuse. Jealousy. Murder. Responsibility. The environment. The Bible. Free will. Multi-racial relationships…
Author Autobiography:I graduated from St.John’s College (Cambridge University) and have worked everywhere from Hong Kong (as a volunteer working with Jackie Pullinger to help drug addicts) to temping in Switzerland and as a teacher in the UK. Health challenges forced retirement, since when I have served the local community in a volunteer capacity including 16 years as a Trustee of a tiny local Registered Charity.
I am available for book signings and interviews, and if you have been encouraged, stirred, uplifted, or generally blessed by ‘Eden Undone’, then I would love to hear from you!
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book? Please include links.
As of Friday, 27 November, 2015, you can purchase Eden Undone both via Amazon.co.uk and at last [*jumping for joy!*] via Amazon.com, in both paperback and Kindle formats! Also, click here to read the first few chapters for free on this blog.
Where can readers connect with you online? Ooooh, lots of places. I’m on Twitter (my Twitter name is simply @Eden_Undone) and Facebook. And I’ve even got a website for Eden Undone, though as you’ll see, there’s still room for improvement there. But if you message me, I’ll receive it.
And now for your free coloring page! Simply right-click on the image below, save it to your computer, and print. Enjoy!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Eden. 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 magical Camp Hollyhook, in Realm Explorers Part LXXVI!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the magical Camp Hollyhook, in Realm Explorers Part LXXVI!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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: Alex Steinberg
Title of book and/or series: Millennium
Brief summary of the story:
In 2091, four years before the Great Civil War, Humanity expanded to a multitude of planets across the galaxy, setting up colonies, officially declaring themselves to be the only sentient life in the Milky Way Galaxy. They were wrong.
Nine years later, Lieutenant Commander Keane Blaze, a young, but well-respected soldier, is ordered to help evacuate the colony on Ordem, a strange desert planet. Everything goes as planned at first, until an unknown enemy initiates an ambush, destroying Keane’s transport. In order to save him, the ship’s artificial intelligence launches his cryo-pod to the surface of the planet, putting Keane into cryo-sleep for 1000 years.
Waking after his long slumber, Keane learns the enemy that long ago destroyed his transport is back, again fighting against Humanity and its allied races. With the help of a younger alien race and a mysterious figure from his past, Keane races to end the threat that this enemy poses, once and for all.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Millennium is set in the Milky Way Galaxy, starting off on the Human colony of Ordem. Later into the story, the plot transfers to the Eskrate 223, a large space station on the edge of known civilization that hosts the Cajin King, The Spectre commander, and a human delegate.
If we were to visit the Eskrate as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Well, there’s tons of things to do! You could visit the Lunar academy, which trains military officers. There is Wanata Beach, the first man made beach in space. You could visit the Cajin gardens, or go grab a bite to eat at The Bar, a Spectre owned restaurant.
What dangers should we avoid in the Eskrate?
Since the Eskrate is home to a variety of important officials, there isn’t much danger. You may have the occasional pirate raid or crime, but most threats are stopped by the police and military force.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served on the Eskrate? Human culture has influenced the development of the station significantly. Therefore, you can find familiar foods such as burgers, salad, and sandwiches. However, you can also find traditional Cajin foods like their famous red wine, or their styled sushi.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common on the Eskrate?
The military, HCSTA, used the most advanced weaponry available. Their ammunition varies from graphine bullets to laser induced plasma. Both of these types of ammunition vary on the target, using the bullets against unarmored targets and the plasma against armored opponents. Black Hole grenades are also implemented in warfare.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel to the Eskrate?
Since the Eskrate is in space, the only way to travel there is a certified ship, preferably a destroyer, carrier, or frigate equipt with a slip space engine.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter on the Eskrate that we don’t see on Earth?
As stated before, the king of the Cajin race is living on the Eskrate. The Spectres are alsostationed there, as well as the Actuell and the Txuasentshai. All of these are not found on Earth,
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Millennium? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
None. The universe of Millennium is magic free.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology on the Eskrate? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Yes. Magnetic cars free up space and help transportation, as well as transporting goods much more quickly. Energy shields are vital to the protection of the station, and ships help move items and people.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same on the Eskrate as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there? Yes, the dates are the same. The Eskrate follows the Earth Calendar, which makes it easier for the human government to link up dates.
Is there a particular religion practiced on the Eskrate? Please describe what it involves.
Other than ancient human religions, no.
What is the political or government structure on the Eskrate? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The government is composed of a trio of three leaders: Rippa, The Specter commander, Leonidas, The Cajin king, and Ben, the human delegate. These three men serve as the presidents of the Eskrate, while a larger congregation of elected officials serves as a parliament. Author Autobiography:
I’m a young author and a senior in high school! I’ve got big plans for the future, and hope to write many more books!
