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: Donna E. Lane
Title of book and/or series:
Whisperers Series – Sky Light Falls: Whisperers Book One; Sky Light Rises: Whisperers Book Two; Sky Light Ends: Whisperers Book Three (coming in July 2020)
Brief summary of the story:
The series takes place in another universe. The planet you visit was created as a single planet, where a variety of sentient species lived in harmony. One type of species is called Whisperers. They are made of light and energy and move freely through space and time. The other species are all matter-based humanoid creatures. Before the reader joins the story in Book 1, a revolt took place on the planet where a faction of the Whisperers joined with the 12 humanoid species to try to overthrow the Divinethos. In response, the Divinethos divided the one planet into two. The First World remained as it was created, but the Divinethos bound the Second World in time, making it have a beginning and an end. The revolutionaries were exiled to the Second World. As a result, those Whisperers lost their light and were left only as energy. They are now called Dark Ones. Over the course of thousands and thousands of years, the 12 species’ descendants forgot about the First World. When you join the story, the end of the Second World is approaching, so the First World’s Whisperers have now come to try and help those on the Second World who would listen. In Book One, the end begins as a cataclysmic natural disaster, a meteor strike, leaves devastation in its wake. Most of the planet is uninhabitable, and the few survivors must learn to work together if they are going to live. But the Dark Ones have other plans and use some of the survivors to bring further destruction. It is up to a child born with mystical powers, those who follow her, and the Whisperers to stop the Dark Ones from taking over the world. In Book Two, the survivors mourn. Their leaders are dead, their resources are gone, and their world has plunged into darkness. Hope seems a distant memory. The group of survivors splinters, relationships are broken, and they face unspeakable loss. While evil plots the culmination of its plan to seal the eternal fate of the world, the Whisperers lead one group of survivors to their only hope, a hidden orb that can pierce the darkness enveloping their world and rejoin the two planets. To find the orb, the ragtag group faces a series of trials they can only complete with the help of the Whisperers. Book Three follows the group as, aided by the Whisperers, they are tasked with transporting the magical orb to the high mountain to open a portal to the First World before their sky light goes supernova. On the way to the mountain, the Dark Ones confront them, and a massive battle ensues. Will they face their own despair and fear, overcome their desire for power, reach the high mountain, defeat the dark forces, and place the orb in time?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The First World is a place of great beauty, with crystalline waterfalls, emerald plains, and mountain spires reaching into a brilliant sky, but its most critical feature is it is unbound by time, meaning the world and its inhabitants can move freely through time and space. The Second World is bound in time and is a pale echo of the First World. When the reader joins the story, the Second World has been devastated by a series of natural disasters, so much of the world is uninhabitable.
If we were to visit the Second World as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
The best place to visit is the high mountain, where the Jacinthi prophets live; however, be warned: the Dark Ones have taken over the mountain during Book Two, so avoid the region during that time frame.
What dangers should we avoid on the Second World?
The Dark Ones are everywhere, so their presence poses a constant threat. In addition, most of the waters in the western world are tainted, so don’t drink them! Watch out for earthquakes, which can happen at any time, as well as ice storms where ice falls the size of boulders, and fire from the sky, because as the sky light expands, the atmosphere is burning.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in the Second World?
If you are hanging out with the group transporting the orb, you’re in luck. They have a delicious fruit, given to them by the Whisperers in the cave where they faced their trials, that restores their health. But beware anything served by the Dark Ones: their food appears as delicacies, but in reality it is…well, I don’t want to spoil your appetite.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common on the Second World?
The Whisperers fight with swords and light and fire. Most of the humanoids use basic implements as weapons as they are more primitive, but one of the 12 humanoid species have mechanical devices like bombs – and have even built a machine that creates black holes.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to the Second World? The Whisperers transport freely through space and time, so they don’t need vehicles. In Book Three, the magical child rides a panther-like creature with wings. Other than that, the creatures walk.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter n the Second World that we don’t see on Earth?
The Jasperi are tree dwellers with dark green skin and fluffy tails like squirrels but the size of humans. The Emraldi, grassland dwellers, look like child-sized fairies with pearlescent skin. The Topazi are desert dwellers who look like tan-colored kimodo dragons but are larger than humans. The Jacinthi live on the high mountain and look somewhat like huge snowy owls. The Saphiri (think mermaids) are ocean dwellers. The Onyxi, cave dwellers, look somewhat like large black bears but are quite timid. The Carneli, cliff dwellers, look somewhat like red wolves. The Chalcedi look like hawks and live in an aerie on the mountain on the opposite side of the world from the high mountain They equal or exceed the Jacinthi in size. The Beryli look somewhat like seals and like in the gulf waters. The Turqosi live in the wetlands. They are a warrior race who look like the spitting dinosaurs with the frill around their heads from Jurassic Park. The Chrysoli, plains dwellers, are newly introduced in Book 3. They appear lionesque. And finally, the Amthysti – the only species that looks like humans – live in a tower they built in the center of the world.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in the Whisperers series? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
The Whisperers appear very magical to the inhabitants of the Second World since they travel through space and time freely. The child who helps the Whisperers in Book One can manipulate fire. The Dark Ones can manipulate thoughts and can shoot electricity from their fingertips. The magic of the Whisperers and the child is used to fight against the Dark Ones. The magic orb is used to open a portal to the First World.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in the Second World? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
The Amthysti are the only species with any level of technology. Their crowning achievement is their black hole creating device; however, they haven’t learned how to control it, so if it was ever used, the black hole would grow without limits and would consume the worlds.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in the Second World.
They are too focused on survival for games, for the most part. The Onyxi play a game called Stones, where they flip pebbles at the wall to see who can land closest. The Emraldi like to roll and tumble down hills for fun.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in the Second World as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The inhabitants of the Second World speak in terms of cycles, related to the rise and fall of their sky light. The cycles are shorter than Earth cycles, as are their seasons. They don’t celebrate any holidays or special events, because they really don’t have much to celebrate.
Is there a particular religion practiced in the Whisperers series? Please describe what it involves.
The Whisperers worship the Divinethos. They desire to bring the inhabitants of the Second World back to the same worship, but the inhabitants have no recollection of the Divinethos or the First World. During the course of the series, the group transporting the orb come to know the Divinethos and return to worship. The Dark Ones worship Skia Skotos, their Dark Lord. Skia Skotos seeks to bring the Second World’s inhabitants under his rule.
What is the political or government structure on the Second World? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
A thousand years ago, a huge war broke out between the 12 species that almost destroyed the Second World. A treaty divided the 12 species, giving each a portion of land and prohibiting contact between them, so the 12 species have had no contact for a thousand years, until the meteor strike destroyed so much of the planet and forced them to work together. Before that time, each species had their own form of government. Now, there is no government.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit the Second World?
The Jacinthi have a unique burial ritual, which becomes significant in Book Three. The Chrysoli own slaves and force them to do all their labor. The Chalcedi use substances to heighten their senses and create a type of hysteria for battle. The Beryli issue challenges and fight each other for the ruling position in their culture. The Topazi mate for life and always remain in pairs.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book? The Book of Revelation was my inspiration.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Good vs. evil, the consequences of slavery, the consequences of drug use, the question whether scientific discovery without limits is always a good thing, the exploration of the true nature of evil, demonic inhabitation, eugenics, euthanasia.
