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: C. S. Johnson
Title of book and/or series: The Princess and the Peacock, (Birds of Fae, #1)
Brief summary of the story:
Kaipo carries the vivid memories of his mother’s death in his heart, just as surely as he bears the scars from the fires that killed her—the same scars that mark . But he also has in his heart a dream—he wants nothing more than Princess Mele to fall in love with him. When he hears Princess Mele is searching for a suitor, he and his adopted brother Rahj make their way up the Forbidden Mountain where the Fae Queen Jaya resides. For those who make it to the top of her mountain, she grants a wish of their choice—but she does it in her own way. Kaipo might wish for the beauty that will win Mele’s heart, but Jaya has another idea in mind …
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: The island of Maluhia is located in the Indian Ocean, with a Hawaiian influence around the 1850s. For several generations, the kings of the island have allowed them to flourish as a small island.
If we were to visit Maluhia as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
There are several places to visit. In the capital of Shanthi, there is a bustling marketplace, with lots of different goods to examine. The big draw of Maluhia is the natural beauty of the surrounding seas, the sandy beaches, and the high peak of the Forbidden Mountain.
What dangers should we avoid in Maluhia?
The kingdom trains its warriors to protect their island, but it is always best to watch out for abuses of power, bribed fighters, and vengeful families raging against each other over generational battles. There are also traders who would kidnap and sell people into the sex trade on other nearby islands. In addition to this, sickness and superstition runs through the island.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Maluhia?
There are plenty of fruits and fish, with other birds that are served—including peacock!
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common?
The island lore is beholden to sharks as animals of power and rage, so a lot of their weapons have shark teeth that decorate the blades of their daggers and swords.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Maluhia?
So far, only boats have come.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Maluhia that we don’t see on Earth?
The Forbidden Mountain is the key feature of Maluhia. It is a very tall, steep mountain that reaches into the clouds. The mountain offers a barrier to the capital city on the inside of the island, but the poorer villages are situated all around the mountain.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Maluhia? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Jaya, the Fae Queen, resides at the top of the Forbidden Mountain, where she has created a small, supernatural bubble in which she can live. Her Fae magic—inborn, as a child of a fallen angel—leaves her with “Eden’s Curse,” in that if she is not careful with her magic, it can ultimately overtake her. She cannot stop using it, however, just as she can’t stop from causing mortals trouble.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Maluhia? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
There is nothing that would qualify as “unusual,” unless you count the Fae Queen, Jaya, who has taken up the peak of the Forbidden Mountain as her home. She offers a bit of magic to the islanders, but they know not to worship or trust her entirely. It is only because he is so desperate that Kaipo even attempts to see her at all.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Maluhia.
There are plenty of sports, but most have come from their warrior training traditons.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Maluhia as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
They go by the seasons more than the years, but they keep track of things based on the stars. There are feast days, but more of them are regulated to the culture more than religion.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Maluhia? Please describe what it involves.
Since it was founded after Christianity came to Hawaii, but there is a mix of cultures, there is a general monotheism that is mixed with older superstitions. That is why Kaipo’s scars make him alienated from culture, and the whispers of Rahj’s birth damage their family.
What is the political or government structure in Maluhia? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The kingdom is on an island, and they are traditional monarchy that rules through bloodlines. King Ahanu is in charge, and he is a gracious and understanding ruler. He recently lost his wife a few years before, and since then, he can’t say no to his daughter.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Maluhia?
They are a culture of respect, so it is important to make sure you are being respectful, as much as you can. They value strength and cunning, and beauty, too, but their most celebrated value is loyalty.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I have traveled a lot, and I have a cousin I call my “Hawaiian Princess cousin.” She is just so pretty, and I used her as inspiration for Princess Mele. The best part is that she is exactly like Mele in that she wants to add beauty to others’ lives and she does this as a teacher. One of her students is even named “Kaipo.”
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
One of the more indirect elements of the book is dealing with the Indian eunuch culture. While it is less rare today and there is not a lot of vocal news on the matter, India’s “third gender” has been growing in its awareness. Some of the eunuchs are taken from childhood and others chose that direction, but overall, I wanted to bring awareness to the table, that there are broken men who have been castrated and while some have been content with their lives, some of them are quite devastated. I wanted to, in my own way, speak to them that their life is still capable of beauty and still worth living. There are people who love them and no matter what suffering they’ve faced, they are still able to be loved and cherished as children of God.
Author Autobiography:C. S. Johnson is the award-winning, genre-hopping author of several novels, including young adult sci-fi and fantasy adventures such as the Starlight Chronicles series, the Once Upon a Princess saga, and the Divine Space Pirates trilogy. With a gift for sarcasm and an apologetic heart, she currently lives in Atlanta with her family. Find out more at http://www.csjohnson.me.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/writercsjohnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/writercsjohnson
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Maluhia. 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:
Arthur Daigle
Title of book and/or series:
Tales of Ever After in the Fellowship of Fantasy series. Short story title is “Believing Fairy Tales”, which is set in the same world as William Bradshaw, King of the Goblins (pictured above).
Brief summary of the story:
Four criminals attack Falling Waters Shrine under the cover of darkness, taking the shrine’s attendant Nestor prisoner. The criminals believe an old fairy tale there is a blessed sword hidden in the shrine, a weapon worth a fortune, and they’re willing to kill to get it. But not all fairy tales end happily ever after, and Falling Waters Shrine holds more secrets than the sword.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Falling Waters Shrine is on the world of Other Place, home to many races and fantastic monsters. The shrine is in a mountainous region too rocky for farming, and is next to the Truly Might Jostle River (known to goblins as the Won’t Shut Up River).
If we were to visit Falling Waters Shrine as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Falling Waters Shrine is an ancient pilgrimage site, famous for its statues and collection of religious texts. The area around the shrine is beautiful, but ear protection is necessary for long stays, as the Jostle River includes a waterfall so loud that it can render men deaf if they stay too long.
What dangers should we avoid in Falling Waters?
Monsters occasionally approach the shrine and can be dangerous. Magic wards protect the shrine if it is attacked. Rumors say that there have been several such attacks, all failures.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Falling Waters?
Locals make what they call meal bread, a mix of dried tomatoes, shredded beef, cheese cubes and spices wrapped in bread dough and slowly baked over a low fire. Meal bread travels well and has all a man needs to keep healthy.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Falling Waters?
Falling Waters Shrine is owned by the Brotherhood of the Righteous, a religious organization that prefers to deal with problems through negotiations whenever possible and consider any loss of life a tragedy. On those rare situations when violence is unavoidable, the brotherhood has small teams of heavily armed paladin, be they human, dwarf or ogre, to deal with dire threats. Brotherhood priests are also capable of calling upon divine aid, typically healing, but combat spells are also used.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Falling Waters?