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book?
Where can readers connect with you online? https://www.facebook.com/Millenniumstory
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the Eskrate. 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 LXXV!
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 LXXV!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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:
Neal James
Title of book and/or series:
The Rings of Darelius
Brief summary of the story:
Darelius – a planet in crisis with its civilisation facing the treat of extinction from a virus to which it has no natural defence.
The Darelian people had not been at war for many generations, but now faced not one, but two threats, as a warlike neighbour lay in the wings, awaiting its opportunity.
The only hope of salvation lay in a cure derived from the flora of a primitive planet in the Orion System – eighty light years distant.
It all began on Balan – a planet at war, and also facing its own apocalypse – hundreds of years in Darelius’ past.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Darelius- second planet in the Arthrelian System. Mass 5.2413 x 1024Kg. Volume 1.0652098×1017km³, Circumference 3.865977×107m. Atmosphere 75% nitrogen, 22% oxygen, 3% carbon dioxide and other minor gases. Surface Pressure 100.05kPa.
Its population of just under 1billion had been stabilised for many generations and was spread evenly across a planet of dramatically contrasting climatic zones. From the frozen wastes of its polar expanses to the sultry regions of its tropical paradises, much care had been taken by its inhabitants in preserving a delicate ecological balance.
Culturally, it was, and had been for many millennia, diverse and tolerant. History had revealed alternatives too appalling, and its races had long since thrown off the xenophobia which had dogged earlier times. Politically it was a model of democracy, and a planet-wide federation ensured that, as well as guaranteeing individual freedoms, there was a collective mentality of co-operation and tranquillity.
Magnanimous in their attitudes towards friends, the Darelian people were, nevertheless, unafraid to stand up against tyranny and injustice. They had not been at war for many generations.
Orbited at its Equator by a ring system of stunning beauty, it was the jewel of the Arthrelian system.
The threat of extinction had come out of the black void of space with no warning.
Distance from Earth: approximately 80 light years.
If we were to visit Darelius as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
The rings – a halo of stunning beauty viewed clearly on approach with the Arthrelian solar system. Touchdown would reveal a planet of physical and sociological beauty; the Darelian people, comfortable in their democracy and unafraid of welcoming strangers, is a race at peace with itself, and the traveler is quickly absorbed into its cultural make-up.
What dangers should we avoid on Darelius?
Not in Darelius itself, but it its neighbours, the Kolkats. Whilst it would be unusual for the traveler to the Arthrelian System to be molested by these barbaric and warlike creatures as a result of Darelian protection, it has not been unknown for their hostility towards Darelius to manifest itself in accosting strangers crossing their path.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served on Darelius?
No – the Darelians are travelers amongst the stars and, as a result of visits to an Earth many millennia ago, much of the flora and fauna found on our own planet owes much of its genetic make-up to colonization by species from the Darelian world.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common on Darelius?
The Darelian people, whilst adopting a peaceful style of existence, are not afraid to stand up for their beliefs, and as such have an arsenal of advanced weaponry at their disposal. Sonic and laser ordnance far in advance of anything on Earth is readily available. Fighting styles and martial arts, transplanted to Earth in it distant past would be very familiar to the casual traveler.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Darelius?
Vehicular transport has surpassed the dirty fossil fuel technology prevalent on Earth. Power systems based on clean, renewable sources which power high capacity and low output electrical propulsion would be familiar to 21st century Terrans. As pointed out, flora and fauna are of similar genetic structure to that of Earth. Technologically, the Darelians are far in advance of anything available on Earth, and they are able to travel, many times faster than light, as a result of the discovery and harnessing of the Graviton – a particle unknown to their counterparts on our planet in any practical form.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter on Darelius that we don’t see on Earth?
Flora and fauna have developed in slightly different ways on Darelius, but bearing in mind that the chemical structure of the planet, and the similarity of its Star, Arthrelia, to our own sun allows for evolution in a strikingly consistent manner, any differences are fairly cosmetic and due more to slight variations in climatic conditions across the planet.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people on Darelius? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
The Darelian people are pragmatic and realistic on their approach to life. They are a scientific race whose belief systems are based firmly in what is provable. Their culture has, apart from references to the religions of its neighbours, no place for magic, superstition or the supernatural.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment on Darelius.
