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: Kendra E. Ardnek
Title of book and/or series: The Rizkaland Legends – in particular, the second book of the series, Lady Dragon, Tela Du
Brief summary of the story:
A thousand years have passed since Amber’s most recent imprisonment on the Isle of Banishment, and it’s time for her to claim her promised fifty years ruling Rizkaland. Only one person stands in the way of her making the rule permanent – the Tela Du, a girl prophesied to share her face and to be the only one capable of ending Amber’s life.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Rizkaland is a cylindrical world divided into a mainland and six islands, with thick bodies of water known as Rivs flowing between them. Water flows in every color of the rainbow, each color with its own distinct flavor and use. Also, they have something against the letter c for some reason.
If we were to visit Rizkaland as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
I’d recommend that you start your tour in Loray, the castle at the heart of the mainland, where you’ll find not only the Bookholder’s library containing the complete history of the world, but also Alphego’s Hill, where Alphego stood to create the world. You can use the Hill to travel to the replicas built on the islands and do more exploring.
What dangers should we avoid in Rizkaland?
It is generally considered a Bad Idea to be caught by Amber – for not only can she turn people to ice, but she can turn herself into a dragon. She’s only a problem when she’d not on the Isle of Banishment, though. There are also a number of vicious animals, such as kirats – a large, bear-like creature you don’t want to tangle with – in Rizkaland’s forests.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Rizkaland?
Mistletoe muffins!
And Spiced Pomella Cider is a general favorite among visitors to the world.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Rizkaland?
Predominately swords, bows, and a form of martial arts.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Rizkaland?
Predominately the horse, but on the mainland they have Haric Doors that are doormats that you can use to travel quickly to Loray and back. And Alphego’s Hill and its replicas on the islands can be used for travel.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Rizkaland that we don’t see on Earth?
Plantlife in Rizkaland is every color but green (except in autumn, when it ALL turns green).
Animals? Well, as well as kirats, there are shwazles, a reptilian beast that has a head resembling that of a camel; etrinas, a catlike creature the size of a bobcat; kloradies, a yellow bird that resembles a canary, but with a longer beak; korrens, a yak-like beast of burden; and quaggleshumps, which are birds that resemble pelicans, but are much larger, with purple feathers and donkey-like ears.
The predominate sentient race – or Eliue in the Rizkan language – apart from the humans are the elves. And on the Isle of Talking Beasts you’ll find four races of horse-like creatures called the harandas, the hinequas, the rowandas, and the kiandas.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Rizkaland? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Each elf has a semi-unique gift such as invisibility, flight, healing, a heightened sense, or some other such. The kings and queens on the mainland are given similar gifts.
The hinequas have the ability to lessen the effects of gravity, which they use for flight. Kiandas can turn themselves invisible. It is suspected that Rowandas have the ability to slow time – in any rate, they move so fast, it’s hard to tell. Harandas have the power of telepathy and teleportation, and it is with hairs from their tales that the Haric Doors are made.
The Hills function on a supernatural level.
During Tying Ceremonies, a magical cord is used to bind the couple together.
The Bookholder – the highest rank a elf can hold – owns a special Book that contains prophecies and orders from Alphego, the words of which will change depending on the need. Daughters of the Bookholder, known as Bookdaughters, have the ability to Speak prophecies.
Alphego will occasionally gift certain people with gifts beyond that to perform certain tasks.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Rizkaland? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Nothing unusual compared to our world, but there is electricity in Loray and the five castles on the Isle of Klarand.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Rizkaland.
Variations of the medieval tournaments are popular, and they do have a few ball sports, though nothing organized on the level that earth sports are these days. Royalty enjoys balls, while barn dances, of a sort, are frequent among the common people. There is a nightly recitation of the Legends – what histories are called in Rizkaland – at Loray and the Kastle by the Bookholder or a Bookdaughter, and there are a few acting companies that travel through Rizkaland and Klarand presenting plays of their own invention and ones based on the Legends.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Rizkaland as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Rizkaland has a day and year equal to ours, but their year is divided into ten months named for the original rulers of the island of Klarand, and the weeks are eight days named for the original rulers of the mainland.