Author Autobiography:
Dr. Donna E. Lane is an award-winning author, Professor of Counseling at Mercer University and a Christian counselor in private practice since 1993. She writes Christian fiction, Bible studies, devotionals, Christian apologetics, children’s books, and professional books such as her book on trauma treatment. She is a regular presenter at local, regional, national, and international conferences and workshops on such topics as trauma, grief and loss, Christian marriage counseling, Christian parenting, early childhood education, therapeutic writing, and soul care. Donna is married to David Lane. They have two grandchildren, Coen and Petra, and three children: Hayden, Lindsey, and Cody, who passed away in 2007 after a battle with a degenerative neurological disorder. Cody’s journey informs much of her writing.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
The Whisperers series is available on Amazon in paperback and kindle formats, and on Kindle Unlimited. Book Three will be released in July 2020. Here are the links: https://www.amazon.com/Sky-Light-Falls-Whisperers-Book/dp/1732811229
Where can readers connect with you online?
My website: https://doctordlane.com
Facebook pages: https://www.facebook.com/dr.delane
Facebook discussion group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/307573793023534/
Twitter: @Doctordelane
Instagram: @doctordelane
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the Second World. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
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Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
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-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.
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| Note on this piece: There is love scene after they are married and it is NOT explicit. |
Author’s name: Dana Bell writing as Belle Blukat
Title of book and/or series: Novella called The Woman He Won
Brief summary of the story: Marcie got dumped on a strange world after getting caught in a tornado. She awakens injured, in pain and is rescued by Lir a dark haired male with red eyes. He is both a healer and warrior self-exiled for a wrong he thinks he committed. As the weather grows cold he takes Marcie with him to his home and introduces his new mate to his mother. At the Little King ceremony Lir is challenged for Marcie, who must make the most difficult decision of her life.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: The world has several moons, severe weather which caused massive damage and loss to the natives in the past. With their seeming primitive culture, the surprise twist is that they are not exactly what they seem.
If we were to visit as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? The odd island and how difficult it is to reach.
What dangers should we avoid in the Township? If you are a woman, don’t go there. You will be fought over by the men.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served? Feasting meats and vegetables.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in the Township? One on one combat and daggers.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to the Township? A large hairy beast who can jump great distances. Elevators and homes above the trees.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in the Township that we don’t see on Earth? Odd plant like creatures that crawl around on the outside of the windows.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used. Not really.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples. The homes they live in have things like a stove, indoor plumbing and was built by their ancestors long ago, along with some sort of computer they can talk to.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in The Township as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there? They have a celebration of the Little King. He was a leader long ago who helped saved their people. Everything is seasonal.
What is the political or government structure? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? They are ruled by Elders who make all decisions.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit? If you just share a bed with a man you are considered his mate.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Funny story on this one. I also write fanfiction and I was thinking of writing a love story with Luke on the island. However, I liked the idea so much I turned it into an original piece instead. I included a Wizard of Oz twist with how my heroine arrived and the two characters took me on a journey to their semi-happy ending. The dwellings my characters lived in came from seeing the tops of buildings that literally looked like they were floating on the trees. It was also my first attempt at writing a romance, which I submitted thinking it would be rejected. They loved it and published the novella.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? The dangers of genetic manipulation and the possible unfortunate outcomes, plus women’s rights when it comes to marriage.
Author Autobiography: Owned by two cats, Adara and Taj, Dana Bell writes stories staring her fur babies often. She loves to tell tales set in places she has lived or visited, has a fascination for lighthouses, Yellowstone National Park, super volcanoes, and doll houses which have taken over her basement. Her published books include Winter Awakening and God’s Gift. Her short fiction can be found in various anthologies for SFFH and she writes romance as well. She lives in Colorado and works a day job so her cats have a warm house, food and lots of toys.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Kindle
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the Township. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
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: Dana Bell
Title of book and/or series: God’s Gift
Brief summary of the story: Three siblings, Larry, Susanna, and Jeanie are allowed to board the last colony ship that leaves Earth before Yellowstone explodes. During the voyage they bond with others and are caught by surprise when survey reports do not match with the world they landed on. Susanna and Kal get separated by a lion like being and get lost during a heavy rain storm. Larry, Susanna and Jack, a young officer, search for them. They meet one of the Charon tribes and are taken to the Rover ship where they are reunited with Susanna and her companion. The colony is removed to another planet by the governing body of the Five Systems and in the end, a small group must decide which Rover family they will go with and be the long awaited messengers.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: The story starts in Colorado Springs and moves to Mountain Home, Idaho. Part of it takes place on the ship and then on Charon, a world inhabited by intelligent felines, with odd colored plants and lots of rain.
What dangers should we avoid in Charon? Don’t go unless invited.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Charon? Odd mixtures of vegetables or nuts and spicy drinks.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Charon? The Charon hunt with claw and fang.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Charon? The Charon walk on two legs but the visiting traders called Rovers travel by spaceship.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter that we don’t see on Earth? Different color vegetation, caves, rough weather and large intelligent felines who don’t wear clothes. Introduced as well are Felcat. They keep the history of many worlds and most think they are just domestic pets. The Rovers are introduced, as are the Aarkon’s military.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples. The Rovers carry a round globe for light and some of the women are healers.
Is there a particular religion practiced? Please describe what it involves. The Charon believe in God and have been waiting for the promised messengers to arrive. The Rovers believe in the All Knowing One and some of the healers the Great Mother.
What is the political or government structure? Tribal with female leaders for each group. Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? No consolidated leadership.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book? All the cats I’ve been owned by and behaviors observed while visiting various zoos and wildlife refuges like tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, servals and many more. Since I’ve visited Colorado Springs and grew up in Idaho I used those as locations. The description of the eruption was as accurate as possible since I remember the dark cloud and total silence after Mt. St. Helens went off. We had ash all summer long, cooler temps and lots of rain. Charon came out of my imagination of how I thought an alien world might look and be so a feline race could thrive.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? When the colonist discover there is a native species, there is some concern their effect on them might be like what happened with the American Indians. It has a direct bearing on the decision made by the colonists at the end of the book.
Author Autobiography: Owned by two cats, Adara and Taj, Dana Bell writes stories staring her fur babies often. She loves to tell tales set in places she has lived or visited, has a fascination for lighthouses, Yellowstone National Park, super volcanoes, and doll houses which have taken over her basement. Her published books include Winter Awakening and God’s Gift. Her short fiction can be found in various anthologies for SFFH and she writes romance as well. She lives in Colorado and works a day job so her cats have a warm house, food and lots of toys.Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Kindle and Print on Amazon
Nook Book & Print from Barnes and Noble
Where can readers connect with you online?
Note: Next book in the series called Homefall Search is in progress. It happens just before and concurrently with God’s Gift.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Charon. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
In the Double Agent’s Service
a fantasy novel by Annie Douglass Lima
Book Description:
Erik would give his life to protect King Jaymin. However, when an old enemy shows up with new schemes, that may not be enough.
Erik would give his life to protect King Jaymin. However, when an old enemy shows up with new schemes, that may not be enough.