A race at peace, and with much time to devote to leisure and the arts, Darelian entertainment systems and facilities are very similar to those now maturing on Earth. As a consequence, their choices of relaxation activities are more widespread and varied than those which we enjoy. However, the basic rules remain the same, whilst the games etc have developed to a higher level of sophistication – there is no room for violence in any of their leisure regimes.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same on Darelius as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The Darelian calendar works in a very similar way to that of Earth. The seasons vary with the same axial angle as that of our planet, and the Darelian day is 30 hours – very close to that of the Earth. There is the same number of days in a weekly period, but there are only ten months in a Darelian year. The holidays on Darelius are not fixed to specific events such as Bank Holidays in the UK or Labor Day and Thanksgiving in the USA – the attitude to taking time away from work is much more fluid.
Is there a particular religion practiced on Darelius? Please describe what it involves.
The Darelian people evolved away from all forms of religious idolatry many millennia in their past. Their attitudes towards social integration are focused more on the needs of the peoples who inhabit the planet rather than towards any needs of a spiritual kind. This has been the main reason for their lack of internecine conflict for as long as anyone can discern.
What is the political or government structure on Darelius? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Darelius is a federation of states which grew from a tribal system in its distant past. At its head sits a democratically elected President supported by a US-style Congress of representatives. Raymond Challis is the leader of a liberal coalition of members from a variety of political persuasions, and he runs the government of the planet supported by a second tier of continental sub-parliaments. He is a benign and understanding head of state who is, nonetheless, unafraid to confront tyranny from which ever quarter it may come.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Darelius?
Since the Darelians, in their past, were visitors to a number of other galaxies including our own, it is reasonable to assume that some of their culture remained after departure. Any Earth visitor would therefore find much about Darelian society and its philosophy to compare to that ‘back home’.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
The final part of ‘The Rings of Darelius’ is set in Derby, a city in England ten miles from my home, and a place where I have worked. I am therefore familiar with the geography of the place I use for the critical phase of the plot. The cultures of the main players in the story are influenced by my reading of a number of science fiction stories, and the watching of a variety of films/TV series. Among the writers are Isaac Asimov, Frank Herbert and Arthur C. Clarke. Of the visual inspirations, I relied heavily on Gene Roddenberry’s ‘Star Trek’ series in all of its formats.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
War and inter-racial conflict are two of the more violent subject dealt with, and I found it important to maintain a balance to ensure that the ‘good guys’ didn’t always win a particular battle whilst ensuring that the end of the conflict came down on the ‘correct’ side.
Author Autobiography:Neal James is a UK author of crime fiction. He is a prolific short story writer turned novelist. ‘The Rings of Darelius’ is his first venture into the world of science fiction, and his seventh book in as many years. He lives in Derbyshire with his wife and family.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
The Rings of Darelius, as with all of my books, is available in both hard copy and digital format. It can be bought direct from the publisher, Lulu.com in paperback at:
and from Amazon on both sides of the Atlantic on paperback and on the Kindle.
It is also listed by Barnes & Noble in paperback, but should be available also on the Nook later this year.
Where can readers connect with you online?
My website: http://www.nealjames.webs.com
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Darelius. 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 LXXVI!
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 LXXVI!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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: Linda M. Crate
Title of book and/or series: Dragons & Magic (Book Two of The Magic Series)
Brief summary of the story:
Syn Seifer has never been one for confrontation or problems. Despite the faerie’s capacity to turn into a dragon, she would much rather fly away from her problems until they go away. Yet this time it isn’t an option. Syn must learn to deal with her problems and face reality and its ugly truths or risk losing the friendship of her dear friends Morgan and Byrant.
It doesn’t help that she has a crush on Morgan d’Ernos whose heart belongs to the corrupt and vile princess Cinder. Yet Syn is the only one that truly knows the evils of this girl’s heart. In order to protect Morgan, however, she hasn’t said a word. However, some secrets aren’t meant to be kept.
Syn Seifer must learn how to be brave or watch as her friends go down in the flames of destruction.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Atriel is a vast country containing many little countries as well as larger size ones – including a sub-country where the High Queen and King reside in which is also named Atriel.
If we were to visit Atriel as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
There are many countries each with their own customs and cultures so I would recommend visiting as many as possible to get to know the people and the places better. There are lots of friendly people, musicians, bards, and writers in Atriel. There are also taverns, food stands, and festivals that take place at different times of the year.
What dangers should we avoid in Atriel?
Well, there are evil people among the good so be careful of them. The vampires are a monsterous lot so remember to lock your windows and don’t invite anyone in at night that you don’t know. Also one must be careful of dragons, wyverns, demons, and monsters (including Lotus Monsters).
Also avoid the Well of Forgotten Souls – it’s an ominous pool of water so it’s a bit hard to miss, but if you’re not paying attention whilst walking in the wood, you could easily fall in.
Then there’s the evil witch Matilda – just pray that she never crosses your path.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Atriel?