The New Year is celebrated much like we celebrate Christmas, and there are a few other special days, mostly commemorating past defeats of Amber.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Rizkaland? Please describe what it involves.
Almost everyone acknowledges the existence of Alphego, even if they don’t personally believe in him. The Hill and its replicas are regarded as places of worship, and most people will at least try to seek the advice of the Bookholder or a Bookdaughter before making major decisions. Tying Ceremonies – which are technically engagement ceremonies, but with wedding vows – are held on the Hill or one of its replicas, and are officiated by the Bookholder or a Bookdaughter if at all possible.
What is the political or government structure in Rizkaland? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Rizkaland has a monarchy, with four kings and four queens, as it is believed that it isn’t good for any one person to have absolute power. Their chief advisor is the Bookholder, and they have a number of officials and such below them to help carry out laws.
The island of Klarand and the Isle of Talking Beasts are both subject to the Rizkan monarchy, though they are recognized as separate governments. Klarand has a monarchy with only one king and queen, but the island is divided into four quarters and their power is diffused through the Lord and Lady reigning over each section.
The Isle of Talking Beasts is ruled by the Sentaur who as his name suggests, is half-human and half-horse, and is immortal as far as anyone can tell. He rules with the help of a council of seven elected from among his people.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Rizkaland?
Rizkans don’t shake hands. They press a fist to their heart and, depending on their rank, will hold eye contact, bow, or glance towards Alphego’s country or the nearest Hill.
They refer to north, south, east, and west as up, down, ea, and wea.
As mentioned earlier, they don’t like the letter “c” and will only use it to make the “ch” sound, in which case, it is used alone. In every other situation, it is replaced with “k” or “s” as applicable.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Probably, but I’m having trouble remembering anything off the top of my head. There are the boxes that the elves possess, inspired by a typo by a friend of mine, though. And the Rowandas and Hinequas come from a story game my sister and I did in the backyard once.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I never outright address the issue, but I do deal with gender norms and women in power a lot in my writing. Also predestination vrs. free will came up in LDTD, which can be a pretty controversial subject. And there was a moment when old earth vrs. new earth was mentioned.
Author Autobiography:Kendra E. Ardnek is a homeschool graduate who picked up a pen at an early age and never put it down. The eldest of four, she makes her home in the Piney Woods of East Texas with her parents, younger siblings, giant herd of giraffes, and honor guard of nutcrackers.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
Lady Dragon, Tela Duis currently available for preorder on kindle.
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Rizkaland. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXIII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXIII!
-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. This one is on sale for just 99 cents, for the next two days only!
Author’s name: Jennifer Ellision
Title of book and/or series: Threats of Sky and Sea
Brief summary of the story:
Bree has spent her life as a barmaid, innocent to her father’s past and happily free from the Elemental gifts that would condemn her to a life in the King’s army.
…Until the day soldiers recognize her father as a traitor to the throne.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The world of the Threats of Sky and Sea series begins in the country of Egria, where those who possess abilities over the Elements are conscripted into the King’s armies. As time goes on, our characters are drawn further into the war the King hungers for with the island nation of Nereidium. To say much more would be to spoil you!
If we were to visit Egria as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
If you find yourself in the capital, do stop by The Soused Turkey for a drink. It’s a bit of a hole-in-the-wall, but locals speak highly of the friendly manner of the barkeep and you can get a good—well, cheap drink there.
If you prefer landmarks and architecture, the winter palace is a sight to behold—some have playfully described the view as reminding them of a beautiful frosted cake.
What dangers should we avoid in Egria?
If you happen to be an Elemental, stay well clear of the palace in the capital. It’s the King’s stronghold and, if Revealed, he’ll not only punish you for avoiding conscription, but… well… you’ll find yourself serving a lifetime in his armed forces.