The land around Falling Waters Shrine is so rocky that it was never truly settled, and the river so fast and rough that boat travel isn’t safe. People going to the shrine do so on foot or ride donkeys.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Falling Waters that we don’t see on Earth?
Other Place is home to many intelligent races like men, elves, dwarfs, ogres, harpies, sirens, dragons and more. It also has countless species of monsters, some extremely dangerous.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Other Place? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic exists but is not relied upon. It’s generally easier, faster and cheaper to do a job by hand than to hire a wizard. Monsters are rare in most areas and not to be trifled with. There are a lot of magic items for sale by dwarf corporations, but these items are notoriously unreliable and not under warrantee.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Other Place.
The Brotherhood of the Righteous is an enthusiastic supporter of music and sponsors music schools across Other Place.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Other Place? Please describe what it involves.
The Brotherhood of the Righteous is similar to the Catholic or Orthodox Christian churches on earth. They favor grandiose architecture and elaborate religious ceremonies. The brotherhood is highly organized and can bring millions of followers and untold treasures to bear when faced with a problem. The brotherhood is also actively spreading to new regions with missionaries and holy men. Not all kingdoms like the brotherhood, because when they are strong in a nation they can make the kings follow the rules.
Competing religions include the Servants of the Cause, elf Temples to the Perfect Way, dwarf Churches of the Great Maker, and the rare elf doomsday cult called The Repentant, who actively sabotage their fellow elves from achieving world domination.
What is the political or government structure in The Brotherhood of the Righteous? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The Brotherhood of the Righteous is a hierarchy with a pontiff, followed by cardinals, bishops and priests. The current pontiff is Gregory “Because I Said So” the 8th, who works tirelessly to prevent regional wars by greedy, vengeful and often bigoted kings. Needless to say, it’s a difficult job.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Falling Waters Shrine?
Falling Waters Shrine is open to pilgrims and tourists any day of the week. Donations are accepted, and we ask that visitors please be patient with staff members, as some of them are dealing with personal issues.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I was inspired to create Falling Waters Shrine after visiting Holy Hill basilica in Wisconsin. The grounds around Holy Hill are indeed quite rough with lots of ups and downs, and the basilica is beautiful in ways words can’t fully express.
Author Autobiography:
Arthur Daigle was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. He received a degree in biology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, which sounded like a good idea at the time. This led to work as a zoo intern at Brookfield Zoo, an assistant fisheries biologist at the Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, and a research assistant at Morton Arboretum. Most recently he’s been employed grading high school essay tests and working as a garden associate (yeah, the job market is that bad). In addition to writing, Arthur is an avid gardener and amateur artist.Arthur is the author (no jokes, please, he’s heard them all) of six books. These include William Bradshaw King of the Goblins, William Bradshaw and a Faint Hope, William Bradshaw and War Unending, William Bradshaw and Fool’s Gold, Goblin Stories and Dr. Moratrayas Mad Scientist. These books were almost inevitable given that the author has been a fan of science fiction and fantasy since he was old enough to walk. Arthur is also a regular contributor to the Fellowship of Fantasy anthology series. Major influences include the works of the puppeteer and filmmaker Jim Henson and the British artist Brian Froud. Expect more books in the Will Bradshaw series, as all attempts to stop Arthur from writing have failed.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
All books in the Fellowship of Fantasy series are available as paperbacks and free ebooks on Amazon.com.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Arthur-Daigle/e/B00JACHZNY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1544207985&sr=8-2
“Believing Fairy Tales” is a short story in the Fellowship of Fantasy anthology Tales of Ever After, which is available for FREE! Find out more below.
Rescue a princess, meet a mermaid, win your reward.
The authors of the Fellowship of Fantasy tackle fairy tales from once upon a time to happily ever after. Explore twists on old tales and brand new magical stories. Meet feisty mermaids, friendly lampposts, and heroes who just might be monsters themselves.
This fourth anthology from the Fellowship of Fantasy will lead you on a quest for entertainment and storm the castle of your imagination. So make a wish and enter the deep dark woods to find stories that will make you laugh, shiver, and maybe even fall in love.
Get your free copy at https://www.books2read.com/u/bwYKry
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Falling Waters Shrine. 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. (In this case, you can get it for free!)
Author’s name: Alex McGilvery
Title of book and/or series: Tales of Ever After (an anthology)
Brief summary of the story: A Week After Midnight is a follow up of the classic Cinderella. What happens when the farm girl moves into the palace? The prince is shy, and the magic has worn off, or has it?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: The story is set in a fairy tale land, but it has problems with drought and taxes. I have a fair number of fairy tale stories, so imagine it connecting with Snow White’s land over to the west, and mountains with trolls to the north. While I don’t name it in the story, I think of it as Charmant, a Kingdom of Prince Charmings I created decades ago.
If we were to visit Charmant as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
The palace is always interesting, but there are also local craftspeople who would love to show you the work they do. After all, someone needs to pay for all that luxury.
What dangers should we avoid in Charmant?
While the evil witches live to the west, one should be careful when buying apples from old crones, you never know. And if you get lost in the woods, neither gingerbread houses nor porridge are recommended for consumption.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Charmant? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic is mostly the province of the nobles, with the occasional exception for seventh sons. The people of Faerie who have maintained the enchantments for generations are getting bored, so they might get silly and confuse the stories, there is nothing quite like the Frog Prince and the Seven Giants. Good thing his name was Jack.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Charmant?
While one can count on royal balls for one reason or another, the regular folk are busy farming and working, but do find time to poke fun at the royals while drinking a pint or two at the inn.
What is the political or government structure in Charmant? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Being a magic Kingdom, the government is nominally a monarchy, but as in most places the bureaucracy does all the real work. A wise ruler lets them get on with the day to day business and concentrates on doing what royals do best, which is alternately befriended and annoying the Faerie.
Author Autobiography: Alex is an author and editor. He’s been writing books for decades, but only started publishing in the last ten years. He now has 16 books in print. He writes in genres from fantasy to horror to thriller to steampunk to contemporary fiction. He has a free collection of fairy tales and other stories.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
All my books are available in all formats in most ebook retailers. With the ISBN on the book sample page at https://alexmcgilvery.com one can order a print book from a bookstore. Here is the landing page to take you to the retailer of your choice. https://www.books2read.com/ap/x2o0ZR/Alex-McGilvery
Where can readers connect with you online?