Not that I can think of. Most of their food is much like ours, however, there are some baked goods in Atriel that we wouldn’t have such as: moon spear cakes which I’m told taste a lot like pomegranates and star flower pies which taste like a mixture of apples, cinnamon, with a hint of cherry. They also make wines out of star flowers and moon spears which are rather popular among commoners and nobles alike.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Atriel?
Swords, sun-soaked weaponry to defeat vampires, pure silver weaponry to defeat werewolves, bows and arrows, stakes, etc.
Fencing, archery, and hand-to-hand combat are the most common fighting styles in Atriel.
There are a lot of magic users, as well, so magic is oft used.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Atriel?
People can use magic to appear and disappear (but they have to be careful because if they use more magic than they can produce it can kill them), horses, and horse-drawn carriages.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Atriel that we don’t see on Earth?
Moon Spears, Star Flowers, Weredragonflies, Wyverns, Phoenixes, Dragons, Lotus Monsters, Centaurs, Shapeshifters, Werewolves, Vampires, Dwarves, Druids, Nymphs, Giants, Trolls, Goblins
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Atriel? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic plays a huge role in Atriel. It is used for fighting, technology, transportation, cooking, healing, and pretty much anything anyone can or could do in the basis of a normal or extraordinary day.
However, there’s a catch. You cannot use more energy than you have. If you use more energy than you possess then your own magic will kill you.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Atriel.
There are festivals that are held surrounding holidays such as Christmas, Easter, Halloween, etc. full of costumes and whimsy.
Every once and a while the High Queen and King will hold balls or masquerade balls.
There is a lot of sword fighting and fencing, sometimes for entertainment purposes. There are singers and bards.
Some of the magic users entertain children with their abilities.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Atriel as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
They celebrate the same holidays as we do.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Atriel? Please describe what it involves.
There is no one religion in Atriel. Much like on Earth there are many different peoples practicing different religions and some people who don’t practice religion, at all.
What is the political or government structure in Atriel? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
There is a High King and Queen and then many other queens and kings beneath them governing their own countries. The High King and Queen reside in the country Atriel whereas the other kings and queens have their own seperate kingdoms in the continent of Atriel.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Atriel?
Just be aware as you travel through the countries. Each one is different and so what one country may not deem offensive another one might be offended by. There are local guides, however, who are friendly and willing to teach outsiders about their country should they be willing to listen.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Some of the characters (especially the nastier ones) were inspired by rude customers that made me cry at work or people I generally dislike. I always tell people to be nice to me because if they’re not I might kill them off in a book. It’s true of some of the rude people I’ve encountered.
None of the locations or cultures, persay, were based on anything I’ve encountered in my life as of yet.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
In Dragons and Magic the hot button issues I deal with are pro-life vs. pro-choice and I try to show each side of the story and show the pros and cons of both through my different characters, there’s also the issue of overthrowing a government that doesn’t serve the people but rather themselves in a way that hurts the people.
Author Autobiography:Linda M. Crate is a Pennsylvanian native born in Pittsburgh yet raised in the rural town of Conneautville. Her poetry, short stories, articles, and reviews have been published in a myriad of magazines both online and in print. Recently her two chapbooks A Mermaid Crashing Into Dawn (Fowlpox Press – June 2013) and Less Than A Man (The Camel Saloon – January 2014) were published. Her fantasy novel Blood & Magic was published in March 2015. Her novel Dragons & Magic is forthcoming through Ravenswood Publishing.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
The first novel of this series Blood & Magic can be found at these listings:
Here’s a listing of where you can find Dragons & Magic:
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Atriel. 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 fantasy world, in Realm Explorers Part LXXIII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another fantasy world, in Realm Explorers Part LXXIII!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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:
Lea Doué
Title of book and/or series:
The Firethorn Crown (Firethorn Chronicles 1)
Brief summary of the story:
Princess Lily, the eldest of twelve sisters and heir to a mighty kingdom, desperately seeks a break from her mother’s matchmaking. Tradition forbids marriage with the man Lily loves, so she would rather rule alone than marry someone who’s only after the crown.
Fleeing an overzealous suitor, Lily stumbles into a secret underground kingdom where she and her sisters encounter a mysterious sorcerer-prince and become entangled in a curse that threatens the safety of her family and her people. Lily can free them, but the price for freedom may be more than she’s willing to pay.
The Firethorn Crown, a re-imagining of “The Twelve Dancing Princesses,” is the first novel in the Firethorn Chronicles, a series inspired by fairy tales and other stories.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The world of the Firethorn Chronicles consists of eleven kingdoms spread over a central continent, a large island to the west, and a smaller island to the southeast. The Firethorn Crown is set in the kingdom of Ituria, at the southernmost end of the mainland. The twelve princesses live in the capital of Eltekon.
