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.
Don’t forget! At the bottom of this post there is a link to enter a giveaway for a number of free books, including Prince of Malorn!
Don’t forget! At the bottom of this post there is a link to enter a giveaway for a number of free books, including Prince of Malorn!
Author’s name: Annie Douglass Lima
Title of series: Annals of Alasia
Titles of books: The main trilogy consists of Prince of Alasia, In the Enemy’s Service, and Prince of Malorn. There is a short companion book entitled Annals of Alasia: The Collected Interviews.
Brief summary of the series:
Each book in the trilogy deals with events surrounding the same major political incident: the invasion of the kingdom of Alasia by the neighboring kingdom of Malorn. Prince of Alasia begins on the night of the Invasion and describes what happens to twelve-year-old Prince Jaymin after he is forced to flee for his life. In the Enemy’s Service tells the story of those who were not able to escape from the Alasian palace when the enemy invaded. Prince of Malorn begins several months earlier and focuses on the Malornian perspective of the events leading up to the Invasion. In each of the books, main characters from the others make brief appearances and interact with each other at the point where the timeframes and settings overlap. Though each of the three can stand on its own, they each fill in gaps left by the others and together provide a much more complete picture of what was going on in the two kingdoms.
Annals of Alasia: The Collected Interviews is a collection of twenty-four “interviews” I conducted with major and minor characters in the other three books. Though not a novel in and of itself, it is interesting to read alongside the trilogy. In the interviews, characters reveal more about their personalities, motivations, and backgrounds, talking about themselves in their own “voice” and giving extra insights into the events of the series. You can download it for free here.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:The kingdom of Malorn is mostly surrounded by a huge mountain range that curves around it to the east, south, and west. To the north, the Grenn River separates Malorn from Alasia. The Impassable Mountains, as their name suggests, are dangerous and difficult to travel through even in summer, and almost impossible in winter. The highest peaks are covered with snow all year round.
Two races of people live in Malorn. The Mountain Folk are a small, nomadic tribe of hunters and gatherers who live in extended family groups up in the Impassables. Each family keeps a flock of goats for milk and meat. They seldom venture down to the “Lowlands”, as they call the rest of Malorn, except when they must trade for supplies in one of the foothill towns. But they are suspicious of Lowlanders, whom they accuse of cheating them in trade and mistreating them, and they avoid interaction with them whenever possible.
Lowlanders (who think of themselves simply as “regular” Malornians) live mostly on the plains, where they make a living through a variety of trades. Many work as farmers, since the weather there is mild and ideal for growing a variety of crops. Coffee grows well in the foothills, so you’ll find coffee farmers there, but few Lowlanders care to venture much higher than that. Miners do travel into the mountains in search of gold, but again, most of them prefer to set up camp in the foothills where it’s safer and life is easier. Those who live on or travel into the lower slopes of the Impassables are suspicious of Mountain Folk, whom they regard as dirty and primitive. They often accuse the Mountain Folk of cheating them in trade and stealing crops.
If we were to visit Malorn as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
If you like hiking or mountain climbing, there are numerous rugged and scenic spots to explore. If shopping is your thing, you may enjoy browsing some of the high-class shops in Sazellia, the capital city, where you can buy fine clothing, jewelry, or gold decorations for your home. Music is popular throughout the Lowlands, and minstrels can often be found performing in taverns, parks, or on street corners. It’s polite to leave a coin or two if you stop to listen. The best musicians perform in large concert halls where admission is expensive, but if people like a street minstrel’s performance, they may hire him or her to play for a party or special event at a more reasonable price.
What is the political or government structure in Malorn? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?Malorn is a constitutional monarchy, so the king there has less power than in neighboring Alasia. The government is made up of a High Council, which includes the king and up to 19 other members, and a majority vote among them is required to pass new laws or make most decisions for the kingdom.
King Kerman passed away under suspicious circumstances four years ago. His son, Prince Korram, was still too young to take the throne (the legal minimum age for kingship in Malorn is 18), so a regent was chosen from among the king’s High Council to hold the reins of power until the prince came of age. An honorary member of the High Council in the meantime, the prince can offer input into the running of the government but has little real power. Regent Rampus, on the other hand, has done much to improve life for Malorn’s citizens and thus has been gaining popularity throughout the kingdom. Conveniently, his political opponents have almost all dropped out of the picture due to a variety of unfortunate circumstances. Rumor has it that if Prince Korram were prevented for any reason from taking the throne next year, the High Council would be sure to select Rampus as the next king. In the meantime, Rampus continues to rule in Korram’s name, and the kingdom rests assured in the knowledge that their beloved regent is assisting the inexperienced prince in his royal duties.
Prince Korram is concerned that Rampus may not be planning to allow him to survive to his eighteenth birthday next year. But there is no one to turn to for help, since practically everyone of any consequence in the kingdom is under the regent’s control in one way or another. Even the military answers to him. Only Malorn’s reclusive Mountain Folk, who care nothing for Lowland politics, are certain not to be influenced by any threats, bribes, or promises from Rampus. And so Korram determines to journey into the Impassables to recruit his own personal army from among them, hoping thus to protect himself until he can legally claim his rightful throne.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Malorn that we don’t see on Earth?
A root vegetable similar to a turnip, called lumjum, grows plentifully in the mountains. Other plants in Malorn are pretty much the same as those you’d find in similar climates on Earth. If you trek high enough up in the mountains, you may glimpse a snowcat, though I don’t recommend trying to find one or getting close to it if you do. This pure white, long-haired feline is about the size of a tiger and at least as dangerous. Korram has two separate (and very different) encounters with snowcats during his time in the Impassables.
Humans are the only sentient race in Malorn. However, Mountain Folk would argue that their horses are more intelligent and affectionate than mere animals.
What dangers should we avoid in Malorn?It would be unwise to venture into the Impassables alone or with anyone not familiar with the area. Besides the risk of getting lost, you would probably have difficulty finding food, unless you’re experienced in wilderness survival and living off the land. In addition, you would face the possibility of blizzards and avalanches on the higher slopes. Wild animals, including snakes, wolves, bears, and snowcats, are plentiful there. If you met any Mountain Folk, they would be unlikely to help you for free, though for enough money they would probably sell you goat milk or a little of their food.
You would be much safer in the Lowlands, though there is always the risk of encountering pickpockets and other petty criminals in the cities. Regent Rampus is not to be trifled with, but unless you plan on speaking out publicly against his leadership, you are not likely to attract his attention.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Malorn?
I hope you like coffee! It’s by far the most popular beverage in the Lowlands and is available at any time of day anywhere food or drinks are served. You can request it pretty much however you like, but it’s most commonly brewed strong and served with cream. Lunch and dinner often include either potatoes or a variety of flatbread made with several types of grain, served beside vegetables (and meat, for those who can afford it). A popular breakfast dish among the upper class involves eggs scrambled with cheese and sausage.
Mountain Folk have an unusual meal schedule which they fit around their day’s work schedule. They typically wake up early to milk their goats, and then they share a small “meal” of goat milk. after that, two or three members of the extended family group will take the goats out for the day to graze on a nearby slope (the grass is better the higher you go). They will usually pack leftover cooked meat or other food to eat later in the day. Meanwhile, the rest of the family will spend the next few hours working in the area where they are camped (usually in a valley by a stream or river). They fish and gather nuts, berries, lumjum, and other edible plants, or they may go further afield to hunt. They also spend time shaping tools from wood, stone, or bone; gathering firewood; or skinning animals they have caught, tanning their hides, and sewing them into clothing or bags or tents. In the autumn, they will butcher several of their goats and dry the meat to last through the winter. They keep busy at these tasks through most of the day, but they do take a break in the mid morning for breakfast. In the early evening when the goats are brought back to camp, everyone stops their other work to help milk them. After that, they eat supper and drink the milk together. Both breakfast and supper can consist of meat, fruit, and small fried cakes made from mashed lumjum. Though they don’t eat lunch, Mountain Folk snack on berries or anything else edible they come across throughout the day.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Malorn?Soldiers in the Lowlands fight with broadswords. Mountain Folk make wooden spears, though they’re primarily for fishing. They occasionally use them to protect their goats from predators or to scare Lowlanders who they feel are threatening them, but on the whole they are a peaceful people and practice no traditional fighting techniques. This makes Korram’s job all the harder when he seeks to raise and train an army from among them.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Malorn?