On alexmcgilvery.com you can read samples of all my books as well as some of the short stories he’s written over the years. You can also connect through my facebook page www.facebook.com-/Author.AlexMcGilvery.
“A Week After Midnight” is a short story in the Fellowship of Fantasy anthology Tales of Ever After, which is available for FREE! Find out more below.
Rescue a princess, meet a mermaid, win your reward.
The authors of the Fellowship of Fantasy tackle fairy tales from once upon a time to happily ever after. Explore twists on old tales and brand new magical stories. Meet feisty mermaids, friendly lampposts, and heroes who just might be monsters themselves.
This fourth anthology from the Fellowship of Fantasy will lead you on a quest for entertainment and storm the castle of your imagination. So make a wish and enter the deep dark woods to find stories that will make you laugh, shiver, and maybe even fall in love.
Get your free copy at https://www.books2read.com/u/bwYKry
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Charmant. 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.
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!
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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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 Delena White
Title of book and/or series: Rothana (Star-Fae Trilogy book 2)
Brief summary of the story:
A new queen falls. A death lord rises. An ancient foe looms in the shadows.
Sylvie Imanthiya is desperate to lead Faerie well and deepen the bond with her husband, former king Taylan Ashkalabek. But all hope of that vanishes when the winter solstice ceremony ends in disaster, stranding her and Taylan in the Deathrealm, and stripping the kingdom from her.
With Faerie in chaos, Zad and Diza are separated once again: Zad to reconcile with an old mentor to stabilize the kingdom, and Diza to confront the nefarious Casimir in the mortal realm. But Casimir claims that a greater evil seeks to destroy both realms, an evil that Diza’s unique death magic can hold at bay—if she could only remember how.
In the Deathrealm, Taylan is succumbing to the lure of specters from his past, and pushing away Sylvie’s love. Overwhelmed by decay and darkness, Sylvie must summon unexpected magic from the soul of Kyure to fight for her convictions and her husband’s heart.
Shadows divide them. Their friends are in peril. If Sylvie fails, her marriage and her world will fall.
 |
| Sabellyn looks a lot like this! |
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Halayda is set in Kyure, a world with several dimensions. There is the realm of Faerie, a wild land of magic, strange peoples, and semi-sentient forests and mountains. There is the Deathrealm, the fae underworld. But much of the book takes place in the city of Sabellyn, a prosperous human city-state with steampunk technology. The people of Sabellyn prize industry and innovation, and the city is a center of burgeoning trade, a lucrative black market, and cutting-edge alchemical research.
If we were to visit Sabellyn as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
The College of Alchemy is the centerpiece of the city. It’s an impressive building, but good luck getting inside! The alchemists guard their secrets very carefully. Instead, stroll around the city’s central square and admire it from the outside, along with the ornate government buildings and villas of the upper city. If you’re in the lower city, stop by The Goodly Goose for some curry. The food is truly terrible, but it’s a quintessential Sabellyn experience.
What dangers should we avoid in Sabellyn?
Dangers lurk everywhere in the city. Avoid walking the streets of the lower city at night unless you know what you’re doing. Otherwise you might accidentally walk into black market business. The upper city seems much more civilized, but there are plenty of rumors of what happens when someone gets too close to the secrets of the College of Alchemy. Of course, if you’re fae or half-fae, it’s best to avoid the city completely! All the iron and smog are dangerous for faeries, and most people in Sabellyn are hostile toward fae and their magic.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Sabellyn?
The denizens of Sabellyn have a taste for exotic imported foods. Even in the slums, taverns like The Goodly Goose serve curry, though whether it’s worth eating is another story. If you’re in the more fashionable area of the city, make sure you stop by The Lace Fan café for tea and scones!
 |
| map of Kyure drawn by Julia Busko |
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Sabellyn?
Trolleys are the most common way to travel within the city, and trains and barges run regular routes between Sabellyn and surroundings towns. If you can’t afford a trolley fare or are going to some of the less savory areas of the city, hitching a ride on a passing horse cart is your best option.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Sabellyn that we don’t see on Earth?
Sabellyn is inhabited mostly by humans. However, the city is built beside a gateway to Faerie, so you will occasionally see elementals or shifters there. Sabellyn is also a place where unwanted fae children are abandoned as changelings, and there are some people of mixed fae and human heritage as well. Changelings and half-fae have a limited life-span in the iron-filled city, though, and they keep a low profile to avoid the human inhabitants’ superstitions and prejudices against fae.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Sabellyn? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
The people of Sabellyn are deeply wary of magic. Magic is the domain of the fae, who have been at odds with mortals for ages. A small percentage of humans possess “soul-sense,” an innate ability that allows alchemists to create and control their potions. Alchemists are both feared and honored for their abilities, as people are wary of their power but Sabellyn is built on their inventions.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Sabellyn? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Alchemy is the most advanced science in Sabellyn. It has many uses, from practical, everyday ones like keeping food fresh, to deadly ones used to protect the city from fae and other threats. Sabellyn has steampunk technology, including an elaborate railway system, steel mills and other large factories,
Is there a particular religion practiced in Sabellyn? Please describe what it involves.
The people of Sabellyn don’t have much sense of the supernatural. Most of its people ignore the possibility of a higher power and pursue moralism or scientism instead. Some people have a vague notion of a pleasant afterlife for good souls, while others disregard this. The people of Sabellyn dislike and fear anything that doesn’t fit within their predetermined notions of the world. Fae magic, notions of fate, and the guidance of the Lyrium are all considered threats and mysteries, as there is no place for these things in the mindset of Sabellyn’s people.
What is the political or government structure in Sabellyn? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?Officially, Sabellyn is ruled by an elected council with representatives from all districts of the city-state. Unofficially, the city is controlled by the wealthy factory owners and the most successful inventors. Arguably the most powerful person in Sabellyn is the Chancellor of Alchemy, Nevion Caylus (though those who have read Halayda will know him by a different name), who wields a vast amount of influence over the Ruling Council and the political and scientific direction of the city.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Sabellyn was somewhat inspired by Amman, Jordan, where I lived for a while. Like Sabellyn, Amman is built on steep hillsides, and it’s a place where modern innovations are built on ancient foundations. Modernized western part of the city is a sharp contrast to the older and more traditional eastern part, similar to the contrast between the upper and lower city areas in Sabellyn. Granted, Sabellyn is very different culturally, and nothing in the world of Kyure is explicitly based on Jordan. Still, a bit of my experience walking the streets of Amman crept into Sabellyn.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
My goal, first and foremost, is to tell a good story, and my books are always driven more by characters than issues. There are some common themes in my books, though they’re not necessarily controversial. These include the inherent value of all life, the dangers of placing too much faith in science or pleasure, the possibility of redemption and second chances even for people who have done terrible things, and the power of love, hope, and beauty in dark worlds.