Unless you’re the sort that prefers fighting for a corrupt king. Then, by all means! Snap those fingers and light a flame.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Egria?
If you do happen upon The Soused Turkey and meet the barkeep, Clift, you might ask him for a glass of Starter Cider. It’s got a heady cinnamon flavor, but careful! It’s strong stuff.
And, erm… perhaps keep your Starter Cider away from an open flame. Just in case.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Egria?
Those who don’t possess Elemental abilities favor old-fashioned steel—swords, daggers, and arrows alike. When those are tossed aside, they’ll swing a punch if need be.
But the Elementals among us heavily favor using their Elements against an enemy. Stay clear of a Torcher in a bad mood…
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Egria?
By and large, inhabitants in the world of Threats of Sky and Sea travel by hoof or by foot. That is, unless they’re travelling to or from the island nation of Nereidium, in which case, they’d need a boat.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Egria? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
The magic at play in the world of the Threats of Sky and Sea series is dependent on the powers over the Elements that certain individuals possess—and the times that the Makers deign to interfere in the affairs of mortals.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Egria? Please describe what it involves.
Many worship the Makers—the Mother and the Father. The Egrians’ creation myth tells that the Makers created the world, after a previous one was destroyed. With this new world, they chose to imbue certain individuals with the power of the elements, in the hopes that tying them more tightly to the earth would give them a greater respect for it.
When possible, Egrians worship in the middle of the week, mid-day—interrupting their day and week to worship.
What is the political or government structure in Egria? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Egria is a monarchy, currently ruled by King Langdon, who has one son—Prince Caden.
Langdon is power-hungry. Power-mad, but he rules unchecked.
…For now.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Egria?
I’d avoid wearing the colors red or purple, if possible. The King likes to reserve purple for royalty. And, though it is an outdated practice, red was once the color worn by murderers.
Author Autobiography:I spent a great deal of my childhood staying up past my bedtime with a book and a flashlight. When I couldn’t find the stories I wanted to read, I started writing them. I love words, have a soft spot for fanfiction, and am a master of the fangirl flail. I reside in South Florida with my family, where I live in fear of temperatures below 60 Fahrenheit.
I’m the author of the (now complete!) YA fantasy series, Threats of Sky and Sea, as well as the New Adult contemporary romance, Now and Again.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
You can find my e-books on Amazon (where Threats of Sky and Sea is 99 cents at the moment), Barnes and Noble, iBooks, Kobo, and Smashwords. Threats of Sky and Sea also has the honor of being available as a Booktrack, as well. Booktrack is a unique reading format in which the text is scored—like a movie soundtrack that plays as you read!
My novels are also available as paperbacks and you can find some of my works in audiobook form on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes—and I am working to make sure that they are all available in that format soon!
Where can readers connect with you online?
I’m (almost) everywhere! You can visit me on my website, jenniferellision.com, chat with me on Twitter or Instagram as @JenEllision, or come hang out on my Facebook page!
You can also get updates on my work as well as other fun stuff by signing up for my newsletter—you get a free introductory short story just for signing up!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Egria. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world, in Realm Explorers Part CXII!
-Annie Douglass Lima
On Tour with Prism Book Tours.
Release Day Blitz for
Fall of Thrones and Thorns
By Jennifer Ellision
We’re celebrating the release of this newest addition in the Threats of Sky and Sea series! If you haven’t started this series yet, you can grab the first book in ebook for only 99¢. If you enjoy fantasy, you do not want to miss it! Make sure you check out the excerpt and giveaway below as well…
Note from the Author
I grew up fascinated with stories of women in fantasy worlds, like Tamora Pierce’s works. I was captivated by tales of magic, like Sailor Moon and Harry Potter. Held spellbound by stories where people wielded the elements like another limb, as in Avatar: The Last Airbender.
These are the stories I love.
And so, I wrote books that I would want to read.
With stories like these, it’s no wonder that my debut series, Threats of Sky and Sea takes place in a fantasy world. With Elemental characters. With a strong female main character.