Lowlanders usually ride horses (or mules, if they’re traveling in the foothills). Carriages are common among the upper class, and farmers will take their crops to market in carts or wagons. Mountain Folk use horses as pack animals when they move camp every few weeks to find fresh grazing. They seldom actually ride them, though, except occasionally for short hunting trips.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Malorn as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Yes, they are the same, though only Lowlanders use them. Mountain Folk don’t keep track of days or months, measuring time only with seasons and phases of the moon.
Every year, Mountain Folk look forward to the Mid-Autumn Gathering. This week-long event is basically a reunion in which their entire tribe comes together in a certain valley deep in the Impassables. During this time, most work ceases, and friends and extended family members who haven’t seen each other since last year can relax and enjoy each other’s company. Weddings always take place at this gathering. It’s also a time to share news and discuss any issues of interest to the whole tribe. During the rest of the year, the Mountain Folk live and travel in extended family groups, usually of ten to fifteen people, but at the annual Gathering, these groups are often rearranged so people can spend the coming year with different relatives. Occasionally unmarried young adults will arrange to spend a year with someone else’s family, especially if they are hoping to get to know a friend of the opposite gender better.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Malorn.
Most Malornians in the Lowlands are more interested in the performing arts than in sports. Horse races are popular, though, and many people from the middle and upper class enjoy social outings on horseback through meadows and farmland, often including a picnic.
For most of the year, Mountain Folk lead busy lives that don’t leave much room for sports and games. In the Mid-Autumn Gathering, however, they often engage in activities such as archery and spear-throwing contests, and young people play games similar to tag and hide-and-seek on horseback.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Racial prejudice is a theme I delve into in Prince of Malorn. Those Mountain Folk and Lowlanders who are willing to get to know each other and learn the reasons behind their cultural differences find that they are not as different as they had thought. But they come to realize that they can’t just blame the other group and sit around waiting for “them” to stop mistreating “us”. Both sides have wronged each other over the years, and both need to be willing to take the first step toward reconciliation. I believe it’s the same in our world: it’s easy to hide behind cultural differences and assume that “they” are strange and different and “we” are normal, and “they” are in the wrong for any conflict or misunderstandings. But if we’re willing to get to know each other and learn about each other’s cultures, I think we’ll all discover that we’re not as different as we might think.
Author Autobiography:
Annie Douglass Lima spent most of her childhood in Kenya and later graduated from Biola University in Southern California. She and her husband Floyd currently live in Taiwan, where she teaches fifth grade at Morrison Academy. She has been writing poetry, short stories, and novels since her childhood, and to date has published eight books (three YA action adventure/fantasy novels, a collection of character interviews, one puppet script, and four anthologies of her students’ poetry, all available through the links in the sidebar to the right). Besides writing, her hobbies include reading (especially fantasy and science fiction), scrapbooking, and international travel.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
Prince of Alasia ($2.99 temporarily 99 cents)
In the Enemy’s Service ($2.99 temporarily 99 cents)
Prince of Malorn ($3.99 temporarily 99 cents)
Annals of Alasia: The Collected Interviews (available for free!)
Where can readers connect with you online?
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: https://twitter.com/princeofalasia
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGoodreads
Amazon Author Page: http://bit.ly/AnnieDouglassLimaOnAmazon
Google Plus: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGooglePlus
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Malorn. 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 a science fiction world known simply as The City, in Realm Explorers Part XXXXII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to a science fiction world known simply as The City, in Realm Explorers Part XXXXII!
-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 books.
Author’s name: Annie Douglass Lima
Title of series: Annals of Alasia
Titles of books: The main trilogy consists of Prince of Alasia, In the Enemy’s Service, and Prince of Malorn. There is a short companion book entitled Annals of Alasia: The Collected Interviews.
Brief summary of the story:
Each book in the trilogy deals with events surrounding the same major political incident: the invasion of the kingdom of Alasia by the neighboring kingdom of Malorn. Prince of Alasia begins on the night of the Invasion and describes what happens to twelve-year-old Prince Jaymin after he is forced to flee for his life. In the Enemy’s Service tells the story of those who were not able to escape from the Alasian palace when the enemy invaded. Prince of Malorn begins several months earlier and focuses on the Malornian perspective of the events leading up to the Invasion. In each of the books, main characters from the others make brief appearances and interact with each other at the point where the timeframes and settings overlap. Though each of the three can stand on its own, they each fill in gaps left by the others and together provide a much more complete picture of what was going on in Alasia and Malorn.
Annals of Alasia: The Collected Interviews is a collection of twenty-four “interviews” I conducted with major and minor characters in the other three books. Though not a novel in and of itself, it would be interesting to read alongside the trilogy. In the interviews, characters reveal more about their personalities, motivations, and backgrounds, talking about themselves in their own “voice” and giving extra insights into the events of the series. You can download it for free here.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
I’ll focus mainly on the kingdom of Alasia in this post. It has four medium to large cities (Almar, Tainabi, Wistra, and Mosra), along with hundreds of smaller towns and villages. Alasia is on a peninsula just north of Malorn, which is its only bordering nation. Its culture, level of technology, etc. are much like that of medieval Europe. The climate is warm in the summer and uncomfortably cold in the winter, though you won’t often find snow except up in the hills. The people who live there are human, and there are no other sentient races.
If we were to visit Alasia as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
If you enjoy swimming or sunbathing, Alasia has miles and miles of beautiful beaches, and you might see dolphins playing in the surf or sea lions sunning themselves there. A large factory in the city of Wistra produces glass for the kingdom for both practical and decorative purposes; they give free tours, and there is a gift shop where you can purchase glass tableware and other souvenirs. You should definitely make sure you stop by the capital city of Almar to see the magnificent palace on its hill overlooking the sea, although you probably won’t be allowed inside unless you have royal connections.
What dangers should we avoid in Alasia?As in most cities anywhere, I would recommend staying away from low-income areas at night, especially if you’re alone. Overall, though, Alasia has been primarily a safe and peaceful kingdom until recently. Now, you’ll want to avoid the Malornian soldiers (easily identifiable in their red and black uniforms) who patrol the streets of every major city along with many of the smaller towns. Though officially looking for the missing prince who slipped through their fingers on the night of the Invasion, they also tend to be looking for trouble. Avoid antagonizing them or even catching their attention if you can help it, and if you’re lucky they will leave you alone.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Alasia?
If you’re fortunate enough to be invited to a royal banquet, you will be served delicacies such as roast venison in a honey glaze, smoked salmon with lime sauce, and/or apricot stuffed quail. At an average inn, you might eat roast pork or beef with gravy, mixed vegetables, and bread or potatoes. In the coastal towns, little stands selling fresh grilled seafood are common.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Alasia?
The military uses broadswords and shields, along with bows and arrows. Twelve-year-old Prince Jaymin is skilled with both the bow and sword, though neither does him much good when he is forced to live in disguise. Erik, Jaymin’s young bodyguard, is an expert in using unarmed combat against sword- and dagger-wielding opponents, which is a more useful and much less common skill.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used for travel in Alasia?
Those who can afford one usually ride a horse, and many people in the middle or upper class also own a carriage, wagon, cart, or small buggy, depending on their occupation. Boat travel between coastal cities is common as well.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Alasia.
Bow hunting is common throughout the kingdom, and garden archery is a popular hobby among the upper class. It’s also common for wealthy families to have their sons trained in fencing (using unsharpened weapons only). Many families entertain themselves indoors (especially on winter evenings) by telling stories, singing, or playing card games. Outside, children often jump rope or play a sport similar to soccer. Those who can’t afford a real ball will fashion a makeshift one from a bundle of rags tied up tightly with twine.
What is the political or government structure in Alasia? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Alasia is a monarchy. King Jaymin III was the ruler until he was assassinated by invaders from neighboring Malorn. Now the kingdom is under the control of Malorn’s Prince Korram, with Regent Rampus holding the reins of power until young Korram comes of age. The Malornian conquerors have been gripping Alasia with an iron fist, levying new taxes and carefully controlling who is allowed to travel where. They have also seized control of important products such as glass and have begun sending them back to Malorn.
Jaymin III was a benevolent ruler but not really in touch with the lives of citizens in the middle and lower classes. His newly orphaned son, Prince Jaymin IV, has his eyes opened as he is forced to live in disguise in an especially poor part of a poor town. Coming face to face with poverty and need in the lives of ordinary citizens, young Jaymin is determined to improve his people’s lives someday if he is ever able to claim his rightful throne.