Author Autobiography:
Sarah Delena White was raised by wolves in an alternate dimension. She writes eclectic speculative fiction that reworks mythology with a fine balance of poetry and snark. She’s an experienced world traveler who loves to weave world folklore and ancient concepts into vibrant, original story worlds. She is the administrative manager for Uncommon Universes Press. When she’s not writing, she can be found making elegant designer bead jewelry, traveling to folk music festivals as a professional ballad singer, drinking tea, and seeking to create the perfect latte. She can be bribed with dark chocolate.Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Party Time!
Join Uncommon Universes Press and Laura A. Grace of Unicorn Quester to celebrate the launch of Rothana by Sarah Delena White! Includes games, giveaways, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and more. Also features guest authors Bethany A. Jennings and Morgan L. Busse. Save the date to hang out with these fabulous authors!
Blog Tour Schedule
Monday, November 26th
- Author Interview – New Authors Fellowship
- Realm Explorers Author Interview – Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima
Tuesday, November 27th
- Guest Post on Mythology – Fairies, Fantasy, Faith
- Book Review – Becky Gaines
Wednesday, November 28th
- Book Excerpt – Reading on the Edge
Thursday, November 29th
- Character Interview with Sidikas – Becky Gaines
Friday, November 30th
- Character Interview with Casimir – LivForHim
- Behind-the-Scenes Feature – M. Hackman
- Author Interview – Dreams and Dragons
Saturday, December 1st
- Book Review – Pages to Explore
Monday, December 3rd
- Author Interview – O. Bonham
- Book Review & Excerpt – Coming Up Roses
Tuesday, December 4th
- Behind-the-Scenes Feature – Lands Uncharted
Wednesday, December 5th
- Guest Post on Zad and Pookas – L. Burke
- Book Excerpt – Becky Gaines
Thursday, December 6th
- Author Interview & Review – com
- Character Interview with Taylan – Unicorn Quester
Friday, December 7th
- Book Review – Jessica Rachow
- Guest Post on Faerie vs. Sabeylln – Katherine Massengill
- Book Review – Writing with Wolves
Saturday, December 8th
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Sabellyn. 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!
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!
-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:
Courtenay Kasper
Title of book and/or series:
West & Windy
Brief summary of the story:
Fox siblings West and Windy are on the run from Bruin King Rancid who will stop at nothing to capture them and strong-arm them out of their kingdom. With the help of their rabbit aunt Dandelion and her heliox-balloon airship, they must learn to work together to rescue the true king and queen. With an unforgettable crew of insane critters, monkey pirates, and ninja bats! This steampunk adventure is perfect for fans of Narnia and Redwall! Hold your breath! You are in for a wild ride!
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
West & Windy live in Redwood which is a continent in the world of Forestia. Redwood has many different climates and landforms: the obsidian cliffs of Castle Rock, the frigid mountain town of Wildmont with its impassable weather patterns, and the underground city of Blue Lake.
If we were to visit Redwood as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
The first thing I would do is climb aboard the Emerald Falcon airship, fire up the heliox jets and float my way to Blue Lake. Under the lake there is a massive glass dome which lets the most mesmerizing dancing blue light into the city. Then I would head for the southern islands, kick back in a hammock, and eat mangos all day in the sun with the monkey pirates.
What dangers should we avoid in Redwood?
I wouldn’t recommend spending your coppers on a trip to Bruin City, unless you are a bear. Those bears hate everyone! I would also suggest avoiding the storm fields near Wildmont. The air currents drop and raise again almost instantly, which is not a great combination if you get airsick at all!
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Redwood?
The cuisine varies depending on the location and species. The Northern Patrol favors hunks of fish and ginger water, while the Bruins are fond of sour honey or anything with gravy. The lower woodland is home to more herbivores, so they prefer things like roasted turnip with a garlic scape salad.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Redwood?The gearbow is standard issue in the Bruin Army. It’s similar to a cross bow, but it launches gearblades from a chain track. Each gearblade is between 6 and 10 inches and the “teeth” of the blades are sharper than a razors edge. Bounty hunting mutts prefer to carry brass knuckles that resemble smaller half-gearblades, but they often carry a gearbow too.
Wally the beaver invented his own oversized gearbow that shoots bear traps and he calls it the “kaboom!”
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Redwood?
Although air travel is forbidden, Dandelion pilots a hexprop hot air balloon ship. The triple pods in each haversack are filled with a blend of hot air and heliox to give them lift. The swan wing base of the ship is styled after a seaworthy galleon, but with a whale-shaped tail.
The Wildmont critters get around on snow machines called snowmeichs which are steam powered and have a series of rapidly spinning duck-like feet which kick up snow and propel the machine through the deepest of snow.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Redwood? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
A great example of unusual technology is the architecture under Blue Lake. The critters there discovered new ways to build under the lake and use glass to hold the water up above the city. The lake is shallow, so they are able to use the diffused glow of sunlight through the waves to light the entire city.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Redwood.
The children of Redwood attend Gear School which used to have fun activities in between classes. Before the Bruins came to power, Gear School included classes on flying, aerodynamics, mechanical construction, and hydraulic propulsion, but now they are only able to take classes on tinkering or heliox mining.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Redwood as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The favorite yearly celebration is the Harvest Feast at Castle Rock – a week-long celebration – complete with dancing, aerial flight competitions, mechanical invention awards and, of course, feasting like a boar (They don’t love that stereotype…). There hasn’t been a harvest feast since the Bruins came to power.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Redwood? Please describe what it involves.
The majority of the Redwood worships the Creator and his son Yeshu – a religion of mercy, hope, love and second chances. The ninja bats of Devlin Island practice ancient martial arts and worship the fickle moon and stars. They believe that they die and go to their ‘fathers in the sky’.
What is the political or government structure in Redwood? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The current government in Redwood is the totalitarian dictatorship of King Rancid. He is a cunning, power-hungry dictator and the edge of madness. Previous to the Bruin rule, the elder King Rhodes ruled a monarchy.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I live in northern B.C. where the winters are long and cold. The town of Wildmont reminds me of being at our little cabin in the woods, trying to keep the stove roaring enough to fight off the winter chill.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
West & Windy are being raised by their mother’s best friend after their parents kidnapping. She has to choose to trust her ex-husband again and she struggles with that. McFurrgle the bobcat is a recovering brawler who struggles with anger issues and shame.