If we were to visit Eltekon as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Definitely visit during the week of Dragon Festival. Enjoy food from the street vendors, see a play in an outdoor theater, and maybe catch sight of one of the princesses mingling with the people.
What dangers should we avoid in Eltekon?
Dragons, but only certain species. Many are harmless, some are helpful, and others can be easily avoided. The razor-tail dragons are the main threat, and they’re the reason for the Dragon Festival—a celebration of the end of the Dragon Wars, a span of years during which the razor-tails were cleared from the ravaged kingdoms.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Eltekon?
Weapons and fighting styles vary based on which dragons the soldiers encounter. Each kingdom has their own Dragon Guard to make regular patrols of their lands, and most soldiers have a special skill at facing one type of dragon or another.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used for travel in the kingdoms?
Many people still travel by foot. Main roads are well maintained, and caravans travel frequently between major cities. Private coaches and guards are used by the wealthy. Horses, camels, and oxen are used, as well. Dragons are not ridden, except in the kingdom of Xafila, where wingless red dragons, the size of draft horses, are trained to carry royalty. No other large species of dragon is docile enough to permit such handling.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in the kingdoms that we don’t see on Earth?
Dragons. Lots of species, all sizes, in every environment. All dragons have a tendency to hoard something, with varying degrees of aggression when their hoard is threatened.
What role, if any, does magic play in the lives of people in Eltekon? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Sorcery is considered unnatural, and it is unhealthy to the wielder. Sorcery takes decades to master and must be learned one-on-one as an apprentice, as no sorcery books exist. Sorcerers are generally mistrusted and considered deceivers.
What is the political or government structure in Ituria? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he?
Ituria is currently ruled by King Brido, a favorite among the people. His mother ruled alone for a number of years after her husband died before stepping down to let Brido take the crown. Both men and women can inherit in Ituria, whether it’s the crown or property.
Some of the other kingdoms favor male heirs over female, but will allow either. And some will allow only male heirs to ascend the throne.
Author Autobiography:A native of south Georgia, Lea currently lives in Nova Scotia, Canada with her husband, their two boys, a rescue greyhound, and a cat. But, sadly, no dragons. Homeschooling and writing take up most of her time, but she also enjoys directing a small puppet team at her church. The Firethorn Crown, a re-imagining of “The Twelve Dancing Princesses,” is the first novel in the Firethorn Chronicles, a series inspired by fairy tales and other stories.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book? Please include links.
You can purchase The Firethorn Crown on Amazon in ebook or paperback format.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Visit my website, where you can sign up for my newsletter, read more about the twelve princesses, and visit the ever-growing dragon dictionary.
I also have boards on Pinterest for The Firethorn Crown and for the twelve princesses.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Eltekon. 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 world of Atriel, in Realm Explorers Part LXXII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the fantasy world of Atriel, in Realm Explorers Part LXXII!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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:
Jenelle Leanne Schmidt
Title of book and/or series:
The Minstrel’s Song (King’s Warrior, Second Son, and Yorien’s Hand are the first three books in this series, with Minstrel’s Call hopefully coming out in 2016)
Brief summary of the story:
When Dark Warriors invade her country, it is up to Princess Kamarie to seek out the legendary king’s warrior and request his aid. The feisty princess has spent her life dreaming of adventure and is thrilled to be tasked with such a quest. There’s only one thing that can dampen the princess’s excitement: Oraeyn. The squire views his task of protecting the princess on her journey as an inglorious assignment and makes no attempt to hide his disappointment.
Despite a rocky start to their journey – in which Oraeyn throws the obnoxious princess in a river just to get her to call him by name – the travelers soon learn that they must depend upon one another if they are to locate the man they have been sent to find.
The adventure merely begins when they meet Brant: a warrior with a mysterious past. He joins their cause readily, his heart smoldering with a vendetta Kamarie cannot completely understand. But whether she trusts him or not, the hope of their world rests on the steel he wears at his side….
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The world of this story is called Tellurae Aquaous. It is a world of kingdoms separated by oceans. There are eleven “island countries” each ruled separately from the others. Some are large, some are small, some are one big land mass, others are a sort of archipelago, and they each have their own individual terrains. Aom-igh, the realm in which the first story takes place, has a lot of forests, farm land, and a massive mountain range separating the northern and southern halves of the kingdom. There is also a beautiful cove that is magically shielded from the rest of the realm, a dangerous, rocky desert, and a hidden, underground network of enormous caves that is a kingdom unto itself.
If we were to visit Tellurae Aquaous as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Focusing on Aom-igh, because much of the story in all four books centers on that nation, I would definitely recommend you visit the capital city of Aom-igh: Ayollan. There is much in the city to be enjoyed. Inns, beautiful scenery, and good food are all to be found in plenty. There are also minstrels and artists who make their homes in the city, so entertainment and souvenirs are easily found. The palace is enormous and beautiful, and there are some enchanted rooms you won’t want to miss – definitely try to get a tour!