Anya longs to be noticed by the king’s handsome bodyguard. But as she finally gains Erik’s attention, the notorious spy and double agent Dannel blackmails her into fulfilling a favor she has owed him for years. Anya is forced into a terrible choice: save Erik’s life, or protect her homeland.
Can Erik and Anya thwart an assassin and prevent a war before Dannel destroys everything that matters to them and to the kingdom?
In the Double Agent’s Service is the final book in the Annals of Alasia. Here’s a glimpse of the rest of the series!
Prince of Alasia (just 99 cents through June 14th!)
An orphaned prince and his young bodyguard must disguise themselves and go into hiding after the kingdom of Alasia is overrun by invaders. Can Prince Jaymin save his kingdom – and himself?
In the Enemy’s Service (just 99 cents through June 14th!)
Enslaved by invaders, Anya spies on the enemy to help her captive people – but when her own father is implicated in the betrayal that led to the Invasion, can she save him?
Prince of Malorn (FREE through June 11th!)
Can Prince Korram recruit an army from among the elusive Mountain Folk and claim his rightful throne before power-hungry Regent Rampus crushes them all?
The Nameless Soldier (just 99 cents through June 14th!)
The lone survivor of a brutal attack, can teen warrior Tarvic reclaim his honor and find a way to fight for his crippled kingdom under enemy occupation?
King of Malorn (just 99 cents through June 14th!)
Pursued by assassins, can Princess Kalendria help her brother reclaim his throne and prevent a war – and catch the handsome neighboring king’s attention while she’s at it?
Annals of Alasia: The Collected Interviews (available for FREE here!)
An orphaned prince. A devious double agent. A well-meaning merchant who may have just doomed his kingdom. Meet the citizens of Alasia and Malorn and prepare to be drawn into a tangled web of war and intrigue.
With the first six books ALL free or discounted, this is the perfect time to grab the whole series! Click here to see the Annals of Alasia series on Amazon.
Meanwhile, here is the first scene from In the Double Agent’s Service!
Pain.
Cold.
The smell of dry dirt.
A hard, gritty surface beneath his cheek.
Erik mentally catalogued the sensations in order of their intensity. He opened his eyes, blinked, and added another to the list.
Darkness.
Where am I? He struggled to sit up, and his pulse spiked at the realization that he couldn’t use his hands or feet. His ankles were bound together, and his wrists were tied behind his back.
What’s going on? Erik forced himself to a sitting position, noting the dirt floor beneath him, a rough wall at his back. Brushing his fingers over what he could reach of it, he discovered that the wall seemed to be made of the same hard-packed earth as the floor.
Am I underground? Though not completely smooth, the surfaces were too flat to be natural. Not a cave, then, but perhaps a cellar of some sort.
Or a cell.
He held his breath, straining his ears for any sound in the darkness. “Hello?” he whispered.
There was no response.
“Hello?” he said, a little louder. The acoustics hinted that he was in a small room. His head, already sore, throbbed anew at the sound of his own voice.
Erik leaned against the wall behind him, trying to keep calm. What happened? And where’s Jaymin?
Jaymin. Erik’s pulse started racing again. Had something happened to Jaymin?
Calm down, he ordered himself. He couldn’t afford to give in to panic. Instead, he would investigate his surroundings. Perhaps Jaymin was lying unconscious nearby.
Erik struggled to his feet and promptly smacked his head on a low ceiling. Dropping to his knees with a grunt of pain, he drew in a deep breath while a wave of dizziness rolled over him. When it passed, he shifted to a sitting position, bound legs in front of him. Moving slowly because every movement set his head throbbing, he began to crawl crab-like on his backside, feet, and hands. Keeping one shoulder against the wall, he scooted forward.
It didn’t take long to discover he was in a circular room, the walls curving back around toward where he had started. After eight steps, if he could call them that, his toes bumped something hard. Feeling with his feet, he discovered a stair in front of him, perhaps eight inches high. Shifting his weight, he leaned forward and took a little crouching jump into it. Another stair lay above it, and another. When he jumped onto the third stair, he winced as his injured head bumped the ceiling again.
Craning his neck and brushing an uninjured part of his forehead lightly back and forth against it, Erik discovered that the ceiling was made of wooden boards. Ducking lower with every hop so as not to bump it again, he made his way up the rest of the stairs until they ended at the wall. Twisting around, he hunched over awkwardly and ran his elbow back and forth across the low ceiling. As he had expected, a rectangular trapdoor lay just above him. He could feel the seams where its edges didn’t quite meet the surrounding boards. The hinges must be on the other side, but he thought he could detect a keyhole at one end. Nothing happened when he pushed up against the door with one shoulder, not that he had expected it to open for him.
Descending the steps again, Erik felt his way around the rest of the room. Eleven shuffling steps took him all the way around its circumference and back to the stairs. Criss-crossing the middle several times, he discovered it was completely empty.
If Jaymin wasn’t in here, where was he? Erik sat down and leaned against the wall, his head pounding from the exertion. Bending to brush it gently against his raised knees, he could feel a lump on his right temple. In addition, his upper lip was swollen and tasted like blood. It felt as though he had some bruises on his arms and torso, as well.
Erik closed his eyes — not that it made any difference in the complete darkness that surrounded him — and strained to recall what had happened. Had he and Jaymin been on a trip? He thought he remembered something about embarking on a journey. Where were they going? Was there an ambush? What happened to the palace guards who always accompanied the royal carriage?
Surely Jaymin couldn’t be dead. No one would kill the king but take his bodyguard captive. Would they?
And why would anyone take a bodyguard captive in the first place?
About the Author
Annie Douglass Lima considers herself fortunate to have traveled in twenty different countries and lived in four of them. A fifth-grade teacher in her “other” life, she loves reading to her students and sparking their imaginations. Her books include science fiction, fantasy, YA action and adventure novels, a puppet script, anthologies of her students’ poetry, Bible verse coloring and activity books, and a fantasy-themed cookbook. When she isn’t teaching or writing, Annie can often be found sipping spiced chai or pomegranate green tea in exotic locations, some of which exist in this world.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:
M. L. Farb
Title of book and/or series:
Vasilisa, The Hearth and Bard Tales book 1
Brief summary of the story:
Vasilisa has always been strong. She’s strong enough to break the arm of the bully that daily taunts her. She won’t because she and her mother are servants at the Orlov manor, and her mother would be punished for her retaliation. Instead Vasilisa bides her time until she is sixteen and can return to the forest.
Only Staver, the master’s son, shows her kindness. His friendship pulls as strong as the forest, but their classes are divided forever by law. She is a forest born, fatherless servant and her future at the manor holds mockery filled drudgery.
War threatens. The forest calls. Will she stay to protect the one who can never be more than a friend, or flee to the peace that the forest offers?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
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Snowy day on a bridge in St. Petersburg
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Ruska is a cold land. The people are strong, for they yearly fight winter. Those who win live to see another summer. Those who do not, find a home in earth that is frozen half the year. Come and enter a land of wolves and ogres, tsars and wars, and forests vast enough to hold whole nations. A land where the servant will always be the servant—unless. Come see.