Author Autobiography:
Courtenay Kasper is a New York Time Bestselling book reader. She lives in “the middle of nowhere” British Columbia with her husband and four fantastic kiddos. She has always been a teller of tall-tales and won her first writing contest at age eight. She loves to write stories that reflect the character of God and inspire the wonder and imagination inherent in all of us. Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
My books are available on Amazon
The Rigs (2016)
The Thunder Creek Gang (2018)
West & Windy is available for preorder (Launching November 8th, 2018)
Where can readers connect with you online?
The best place to connect with me is on my author page on Facebook. You can also find me on my blog and Goodreads. Or if you are headed for Alaska, stop in for coffee!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Redwood. 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!
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!
-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:
Melissa Wright
Title of book and/or series:
Queen of Iron and Blood (Shattered Realms book two) (Book 1 is FREE! Scroll to the bottom to see how to get a copy! There’s also a giveaway where you can win a fun pack of survival gear!)
Brief summary of the story:
Mackenzie Scott is trapped in another realm, but that’s the least of her problems. Magic runs through her veins, and even now she can feel herself changing. Worse, Mackenzie’s not just a monster. She’s their queen.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The dying lands exist in another realm, subsisting on the energy it reaps from Earth. It is inhabited by creatures known as Iron Bound, who subsist on that energy as well.
If we were to visit the dying lands as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
I would not recommend touring the dying lands, but if you were brought over against your will, the outer forests are lovely.
What dangers should we avoid in the dying lands?
The creatures of the dying lands are highly dangerous, but their king is especially deadly.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in the dying lands?
Every being in the dying lands relies on the realm’s energy to sustain themselves. Creatures in the dying lands do not eat—if they kill something, it’s not because they intend it as food.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in the dying lands?
Most weapons are fashioned from wood or stone, though much of the fighting is done by hand. Those who have the talent have been known to use the energy of the realm to destroy their foes.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to the dying lands?
The dying lands are void of technology and metals, but it is a realm flush with beasts both on land and in the air. Many of these creatures could be used for transport, but the stronger of the Iron Bound have the ability to fly.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in the dying lands that we don’t see on Earth?
The Iron Bound are a race of chimeras, each varied and unique, though many resemble a patchwork of creatures akin to those on Earth. In addition to stealing this realm’s energy, the Iron Bound also bring over flora, which transforms into something otherworldly when exposed to the dying lands power.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in the dying lands? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic comes in the form of energy, coursing through the realm and feeding all those who dwell within. It transforms every being it touches, giving them the power to manipulate the atmosphere in small ways—like the ability to lift their own body into the air to fly.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in the dying lands as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The dying lands operates on cycles, not years. And every 2,000 cycles, the gateway between realms aligns to allow the reaping: a culling of energy from Earth to recharge the dying lands.
What is the political or government structure in the dying lands? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The dying lands is ruled by a single king, one who is powerful enough to open the gateway between realms and draw the energy through. He must protect the reaping at all costs, and he is responsible for keeping the realm’s legends in the hearts and minds of his people.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Travel is a wonderful tool for writers, and I definitely drew on inspiration from jungle flora and rock formations I’ve seen through mine. In addition to scenery, I did try to bring the terror of being caught in a storm and the horrible aftermath of that into the inciting event of book one.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I’m not big on purposefully adding controversial topics into my work, but there’s definitely an element of protecting our planet beneath the plot of this series. I think there’s also a theme of unity, because when the world is attacked, we are no longer this country or that. We are humans. Together.
Author Autobiography:
Melissa is the author of the Frey Saga, Descendants Series, and Shattered Realms. She is currently working on the next book, but when not writing can be spotted collecting the things she loves at Goodreads and Pinterest. Contact her through the web at www.melissa-wright.com
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
Queen of Iron and Blood is available in eBook and print.
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the dying lands. 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!
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!
-Annie Douglass Lima
On Tour with Prism Book Tours
Other Books in the Series
King of Ash and Bone (Shattered Realms #1) By Melissa Wright YA, NA Urban Fantasy, SciFi Paperback & ebook, 216 Pages February 2nd 2015
When flying monsters break through the veil into her world, Mackenzie Scott has nothing left to lose. Her brother has been taken, her future has vanished, and all that remains is a desperate need for revenge. After discovering the breach the creatures used as a gateway, Mackenzie devises a plan to stop them, whatever the cost.
When she finds an injured stranger in the street, he just might be the key she needs to succeed. What Mackenzie doesn’t know is that this stranger isn’t the helpless boy he appears to be. He’s one of the monsters. And he’s got plans of his own.
Thrown into a dying city in another realm, Mackenzie is powerless to get back. With the gateway closing, time is not on her side. But the stranger is, and if they can escape execution, this girl and her monster might be able to save both their worlds.
Tour Schedule
August 20th:
It’s All About the Romance
SilverWoodSketches
An Indie Adventure
Mythical Books
August 21st:
Declarations of a Fangirl
My Life, Loves and Passion
Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima
August 22nd:
Andi’s Young Adult Books
Wishful Endings
Angel’s Guilty Pleasures
August 23rd:
Reading On The Edge
Getting Your Read On
Colorimetry
August 24th:
Stacking My Book Shelves!
Nicole’s Book Musings
August 25th:
Grand Finale
Tour Giveaway
1 winner will receive an awesome prize pack with “survival” gear: print copies of The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey, Angelfall by Susan Ee, and King of Ash and Bone by Melissa Wright, plus Be Your Own Hero bracelet, lip balm, compass, playing cards, emergency blanket, and other fun stuff
US only
Ends August 29th
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:
Krista Wagner
Title of book and/or series:
The Magical Forest Series
Brief summary of the story:
Abused by his father and mistreated by his teachers, resentful teenager Shane’s cynical worldview is challenged when he stumbles upon a hidden portal. On the other side, he finds a forest that transcends time, the very same forest he used to bully his fifth-grade classmate, Amanda, for believing it was real.
Transported back into his own childhood, Shane discovers a talking pebble that is willing to guide him. However, the forest is reluctant to give up its secrets, and Shane finds he must turn to the very girl he once bullied for help. The forest offers Shane his only chance to escape from his miserable life, if only he can overcome the pang of the past to embrace this new future.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
A woodland with forest animals that are friendly, a place touched by magic and weather that the surrounding world is unaffected by.
If we were to visit Sagle as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?To allow yourself to be enchanted by the forest and get to know Amanda and Shane, who can show you a place that will open your heart to wonderful things like healing.
What dangers should we avoid in Sagle?