And with the final book in the series, Fall of Thrones and Thorns, out into the world today, that story is complete. Readers can now inhabit this world, and live with these characters as much as I do.
I hope you enjoy the adventures as much as I have.
— Jennifer
Fall of Thrones and Thorns
(Threats of Sky and Sea #3)
by Jennifer Ellision
by Jennifer Ellision
YA Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 234 pages
September 27th 2016
War hurtles in, a typhoon over the sea.
After Bree’s life was torn apart, Nereidium had represented a haven to her. A place that—if she could save it—was beyond the King’s reach.
And, at last, she’s arrived upon its shores. But things in Nereidium are not what they should be.
The land is plagued by a rash of mysterious earthquakes, the likes of which it’s never known. The governors are distracted by old traditions, while Bree and her friends grapple with changing identities and the sense that the longer they wait to take action… the greater the danger from Egria grows.
Bree is tired of living under the shadow of King Langdon’s power. And she’s tired of waiting for him to be the first to act.
In this final chapter of the Threats of Sky and Sea series, it all comes down to Nereidium or Egria. To Bree or the King. It’s kill… or be killed.
And not everyone will escape the battle unscathed.
Excerpt from Fall of Thrones and Thorns
My hand lingers on the window frame, thinking. I’ve read book after book about Nereidium. Every spare bit of text on a page that I could get my hands on.
Not one of them mentioned a history of earthquakes in the country.
I try to quell the pit of uneasiness that is my stomach. The instinct that tells me that, somehow, Langdon is responsible for this.
“You’ll want to add sauce to that dough.” Trycia calls my attention back to my abandoned work, nodding at it as she kneads the crust of what she’ll be serving to those who wandering their way in for a bite. “Preferably before you add the cheese and put it on a stone in the oven.”
I leave the window. Worrying over Nereidium is Breena’s chore now. I have food to make.
Still, while my hands stay busy, my mind keeps churning. This is no coincidence. That quake. Geological changes happen, of course, but the timing is too coincidental.
“So, these earthquakes… They’re a relatively recent development, then?” I ask, unable to suppress the question.
Trycia sighs, not giving me an answer as she tosses the dough into the air and catches it deftly.
Maybe she would have answered me. But I don’t find out. The door swings open, soft footsteps pad inside, and I look up as Tregle enters. My stomach flutters at the look in his eyes when he catches sight of me. The hope of a new day’s sunrise is painted on his face. Hesitant and just blooming, but beautiful.
Trycia raises an eyebrow. “Friend of yours, Fancy?” I glare at her, and she lifts her hands in a mocking show of surrender. “Sorry. Mind the fire. I can afford a break. Not as though we’ll have a crowd tonight after another quake. I’ll see myself out.”
Only when the door swings shut behind her do I let myself speak, my heart dancing a slow step in my chest.
“Adept—” I pause, collect myself, and address him, for once, without a title. “Tregle.”
This is the one good thing to come from learning that I’m not who I thought I was. I’m a commoner, just as he is. An Elemental, just as he is. We’re finally on equal footing.
Other Books in the Series
Threats of Sky and Sea
(Threats of Sky and Sea #1)
by Jennifer Ellision
YA Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 360 pages
May 20th 2014
Sixteen year-old Breena Perdit has spent her life as a barmaid, innocent to her father’s past and happily free from the Elemental gifts that would condemn her to a life in the Egrian King’s army. Until the day that three Elemental soldiers recognize her father as a traitor to the throne and Bree’s father is thrown in jail—along with the secrets from his last mission as the King’s assassin. Secrets that could help the King win a war. Secrets he refuses to share.
Desperate to escape before the King’s capricious whims prove her and her father’s downfall, Bree bargains with him: information for their lives. It’s a good trade. And she has faith she’ll get them both out of the King’s grasp with time.
But that was before the discovery that she’s the weapon the King’s been waiting for in his war.