Author autobiography:
Annie Douglass Lima spent most of her childhood in Kenya and later graduated from Biola University in Southern California. She and her husband Floyd currently live in Taiwan, where she teaches fifth grade at Morrison Academy. She has been writing poetry, short stories, and novels since her childhood, and to date has published eight books (three YA action adventure/fantasy novels, a collection of character interviews, one puppet script, and four anthologies of her students’ poetry, all available through the links in the sidebar to the right). Besides writing, her hobbies include reading (especially fantasy and science fiction), scrapbooking, and international travel.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
Prince of Alasia
In the Enemy’s Service
Prince of Malorn
Annals of Alasia: The Collected Interviews (available for free!)
Where can readers connect with you online?
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: https://twitter.com/princeofalasia
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGoodreads
Amazon Author Page: http://bit.ly/AnnieDouglassLimaOnAmazon
Google Plus: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGooglePlus
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Alasia. 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 kingdom of Malorn, in Realm Explorers Part XXXXI!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the kingdom of Malorn, in Realm Explorers Part XXXXI!
-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:
Sarah Jennings
Title of book and/or series:
The Cloak
Brief summary of the story:
The Cloak follows the story of Kellan McKensie, Princess of Errigal, who has spent her entire life hidden from her own people, unknown and unseen. Now, as she comes of age and makes plans to be free, she finds that leaving and staying gone are nearly impossible. The pressure to lead a floundering county fused with a quick temper, sometimes sparks doubt in a young woman destined by God for greatness. How Kellan handles the challenges of her own doing and those of her evil brother brings together a story about trust, forgiveness, and finding forever love.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
In The Cloak, characters are essentially living in the past while also living in the present. Walk past Errigal’s borders and the modern world exists in every manner. Stay within, and a society steeped in Medieval traditions and methods still exists. The landscape is characteristic of Ireland with green, rolling hills, villages and marketplaces dotting the countryside, and hot, soothing mineral springs.
If we were to visit Errigal as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Unless someone was keen on slushing through heavy snow, only to be warmed by a fireplace, then it would be best to postpone all trips until the full arrival of spring. Tourists should expect to step back in time by wearing local garb and limiting their technology to cameras. Errigalians aren’t reenactors and are living as they always have, so you would find genuinely friendly faces at the marketplace and welcoming smiles at the few inns. While there are no official tour guides, visitors are encouraged to rent a horse or carriage to take day trips to the hot springs and to ride by the great, stone McKensie castle.
What dangers should we avoid in Errigal?
Generally, there are not any major dangers to be concerned about. In fact, the closeness of the villagers and their desire to look out for one another, makes Errigal one of the safest countries on Earth to visit. As in most places, feeding wildlife would be discouraged, as well as going beyond the borders of Errigal into other countries’ restricted areas without their permission.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Errigal?
The early settlers of Errigal brought their Irish recipes with them, and you may find yourself served hearty stews, fresh baked bread, and occasional sweets.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Errigal?
All males of Errigal are required to serve time in a local regiment and learn specific skills that would include swordfighting, knife throwing, and archery. It would not be unusual for the women to learn these things from their fathers or brothers as well. Kellan, the lead female character in The Cloak, is forced into training beginning in early adolescence. As a leader of Errigal, she would be expected to know as much about weaponry as her warriors, and even more so in the strategy of leading a war campaign to victory.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Errigal?
Travel is limited to animal-drawn transportation and of course, walking. Vehicles of any kind are not allowed across the border. In The Cloak, an exception is made for Uncle Hahn. His frequent jaunts back and forth from Germany to Errigal make it necessary for his private jet to make visits.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Errigal.
As might would be expected, games and activities normally attributed to a Medieval time period may be seen at village or valley-wide gatherings. These could include: jousting tournaments, wrestling, falconry, archery, horseshoes, and hunting. Games such as chess, cards, and dice would also be enjoyed. And not to be forgotten, traditional dances to Celtic tunes would be very popular. The Cloak opens with a castle ball invitation to welcome the returning prince.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Errigal as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The calendar would be the same and traditional holidays observed.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Errigal? Please describe what it involves.
Celtic Christianity is what Errigalians would identify with, having left Ireland initially with the intent of spreading the movement. The McKensie family and others are also Spirit-filled, believing in the miraculous possibilities as attested to in Acts 2 and other parts of the Bible.
What is the political or government structure in Errigal? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
From the beginning, Errigal was a matrilineal society, consisting of beautiful, wise, and kind queens who passed down their name and position to their daughters. After being conquered within the last couple of generations by an outside Germanic tribe, a kingship was put in place. The desire to right this wrong is a thread woven throughout the book.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
My own ancestry can be traced to Ireland on one side and Germany on another. While it wasn’t intentional to write the book with that in mind, it’s funny how it worked out. And while I am certainly not royalty, nor do I declare to have great physical strength as the book’s heroine, I will admit that my propensity to make a smart remark has gotten me into trouble more than once!
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Some people find the Spirit-filled aspect of Christianity to be a point of contention for them. It’s mentioned once and then alluded to another time in the book.
Author Autobiography:
Sarah Jennings is an American storyteller living in the hills of North Carolina with her husband, four children, and escape artist hound dog. Her stories often revolve around strong willed heroines who find their way with God’s help during their adventures and in the process find their soulmate too.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book?
The Cloak can be purchased at Amazonin Kindle or paperback format, Smashwordsin a variety of ebook formats, and in Nook format at Barnes& Noble. Just select the name to be taken to the order page.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Please visit my website at sarahjennings.netto find my social network links, view The Cloak’s book trailer, and to acquire my contact email address.
Tour-Wide Giveaway
$25 Amazon Gift Card – Open Internationally
Celtic Prize Pack: Paperback of The Cloak and Celtic Music CDs – US Only
2 Paperbacks of The Cloak – US Only
2 ebooks of The Cloak – Open Internationally
Ends March 22nd
Click here to enter the giveaway: a Rafflecopter giveaway
Follow the Tour in March:
2nd: Launch
3rd: My Love for Reading Keeps Growing & I Am A Reader
4th: Mythical Books & Classy Cat Books
5th: Mary Terrani & My Life Loves and Passion
6th: Katie’s Clean Book Collection & Zerina Blossom’s Books
8th: Welcome to Book City & Christy’s Cozy Corners
9th: Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima & Once Upon a YA Book
10th: Mel’s Shelves & Books and Ashes
11th: Addicted Readers & Paranormal Books
12th: Mommabears Book Blog & Pieces of Whimsey
13th: Fictionally
15th: Grand Finale
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Errigal. 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 Alasia, in Realm Explorers Part XXXX!
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 Alasia, in Realm Explorers Part XXXX!
-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: Jaye L. Knight
Title of book and/or series: Ilyon Chronicles
Brief summary of the story:
Resistance (Book 1) – When a cunning emperor threatens the lives of any who refuse to worship his false gods, a half-blood haunted by his bloodstained past and a young woman with a perfect memory must overcome their own fears and conflicts with society as they become part of the resistance.
The King’s Scrolls (Book 2) – When a group of mysterious, dragon-riding cretes arrive seeking aid in a dire mission, those in Landale must face impossible odds and a series of tragedies to try to rescue a teacher of Elôm and the last known copies of the King’s Scrolls.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Ilyon is comprised of five different countries, Arcacia being the largest. The mainland is a heavily forested continent with three major mountain ranges. To the southwest is the smaller island country of Arda. Ilyon has a strong medieval Europe feel to it, but I pulled a lot of inspiration from other cultures and times such as Ancient Rome, Greece, Vikings, and Native American. While there are a few of notable differences such as having dragons and two moons, Ilyon is very similar to our world.
If we were to visit Ilyon as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?Valcré, the capital city of Arcacia, would be perfect for anyone who isn’t much of an outdoorsy type and isn’t interested in roughing it. The city is very large and has much to see in the way of libraries, art galleries, and the amazing Auréa Palace. Now, if you do enjoy the outdoors, I would definitely encourage a trip to the forests of Dorland where the cretes live. The trees there grow an astonishing 300 to 400 feet tall, and it is in these trees that the cretes build their cities. If you happen to love tree houses, their lifestyle is definitely for you, though they tend to be a rather aloof people, so don’t count on a particularly warm welcome.
What dangers should we avoid in Ilyon?
You’ll probably want to avoid the Krell Mountains on Ilyon’s southern shore as they are inhabited by cave drakes. Though these dragon-like beasts stick to their caves during the day, you have to be wary at night. They don’t breathe fire like the dragons from the mountains in Dorland, but they are very large and fierce. They aren’t very graceful, especially when flying, but they have been known to destroy villages built too close to the mountains.