Your own fears.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Sagle?
The standard fistfights one might see in school, though they are rare.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Sagle?
The ability to time travel.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Sagle that we don’t see on Earth?
A talking pebble, dragons, fairies, and unicorns
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Sagle? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
When a teenager encounters the forest, time sweeps across this universe, transporting them to an earlier point in childhood and bringing them to confront something long lost.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Sagle? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Technology is unimportant in this world. What matters is the construct of time and how precise and precious it is.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Sagle.
1. Frisbee
2. Pogo Bounce Ball
3. Drive-in Movie Theatre
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Sagle as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Yes. However, there are some points in time that are accelerated and some that are reversed.
All major US holidays are celebrated.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Sagle? Please describe what it involves.
Christianity. Believing in Jesus as one’s Savior and citing the Bible for words of wisdom.
What is the political or government structure in Sagle? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The government is much like the US Democratic Republic—the promotion of freedom of choice.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Sagle?
Aside from the intrigue of the forest, no.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
My visit to see my Aunt in Sagle multiple times has influenced my desire to create a setting in that world where people literally live in homes in the forest.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
A heavy topic dealt with is parental abuse and alcoholism.
Author Autobiography:
Krista Wagner is a 70’s product best known for her spiritual suspense and fictional realism. In addition to being a recipient of the Reader’s Favorite 5-star seal, she has been praised by award-winning screenwriter Sean Paul Murphy for her writing skill and strong plotting. Wagner holds an MFA in Creative Writing and is an English associate instructor with an indispensable faith in Christ.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.Where can readers connect with you online?
kristawagner.wixsite.com/author/bio
Follow her on Facebook: facebook.com/kristawagnerofficial/
Twitter:twitter.com/IntentBook04
Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8509957.Krista_Wagner
Follow her on Facebook: facebook.com/kristawagnerofficial/
Twitter:twitter.com/IntentBook04
Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8509957.Krista_Wagner
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Sagle. 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!
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!
-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:
Lara Lee
Title of book and/or series:
Gryphendale and The Shadow of the Gryphon – Truthseeker Book 1
Brief summary of the story:
Join three travelers on a witty adventure set in an exotic fairy world. An unusual brownie adventurer named Arthur, and the twin princes, Timothy and Nathaniel, join forces to travel to the underside of their coin-shaped world to break the curse that has turned Nathaniel’s fiancee into stone. Arthur must face his traumatic past as he leads Nathaniel and Timothy on the same journey that killed his friends more than forty years before, getting them all stuck far from home with only one impossible way home. Things continue to go wrong when they learn that this curse is just the beginning of more significant problems threatening to destroy the Guardian of the Ocean. Struggling through a debilitating injury, Nathaniel must risk everything to save the ones he loves. Timothy must let go of his dark magic past to use his fire magic against the alliance that threatens to destroy the world with water. Even if they succeed, death might be their only reward.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Gryphendale is the faerie realm that we sometimes call the Seelie kingdom. It is a floating disk-shaped island located in the center of the earth. It has a tiny sun and moon of its own creating both day and night, but time moves differently there. Their stars are just glittering gems on the inside of the earth’s crust reflecting the light of their sun.
In the distant past, faeries and humans lived together, but because of greed and evil schemes, this could not continue. The creator god, the great blue Gryphon, separated the worlds. A person cannot travel through the earth’s crust to get there. Instead, there exist four portals to connect our worlds.
The underside of their world is called the Shadow of the Gryphon. It is made up of mostly ocean inhabited by nomadic sea-people such as the kelpies, selkies, and merrow. The small land mass on that side is populated by the nix. That realm is ruled by the Guardian of the Oceans.
My books and stories all take place in this world about the size of the state of Texas, both past and present. I wander this land often and would love to introduce you to my favorite places. Safe travels!
If we were to visit Gryphendale as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Both sides of this world are inhabited. The top is made up of nine countries ruled together as the single kingdom of Gryphendale. Each country is dominated by a different race of faerie. The sprites live in tree houses in the tops of the great forest of Caoneag. The shape-shifting hiru live in human-like houses scattered throughout Cuelebre. The gnomes live inside the massive trees of Dwende. The Gryphendale Ocean is the realm of the merpeople, while the river and great lake are ruled by the undine. The ogres dwell deep in the mountains of Rokurokubi. Aberdour is the country of the industrious brownie farmers. The huldra hunt in the forests of Samodivas. They used to own the dryads as slaves, but once freed, the dryads now rule the young country of Greenbow in their historic homeland. The Nomad Desert lies outside of these kingdoms and is inhabited by those who want no king.
What dangers should we avoid in Gryphendale?
Many creatures inhabit Gryphendale who have no country of their own. The giant trolls eat all meat no matter the source. The Red Ladies are magic vampires stealing the life potential of wanders. Deadly animals, thieves, and grumpy ogre could all cause trouble if a traveler isn’t careful, but the people of Gryphendale are friendly to help you out of a bind.Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Gryphendale?
Humans would recognize most foods, but they do have a lot more purple varieties of crops such as purple berries and purple wheat. They also have a unique, intoxicating drink made from distilled cinnamon which they call tonic. Don’t drink it though! It burns human throats.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Gryphendale?
The various faerie races have their own fighting styles, but most use some kind of sword suited to their strengths. One exception is that the hiru transform into long serpent-like dragons. Some rare people do use magic. The Adder Warlocks use dark magic to kill, but those who follow the Way of the Gryphon often avoid violence if they can. Rogue wizards and magic creatures also get involved in the battles, but you never know what will happen with them!
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Gryphendale?
To get to Gryphendale from the human world, you would need to use one of the for portals. In Gryphendale, most people walk or swim. They do ride horses, giant salamanders, carriages, wagons, mules, and the odd steam-powered horseless-carriage.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Gryphendale that we don’t see on Earth?
This is the hardest question of them all! Since it is a faerie world, most fairie creature do exist even if they don’t have a home country. The nine countries on the top side are sprites, hiru, merpeople, undines, brownies, gnomes, huldra, and the ogres. The underside has nix, kelpies, selkies, and a dragon. You can also find banshees, satyrs, trolls, vampires(Red Ladies), phoenix, unicorn, gryphon, seraphs, and talking animals.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Gryphendale? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
All was made by the creator god, the great blue Gryphon. All magic comes from him to sustain the worlds. Seers learn how to pour themselves into the magic potential in each living thing to create good things. Dark magic seeks to steal this magic potential and force it to their will. This is destructive and deadly. All magic and magical creatures were created with abilities to care for the world in unique ways.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Gryphendale as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Time does move differently between the faerie world and the human world, but they count time the same way (hours, minutes, days, etc.) The two main holidays are the winter and spring solstice. There are some political holidays to celebrate a monarch or an event such as the Day of Remembrance.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Gryphendale? Please describe what it involves.