Now, time is running out. To save her father’s life and understand her own, Bree must unravel the knot of her father’s past before the King takes his life– and uses her to bring a nation to its knees.
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository
Riot of Storm and Smoke
(Threats of Sky and Sea #2)
by Jennifer Ellision
YA Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 350 pages
August 17th 2015
“War draws closer, like a tide to the shore.”
Bree and her friends have escaped the clutches of the Egrian King, but their troubles are far from over. Still reeling from the secrets that drew new breath when her father took his last, Bree sets off for the safety of Nereidium– the kingdom she’s just learned is hers. But with the King’s ire at its peak and war a certainty, Nereidium is no longer safe. As Prince Caden rallies the Egrian people against his tyrant father, Bree, Princess Aleta, and Tregle race to the Nereid shore to warn them of the incoming danger-and to put the Nereid Princess on the throne. The only trouble there: Bree can’t bring herself to reveal that the Princess is her. It’s not a dilemma she can waste time pondering. With a new weapon in his arsenal, the King’s strikes are sure to be bolder than ever before. And Bree may not be ready to wear a crown… but she won’t let her kingdom down without a fight.
Jennifer Ellision spent a great deal of her childhood staying up past her bedtime with a book and a flashlight. When she couldn’t find the stories she wanted to read, she started writing them. She loves words, has a soft spot for fanfiction, and is a master of the fangirl flail. She resides in South Florida with her family, where she lives in fear of temperatures below 60 Fahrenheit.
Jennifer is the author of the YA fantasy series, Threats of Sky and Sea, as well as the New Adult contemporary novel, Now and Again.
Release Blitz Giveaway
$10 Amazon eGift Card & the entire Threats of Sky and Sea series (Sisters of Wind and Flame, Defining Justice, Threats of Sky and Sea, Riot of Storm and Smoke & Fall of Thrones and Thorns)
Open internationally
Ends October 2nd
Ends October 2nd
I loved this book!
Like all of Anne Elisabeth Stengl‘s anthologies, Five Magic Spindles is a collection of five very different novellas that all involve events and themes from one fairy tale – in this case, the Sleeping Beauty story. I highly recommend this fun anthology! Here’s a little information about each of the individual stories.
The Man on the Buckskin Horse
Emma, a good-hearted midwife, rushes to warn a neighbor about the hired gunman headed to his ranch but can’t prevent the catastrophe in store for his daughter.
A fairy tale retold as a Western? How fun! The author makes it work entirely without magic. This story was also unique in that the main character was neither Sleeping Beauty nor the prince.
Guardian of Our Beauty
Palli, the prophesied daughter of a king, is fated to rescue her people from the destruction called forth by a vengeful priest.
Talk about an unusual part of the world to set a re-told fairy tale in. But the author pulled it off! I enjoyed Palli’s personality and abilities.
The Ghost of Briardale
Roselee, a ghost with a faulty memory, flits through the halls of an insane asylum in search of the mortal boy who can help her save the day.
I thought this one was quite clever. True Heroes in this world are people who have either saved a kingdom, slain a dragon, or moved a mountain, and only a True Hero can get through the enchantment around Sleeping Beauty. How is an ordinary boy with a hero’s heart supposed to manage?
Spindle Cursed
Arabella, a living spirit trapped in her own comatose body, helplessly watches from the realm of dreams as her usurping cousin plots to destroy her once and for all.
This story is unique in that it’s told largely from the fairy godmother’s point of view. Unlike most of the others, it begins shortly before the prince sets out to rescue Sleeping Beauty instead of before she falls into her enchanted sleep.
Out of the Tomb
Tanza, a tomb raider on a distant planet, struggles to make a living and doesn’t need a long-lost prince to complicate her difficult life.
I have to say, this one is definitely my favorite out of the five. The author has done an amazing job of worldbuilding, perhaps the best I’ve ever seen in a story of this length. Her descriptions give a vivid picture of the planet’s history, technology, plant and animal life, and culture. In many cases, this is done with just a few well-placed words and phrases here and there that blend seamlessly with the action. I definitely want to read more by Ashley Stangl!