If we were to visit Ruska as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
If you know some of the nobility, you will want to visit a manor house or even a palace. Their distinctive onion-shaped domes show from miles away, but it is the inside that is truly a marvel. Many Ruskan pass the long winter by creating beautiful carvings and paintings. Geometric paintings cover doorways and ceilings, intricate rugs and tapestries hang on the walls to help keep the cold away, and inlaid furniture grace the rooms. Watch for intricate clocks, like the one with a peacock that spreads its tail feathers.
If you are like me, the forest will draw you more than the palaces. Ancient forests spread across lands that could swallow whole nations. Birch and pine stretch above trillium. Peat bogs and meadows open to the sun. Otters play in streams, goshawks hunt, and shrikes sing their fierce evening song. These are not places to travel carelessly. Wolves, bears, and ogres roam the depths. Your visit may turn into a permanent stay.
What dangers should we avoid in Ruska?
The Scythians dwelling to the south live a nomadic life on windswept steppes. They are as fierce and unyielding as their land. If they decide to attack while you are visiting, flee. They sweep through, killing indiscriminately. A child is no safer from their sabers than a soldier.
Also avoid upsetting the nobility. They can be even more vicious and unforgiving than the Scythians.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Ruska?
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Door in St. Basil’s Cathedral
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Ruskans usually start the day with a slice of almost black rye bread slathered in butter topped by an equally thick slice of cheese or meat. On special occasions they take buckwheat (which isn’t a grain but rather the cousin of rhubarb), soak the seeds overnight, and the following morning cook it up in milk. It is rich, nutty, and has a chewy/creamy texture. You’ll never find anything else like it.
Other favorites: Borscht—a beet soup, Pelmeni—a dumpling stuffed with meat and onions, and Blini—a thin pancake eaten with jam and sour cream.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Ruska?
The longbow is preferred for both hunting and fighting. But it takes great strength to draw it. Some bows have 200-lbs draw weight. Imagine lifting a 200-lb weight with your arm, shoulder, and back, then holding it steady so the shot goes where you want it.
The Ruskan also use the Shasqua, a slightly curved sabre with a single edge. It is effective for both cutting and thrusting.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Ruska? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Some people are able to shape-shift. However if they shift their shape, they also shift to animal senses, though they retain their human thought. Depending on the animal shifted to the world changes color, the faintest liquid trail becomes visible in the ultraviolet range, scents overpower, and sound takes on new dimensions. It is overwhelming for the first time user of this magic.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Ruska.
The Hopak is an acrobatic dance, usually danced by men. It requires immense athletic strength, agility, and balance. It is often performed in celebration by soldiers, and has no set steps, rather the dancers compete against each other to see who can outperform the other. Some of the steps are squat and kick out legs, crouch with legs crossed and alternately touch knees to the ground, cartwheel, flips, and leaps.
What is the political or government structure in Ruska? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The tsar’s word is law. Each child from their first year of speech swears an oath to love, honor, and protect the tsar—not once but on each name day.
Within the manor the lord and lady have absolute control over their servants and slaves. There is no court that a servant can plead for justice against an unjust master. Marriage between social-classes is not only frowned upon, but illegal.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Ruska?
Many Ruskans love music, especially the balalaika, a triangular stringed instrument. It can be played like the guitar or the larger stringed instruments, like the bass.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I lived in St. Petersburg, Russia for 6 months. I’ll never forget entering adulthood surrounded by a city and culture older than my home nation. And I’ll always remember the kindness and goodness of the people.
The idea for Vasilisa came from a children’s picture book Serpent Slayer: And Other Stories of Strong Women by Katrin Tchana. To save the man she loved, a woman disguised herself as a man and had to pass three tests of strength, skill, and strategy. The picture book took on tall-tale quality as the woman injured her opponents in wrestling and shattered a tree by shooting it with an arrow. How did she become so strong? I wrote Vasilisa to answer that question.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
This is what some of my readers are saying about Vasilisa:
“Public unrest, self-discovery, … and the choice to be good or evil.”
“Vasilisa must find the courage to face her deepest fears and challenge her deepest held beliefs about her past.”
Author Autobiography:
Ever since I climbed up to the rafters of our barn at age four, I’ve lived high adventure: scuba diving, hiking, climbing, and even riding a retired racehorse at full gallop—bareback. I love the thrill and joy.
Stories give me a similar thrill and joy. I love living through the eyes and heart of a hero who faces his internal demons and the heroine who fights her way free instead of waiting to be saved.
I create adventures, fantasy, fairy tale retellings, and poetry. I live a joyful adventure with my husband and six children. I am a Christian and I love my Savior.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
My books are available on Amazon in both ebook and paperback formats, plus one audiobook.
The King Trials:
The King’s Trial — Whitney Awards Nominee 2019
The King’s Trial audiobook (just released)
Hearth and Bard Tales:
Fourth Sister (coming later this year)
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Ruska. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
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:
Hi! I’m Shauna E. Black. Thanks so much for hosting me on your blog today!
Title of book and series:
Today I’m featuring The Phantom Nightingale, Book 1 of the Andul Guardians. There will be 2 more books in this series. The Skyhound Master is book 2, slated to be released at the end of March. The final book in the series is called The Angel Bandit.
Brief summary of the story:
Xanthe’s crew might all be kids, but that doesn’t mean he plays it safe. He saved them all once, and now they’ll go anywhere with him. But when news of a potential lost sister comes to light, Xanthe will lead them on their most dangerous mission yet – into the heart of the empire that wants him, dead or alive.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The books are placed in a futuristic world that uses steampunk-like technology. In this world, the polar ice caps melted, spawning a Time of Chaos that destroyed civilization until the Tyrian Empire arose to control much of Europe (now spelled Yurop). While many of the books’ locations may seem familiar to those of our day, the rising waters of the oceans have eaten away at the coastlines, virtually destroyed marine life, and caused continuous earthquake tremors. The Tyrians blame much of this unrest on an alien race called Andul that can slip instantaneously from one location to another using the power of song.
If we were to visit Tyria as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
You should definitely take a turn around Pragnov, the City Reborn. This is the capital of the Tyrian Empire, a shining testament to the power of humanity to rise from the ashes. It models such architectural triumphs as the Capitol Building, a vast edifice sprawling 200 square meters in the center of the city; and the Yugend Tower, rising fifty stories above the guide wires protecting it from earthquake damage and topped by the famous Yugend dome.
If your tastes lean more toward the country life (or if you’re on the run from the Tyrian government), you might prefer to visit the snowy slopes of the Alpun Mountains, or perhaps the turbulent coast of Pembrook with its crashing waves and mossy houses.
What dangers should we avoid in Tyria?
Angering the Tyrian government. Seriously. Mind your Ps and Qs.
And when the Child Conscription Authority comes knocking on your door to enlist youth in their required service to the Empire, don’t hesitate to hand over your children. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself on the run to one of those country getaways mentioned earlier.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Tyria?
Banitsa (eggs and feta cheese in a filo pastry) is excellent hot or cold, or you might try pelmeni (small dumplings). If you have a sweet tooth, go for palacinky (a crepe-like pancake filled with jam).
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Tyria?