The beliefs of Gryphendale vary greatly. Some claim to believe nothing at all. Some think magic comes from nature. Other believe in the Gryphon. Even the interpretation of these beliefs can vary some.
What is the political or government structure in Gryphendale? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The governments in the books change drastically, but usually, there is an elected monarch that is often passed down to their children. This varies from country to country.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I grew up in Florida in which I obsessed about mermaids as a child. I never could read enough fairytales. When my husband and I moved to Scotland for four years, I became emersed in the folklore of Great Britain. Scotland, specifically, has a rich history of faerie stories. I describe inns and taverns for places I visited in Edinburgh and then hills and dirt roads of the countryside. I know exactly how far one can walk in a day because I have done it. Gryphendale was my magical interpretation of my travels.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I talk about why do bad things happen to good people in the novel Gryphendale. It has no answers, but just some observations. In The Shadow of the Gryphon, I talk about letting go of past mistakes. Sometimes we are unable to move on because we refuse to forgive ourselves.
Author Autobiography:Lara Lee is the author of Gryphendale, a young adult fantasy fiction novel. Sometimes, she is also a graphic designer, wife, mother, and Sunday school teacher. After growing up in Florida with her head stuck in various books, she ran away to Oral Roberts University to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Design and a husband. Then, she worked professionally with the children’s curriculum publisher, Mentoring Minds in Texas before following her husband on a crazy adventure in Scotland for four years where her son was born. She has lived in three states and four countries and has visited even more destinations with an insatiable curiosity that shows up in her writing. Currently, she lives in Crosby, Texas with her husband and son who both regularly participate in her misadventures and random schemes.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Gryphendale. 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!
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!
-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: Annie Douglass Lima
Title of book and/or series: Heartsong
Brief summary of the story:
Two alien worlds.
One teen emissary.
No reality she can trust.
Thirteen-year-old Liz Smith has been ripped away from one foster family after another for years, so the idea of a permanent home is tantalizing. Who cares if that home is a colony sixty-five thousand light-years from Earth? The friends in her trusty e-reader will keep her company just fine on her interstellar relocation.
But when the adventure of a lifetime turns into the disaster of the cosmos, Liz can only retreat so far into the books that have always sheltered her from loneliness and loss. Trapped in half-truths and secrets that leave her questioning reality, can one orphaned bookworm find a way to stop two races from destroying each other … and somehow write a happy ending to her own story?
If you like books about space travel, aliens, or cross-cultural transitions, you’ll love this poignant science fiction adventure. Get your copy of Heartsong now to start the journey today!
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Somavia is a planet at the far end of our galaxy. It has two continents, one at each pole, both covered in ice and snow all year round. The Somavians live in underground communities warmed and powered by geothermal energy.
What types of animals or sentient races might we encounter in Somavia that we don’t see on Earth?
You would definitely meet Somavians, the mostly-humanoid alien race native to the planet. They have four arms and fur of various colors, and they’re between 8 and 9 feet tall. You might also meet animals such as bushbouncers, which Somavians often keep as pets. A bushbouncer is the size of a small rabbit and looks a lot like a ball of lint. They have eight legs and can spring from and cling to almost any vertical or horizontal surface.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Somavia?
In the past, the Somavians’ ancestors used pack animals to travel from place to place. Now, however, they use a type of moving sidewalk with benches on it to travel around their underground cities. For the rare trips on the planet’s surface, they have motorized hover vehicles. Every four weeks or so spacecraft travel to and from their moon, Soma, where the Somavians have a mining operation. (Soma is also where Liz and her fellow human colonists hope to set up a mining colony of their own.) More about Soma in a future edition of Realm Explorers!
If we were to visit Somavia as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
I suggest asking for a guided tour of one of the underground cities, such as Ehaooapi, the capital. There are a lot of interesting things to see. You would probably get to ride the moving sidewalks, eat at a neighborhood restaurant, and see ranches and plantations with a variety of domesticated animals and crops. If you’re lucky, you might find yourself in the right place at the right time to watch a concert. Don’t expect this to be like a concert on Earth! It would probably involve a single musician standing or sitting in a public place, playing percussion instruments designed to look like rocks and other natural objects. The Somavian language contains eighty-one separate tones and already sounds a lot like music, so it might sound as though the musician is singing, but he or she would really just be rhythmically chanting lyrics. Somavians in the audience would take turns stepping close enough to lightly touch the musician in order to briefly share his or her heartsong, which greatly enhances the listening experience. Oh, and one more thing: on your tour, make sure you ask to visit the planetarium. It consists of giant floating models of all the planets and moons in the solar system, plus comets and an asteroid belt. It’s okay to handle the models, on which you’ll be able to feel physical features such as mountains, canyons, moisture to indicate bodies of water, and different temperatures representing various climate zones. You’ll even see viscous red liquid spurting from tiny volcanoes. It’s not an experience to be missed. Oh, and make sure you eat at a local restaurant or two during your tour. More about that in a moment.
What dangers should we avoid in Somavia?
Don’t go up onto the surface without plenty of warm clothing and a guide. Temperatures are often below zero, and blizzards are common. You won’t survive long, and it’s easy to get lost in the snowy plains where everything looks the same. The underground cities would be a much safer and more comfortable place to spend your vacation.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Somavia?
The Somavians have a variety of tasty foods. You might enjoy one particular little restaurant in Ehaooapi where customers sit around a U-shaped table and the chef cooks in the middle. With his four arms, he busies himself over multiple pots and skillets at the same time. You don’t get to order from a menu like in most restaurants on Earth, but you can expect to be served a couple different types of soup (one a creamy vegetable puree, the other consisting of mushrooms and bits of meat and grain in a well-seasoned broth). You’ll also get a platter of strips of cooked meat with three kinds of sauce to dip them in. One sauce is spicy, another is sweet, and the third is thick and savory with a hint of exotic seasonings.
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What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Somavia?
Somavians don’t fight. A key part of their communication is the ability to share emotions and physical sensations with anyone they touch. This is known as hearing a person’s heartsong. A Somavian cannot punch a person, for example, without feeling the pain their fist would inflict. Thus, they have developed a peaceful society focused around helping each other rather than fighting or competing with each other.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Somavia? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Somavian medical technology is far beyond ours. For example, they are able to heal a character’s injured legs (nerve damage and multiple compound fractures) within a couple of weeks. Somavians also have computers and devices much like cell phones. But their visual abilities are different from ours, and they cannot clearly see or process two-dimensional images, so they don’t have screens with pictures or text. Instead, they read with their fingertips through a system similar to Braille, where raised bumps and ridges appear and disappear on flat sections of their devices.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Somavia.