You certainly wouldn’t want to travel far to the southeast into Wildmor either. Those deep forests are home to the ryrik people. They’ll attack anyone who isn’t a ryrik. Unless you’re part of a very skilled group of warriors, chances are very slim that you’d survive.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Ilyon?Pickerins, a type of large wild hog, are very good eating. They are plentiful throughout most of Arcacia, Dorland, and Wildmor. The boars, however, are quite dangerous, so many people don’t attempt to hunt them without a large group. To the north, black deer is a staple food in the country of Samara. If prepared right, it is very tender and savory.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Ilyon?
Swords are a very common weapon. Most young men are trained to use them, at least moderately well. Bows are also common. Though it is frowned upon in Arcacia for women to use swords, many women in higher society are taught self-defense, which can include using a quarterstaff.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Ilyon?
Horses are the main mode of transportation in Ilyon. You can also take ships along the coast. The cretes who live in Dorland ride dragons, which are the lifeblood of their people. Dragons used to be more common in Arcacia, but the cretes are the only people with the skills to train a dragon and they haven’t had dealings with Arcacians in many years.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Ilyon that we don’t see on Earth?Aside from the dragons and cave drakes, most animals and plants are the same or similar to what we have on Earth. Including humans, Ilyon has five races. While they are all human-like, they each have their unique differences. Talcrins are a tall, dark-skinned race with metallic eyes. They are much more scholars than fighters. Ryriks are also tall and very strong. They are known for their black hair and sea-blue eyes that almost seem to glow when they are angry or under stress. They are also the only race in Ilyon who have pointed ears. Ryriks are a very violent and cruel race, and most people believe them to be soulless and little better than animals. The cretes are a shorter race. They rarely reach six feet tall. They have a very Native American feel to them in that they dress predominately in leather, are brown-skinned, and all have long dark hair. And then there are the giants. At around seven to nine feet tall, they can appear quite intimidating, but they are actually very gentle. They don’t like confrontation and will avoid fighting whenever possible.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Ilyon? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used
I prefer to write fantasy without magic. Realistic fantasy, I like to call it. 🙂 So Ilyon does not have magic, however, some of the people can be very superstitious. It’s a widely held belief that black wolves are possessed by demonic spirits.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Ilyon? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.Ilyon’s technology is similar to that of the Middle Ages, though a bit more advanced, particularly in medicine.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Ilyon.
Gladiator games are quite popular throughout Arcacia for those who enjoy such things. Horse racing is also a popular sport. In Valcré, you can see plays and concerts. Men of high society enjoying going out on hunts, especially for large pickerin boars.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Ilyon as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
I do follow the same days of the week and months as we have on Earth. Birthdays are celebrated regularly and each race has their various holidays, though I didn’t get into that too deeply. For those who have faith in Elôm, there is an Old Testament-like sacrifice they take part in every spring.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Ilyon? Please describe what it involves.Ilyon is divided into two major religions—those who follow Elôm (the equivalent of Christians) and those who follow Aertus and Vilai, Arcacia’s moon gods. Faith in Elôm at this particular point in the series is much like Old Testament faith. As I mentioned, every spring, believers gather together and sacrifice lambs as atonement for their sins and to look ahead to a coming ultimate Lamb sacrifice. There are far fewer believers in Elôm than in Aertus and Vilai and they have faced growing persecution for many years, particularly in Arcacia, though it is still the main religion among the cretes, talcrins, and in the country of Samara.
The worship of Aertus and Vilai is commanded by the emperor in Arcacia. To refuse to bow before their idols is seen as treason, and any offenders are executed. Temples and idols are set up throughout Arcacia to enforce such worship.
What is the political or government structure in Ilyon? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Each race and country have their own equivalent to a king. Arcacia has the most influence in Ilyon and is ruled over by Emperor Daican. His father is the one who changed the royal title from king to emperor as part of his plan to expand Arcacia’s reach across the continent and create an empire. Most Arcacian citizens would call Daican a fine, even admirable, leader, but he is violently opposed to the followers of Elôm. He sees his rule as a divine gift and believes that anyone questioning his gods will question his rule. He’s very ambitious and has dedicated his life to creating the legacy his father was working toward before his death.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Ilyon?You probably won’t want to just show up at a crete city. Best to have someone with you who knows them well and they trust. Either that or you should have one of their carved pendants they only give out to those they know are friends. But they don’t give those out lightly. And don’t be surprised if you make a crete friend and he refuses to sleep on the ground! They hate that. They much prefer stringing up a hammock in a tree.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I’ve always had a particular interest in Native American culture. I think it’s beautiful and I drew a lot of inspiration from it for the crete people. Their treehouse cities also came from my childhood dream of living in a treehouse like on Swiss Family Robinson or Robinson Crusoe. I’d still love to live in a treehouse.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Abortion is a topic I do touch on. There is only a brief mention of it in book one, but it’s a bit more prominent in book three (not yet published). Racism, bigotry, and bullying are also topics many of my characters have to face.
Author Autobiography:Jaye L. Knight is a homeschool-graduated indie author with a passion for writing Christian fantasy and clean new adult fiction. Armed with an active imagination and love for adventure, Jaye weaves stories of truth, faith, and courage with the message that even in the deepest darkness, God’s love shines as a light to offer hope. She has been penning stories since the age of eight and resides in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
Resistance can be found on Amazon for Kindleand in paperback. The King’s Scrolls is also available for Kindleand will be available in paperback very shortly if it isn’t already.
Where can readers connect with you online?
ResistanceKindle Sale
Haven’t begun the adventure into Ilyon? From February 17th – 23rd, get Resistance, the award-winning first book of Ilyon Chronicles, for your Kindle on sale for only 99 cents! Check it out on Amazon!
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Giveaway
Share in the excitement of the release and enter to win a themed Epic Winter giveaway! Prize pack includes an autographed copy of The King’s Scrolls, a CD by Future World Music (some of Jaye’s favorite writing music), a dragon bookmark, a stone hawk pendant (much like the ones mentioned in the book), and a few packages of Twining’s Winter Spice tea to sip while you read! (Giveaway is open to US residents only. Cannot be shipped internationally.)
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I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Ilyon. 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 XXXIX!
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 XXXIX!
-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:
Keely Brooke Keith
Title of book and/or series:
The Uncharted series includes: The Land Uncharted, Uncharted Redemption, and Uncharted Inheritance (coming May 2015)
Brief summary of the story:
A group of antebellum families sailed away from America in December of 1860. Their ship was blown off course and ran aground on an uncharted land in the middle of the South Atlantic Ocean. They called the uninhabited place simply “the Land”, and founded a society that seven generations later is flourishing, but antiquated compared to the outside world. They have no contact with the warring 2025 world and no idea their land is undetectable until Unified States Naval Aviator Connor Bradshaw is ejected from his aircraft and his parachute carries him to the shore of the Land. That is where our story begins.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:The Land is the size of the South Island of New Zealand and located in the middle of the South Atlantic Ocean. The outside world is torn apart by war, a water shortage, disease and poverty, but life is the Land is peaceful.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in the Land?
They have simple transportation: horses, wagons, river rafts and boats, but no modern technology. In fact, when Connor arrives in the Land, he believes the lack of electronics is part of what helps keep them hidden. They have the usual farm animals, but there are no predatory animals in the Land.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in the Land that we don’t see on Earth?
The world in the Uncharted series is governed by our science, so the humans are all, well, humans. There is a tree they call the Gray Leaf. It provides lumber stronger than iron and tea made from the gray leaf quickly heals any injury or infection. It’s medicinal, not mythical.
Is there a particular religion practiced in the Land? Please describe what it involves.
The society’s founders were Christian and the inhabitants of the Land passed their faith on from one generation to the next, but they have come up with more and more strict traditions over the years as reactions to conflicts. During the series, many of those traditions get challenged.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Researching my family history inspired the pioneer spirit of the founders. My travels to Australia and New Zealand inspired some of the topography and the isolated feeling of the Land. My study of the Bible inspired some of the society’s structure and the relationships portrayed throughout the series.
Author Autobiography:Keely Brooke Keith, author of the Uncharted series, is a bass guitarist and frequently performs and tours with her husband, singer/songwriter John Martin Keith. When she isn’t writing stories or playing bass, Keely enjoys dancing, having coffee with friends, and sifting through vintage books at antique stores. Keely resides on a hilltop south of Nashville with her husband and their daughter, Rachel.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Add The Land Uncharted to your shelf on Goodreads, Shelfari, LibraryThing, or FictFact.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the Land. 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 Ilyon, in Realm Explorers Part XXXVIII!
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 Ilyon, in Realm Explorers Part XXXVIII!