In summary, this is an exciting and entertaining book that is definitely worth the $3.99. Grab your copy today!
Download your Kindle copy here!
Order your paperback copy here!
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: Diane Rapp
Title of book and/or series:
HOWL OF THE WOLF, Book 1 of Heirs to the Throne Trilogy (I also have a prequel to the trilogy titled THE ALPHAS) The whole series is reasonably clean and violence is not graphic.
Brief summary of the story:
This science/fantasy novel takes place in a distant future. When a human colony ship lands on the distant planet Drako, the occupants of the world…telepathic wolves…try to communicate with the two-legs. The wolves decide there are no intelligent creatures to speak with them. They wait, hoping a two-leg might acquire enough intelligence to finally speak with them.
Meanwhile in civilized space, the process of Transfer is developed by a team of four scientists. They save lives and correct genetic conditions by sending the mind of a patient into a clone, creating virtual immortality. Unfortunately, the scientists turned the process over to clerks in the Institute that they established to handle the paperwork and lost power over the invention.
Hundreds of years later the medical spaceship Zebulon flees from Institute assassins, who were sent to kill all the scientists and their teams. Captain Donovan chooses the remote planet Drako to hide with his crew and protect the scientist leader, Dr. Alexander. (They don’t know that an evil assassin stowed away on their ship.) After landing and destroying their ship, they discover that Donovan must compete for the crown of the dying king to secure sanctuary for his people.
Faced with superstitions, hatred, and eminent danger, the spacers must adapt to a feudal society without using modern tools or weapons. Fortunately centuries of Transfer enhanced the natural talents of each crew member which might give them an advantage on the backward planet. (The evil villain has the power of mind control.)
An intelligent wolf leader, Kriegen makes telepathic contact with Donovan and must decide if he will help protect the pack of the two-leg commander. The wolves’ Council of Elders might be difficult to convince, but Kriegen knows an evil human lurks nearby with plans to kill his targets and gain control over the pastoral world of Drako. Mind control is against the code the wolves live by, so Kriegen believes the Council must act.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Drako is a pastoral planet located on the fringe of civilized space. Although the planet proves suitable for colonization, a society of telepathic wolves already occupies the lush world. The wolves try to make contact with bad results and decide to wait. They watch two-legs clear the land and develop Drako into a recreation planet for wealthy tourists. Settlers become feudal lords, desert sheiks, oriental samurai, and ordinary peasants depending on a level of investment. After several generations the monarchy revolted against technology and closed Drako to off-world visitors. Distaste for technology eventually mutated into superstitious hatred. Anyone caught with spacer tools or weapons could be executed.
The planet is part of a two-sun system. The main sun is like our own. From ground-level the second distant red dwarf sun looks like a red moon at night and provides extra warmth to grow lush plants. The pastoral planet is perfect for people hoping to escape modern technology and live a simple life. Peasants, knights, and kings become common-place and scientific knowledge is shunned and soon forgotten.
If we were to visit Drako as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Should tourists be permitted to visit Drako once more, they would be immersed in life from bygone eras. Kings and castles, sheiks and desert riders, peasants and merchants can be found living a simple existence without modern conveniences. There are telepathic wolves in the shadows (if you can find a pack) and tales about dragons by the seaside tantalize visitors.
What dangers should we avoid in Drako?
Don’t whip out a camera or cell phone as use of forbidden instruments of technology warrant death. Superstitions mark technology as witchcraft, so you wouldn’t want to burn at the stake.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Drako?
Medieval weapons like bows and arrows, as well as swords, knives and spears, are used by trained knights and desert riders. Gigantic war horses are an integral part of any soldier’s weaponry. The Samurai are trained to kill with their bare hands but archery skills are learned as well.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or in Drako?