Hand guns, rifles, and blunderbusses for ground engagement. Blunderbusses are also used on air ships, as well as the ever-popular particle canon. Some weapons are powered by the magic of Andul, such as the small hand-held stinger.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Tyria?
Air ships utilize the hummed harmonies of Geissler tubes filled with hydrogen that’s been charged magically by the singing voice of an Andul. There must be two Geissler arrays to enable a ship to fly; one mounted below in the orlop, and one mounted above on the mast. The sounds ping against each other to enable flight.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Tyria that we don’t see on Earth?
The Andul are an alien race that arrived on planet Earth shortly before the Time of Chaos. They are able to slipfrom one location to another when they sing. Tyria has harnessed this power – at the same time neutralizing the threat Andul supposedly pose to the planet – by controlling the Andul through a mineral called moldavite.
What is the political or government structure in Tyria? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The Tyrian Empire rules most of the Yuropene continent, with Chancellor Vaas at its head. He rose to power partly by convincing the population of the importance of subjugating the Andul. He believes strongly that youth are the treasure of Tyria and mandates that all children over the age of twelve leave home to be trained for their place in society.
The Confederacy, a conglomerate of the other countries of Earth, sometimes takes a narrow view of Tyria’s policies. But they do not wish to incite another war with Tyria, not after the devastation caused by the Global War twenty years ago, and so they often turn a blind eye to Tyria’s atrocities.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
My travels to parts of Europe inspired some of the settings, along with the culture of my ancestors (where “Pembrook” is concerned). The magic is an homage to my own love for music. Although I’ve never been a professional singer, I was trained classically as a mezzo-soprano.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Child slavery and the oppression and inhuman treatment of a foreign race. Forgiveness and unconditional love are themes woven throughout all three books in the series.
Author Autobiography:Award-winning author Shauna E. Black smiles a lot. But her appearance can be deceiving. Like the legendary sirens of old, she enjoys luring innocent readers into the fantastical worlds she creates and trapping them there. It is rumored that Shauna domesticated a dragon by feeding him ice cream and keeps four young house elves to do her bidding, although one escaped when presented a sock. Shauna declares war on the mundane, living a charmed life camouflaged in the high desert of the American Southwest. If you decide to go against your better judgment and ignore all warnings, you can find out more about her adventurous fiction on her website, ShaunaBlack.com.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
The Phantom Nightingale is available at major online retailers, including:
· Amazon
· Kobo
Where can readers connect with you online?
I always welcome new subscribers to my eclub newsletter, plus you can get a free novella for subscribing. 😉
I’m not really great at social media (old lady alert), but I’m most active on Facebook. I like to post bookstagram images once in awhile on my Instagram account, and I frequently use Pinterest for writing inspiration, along with more prosaic household recipes and decorating ideas.
If you’d like to chat or just give me a shout out, I’m usually good at responding to email.
Thanks for reading!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Tyria. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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| Once Upon a Bowl of Oatmeal (paperback cover) |
My latest writing project is very different from anything else I’ve written. It’s a cookbook! But those who know how much I love fantasy might not be surprised that this cookbook ended up with a fantasy theme. Many of the recipes have names inspired by fairy tales or fantasy stories, and I love the hints of fantasy in the two covers designed by the awesome Savannah Jezowski.
Why two different covers? The paperback version of the cookbook is an unusual shape, due to the unusual recipe format (more information about that below), so it couldn’t share a cover with the ebook.
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| Once Upon a Bowl of Oatmeal (ebook cover) |
Some people might be surprised, though, that the whole book is focused on oatmeal. After all, isn’t oatmeal that boring goop that nobody really eats if there’s anything else available?
NOT ANYMORE! In this book, you’ll find recipes for delectable dishes like creamy mango coconut spice oatmeal, cinnamon almond oatmeal, blueberry cream cheese oatmeal, and (my personal favorite:) caramel banana oatmeal with peanut butter. (Okay, so that one is a little closer to the dessert end of the spectrum than the porridge end!)
Take a look at the book blurb below for more details:
Are you tired of high-sugar, low-health-value instant oatmeals in tiny serving packets full of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives? Once Upon a Bowl of Oatmeal contains 70 hearty recipes packed with natural ingredients and brimful of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. All are gluten free, assuming you use gluten-free oats, and vegan (or they come with a vegan option). Most require no salt so are perfect for a low sodium diet. Almost all of these recipes can be prepared in ten minutes or less, saving you time in your busy morning.
Oh … and no more math! Whether you’re cooking just for yourself, for a family of six, or any number in between, every recipe comes in the form of a handy table that shows exactly how much of each ingredient you’ll need for however many servings you want.
Tasty enough for kids to crave, but wholesome enough to appeal to health-conscious parents, these mouth-watering recipes will give you plenty of energy for your day while pleasing your taste buds too. Download Once Upon a Bowl of Oatmeal now and say goodbye to artificial breakfasts that don’t fully satisfy.
Take a peek at a few of the fun recipe titles (with pictures courtesy of photographer Denise Johnson). Then scroll down for a free recipe!
And now for a free oatmeal recipe in the unique format I use in Once Upon a Bowl of Oatmeal:
Ready to grab your copy? Click here to download the ebook for your Kindle or here to order the paperback cookbook. (The Kindle version is on sale for just $1.99 for the next couple of days!) And if you enjoy the recipes, please consider leaving a review on Amazon, Goodreads, and/or Bookbub!
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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:
Kandi J Wyatt
Title of book and/or series:
An Unexpected Exploit, book 3 of Myth Coast Adventures trilogy
Brief summary of the story:
A regular summer hunting trip takes a new turn when Franklin falls into the mythical realm of Shinwano. When he returns home he finds a poacher, NSA agent, and his friends all interested in the portal—and all for different reasons.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Shinwano exists on a separate plane of the time-space continuum. It looks like Earth but instead of humans populating it, its inhabitants are mythical creatures.
If we were to visit Shinwano as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
First off, make sure to get the permission of the sanraksaka; otherwise you’re in for trouble. Once you have Ladaku’s approval, then you’ll be free to roam. Be sure to travel north to the Parhada Mountains and visit the dragons there. You’ll also want to meet the gryphons across the lake and, if they’ll let you, the fairies. Keep your eyes open for fauns and brownies as well. A trip to Tsenturi’s cave would be helpful as well. The centaur may allow you to look into his scrying pool. Of course, your trip wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t look up Kajri the unicorn and hear her story of how she went through the rift in the time-space continuum not once but twice!
What dangers should we avoid in Shinwano?
For the most part, Shinwano is a peaceful land, but there is one creature that you’ll want to beware of. The guatama prowl through the night seeking creatures they can turn to serve their master. If they can’t trick you to follow them, they’ll destroy you. Their power has been growing recently, so be careful and stay inside at night, especially since they’re invisible!
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Shinwano?
Ladaku may try to serve you rasa juice. Don’t be put off by the bitter taste. Once you get pass that, the drink will provide energy, help your body heal, and quench your thirst. The rasa berry grows wild on bushes much like Earth’s blueberries do, but they have a taste more like a cranberry or a wolfberry. Cantharellus will show you the best wild mushrooms available and won’t be offended if you don’t like them because he’ll gladly eat what you don’t want.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Shinwano?