-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: Anne Elisabeth Stengl
Title of book and/or series: Golden Daughter, book 7 in the ongoing Tales of Goldstone Wood
Brief summary of the story:
BEYOND THE REALM OF DREAMS
IS A WORLD SHE NEVER IMAGINED
Masayi Sairu was raised to be dainty, delicate, demure . . . and deadly. She is one of the emperor’s Golden Daughters, as much a legend as she is a commodity. One day, Sairu will be contracted in marriage to a patron, whom she will secretly guard for the rest of her life.
But when she learns that a sacred Dream Walker of the temple seeks the protection of a Golden Daughter, Sairu forgoes marriage in favor of this role. Her skills are stretched to the limit, for assassins hunt in the shadows, and phantoms haunt in dreams. With only a mysterious Faerie cat and a handsome slave—possessed of his own strange abilities—to help her, can Sairu shield her new mistress from evils she can neither see nor touch?
For the Dragon is building an army of fire. And soon the heavens will burn.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Most of the action in Golden Daughter takes place in the Noorhitam Empire, which is loosely inspired by a variety of East Asian cultures. My research focused primarily on ancient China and ancient Japan/Okinawa, but I also delved into Korean, Mongolian, and Thai histories, cultural practices, architecture, etc.
The empire itself is made up of a variety of subcultures, but the two most prominent are the ruling Kitars and the nomadic Chhayans. Two hundred years before the story of Golden Daughter takes place, the Chhayans were overpowered by the Kitar. The cultural clashes of the two people groups provide much of the drama for this tale.
If we were to visit Noorhitam as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
You should definitely take time to visit Manusbau Palace, the home of the emperor. This palace is actually a series of beautiful complexes, gardens, and grounds—almost a mini-city in and of itself—fortified by magnificent walls. It is a sumptuous testament to the power and grandeur of the Kitar nation. Just be certain you don’t drink any tea laced with gold-leaf poison!
Built beside the palace and rivaling it in grandeur is the Crown of the Moon, an enormous temple dedicated to Hulan, the moon goddess worshipped by the Kitar and Chhayans alike. But while the temple is glorious indeed and well worth seeing, more interesting still are the humble ruins of an ancient House which stood on this site long centuries ago. The foundation stones of this House are still warm with the heat of the great conflagration that burned it to the ground . . . .
What dangers should we avoid in Noorhitam?
Noorhitam is crawling with enemies of the emperor, particularly the lethal Crouching Shadows, assassins from the neighboring kingdom of Nua-Pratut. You should also keep your eyes open for Chhayan bandits roaming the hinterlands of the empire. If they take you for a Kitar, they will show no mercy!
The Golden Daughters themselves—highly trained bodyguards of incomparable skill—are possibly the most dangerous threat you might face. Only if you threaten one of their patrons, however, so you should be safe.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Noorhitam?
Travelers may enjoy an eggplant mash seasoned with oil and a variety of spices and served with flat bread. In the palace of the emperor, you will be treated to teas, both black and herbal, candied fruits, and sweet pastries.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Noorhitam?The Emperor of Noorhitam boasts a lethal artillery brigade of longbowmen. Their bows are tall, and their arrows include weighted hare-fork arrows which can tear a man apart.
The Golden Daughters carry two knives which they hide up their sleeves. They are also trained in hand-to-hand combat and are comfortable with a variety of other weapons and poisons.
The Pen-Chan people of Nua-Pratut have discovered the secret of “black powder,” with which they have created dangerous explosives. So far they have managed to keep this secret from falling into the hands of neighboring nations, but it’s only a matter of time . . .
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Noorhitam?
The Chhayans out on the wide plains of Noorhitam travel in gurtas, buffalo-hide dwellings on wheels, pulled by teams of buffalo. Not very fast, not terribly comfortable, but durable and providing decent shelter when the cold winds blow.
Pilgrims traveling to the various holy sites and shrines across the nation often ride mules or donkeys. Horses are considered the steed of noblemen.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Noorhitam? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic in my world is not really . . . magic, per se. Faeries abound in this series, and they have “magical” powers available to them (depending on the type of Faerie), but these are really more extensions of their Faerie selves than actual potions-and-spells magic. There are some characters who work enchantments and sorcery—and humans who dabble in Faerie magic are considered misguided and dangerous. But much of the magic of this world is not really magic in the traditional sense.
One of the major characters in Golden Daughter has the ability to walk in the Realm of Dreams. This is a strange, between-worlds dimension from which dreams are supposed to originate, and most mortals cannot access it. But the Dream Walkers are trained to send their spirits beyond mortal realms and explore deep into the Realm of Dreams and the surrounding dimensions. This could be considered a form of magic, achieved through concentrated meditation and chants.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Noorhitam? Please describe what it involves.
Noorhitam is deeply devoted to a heavenly-spheres-centric religion personifying the sun and the moon as Anwar and Hulan respectively, and the stars—or Dara—as their angelic children. This was originally an old Chhayan religion, but when the Kitar people took over, they usurped the religion as well as the land (exchanging it for their vague ancestor-worship, which is now considered grossly out of fashion).
The Dream Walkers are considered sacred priests, using prayerful meditation to access realms beyond the mortal world with the hope of someday crossing the Dream and walking in Hulan’s Garden (a sort of Heaven where the moon and the stars are said to dance and sing).
There are quite a number of priestly orders, with the most prominent priests devoted to Anwar and Hulan, and lesser priests dedicated to the service of various Dara, such as the North Star, Chiev, and the star of the Emperor’s City, Maly. The duties of these priests vary according to their specific deities, but involve seasonal prayers according to which lights are most prominent in the sky.
Even priests devoted primarily to Hulan offer morning prayers to Anwar when he rises. Anwar is considered the most powerful of the celestial deities, although the High Priest is devoted primarily to Hulan.
What is the political or government structure in Noorhitam? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Noorhitam is ruled by an emperor called the Anuk Anwar—which means the “Son of Anwar.” He is considered semi-deific and absolutely god-touched. He wields quite a lot of control, but intricate political dances require him to keep his various warlords and the clan leaders appeased.
The current Anuk Anwar of Noorhitam is a middle-aged man with a young face, fairly immature for his age. He isn’t particularly pleased with his lot as emperor, preferring the carefree life he used to know as a prince. He’s not above throwing his imperial weight around as he sees fit, however, and his warlords tread softly around him.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
This book openly deals with the question “Where is God in times of suffering?” It was a difficult question to tackle, and not one I would have jumped into willingly. But when I write these stories, I spend a lot of time in prayer, asking God to lead me to what (if any) message He wants to communicate. My role is simply to be a willing vessel, and I earnestly seek to be open to His leading. In the case of Golden Daughter I was thrilled and amazed by the storylines I saw unfurling, by the message that bloomed naturally from the text and characters.
Author Autobiography
ANNE ELISABETH STENGL makes her home in North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, Rohan, a kindle of kitties, and one long-suffering dog. When she’s not writing, she enjoys Shakespeare, opera, and tea, and practices piano, painting, and pastry baking. Her novel Starflower was awarded the 2013 Clive Staples Award, and her novels Heartless, Veiled Rose, and Dragonwitchhave each been honored with a Christy Award.
To learn more about Anne Elisabeth Stengl and her books visit: www.AnneElisabethStengl.blogspot.com
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
You can purchase Golden Daughter in ebook and print formats on all the major online bookshops! Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo.
Where can readers connect with you online?
I love to connect with my readers! Be sure to follow my blog, Tales of Goldstone Wood. You can also sign up for my quarterly newsletter and keep up-to-date on all the upcoming Goldstone Wood projects (of which there are many). Be sure to like me on Facebookas well!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the Noorhitam Empire. 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 Land Uncharted, in Realm Explorers Part XXXVII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the Land Uncharted, in Realm Explorers Part XXXVII!
-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: Marcha Fox
Title of book and/or series:
The Star Trails Tetralogy is a four-part series comprising “Beyond the Hidden Sky,” “A Dark of Endless Days, and “A Psilent Place Below.” The 4th and final volume, “Refractions of Frozen Time,” will be out soon but I don’t have an exact release date. Cyraria, the world I’ll discuss here, is the setting for “A Dark of Endless Days,” “A Psilent Place Below” and “Refractions of Frozen Time.”
Brief summary of the story:
Close families share everything. Including consequences. When one of the HIO’s premier terralogists (planetary engineers) refuses a job offer from a wannabe despot, the chain of suspicious circumstances which quickly follow scatter his family across the galaxy. Torn apart by space and time, will each survive long enough to be united ever again?