If you’re needing some peace and quiet, Pearl Cove is one of the hidden gems of this land. With sweeping white sand beaches, gently sloping dunes, and the sapphire ocean, this peaceful haven from the stresses of everyday life will soothe your cares away. You will also find the entrance to the underground realm of Krayghentaliss there, where you can catch a glimpse of the fabled Ember Stones, and visit the ancient libraries of the dragons.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, I would definitely recommend you hike in the Mountains of Dusk. It’s a wilderness, but not incredibly dangerous. Also, you might just be lucky enough to spot a dragon or a gryphon while you’re exploring!
What dangers should we avoid in Tellurae Aquaous?
You are definitely going to want to be on the lookout for were-folk. These are creatures who were created from leftover bits of shadow and darkness by an Ancient Enemy who wished to set himself up as the ruler of the land. These creatures are usually found in small groups. Nobody is sure just how many different kinds of were-folk there are, but they are nasty creatures who kill for pleasure. Seheowks are the most common of these creatures – they are tall, wiry, and vaguely human shaped but with clawed hands and feet. They dislike light and are terrified of fire. You generally don’t have to worry about them in Aom-igh, but they are a plague upon the rocky shores of Llycaelon.
There are also the usual dangers of falling when rock-climbing, drowning while crossing a river, or perishing in an attack from an invading army, as well as being stabbed in the back by a betrayer, but these are all ordinary, commonplace dangers that one might find anywhere, and should not in any way deter you from visiting our fine land.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Tellurae Aquaous?
The food you encounter will be slightly different from what you are used to, as it is prepared differently. There is a lot of bread and cheese. Soups and stews are common as they can be thrown into a pot with various vegetables and kept warm over the fire all day. Chicken, beef, and lamb are the common meats, though beef is considered a luxury. As people spend long hours outside working in the fields, herding animals, or traveling, a common food that you will find is a mixture of oats, finely chopped grains, raisins, and nuts all held together by honey in clumps. This is fondly known as “rations.”
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Tellurae Aquaous?Swords, daggers, and bows are common in Tellurae Aquaous. The knights of Aom-igh are fairly traditional knights, though they wear light armor and fight with hand-and-a-half swords. In Llycaelon, all forms of fighting are taught and encouraged. The aethalons (warriors) of Llycaelon usually wear dark-colored leather armor and fight with swords or bows, though they are trained in many weapons.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Tellurae Aquaous?
Traveling is generally done on horseback, though carriages are also available upon request.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Tellurae Aquaous that we don’t see on Earth?
You may encounter dragons, gryphons, pegasus, unicorns, and mer-folk in Tellurae Aquaous. This is not guaranteed, however, as these creatures have not always been welcomed by humankind and have retreated from the world in many places. They also have the ability to shape-shift and take on other forms, so you may not always realize it when you meet one of these creatures. It is best to be polite to all strangers.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Tellurae Aquaous? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic in Tellurae Aquaous is hereditary, and based on one’s race. Dragons, of course, possess the greatest power. Unicorns have an unmatched ability to heal all kinds of ailments. Wizards and wizardesses are extremely rare, as there was a war many years ago and the population never recovered. The last great wizard died two decades ago, and though he left behind four daughters, they are not full wizardesses, as their mother was a mermaid.
Magic is a tool, used for good or ill by the one wielding it. There is no such thing as “evil magic” or “good magic” in this world. It is the user’s intent that determines the morality of this power. It can be used for healing, finding lost things, communicating across great distances, and creating protective shields. It can also be used to conquer, to create creatures such as the were-folk, or to bend another’s will to one’s purpose.
There are also a very few, extremely rare and precious objects within the confines of Tellurae Aquaous that possess a power of their own. These are objects that have been gifted to the world by Cruithaor Elchiyl (the Creator). One such item is Yorien’s Hand. Nobody knows what, exactly, Yorien’s Hand is, though legend states that it is a fallen star. Visitors to our fair land may view this powerful object in the Ruined Palace of the High Kings located on Emnolae… if they dare. Be warned, however, nobody looks upon Yorien’s Hand and remains unchanged!
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Tellurae Aquaous.
A notable game that is played by many in Tellurae Aquaous is a board game called Karradoc. This game is played on a board covered in 20×20 squares. Each player has a hand of cards, and chooses anywhere from 6-20 pieces to start. These pieces range in point value from 1-5, and regardless of number of pieces, each player must start with 30 points. All pieces may move in whatever direction they like (and may change direction mid-turn) however many spaces corresponds with their point value (e.g. 1 point pieces may move one space in any direction, but 5 point pieces may move 5 spaces in any direction and may change direction mid-turn) however, a piece may not touch any square twice in one turn.