The manisa of the sanraksaka are known for their bhala, or staff, fighting. They train with tall, hardwood staves that are as tall as them and as thick as their wrists. To humans the Sanraksaka bhalas are as big as tree limbs.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Shinwano?
The only way to get to Shinwano is through the rift in the time-space continuum, protected by the Sanraksaka. Once there, you’ll travel on foot unless a unicorn, centaur, or dragon is willing to carry you.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Shinwano that we don’t see on Earth?
The forests around Gamu, Ladaku’s village, are full of tall, straight eucalyptus trees and bushy, mushroom-shaped myrtlewood trees. The ground cover consists in berries, mushrooms, and ferns.
Deer, rabbits, chipmunks, and other ordinary animals provide food for the inhabitants of Shinwano who prefer something more than vegetables. The lake is full of fish which is excellent grilled over a fire.
The inhabitants are what set Shinwano apart from Earth. Eight distinct races populate the land.
Sanraksaka are large, hairy, and ape-like. Humans may know them as sasquatch, bigfoot, or yeti. The sanraksaka live in villages throughout Shinwano. The women help create weapons for hunting and defending the portals and are in charge of food gathering, while the males are fighters or farmers. Both men and women train their baccaharu, or children, in the ways of Sirjanakarta, the Creator.
North of Gamu, centaurs roam the land. They prefer to live in caves and are known for their wisdom and insight. Across the lake near Gamu, gryphons soar on the thermal currents off the mountains. Fauns and satyrs live in the plains and woods north of Gamu. They interact with the unicorns who prefer the tree-covered areas.
Kopala, or brownies, hide among the lower bushes throughout Shinwano. They love the mushrooms that grow wild in the forests. Kopalalook like living, large teddy bears with their ears higher on their head.
Fairies live in each of the different sections of Shinwano—mountains, lake, grasslands, and woodlands. Every group has distinctive wings. The woodland fairies can be mistaken for butterflies. They flitter among the bushes blending into their surroundings. While in the grasslands, keep your eyes open for flowers that don’t look quite right. The king of the grassland fairies has deep red wings that look like rose petals. Over the lake, the fairies have wings similar to dragonflies, and in the mountains their wings are more durable and resemble beetle wings.
In the mountains to the far north dragons soar. They prefer the rugged terrain where they have ample food in mountain goats, bears, and deer.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Shinwano? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
In a realm of mythical creatures, magic abounds. Fairies, unicorns, dragons, and kopala wield magic in various amounts. Even centaurs could be considered magical in the use of their scrying pools. Unicorn horns give healing, while their tears provide longevity for skin. By their nature, dragons have magic. Their scales can be used to provide a source of magic to non-magic users. Kopala have the ability to use a small bit of magic, but they can track magic users. Of all the creatures, fairies can wield the most magic. They don’t have spells they cast, but a simple laying of their hands on an object can provide strength, imbue it with magic, or give magic to another. The guatama use their master’s magic. His goal is gather all the magic in the land and pervert it.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Shinwano? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
No technology exists in Shinwano, but humans have brought technological objects through the portal, even though it doesn’t last long without batteries or any way to recharge.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Shinwano.
The manisa train with hand-to-hand combat as well as their bhalas. This happens in a sandy arena outside Sam’mana’s yurt while other sanraksaka watch. At night the sanraksaka sit around the fire and the village storyteller shares tales with the baccaharu and adults alike. All creatures enjoy celebrations and feasts. The fauns and satyrs dance with unicorns observing and enjoying.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Shinwano as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Shinwano has seven days in a week and four weeks in a lunar cycle. They count the years in seasons. There aren’t any specific holidays or special events celebrated regularly.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Shinwano? Please describe what it involves.
All creatures respect Sirjanakarta, the Creator of Shinwano and Earth. Even the guatama fear Sirjanakarta. The stars remind the sanraksaka of Sirjanakarta’s care and protection. He speaks to the different races in unique ways. The centaurs hear him through their scrying pools, while bhalascommunicate Sirjanakarta’s ways to the sanraksaka. Sirjanakarta speaks directly to fairies. Despite all this, the creatures of Shinwano have no specific religious practices. Their belief in Sirjanakarta permeates everything in their lives.
What is the political or government structure in Shinwano? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Each race has a different political structure. Dragons are solitary creatures without much internal governing, as are unicorns, fauns, satyrs, and kopala. The sanraksaka are ruled by the manisa, their warriors. The head manisa has the final say for the village. Each village has their own group of manisa and a head manisa. Fairies have a leader for each of their divisions.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Shinwano?
Just be open to different ideas in each people group.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
The sanraksaka came about because a sophomore student suggested I write a book about sasquatch. At the time I knew it was going to be part of the Myth Coast Adventures trilogy, but I didn’t know how the story would unfold. As book 2 finished, and Kajri gave us a glimpse of Shinwano, I began to wonder, ‘what if?’ What if the tales of sasquatch, prevalent here in Southwestern Oregon, really were from protectors of portals sliding into our world?
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Surprisingly, there are no controversial topics; well, my main character, Franklin does go hunting. The main thing some readers may have issues with is this book has more of a Christian bent to it. As Franklin learns how to use his bhala and the longer he’s in Shinwano, he grows to learn more and more about Sirjanakarta.
Author Autobiography:Even as a young girl, Kandi J Wyatt had a knack for words. She loved to read them, even if it was on a shampoo bottle! By high school Kandi had learned to put words together on paper to create stories for those she loved. Nowadays, she writes for her kids, whether that’s her own five or the hundreds of students she’s been lucky to teach. When Kandi’s not spinning words to create stories, she’s using them to teach students about Spanish, life, and leadership.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
My books are available on all outlets in both ebook and paperback formats.
Myth Coast Adventures trilogy
An Unexpected Exploit
Dragon Courage series
Stand-alones
Where can readers connect with you online?
I’m most active on Instagram and Facebook for social media, even though I do have a twitter account. I’m on Amazon, Bookbub, and Goodreads, and have my own website as well.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Shinwano. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
-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: RJ Conte
Title of book and/or series: Artificial Love
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| Lisbeth |
Brief summary of the story: Deep in the heart of the wild west, rebel marauders are drawing out a bloody civil war that no side can win. Many ranchers, including Lisbeth’s father, die trying to save their farms, leaving their women to fight to keep their land and stay alive.
When Lisbeth and her mousy younger sister Ruth come face to face with the uncouth land pirates who seize their farm as a scouting base, they only have one plan to protect their virtue: pretend to be commonplace, advanced domestic robots. Suppressing their fears, enslaved to the ruffians, the two young women are determined to convince the men they’re not human.
Their plan hits a snag when they meet Dane: a gorgeous prisoner-of-war who has a secret belief that robots can become sentient and develop emotions on their own… and he’s determined to use Lisbeth as proof.
Can the sisters keep up their ruse and survive? For fans of The Twilight Zone meets Gone with the Wind and Magnificent Seven
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: Think Gone with the Wind or Magnificent Seven – 1800s with cowboys, wagons, ranches, and extremely sophisticated robot servants! In other words, the genre is cattlepunk.