The series is a family saga that chronicles the Brightstar family’s struggles and challenges combating Cyraria’s harsh climate coupled with hostile political forces.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Cyraria is a planet in a binary star system which from Earth would appear to be in the zodiacal constellation, Scorpio. It’s unusual in that it orbits the two stars in a figure-8 pattern known as a lemniscate. You can find a detailed description of the star system here. (I’ve attached a jpg diagram of the orbit and names of the seasons.)
The planet’s axis of rotation is extremely oblique, further adding to extreme seasons of hot and cold. It’s a harsh, unforgiving world that is in the early phases of colonization. You can find a detailed description of the weather and seasons here.
If we were to visit Cyraria as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
The most interesting features of Cyraria are beneath the ground. Cryptofluvial aquifers (underground rivers) are the primary source of water with little on the planet’s surface. These have created a vast network of caverns. Some have minerals such as cristobalite and devenite which enhance psi phenomena such as telepathy and clairvoyance. Visitors will be required to sign a waiver releasing local authorizes from liability should they encounter any unfortunate experiences due to these effects.
Due to the extreme climate on the surface during certain seasons, suitable protective clothing is required depending on the locale. Transportation may also be limited during severe weather.
What dangers should we avoid in Cyraria?
The biggest hazard on Cyraria is the climate and weather. Extreme temperatures which range from 60 degrees below zero to 214 degrees above (Fahrenheit) or worse create strong convection currents which can spawn massive tornados known as pressure vortices or PVs. When the planet is experiencing Opposition, when its orbit is between the two stars, it also experiences groundquakes due to opposing gravitational forces.
Wildlife is somewhat limited due to the climate but there are some indigenous species which can be dangerous, such as shackle snakes, which have both poisonous and constrictor characteristics; and yragian lizards, which use flatulence as a tactical weapon. Some plants are hazardous as well, in particular the spickle tree which hurls spikes when disturbed.
Probably the greatest danger on the planet, however, is the Integrator, the evil force which is striving to attain mind control techniques which will allow it to take over the planet.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Cyraria?
During space travel and when a planet is either between harvests or unable to attain self-sufficient status, the primary form of nourishment is genour, which is the colloquial term for generic nourishment. They are similar to a dry, bland-tasting energy bar.
However, Cyraria does have some edible plants such as the bowlbush, which has a root similar to a sweet potato, and small shrimp-like animals which live in sulfuric pools similar to those found in places such as Yellowstone National Park. These can be prepared into a variety of tasty dishes.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Cyraria?
Laser weapons, or lasomags, which combine lasers with magnetic resonance, are the primary weapon. However, the Integrator’s goal of attaining mind control and harnessing negative psi energy will also eventually become a weapon as well.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Cyraria?
This is an advanced, spacefaring society that includes a variety of starcruisers and other vehicles capable of spaceflight. One type known as vekes (shortened term for vacuum certified vehicle) provide planetary transportation but can also make relatively short trips into space, such as to Cyraria’s single moon, Nifeir. Vehicles simply referred to as ‘cruisers would be similar to Earth’s automobiles but fly, like Luke Skywalker’s landspeeder or the converted Delorean in the “Back to the Future” movie series.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Cyraria that we don’t see on Earth?
The primary indigenous race is known as the bnolar. These are large, gentle and peaceful creatures with six arms, two sturdy legs, hooded, orb-like eyes, and multiple skin layers which reflect the harsh light from the two suns. They live underground in the network of caverns and have strong psychic abilities.
There are numerous nonindigenous alien races present as well, including Arcturians, which are mansized ant people; Erebusites are well-muscled humanoids whose most distinguishing feature is a single eye with multiple lids like venetian blinds which protect their eyes from harsh sunlight; jendaks, which often serve in menial positions, are violet in color with a short, stocky build, whip-like tail and long pointed ears.
Cyraria has flora, fauna and also species in the flauna category which includes plants with varying levels of mobility/or and intelligence. In fact, one of the characters in these stories is a Flora Peda Telepathis, i.e. a telepathic walking plant named Thyron who speaks in rhymed couplets, but he is not native to this world. In fact, he’s quite unhappy there since he obtains his energy through photosynthesis like most plants, which is needless to say severely limited in the caverns.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Cyraria? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used
The primary paranormal influences are related to the caverns, particularly the cristobalite and devenite which magnify and transmit psi phenomena such as telepathy. Cristobalite in particular promotes the concept “thoughts become things,” taking a person’s thoughts and converting them to reality, which can also be used for teleportation. Devenite operates more on the emotional level and can transcend time and space to bring a person to a place of emotional security.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Cyraria? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
The technological basis is similar to what Earth can expect in about a decade. The development of technology using cristobalite and devenite is a primary focus of “Refractions of Frozen Time.” There is also a device referred to as a c-com (abbreviation for cerebral companion) which has psi connection abilities, somewhat like an iPhone on steroids.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Cyraria.
On most of Cyraria they’re lucky to stay alive, much less play any sports or games. Within the domed Cira City they have a coliseum where various competitions are held including canus (dog) races.
During space travel there are a few holographic projection/virtual reality games such as tysa, which involves the matching and building of complex structures from a variety of geometric shapes and anoia, a sport which combines elements of soccer and baseball.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Cyraria as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
When I was first writing this series I tried to develop a unique timekeeping system which was metric but felt it was too cumbersome and distracting so ultimate reverted back to seconds, minutes and hours even though these are based on Earth’s conditions. During space travel when there is no means for tracking time such as the rise and set of the sun, each unit is called a chron and is 26 hours long. This also the standard length of a day for scheduling purposes since the seasons on Cyraria are such that they can have hundreds of “days” of nothing but light or darkness, depending on their position on the planet and its orbital location with respect to the two stars, Zeta and Zinni.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Cyraria? Please describe what it involves.
Some of the characters are members of a sect known as the Ledorian Order which originated on Laren Brightstar’s naterra, or birth planet, of Esheron. Ledorians are charged to oppose the Integrator and represent the highest of moral and ethical standards. They have some priestly abilities with regard to healing. Readers can visit Ledorian headquarters on Esheron in “Refractions of Frozen Time.”
What is the political or government structure in Cyraria? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The planet is divided up into 6 territories which are further broken into 24 regions. Each region has its own government with the territory providing various services and infrastructure such as law enforcement and various other services. You can find out more about the political structure here.
The Brightstars live in Epsilon Region in Sigma Territory. The Regional Governor, or RG, Augustus Troy, is the saga’s antagonist. He’s a power hungry despot who wants Laren to work for him so he can help develop his Region through planetary engineering. Troy has darker ambitions as well including technological developments for which he would also use his expertise. Since Laren, as a member of the Ledorian Order, will not compromise his standards and accept Troy’s offer, he becomes the target of considerable harassment to the point of being thrown in prison as a political prisoner and various other difficulties.
The Territorial General, or TG is Rohtik Spoigan, who came to power through a conspiracy that eliminated the former TG via assassination. He’s Troy’s superior and the two men have very different temperaments. Troy favors eliminating opposition permanently while Spoigan prefers to govern and control the people to his advantage. The one thing both men agree upon, however, is Integration which is a dictatorial ideology. Spoigan needs two thirds of the regions to accept Integration which would place all of Sigma Territory under that form of government. Similarly, if two thirds of the territories worldwide accept Integration then the entire planet falls under that rule.
Newly formed planets in the galaxy must abide initially with the standards and structure defined by the Hostii Intergalactic Organization (HIO) which is why they are divided into territories and regions. These are democratic in that the people determine the form of government they want. On Cyraria there is a mix of those that favor Integration, those that openly oppose it and are members of the Cyrarian Liberation Quango known as the CLQ or Clique, and those who remain neutral. Both sides focus on converting the neutrals, trying to attain the two thirds majority required.
As in any situation where power is available for the taking there are ruthless individuals who will stop at nothing up to and including assassination to move their agendas forward. Thus, Cyraria is deeply steeped in all sorts of intrigue.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Cyraria?
None that would be a problem to a visitor. The primary cultural practices of note are those of the Ledorians.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
If anyone has ever traveled in the American Southwest they will recognize many parts of Cyraria, from the sand-blown arches to the network of caverns.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
The primary “hot-button” would probably be the concept of civil disobedience. At what point do you rebel and openly oppose dictatorial forces which are threatening your personal freedom? There could be what would be recognized as a subtle “prepper” flavor to these stories as the Brightstars attempt to survive on this overtly hostile world.