Games and activities don’t play a major role in the story. However, it is mentioned that many Somavians enjoy playing a form of video games (tactile, not visual), though their idea of what makes a good story is way different than ours.
What is the political or government structure in Somavia? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The planet is governed by a leader whose title has no direct English translation. She has more power than a president but less than a queen. She is assisted by a council who come together to make decisions, each council member being a representative from a certain geographical region of Somavia.
The planet is governed by a leader whose title has no direct English translation. She has more power than a president but less than a queen. She is assisted by a council who come together to make decisions, each council member being a representative from a certain geographical region of Somavia.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Somavia?
Somavians rarely tell each other their names. If you choose to introduce yourself by name to anyone you meet, they will be surprised and perhaps a little embarrassed, but honored. However, don’t expect them to tell you their name in return. Names are private and are only shared with immediate family members and very close friends. If a Somavian needs to refer to someone else, they will usually mention their color; e.g. “the one with blue fur” or “the pale yellow one”.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
A few years ago, I was jotting down ideas for this story in the car while on a family vacation with my in-laws in California. I didn’t have a name for the planet yet, but when we passed a sign that said “Somavia High School”, I knew that was the right one.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Racism and prejudice are touched on briefly. Also, the question of whether it’s right to harm one individual in order to protect many – or whether harming a large group to save a group of a different species can be justified.
Racism and prejudice are touched on briefly. Also, the question of whether it’s right to harm one individual in order to protect many – or whether harming a large group to save a group of a different species can be justified.
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 eighteen books in a wide variety of genres (science fiction, fantasy, YA action and adventure novels, a puppet script, anthologies of her students’ poetry, and a Bible verse coloring and activity book). Besides writing, her hobbies include reading (especially fantasy and science fiction), scrapbooking, and international travel.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book?
Heartsong is available in both Kindle and paperback format here. All my other books are available here.
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Where can readers connect with you online?
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: https://twitter.com/princeofalasia
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGoodreads
Google+: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGooglePlus
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/anniedouglasslima
LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnLinkedIn
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Somavia. 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!
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!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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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.
D.R. Grady
Title of book and/or series:
Seeking: Warrior King
Brief summary of the story:
With her beloved mother dying, Crown Princess Raene of Montequirst must prepare to be queen and choose a husband within hours of the death. By law, he must be the greatest warrior in the land. The only man who fits that description, who she can tolerate, is her friend and mentor, Vidar the Loyal. He’s a member of the elite Aasguard warriors, who have never married in their centuries of existence.
While the mightiest men of the nation circle Raene in an attempt to boost their own rank and wealth, a neighboring country is also making plans against Montequirst. With the aid of his clumsy dragon companion, Vidar has been teaching Raene to wield her legendary sword in order to defend her throne. Meanwhile, they’re both battling an attraction neither understands.
Can they possibly break the age-old traditions that bind them and choose their heart’s desire?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Montequirst is a prosperous, busy country. The homes are well cared for and the crops plentiful. Their animals are considered among the finest in the surrounding regions.
A queendom—Montequirst has been run by a queen for the last five hundred years. Queen Margina, Raene’s mother, dies and leaves the throne to her beloved daughter, Raene.
The men of Montequirst use swords and canons to defend themselves. Sword fighting, and being a warrior, is the best profession for a male, although there are other options. If the nation is wealthy enough, it might also have an Aasguard warrior and dragon to guard the treasury, which Montequirst does.
Aasguard warriors, such as Vidar the Loyal, are no longer human, but are a more advanced version. For instance, they can withstand dragonfyre. While not immortal, they are difficult to kill. If they are fortunate enough to have a dragon companion, the long years aren’t so lonely.
If we were to visit Montequirst as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?The farmers markets would offer an array of fruits and vegetables, and fine wares. And now that spring is upon them, even more so. If you’re fortunate enough, you might be invited to one of the many manor homes for a meal and perhaps a gathering.
What dangers should we avoid in Montequirst?
Don’t run afoul of Aern, the castle dragon. He contains plenty of dragonfyre.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Monequirst?
Again, swords are prevalent. Hand-to-hand combat skills are a necessity, and if you achieve the proper rank, you might be trained to blast a canon. (Be aware, only males are always trained in swords and self-defense. A ridiculous notion Raene chaffs against.)
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Monequirst?
Horses are prevalent for one person. But for multiple people and to convey wares, they use cream colored transports, hulled out cocol pods, which are round and after being outfitted with seating and wheels, make a comfortable mode of transportation. The original fruit is used in the making of many products in Montequirst.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Montequirst? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Handheld crystals, after some wizardry, have the capability of texting one another, keeping track of appointments and tasks, and the like. Whether these simple crystals are magic or technology is up for debate.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Montequirst as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Montequirst is much like Earth in the weeks and months. They do enjoy four seasons.
As for holidays, the day Raene’s mother, the Queen of Montequirst, dies will be known as Accession Day. Also, a celebration every year will mark Raene’s wedding—an indication of their continued prosperity.
What is the political or government structure in Montequirst? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Montequirst is again, a queendom. Raene’s mother ruled before her, and upon Queen Margina’s death, Raene rules. Her husband, who is made a king upon their marriage, protects her and oversees their vast military. He aids her should she need it, but Raene has been learning the queen’s duties since birth. Her choices—such as the warrior she chooses to wed—will determine whether the nation’s current prosperity continues, or not.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Montequirst?
Besides the antiquated practice that upon her mother’s death, Raene is therefore forced to name her husband? Yes, and she has a few pithy things to say about this barbaric practice as well as the lack of sword and self-defense training for all females.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
A battery ad, and then a dream, inspired this first story in the series. Book two is entitled Seeking: Maiden Queen. Book two takes up where book one left off with two characters we meet in book one.
Author Autobiography:-Clean, heartwarming stories, every time.-
D.R. Grady is the author of over twenty clean, heartwarming romance novels. She lives with her husband near Hershey, PA and adores chocolate, laughing, collecting bags, books, and shoes. Oh, and writing clean stories that resonate with others.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
You can purchase Seeking: Warrior King at the following retailers:
Google Play (epub)
Smashwords (multiple formats)
The paper book is coming…
Where can readers connect with you online?
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I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Montequirst. 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!
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!
-Annie Douglass Lima