If we were to visit Lisbeth’s country as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? It’s not safe due to roving marauders and the ongoing Civil War. Not a good time to visit. But if you’re in a safe area, I’d recommend you have a chef robot cook you up a big heaping plate of Johnny cakes and grits, sit on the veranda watching the sunset over the tumbleweeds, and go for a horse ride over the mountain pass.
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| Dane |
What dangers should we avoid? The land pirates. These ruffians will shoot you on sight or at least take your farm and rope you into servitude… or worse!
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common? Pistols and rifles abound.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel? Definitely horses and wagons.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology? Yes, the artificial intelligence! Robot servants and farmhounds abound, making the ranchers’ lives easier. In the wealthy capital, robots may also exist as nannies, companions, and surrogate children. If you give them an expensive “emotion pack,” they become much more like human beings and act far more sentient.
Is there a particular religion practiced? Lisbeth and her little sister Ruth are Christians.
What is the political or government structure? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? The snobby heads of state in the capital were out of touch with the rest of the way their poorer class lived, and when a rebellious uprising occurred, they were too fat and lazy to defend themselves well. The rebel uprising took over, and now half the country is in a never-ending, bloody civil war. Dark times.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? Fearing sexual abuse, and how far two women will go to protect themselves. Rights for robots and whether emotional AI should be treated like humans. Romantic relationships between AI and humans, etc.
Author Autobiography:RJ Conte has kissed only one boy in her entire life – and she married him – inspiring her to write about sweet or powerful love stories ever since. She writes issue-driven fiction that explores human nature and the depths of the soul while pointing readers to their Creator.
She writes a blog on parenting, publishing, painting, and perorating at http://blonderj.wordpress.com/
She writes a blog on parenting, publishing, painting, and perorating at http://blonderj.wordpress.com/
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Ebooks and paperback: https://www.amazon.com/RJ-Conte/e/B00MDY4T0S?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1567755884&sr=8-2
Where can readers connect with you online?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlondeRJConte/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blonderjconte/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlondeRJConte
My blog: https://blonderj.wordpress.com/
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to this cattlepunk town. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
-Annie Douglass Lima
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Juli D. Revezzo
Title of book and/or series: The Dragon’s Seamstress (Antique Magic, book 5) Brief summary of the story:
As witches Caitlin and Trevor prepare for a family gathering, a creature out of fantasy and myth bounds into their lives demanding they repair his precious cloak. But the cloak isn’t made of run of the mill material, but is also laced with magic. How will they satisfy his demands? And if they don’t, will he eat them?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Well, since the Antique Magic series is urban fantasy, there are two. One is the world Caitlin and Trevor live in a small town just outside Pensacola called Gulf Breeze. It’s a small town of about 6,500 inhabitants. The coolest thing about the town is they are in view of a fort from the early days of the Civil War. The fort is, supposedly, haunted, so that’s why I chose the location. They have the accompanying weather—heat, mild winters, thunderstorms, and hurricanes, which they frequently fret over. Throughout the series, under an assignment from the goddess Arianrhod, the couple have dealt with (and helped) spirits that come to them for assistance. But this is the first time they’ve ever had a dragon drop by.
The other is the Welsh “Otherworld”, Annwn (pronounced, but it’s okay to say Annwin if you like, in fact, good ole Wikipedia says one of its pronunciations is Annwvyn). Annwn is, like, their heaven. The entrance and Ariarhod’s castle, is Medieval in tone. But Annwn has tons of areas and can fluctuate between eras (the battleground especially changes depending on the mood of the Otherworld soldiers and what tournament they’re holding). Caitlin and Trevor frequently visit Arianrhod’s courtyard, where (especially Cait) is usually turned away at the gate by the temperamental guards (in Mourning Dove Locket) or let in on special occasions (in Caitlin’s Book of Shadows). In The Dragon’s Seamstress, the couple learns there’s a whole other section they’ve never known about where dragons live. Mostly, the Otherworld inhabitants come to Gulf Breeze with their problems.
If we were to visit Gulf Breeze as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
If you’re a history buff, you have to go Fort Pickens! 🙂 It’s a really cool, old fort, built in a pentagonal shape with lots of nooks and crannies to explore. If you’re not a history buff, definitely head to the beach.
What dangers should we avoid in Gulf Breeze?Sometimes, the ghosts and other entities can get a little confused, so tread lightly, if you run across one. (And as a practical tip, if you go to the beach, be mindful of undertow.)
(And in Annwn, you can find yourself in trouble if you try a raid on the Spoils of Annwn. 🙂 So be warned. Don’t try to go after their riches. You don’t want your soul eaten by a proper Hound of Annwn. [see below for more on them.])
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Gulf Breeze?
They have great seafood.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Gulf Breeze?
We try to avoid confrontations, but Caitlin has some self-defense training, and…she can throw magic at a pesky imp and fry its…erm, tail, even without the help of her latest charge. 🙂
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Gulf Breeze?
Cars, bicycles, other automobiles. But Caitlin has the special talent of being able to teleport, learned from her mentor, a “guardian” sent to her and Trevor by Arianrhod. And they’ve learned the goddess, enjoys, especially, our expensive, flashy cars.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Gulf Breeze that we don’t see on Earth?
Caitlin and Trevor have adopted a Hound of Annwn named Rhonabwy (pronounced Ron-a-bwee). He is a dog-being out of Celtic legend, with white fur and red-tipped ears, (a marker of the Otherworld) who can detect supernatural beings. He can speak telepathically with Caitlin and Trevor and their witch friends are learning to hear him. His fur is always cool to Caitlin’s, instead of warm, and his eyes glow red when he’s in protection mode. He doesn’t have to obey the laws of physics so can just appear at their sides, and …do other things that if I tell you, here, will be a spoiler for The Dragon’s Seamstress! Shh…
Ahem, Rhonabwy was originally raised by Arianrhod’s supernatural kennels, to join the Hounds of Annwn, who hunt souls, but…he didn’t like that job at all. So, Arianrhod’s pack-keepers ousted him, and Caitlin found him loping around a corner in her hometown, one day, and fell in love. He’s been with them ever since, and yes, defends her against, and warns her of, supernatural threats. But, poor thing, he ain’t sure how to deal with this dragon. 😉 There are other gods living in Annwn, too, but as Arianrhod is the patron goddess of Trevor and Caitlin’s family, she’s the only one who visits them. Her, Michela (their family guardian), and the gate guardians.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in a huge role? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Caitlin is a witch, and first encountered the supernatural in the first book in the Antique Magic series, The Artist’s Inheritance. Here, Trevor (who is a woodworker) started building an odd chair that the goddess Arianrhod tried to get him to give to her. But, she didn’t just walk right up and ask, but tried to blend in with human society, and so sent her emissary, Michela. On the other side, a pesky imp tried to keep Trevor from giving it up. All the while, Caitlin sensed there was something otherworldly about Michela, Arianrhod, and this imp—and got hit with a bunch of odd visions, including being visited by the ghost of her husband’s ancestor.