Author autobiography:My love for science fiction began as a child growing up in Peekskill, New York. I loved all the science fiction classics such as those written by H. G. Wells and Jules Verne. For as long as I can remember I wanted to be a writer but I’m the kind of person who wants to do things right. I believe in doing a lot of research but to write science fiction I wanted a strong foundation in science. Thus, I went back to college in my 30s to obtain a bachelor’s of science degree in physics. After that I spent over 20 years working at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.
Entirely antithetical to being a former rocket scientist, I’m also a professional astrologer. I’m also fascinated by paranormal phenomena which are actually quite compatible with physics, considering the strange possibilities inherent to quantum theory and various others. I find it rather contradictory that science’s official stand on astrology is that it is no more than myth and superstition when their theories related to multi-verses and numerous unseen dimensions are no weirder than this ancient art and science which has been around for thousands of years and works incredibly well. The first astronomers such as Kepler and Galileo were actually astrologers who were simply trying to figure out how the solar systems operates so that they’d have more accurate data for their astrological pursuits. On my list of future projects is a book that addresses science, astrology and religion. And yes, I believe in UFOs.
I am currently retired and living in the Texas Hill Country.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
The Star Trails Tetralogy is available in print and ebook (Kindle and Nook) formats.
You can findthe latest volume, “Refractions of Frozen Time,” on Amazon for preorder by clicking here. The formal release date is March 4, 2015.
If you’d like to take a peek inside the books in print so far, I have Book Bubbles for each of them which include sample chapters and author commentary.
Video Trailer Links
Refractions of Frozen Time Video http://youtu.be/SRY0P4-ZBYw
Where can readers connect with you online?
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Marcha-Fox/e/B0074RV16O/
Author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marchafoxauthor
Author Homepage: http://startrailssaga.com/about-the-author/
Star Trails Homepage: http://startrailssaga.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/startrailsIV
My Blog Page: http://marcha2014.wordpress.com/
Tumblr: http://startrailsiv.tumblr.com
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/kallioperisingp/
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Cyraria. 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 Noorhitam Empire in Realm Explorers Part XXXVI!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the Noorhitam Empire in Realm Explorers Part XXXVI!
-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:
Cynthia P. Willow
Title of book and/or series:
The Kingsley Adventures
Patty Gayle and the Legend of Kingsley ~ Book 1
Return to Kingsley ~ Book 2
Brief summary of the stories:
PATTY GAYLE AND THE LEGEND OF KINGSLEY
When twelve-year-old Patty Gayle’s grandmother grants her an old skeleton key, it unlocks the adventure of a lifetime! The key leads her to beautiful Kingsley, a magical land threatened by an evil sorcerer. Patty Gayle soon discovers that an ancient prophecy has foretold that a young human girl is the only hope for Kingsley. If she is truly to be the chosen one, she must overcome her deepest fears. Will the faith of a young girl be enough to free Kingsley from a tragic fate?
RETURN TO KINGSLEY
Thirteen-year-old Callie dreams of having her own adventure in the magical world of Kingsley like her grandmother and her great-great grandmother before her. But she doesn’t have very high hopes since the portal to Kingsley was shut fifty-two years ago. Little does she know that the inhabitants of Kingsley are in desperate need. A plague is killing Kingsley’s creatures. But Callie doesn’t live on the lake, nor does she have the magical bracelet to allow her to breathe underwater. How will she get to Kingsley? And will she figure it out in time to save the land?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Kingsley is a parallel world to ours. It is a beautiful world full of fairy queens, mermaids, and all sorts of talking creatures.
If we were to visit Kingsley as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?Well, if you borrowed the bracelet which allows you to breathe under water, then you could go to the bottom of the ocean and play poker with the dolphins. If you don’t know how to play poker, you could swim with the mermaids. If you’re more of a land-lover, perhaps you’d like to visit Faith, the unicorn. And if you’re not afraid of heights, you might want to take a ride on Keagan’s back. No, I’m telling you what Keagan is.
What dangers should we avoid in Kingsley?
All humans must stay clear of the Ghillie-Dhu. They dislike humans. And of course, there are evil sorcerers there, but I’ve said too much.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Kingsley?
Yes! There is a delicious purple triangular fruit that sustains the person who eats it for a good while.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Kingsley? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
The 3 fairy queens use magic for good purposes. Their magic also keeps them immortal. The brownies–which are servants in the castle–also use magic for making all sorts of things.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Kingsley.If dolphins playing poker isn’t entertainment, then I don’t know what is.
What is the political or government structure in Kingsley? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Kingsley is ruled by three fairy queens. They are sisters. By name: Ruby, Pearl, and Emerald. Ruby is the leader of the three. She is the one who holds everything together. She’s stern, but just. Pearl is the caring, emotional sister who thinks of others first. Emerald has the personality of a teenager and giggles a lot.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
The world of Kingsley is inspired by a real place in Florida called Kingsley Lake. My ancestors settled Kingsley Lake, and my grandmother and mother grew up there. Three of my grandmother’s sisters were named Ruby, Pearl, and Emma. I planned to write a story about the sisters when I was just a child. I took that plan and mixed it with my mom’s childhood fantasies and made a series.
Author Autobiography:I’m a home-schooling mother of three and a full-time student earning my Masters degree in Human Services and Life Coaching.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
The Kingsley Adventures are available in Ebook format on Kindle, Nook, Scribd, Apple, Kobo, and Inktera as well as paperback. All links are on The Kingsley Adventures page of my website:
If you want to read them on Kindle, you can purchase them both in a 2-book bundle and save $2.00.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Please visit my website at www.cynthiapwillow.com
Find me on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/Cynthiapwillow
Follow me on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/CynthiaPWillow
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Kingsley. 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 Cyraria, in Realm Explorers Part XXXV!
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 Cyraria, in Realm Explorers Part XXXV!
-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.
(Note: the three landscape paintings below were created by Catherine Whitehead, the same artist who designed the book cover. The scenes they depict helped inspire Lynne Pearl in her writing of this book.)
Author’s name: Lynne Pearl
Title of book and/or series: Thiel: One Foot in Front of the Other (this is Book 1 in the Thiel series)
Brief summary of the story:
On the death of Narn, Thiel’s beloved grandmother, Thiel leaves his rural home with his sole companion, a dog, to find his secret inheritance. Unable to read, mostly inarticulate and considered of little use by his fellow men, he carries Narn’s letter to a lawyer in the impoverished and corrupt city of Goneton. Given a key to Narn’s original home, he travels miles from his birthplace, meeting new companions along the way, including a wild pony and an abandoned child.
In a world similar to our own, Lynne Pearl vividly describes a time of crisis in an imagined past where rural idyll is clashing with the march of industrial modernity. In this gentle coming-of-age tale, an unlikely hero embarks on a journey of self discovery.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: Westering is a world similar to our own but with some significant differences: the rituals, the marked distinction between rural and city life, the use of animals alongside the use of developed technologies. There are also poorly understood fertility problems with rural populations struggling to replenish their numbers. These difficulties producing offspring exacerbate some of the existing negative practices and attitudes towards disability and health.
If we were to visit Westering as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
I would suggest the coast and the moorlands’ standing stones, despite local superstitions about the stones and these empty places.
What dangers should we avoid in Westering?
The overcrowding and the lack of care and nutrition in the cities.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Westering?
Food in rural Westering is humble and rustic: slow-cooked stews of meat and vegetables; butter and cheese made by a neighbouring farmer; porridges made with local grain; homemade loaves of bread. However, the impoverished areas in the cities eat poorly while the elite eat richly.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Westering?
There is weaponry but not much is made of it. It would be rather ordinary such as swords and the use of horses in skirmishes.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Westering?
Foot, horse, pony, donkey, cart, or ship.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Westering that we don’t see on Earth?
There are the same plants as on Earth but the animals are more attuned to the moods and feelings of the humans. The human races are the same but with the difference that they can have special latent abilities.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Westering? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used. No magic, little supernatural influence.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Westering? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Technology in Westering is modest, for example preserving fruits and produce, making pottery and smithing metalwork of great delicacy and intricacy. In Book 2 we find that the elites of the city of Goneton would like to use the smiths’ metalwork to make a machine, but its use is not revealed to the reader.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Westering.
Not described in great detail, although the people enjoy telling stories and singing folk songs.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Westering as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The days and weeks are not the same as on Earth but they are not delineated as part of the storyline. They are an implicit and unstated backdrop.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Westering? Please describe what it involves.
There is a rural folk religion that makes great use of song as well as imagery, flowers and animals. For example, the ceremony of Narn’s Passing involves a singing procession of villagers following behind Thiel’s family. They travel together from their homes to the village Song Hall and there they offer what flowers they could find in remembrance of Thiel’s grandmother.