A player captures his opponent’s piece by both moving one of his pieces onto the same square as that of his opponent’s piece and playing a “capture” token. Pieces can only be captured by a piece of equal or greater value, or with a token that allows for an eight-sided die (that has three 1s, two 2s, two 3s, and one 4 printed on it) to be rolled and added to the value of a token (thus a 1-point piece could, conceivably, capture a 5-point piece with a roll of 4).
The game ends when one player has captured all of his opponent’s pieces. The game is won by whomever has captured his opponent’s pieces OR by whomever has the most points left on the board once all the capture tokens have been used.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Tellurae Aquaous as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Days, weeks, and months are fairly similar in Tellurae Aquaous to what we experience on Earth. They refer to the seasons as New Term (Spring), Warm Term (Summer), Change Term (Fall), and Cold Term (Winter). In Aom-igh they celebrate birthdays and coronations and harvest time with great gusto. In Llycaelon they celebrate more sparingly, making a big deal out of individual achievements and attaining rank. In Yochathain they tend to celebrate anything and everything about life that one can think of.
A notable difference between Telluarae Aquaous and Earth is that they refer to the sun by the name “Dragon’s Eye” and the moon is called the “Toreth.”
Is there a particular religion practiced in Tellurae Aquaous? Please describe what it involves.
There is no religion per se. A widely held belief is that there is a Creator, and those who strive to follow his will know him more personally by his name: Cruithaor Elchiyl. Most people do not think much about the Creator, preferring to believe that he is distant and uninvolved in the trivial matters of daily life.
They are wrong, of course. He is very involved and cares deeply for the details of their lives and world. However, he prefers to work through his messengers and those who trust him.
What is the political or government structure in Tellurae Aquaous? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
As I said, the island countries are each ruled by their own king. However, there is precedent for a High King to rule over the entirety of Tellurae Aquaous in times of great danger and need. In order for someone to become High King, he must travel to Emnolae and touch the relic known as Yorien’s Hand. If the relic does not destroy him, then he is proven to be the rightful leader for that time.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Tellurae Aquaous?
Not among humans. It is best to be on one’s best behavior around myth-folk, however. Particularly around dragons. They are sticklers for proper etiquette and it is very important that you address them politely. They will usually excuse lack of correct manners and chalk it up to an incomplete education, but lack of any manners at all could get a person eaten. Also, it is very important never to look directly into a dragon’s eyes. They will hypnotize you and either control you or eat you, depending on their mood. They cannot help it, and will feel regretful later, but that won’t do you much good.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?The Harshlands of Aom-igh are a vast, windswept desert of rock and sand. The winds of that area are dangerous and deadly. The driving wind and tiny grains of sand will strip off exposed skin. I got this idea one day when my family and I went to the beach on Lake Michigan. It was extremely windy and I was the only one wearing shorts. The sand whipping against my legs hurt severely and everyone in my family laughed at me, not believing how much the sand truly hurt. So, I wrote it into my story in an attempt to describe it.
I think a lot of the ideas for locations in this story stem from places I’ve been. The Lake District in England, the countryside around Edinburgh, the forests I grew up exploring in Illinois, my camping adventure in Canada, the mountains in Colorado… every place I’ve been has flavored the locations I write about, even though I may not be consciously picking a specific area to “copy” these experiences are woven throughout my writing.
Author Autobiography:
Jenelle Schmidt grew up in the northern-midwest. She now resides with her husband and their three adorable children in North Carolina where the summers are too hot and there is never enough snow. Jenelle fell in love with reading at a young age during family storytimes. To this day she enjoys creating exciting adventure tales filled with poignant themes and compelling characters in the fantasy and sci-fi genres.Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
You can buy King’s Warrior in paperback on Amazon and in Kindle form.
You can buy Second Son in paperback on Amazon and in Kindle form.
Yorien’s Hand is coming soon!
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Tellurae Aquaous. 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 fantasy world, in Realm Explorers Part LXXI!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another fantasy world, in Realm Explorers Part LXXI!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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: Juli D. Revezzo
Title of book and/or series: DRUID WARRIOR’S HEART (Celtic Stewards Chronicles, book 2)
Brief summary of the story:
As the latest in her family’s long line of Stewards, Ruth Macken awaits the arrival of a warrior sworn to the Tuatha dé Danaan, the Celtic gods her family has served since the beginning of time. For on that day, a magical battle will erupt. A war between druids and an evil that will decide the fate of mankind.
Isaac Connel knows the battle is imminent, and is ready to fight, once again but from the moment he sees Ruth flitting around the sacred ground, he’s captivated by her fiery charms and a need to protect her.