She thought she was going mad, until she reconnected with an old friend from school, who just so happened to be a witch, too. It was the friend who realized what was happening to Caitlin. So she knows everything Caitlin needs to learn and between her and her coven, they helped Caitlin get control of her budding powers and drive off the imp, and save her husband’s sanity (and life). Then, in the next books, Caitlin gained more and more control and learned more about ghosts (they’re not scary, after all—for the most part—just lost and lonely and in need of her “ear” and a helping hand). She can blast an enemy, if necessary, she can pick up an item and “see” its history. She sometimes gets yanked into a vision of the original owner’s life, which (as discombobulating as that can be) it can be helpful. From her coven, she’s learned enough herbalism to whip up helpful medicines; she’s learned the history and legends of this goddess, and Trevor’s Welsh ancestry. They both have (Trevor too is a witch).
They even helped a teen witch gain control of her own growing powers and they’ve both frequently visited Arianrhod’s realm of Annwn (that’s a whole ‘nother Realm Explorer’s), but they don’t go often, onscreen. (It makes an appearance in the freebie “Caitlin’s Book of Shadows”.
Caitlin’s magic also comes in handy in that she and Trevor run an antique store, and from time to time, she senses spiritual and magical vibes from treasures people bring in or inquire about. These always work into the series, somehow. For instance, in The Dragon’s Seamstress, a customer comes in looking for antique “witches” brooms that turn out to be a little more than meets the eye.
Also, in the book, the dragon is (obviously) magical, and furthermore, he has a cloak that he wears that is made of the beards of all the kings he’s defeated. One beard might, they speculate, have come from King Arthur. Also, at one point, he gives Caitlin a gift that pushes her powers beyond even those of her old school chum, the longtime witch. So, I can’t wait to see what she can do next!
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Gulf Breeze? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.Caitlin and Trevor live in the modern world so they have everything we do: television, coffeemakers, computers, cars, Internet etc.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Gulf Breeze.
The usual—movies, books, radio. Trevor likes to surf. Gulf Breeze also has antique stores, like Trevor and Caitlin’s. I can’t say whether those others receive magical and magic-touched items like Cait and Trevor do, though. 😉
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Yes; as a matter of fact, in The Dragon’s Seamstress, the couple are gearing up for Thanksgiving dinner with their families and friends. Caitlin and Trevor also celebrate the holidays peculiar to the Welsh and pagan calendars. Samhain (October 31), Gwyl Awst(August 1), also the full moons, they always try to get together with their coven. They do only close their antique shop on national holidays, though (New Years, Christmas, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, etc).
Is there a particular religion practiced in Gulf Breeze? Please describe what it involves.
Caitlin and Trevor (and their coven) are pagan so they revere pagan gods—in their case, in particular, the Welsh gods of Trevor’s family, that being the goddess Arianrhod. They also, via their coven, revere the goddess of light. The coven gets together on solstices and equinoxes, Samhain, Gwyl Awst, August 1st (the abovementioned Gwyl Awst), May 1st, and so on, according to the modern pagan calendar. They cast circles, which contains their magical energy while they do their charms. At least when they’re together. If Caitlin needs to defend against a pesky imp, circles, be damned, she’s just going to blast the thing! She’ll also “bless” the homes of her friends and family to keep them safe and happy, and their environment loving and peaceful. She’s also been known to cook the best feasts around, and mix up fine teas.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Gulf Breeze?
If a ghost walks by, say hello.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I’ve an art history degree, and a love of Celtic mythology. I also know some artists, so all of these things tied into the series. Oh, and Caitlin and Trevor’s antique store is inspired by a few that we have around town. And yes, I have actually visited Gulf Breeze. The one in the books doesn’t have exactly the same layout as the real town, but, I have. It’s a nice little coastal town, with lovely beaches, and of course, Fort Pickens. A few other things: Caitlin’s neighbor knits, and I can (a little); also, alas, in 2017, I had experience with the hurricane they talk about in The Dragon’s Seamstress. Welcome to Florida life. (haha). Caitlin lives further north of us and down here in our area, we had rubble—in fact, according to the news, there were piles of it all over the state for even after Christmas, that year. So it was hard not to be constantly reminded of it, that year.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
It really depends on the book. But throughout the Antique Magic series, I’ve covered the Civil War, spousal domination, Cuban history and the Revolution, flappers, and a huge dose of feminism. In fact, at one point, Trevor answers the dragon’s question with “Haven’t you figured out who runs this house yet? Cait does.”
Please share a brief author autobiography.Juli D. Revezzo is a Florida girl with a love of speculative and romantic fiction and legend, and loves writing stories with all kinds of fantastical elements. She is the author of The Antique Magic series and the fantasy romance Celtic Stewards Chronicles series, along with a few historical romance novels, and short stories published in ETERNAL HAUNTED SUMMER, LUNA STATION QUARTERLY, among others. She is also a member of the Independent Author Network and the Magic Appreciation Tour.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books? Please include links.
The Dragon’s Seamstress releases August 11, 2019 in ebook and coming soon to paperback via Amazon.
The other books in the series (and the reading order) are:
The Artist’s Inheritance (Antique Magic, book 1)
Caitlin’s Book of Shadows (Antique Magic, book 2)
Drawing Down the Shades (Antique Magic, book 3)
Mourning Dove Locket (Antique Magic, book 4)
The Dragon’s Seamstress (Antique Magic,book 5)
And, well, to understand everything you should probably read them in order, at least start with book one. Just so you know, some readers think the first two can be a little creepy, as Caitlin is creeped out by her early contact with the ghosts around her. As she gets a handle on things, the “fear” factor vanishes. Really, the ghosts aren’t scary-creepy-evil once you get to know them. They’re more like friendly spirits, or (can I say this?) “Force” ghosts. They’re in need of someone like Caitlin and Trevor to listen to them, and even helpful, when you get to know them. Some can be pesky, some can be belligerent. Just like people.
In The Dragon’s Seamstress, a friendly ancestral ghost helps the couple figure out what it is that is coming to them for assistance, this time, when the dragon is still playing hide and seek with them. You’ll see what I mean when you read the book.
Where can readers connect with you online?
My website, of course, is the main place.
Find all my books on Amazon. I have a few on Itunes, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo, too. Those links are on my website, if you need them. (I’m working on getting the series turned into audiobooks, but it’s going to take time. If that’s your favorite format, feel free to join my newsletter—linked below—and I’ll let you know when they’re available.)
They can follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Bookbub, I have a Pinterest board for the Antique Magic series, and you can join my newsletter here, if you like, to be kept abreast of new releases. Here’s the synopsis, if you’d like to check it out:
Since Caitlin and Trevor vowed to assist the Otherworld and opened their enchanted antique shop, they’ve seen many strange things. But now, someone comes in asking for a mundane item: kitschy “witches” brooms. Has their magical life returned to normal?
As the couple prepares to host a family gathering, fate intervenes and something they’ve never seen before roars into their life: A creature out of Welsh legend and fantasy: A blundering, somewhat underdeveloped dragon—not at all the type of dragon they ever expected to meet. Forced to undertake his unique challenge, Caitlin and Trevor are perplexed by his demands, but the magical beast is certain they are the only witches who can help him.
Doing so might unlock an ancient hidden secret. Refusing might destroy them.
I hope you will enjoy The Dragon’s Seamstress as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thank you for having me again here at your lovely little home, Annie!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Gulf Breeze. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
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-Annie Douglass Lima