People travel on foot or by horseback, however, by the end of this series Dragon Riders make air travel across the world much easier for lucky young people.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Drako that we don’t see on Earth?Earth-type plants grow on Drako but night-blooming varieties thrive in the red light of the distant second sun. A society of telepathic wolves occupied the planet before the arrival of humans. Separate wolf packs are ruled by a combined Council of Elders, who “host” the minds of many ancestors to provide wisdom and a living history. A wolf host voluntarily accepts the minds of a dying pack member and those minds give advice until the wolf’s death. The host hears ancestor voices but any final decision is left to the living host. The Council of Elders does not believe that two-legs are intelligent creatures, so it does not interfere in the society of lower animals. They protect forests and the holy structure on the Bloody Lake by scaring two-legs away.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Drako? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
There is not actual magic on Drako, however, centuries of Transfer left spacers with special abilities that have been magnified over time. Telepathy, healing powers, incredible speed, visions of the future, and mind control talents might seem like magic to superstitious natives. Using these abilities give the spacers an edge if they do not allow the skills to brand them as sorcerers.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Drako.
A sporting tournament to choose the successor for the dying king includes archery, horse racing, and various matches in a ring (hand-to-hand combat, saber, foil, and sword contests) help contestants win points. In the final two combatants face off to win the crown.
What is the political or government structure in Drako? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The government is a monarchy, but the ruling king’s entirely family was recently poisoned. King Halder is also dying from the same strange poison. He secretly sends an interstellar message to summon a distant heir. Captain Donovan returns to Drako, unaware of his lineage, but agrees to compete for the crown. King Halder has his own “special mental skills” and plans to use Donovan to ferret out his family’s killer and take a revenge.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Drako?
Mullahs who rule with an army of Desert Riders are descendants from colonists migrating from Middle East region on Earth. They follow their own traditions and religious beliefs. The Mullahs plan to gain power on Drako by winning King Halder’s throne. A separate region is ruled by Marasuta, an Oriental Samurai who pledges allegiance to the King. He trains his soldiers in the Samurai code and traditions, making sure they are skilled warriors.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
When I began writing this series, I asked a series of “what if” questions and imagined how society might develop from potential answers.
1. What if cloning provided doctors with the ability to transplant a patient’s mind into a new body free of genetic problems? What if the expense of such immortality caused people to work as virtual slaves to pay off the debt? How would society develop? Would people finally decide that freedom in a short life is better than slavery?
2. What if telepathic creatures occupied a world ripe for colonization? How would humans make “first contact” with telepathic creatures? What if everything went wrong? Would those creatures destroy humans or wait until we developed enough intelligence to properly communicate? Could the creatures become allies to telepathic humans and help save lives?
Author Autobiography:
Diane Rapp became an entrepreneur when she started her own dog grooming salon in Santa Barbara, California. She spent the next thirty years as a small business owner; she sold real estate, started an office supply/copy center, and performed free-lance advertising design. During all those years Diane wrote stories for herself as a cure for insomnia. She imagined distant planets and mysteries set on Earth.
After writing a tour guide book to the Caribbean together, Diane’s daughter gave her the idea of writing a mystery/romance set on cruise ships in the Caribbean. She got serious about publishing her books. “Murder Caribbean-Style” and “Murder on a Ghost Ship” are the first two novels of a High Seas Mystery series. Readers meet the main characters of the series and learn about life aboard a ship while solving murders. There is danger and romance mixed in with the action. The third book in the series, “Murder for Glacier Blue” takes the reader on a cruise to Alaska with an art heist, murder, and a wedding on Glacier Bay.
Diane’s first love has always been science/fantasy. “The Alphas” is the prequel to the Heirs to “Howl of the Wolf”. The story is a mystery blended with science/fantasy. The heroine tries to solve the murder of an old friend and discovers why her beloved German Shepherd was stolen. The novel also introduces telepathic dogs and the wolves who eventually travel to the planet Drako.