Despite Isaac’s assurances and the dreams that guide her, what can Ruth and her lover do to drive off this evil? Despite everything, will the world end at the hands of an evil god?
Isaac Connel knows the battle is imminent, and is ready to fight, once again but from the moment he sees Ruth flitting around the sacred ground, he’s captivated by her fiery charms and a need to protect her.
Despite Isaac’s assurances and the dreams that guide her, what can Ruth and her lover do to drive off this evil? Despite everything, will the world end at the hands of an evil god?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Bitter Thorn Grove is a small farm in a fictitious version of 16th century Ireland. Outside the farm lies a small village, but large enough to accommodate a church and a glimpse of the mountains and sea.
If we were to visit Bitter Thorn Grove as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
You could seek out the stone circle nearby or the garrison, both of which the harshad warriors and there druids visit now and then.
What dangers should we avoid in Bitter Thorn Grove?
I wouldn’t recommend going anywhere near Old Bog Road. You never know what kind of creatures the nasty Balor might send after you!
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Bitter Thorn Grove?
Given the time period, the question is what wouldn’t they have? Potatoes had not been introduced into Ireland, at the time.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Bitter Thorn Grove?
The harshadwarriors carry weapons that can shapeshift to whatever their battle calls for at any given time—a sword, a knife, an ax, whatever. And they do know some martial techniques that might not have been in known in the real 16thcentury Ireland. 😉 They are working for gods, after all.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Bitter Thorn Grove?
Since Ruth and Isaac live in the 16th century, they have limited technology. Ruth and her mother work on looms and spinning wheels, and they tend the farm with the help of cart and horse. They do have some other things that their neighbors irl wouldn’t have. See below.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Bitter Thorn Grove that we don’t see on Earth?
There are the Harbingers. They’re lizard-like supernatural fiends Balor sends to taunt Ruth and Isaac—frequently. And there are also mermaid-like but rather nasty beings Isaac and company call Selkies.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in DRUID WARRIOR’S HEART? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
The harshad warriors command battle magic; as I said before their weapons can take on any needed shape. They can also teleport here and there—and they can understand signs from various animals. The druids have their own special magic and can weave spells to protect Ruth and her family. Ruth has her own steward magic in that she can affect the well-being of the animals and plants on her farm.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Bitter Thorn Grove? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
See above. They are generally on par with historical technology of the time (though I will say, because of Ruth’s status, she’s a little farther ahead than her neighbors. Her family have developed insulation techniques that weren’t available in our real history.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Bitter Thorn Grove.
One of Ruth’s guests is a druid who, according to her colleagues, is one of the Tuatha dé Danaan’s top bards. So she recites poetry and stories. They also have a few musicians who entertain her from and her neighbors from time to time.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Bitter Thorn Grove as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Yes; though due to the nature of the druids, Isaac and Ruth also commemorate the Irish fire festivals, particularly Imbolc (February 2nd).
Is there a particular religion practiced in the 16thcentury Ireland of Bitter Thorn Grove? Please describe what it involves.
Ruth attends the Catholic Church, but she leans toward the druid holidays and those related to the Tuatha dé Danaan.
What is the political or government structure in 16thcentury Ireland? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The Lord Marshal is (or rather, was) at that time (historically), in charge of that part of Ireland.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit 16thcentury Ireland?
Everyone must attend church on Sundays.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I’ve studied Celtic mythology most of my life and the whole structure of the harshad warriors and their druids stems from that. Though, I threw in more magic than the historical druids were known to have wielded. 😉
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
There’s a little bit of the historical status of women and also the history of the Druids.
Author Autobiography:Juli D. Revezzo is a Florida girl with a love of speculative and romantic fiction and legend, and loves writing stories with all kinds of fantastical elements. She is the author of The Antique Magic series and the Paranormal Romance Celtic Stewards Chronicles series, New Adult romance Changeling’s Crown, and short stories published in ETERNAL HAUNTED SUMMER, LUNA STATION QUARTERLY, among others. She is also a member of the Independent Author Network and the Magic Appreciation Tour.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book?
DRUID WARRIOR’S HEART is available (currently) at Amazon and the paperback can be purchased through Createspace.
Where can readers connect with you online?
My website: http://julidrevezzo.com
They can follow me on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/julidrevezzo
or Twitter: @julidrevezzo
They can follow me on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/julidrevezzo
or Twitter: @julidrevezzo
Thank you for having me here at your lovely little home, Annie!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Bitter Thorn Grove. 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 world of Tellurae Aquaous, in Realm Explorers Part LXX!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the fantasy world of Tellurae Aquaous, in Realm Explorers Part LXX!
-Annie Douglass Lima