What is the political or government structure in Westering? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? The political structure varies from area to area. In the city there is a committee and there is some kind of implicit political process but it is not integral to the story line in the first Thiel book.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Westering?
Participation in group song occurs at many occasions, both happy and sad, and also as part of more mundane camaraderie.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
The landscapes of Westering are inspired by Southwest England, especially the villages and moors of Devon and the South Cornish coast. The cool, wintery climate as Thiel travels across Westering is inspired by the Canadian winter, particularly the deep soft snowfalls of Ontario. Non-fiction material on these landscapes is also captured in a number of poetry volumes by Lynne, the first of which is Road Trip, River Voices: Canada Liminal.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
The abilities and rights of disabled people and how to integrate them into society (or not) are central themes in this book. Thiel himself is physically and mentally disabled and neglected by his parents which exacerbates his social anxiety. Secondly, on his journey through a village with different customs to his own, Thiel finds a child abandoned to die in the street because she has a physical deformity (her spine is malformed but she is otherwise fine). Thiel rescues the child and becomes her guardian, helping him to mature into a man.
Author Autobiography:
Lynne Pearl is an author and poet inspired by the people and geography of England and Canada. She lives in the Westcountry of England and divides her time between the coast, the moor and visits to Ontario, Canada. Favourite places include the Donkey Sanctuary in the Westcountry and the Thousand Islands in Ontario. Her literary career started in academia, writing and reviewing textbooks and journal articles. Favourite authors include Elizabeth Goudge and Robert Bly. She mainly uses Facebook to look at pictures of her children.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
Thiel: One Foot in Front of the Other is available for your Kindle from Amazon.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Readers can connect on facebook, twitter, our websiteor by e-mail. These are managed by Sophie Gifford at Snell Publishers on Lynne’s behalf.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Westering. 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 Kingsley, in Realm Explorers Part XXXIV!
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 Kingsley, in Realm Explorers Part XXXIV!
-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.
Also, you can enter to win a free copy of one of her books this week!
Also, you can enter to win a free copy of one of her books this week!
Author’s name: E. Kaiser Writes
Title of book and/or series: The Thaw: series, Winter’s Child, Winter Queen, & Prince of Demargen
Brief summary of the story:
Infused with a strong Christian ethic and a historical feel, they’re set in a quasi-Victorian world where portals to fairyland show up every once in a while. Angels move unseen, doing their work, but sometimes in special cases the Master sends them to interject in a person’s life, and change it forever.
Good vs. evil, patience vs. recklessness, and the undeserved gift of grace for those who pray for it; the Thaw: series begins with Winter’s Child, (combining Snow Maiden/Schneekind/Snegurken with Anderson’s Snow Queen) where a barren king and queen pray for a child, and when in their loneliness, they make one out of snow, their prayers are answered in a special, and unusual way.
Sometimes, when we get what we wish for, we don’t know what to do with it.
Sometimes, when we get what we wish for, we don’t know what to do with it.
The story continues with Winter Queen, when princess Ilise allows her avoidance behavior to isolate her from the world… and it’s only when she takes the final step that she realizes the wall she’s built in the name of safety is also the one that will hold her prisoner forever… unless she discovers how to destroy it.
The only one who can break a neurosis… is the one who has it.
Third in the series is Prince of Demargen, which finally settles the matter of the Devil’s Mirror. The whole world knows his guilt, and is absolutely correct about it, but how far can a man go to regain respect so swiftly lost?
Or is an honorable death the best a fallen star can hope for?
The only person who can help him… is the one he most deeply wronged.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: I had a lot of fun setting the Thaw: books in a world that was much like Europe, but without all the wars. So if fairytales are often set in Middle Ages type feel, just imagine that being updated to a Victorian-style era, and going from there.
When planning this my brainstorming partner/sister and I definitely knew we didn’t want to be “in the real world” because it is definitely a fairy tale world. So we basically drew heavily from the map, cultures and customs, and changed anything we felt like. It was a lot of fun!
For one thing, we wanted to utilize the Norse cultures, but we wanted our Noran to be more towards the middle of the map. So we switched where Norway and Sweden are, Noran is interior and Svesser is on the outside.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Noran?
The North kingdoms use horses and carriages for land travel, sailing ships for sea voyages, and ferries for crossing rivers. Further north, into the Wild Lands, the folk up there use dog teams and reindeer hitches to pull sleds and sledges through the wintery months.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Noran that we don’t see on Earth? The Thaw: books are set in a world pretty much like our own, although the Angels that orchestrate its seasons are sometimes sent on small missions to interject into the lives of mortals and carry out the will of the Master.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Noran? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic has been actively outlawed in the world of our main characters, and this ban has been so effectively maintained for over a thousand years has passed, years measured as the Age of Reason. For in this era inexplicable happenings have virtually disappeared. But the portals to fairyland are beginning to be unsealed, which can lead to the dangerous and rather more rampant effects that exist on the other side of that veil.
Items of prohibited power are leaking back into society, and people have become so used to their safe lives that the first incidents blindside everyone.
But certain individuals rise to the challenge, to keep the ways shut, and make sure the avarice of fairyland stays on its own turf.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Noran? Please describe what it involves.There is only one religion in the Thaw: books, and that is so self evident to everyone involved that it ceases to deserve the term religion. It is universally acknowledged that the Great King of All is watching, and when death claims us we slip out to stand before Him in a judgment that will be final, and for which our mortal lives are simply a preparation.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
We moved around a lot while I was growing up, but that most often seemed to end up in the northern states. I remember a winter in Minnesota that was so-o cold, and the way the frost covered the windows… looking out over the blue white hills with their trees all bare and gray against a sunrise… The Northern Rockies are no slouches either when it comes to winter weather… so I didn’t have to do much research to write the Cold North type of scenes! Since the kingdom of Noran is somewhat based off of Norway, I did get to do some fun research on traditional foods, etc. I found a list of Finnish dishes and based a lot of the meals in the books on those… and they made me hungry, I can tell you that! J
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I don’t think there are any “hot button” topics, unless the use of Angels and having a massively Christian underlayment to a fairytale retelling is controversial. Perhaps a few might think so, but to me it is the most natural thing in the world!
Author Autobiography:Born in the Midwest, I had a unique childhood of many moves, giving me the opportunity to experience an array of locales and characters all over the nation. We always had three things; faith, family and animals… and I always had dreams. Now we’re finally back on the Plains and make our home on a farm filled with critters!
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
And Thaw: Prince of Demargen will be available soon!
Where can readers connect with you online?
And the usual stuff… which I’d love to connect on! (I’m not super techie, and most everyone I know on any of these I met online… so I’d love to meet more!!! )
and…
Oh, oh, OH!!!! You’ve GOT to go check out the Pinterest group boards for these books! So much fun… (we’ve opened it for fans to pin, so sometimes the name spellings aren’t correct, or everything on there isn’t “straight from the author’s mind” but it is so inspiring to see readers getting excited about the tales! If you’d like to join, just message me on there!!!)
Winter’s Child board,
Winter Queen board,
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Noran. 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 Westering, in Realm Explorers Part XXXIII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to Westering, in Realm Explorers Part XXXIII!
-Annie Douglass Lima
Where can readers connect with you online?
Check out my blog, E. Kaiser Writes-A-Blog http://ekaiserwritesablog.blogspot.com/
My author website EKaiserWrites.webs.com http://ekaiserwrites.webs.com/
And the usual stuff… which I’d love to connect on! (I’m not super techie, and most everyone I know on any of these I met online… so I’d love to meet more!!! )
Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/E-Kaiser-Writes-Author-Illustrator/308540109167073
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ekaiserwrites
Amazon author page, (with links to all my books!) http://www.amazon.com/E.-Kaiser-Writes/e/B006RY1L2E
and… Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/ekaiserwrites/
Oh, oh, OH!!!! You’ve GOT to go check out the Pinterest group boards for these books! So much fun… (we’ve opened it for fans to pin, so sometimes the name spellings aren’t correct, or everything on there isn’t “straight from the author’s mind” but it is so inspiring to see readers getting excited about the tales! If you’d like to join, just message me on there!!!)
Winter’s Child, http://www.pinterest.com/ekaiserwrites/thaw-winters-child/
Winter Queen, http://www.pinterest.com/ekaiserwrites/thaw-winter-queen/
Prince of Demargen, http://www.pinterest.com/ekaiserwrites/thaw-prince-of-demargen/