“Howl of the Wolf” is the first book in the Heirs to the Throne Trilogy. The novel introduces the planet Drako, telepathic wolves, and the crew of the space ship that took sanctuary with people who banned technology from their world. In “The Havenshire Resistance”, the second book of the series, Queen Krystal’s three teenage daughters learn to use inherited powers to help rescue their father. Krystal leads an army of Samurai women, telepathic wolves, and ragtag commoners against an evil usurper in a dramatic battle. In “Dragon Defense”, the third book of the trilogy, the planet is under threat from space when an Institute battleship arrives. King Donovan must train bored teenagers to operate forbidden defense technology while his daughters befriend a flock of wild dragons. Will the crazy defense tactics save Drako from destruction?
Diane took a break to write a fractured fairy tale for her granddaughter. “Dragon Knight: and the Heart’s Blood Curse” is a humorous fantasy that adults will enjoy reading to their kids. When a witch turns a magnificent dragon into a puny human knight, Dragon must complete a quest to regain his powerful dragon form. A demon steals dead musicians from the mundane world and forces them to perform songs that change people into evil creatures. He plans to steal a living musician, Jimmy Buffett, and use his songs to destroy the barriers between the worlds. Dragon is the only creature who could destroy the demon and save the day. Wizards in the mundane world use smart phones as wands to protect Buffett from capture while Dragon and a young sorceress, Robyn, fight the demon in the magical realm.
Last year Diane added a new mystery to her growing catalog. The characters from her High Seas Mysteries travel to Colorado to find a family gold mine. “Golden Legacy” features a journal written in 1888 by Kayla’s ancestor, a woman traveling alone from San Francisco to Ouray, Colorado. Kayla reads the journal to uncover clues to fine the gold mine and prove herself worthy of inheriting the family legacy.
What is next? I am currently working on a new science/fantasy novel. When Dr. Alexander and his team arrived on Drako, the three other scientists who invented Transfer fled to other planets. Now readers can explore what happened to these talented men, what kind of worlds they chose to inhabit, and what interstellar threat might bring them all back together. If you enjoy character-driven science/fantasy, start reading the first series today. The next book should be ready by the end of this year.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
All nine books are available in e-book and print formats exclusively on Amazon.com. My author’s page can be found at http://Author.to/DianeRapp
Please include links to the books:
Science/Fantasy Series:
The Havenshire Resistance: http://viewBook.at/Havenshire
Dragon Defense: http://viewBook.at/DDefense
Mystery Series:
Murder Caribbean-Style: http://viewbook.at/HighSeas1
Murder on a Ghost Ship: http://viewBook.at/HighSeas2
Golden Legacy: http://viewBook.at/GoldenLegacy
Fractured Fairy Tale:
Dragon Knight and the Heart’s Blood Curse: http://viewBook.at/DKnight
Where can readers connect with you online?
Visit www.quicksilvernovels.com to learn more about all of Diane’s books. Contact Diane from the website. You may also find Diane’s posts at https://www.facebook.com/quicksilvernovels and on Twitter at https://twitter.com/DianeRapp.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Drako. 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 world, in Realm Explorers Part XCXX!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world world, in Realm Explorers Part XCXX!
-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: Chess Desalls
Title of book: Glistens
Brief summary of the story:
Marian is a teen Glisten—a fairy that takes the form of a firefly—who hopes to become a guardian. She’s stuck in summer school when she hears a call for help. Will she be able to answer her ward’s call and complete her class project? Or will summer and its distractions make her lose focus?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Glistens is set in the real world. The Glistens are a fairy-shifter society whose colonies exist among humans. They use glamours to stay hidden. Ancestors of the Glistens in my novella settled in Applewold, Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny River.
If we were to visit as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
If the Glistens grant you sight into their world, I’d recommend a tour of their schools and homes. They are much different than how they appear on the outside. Otherwise, you might want to spend a day fishing.
What dangers should we avoid?
Stay away from the Rabbits.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served by Glistens?
Glistens enjoy vegetable stew and vanilla breakfast cake, as well as nectar ices and pollen nuggets. They maintain a vegan diet.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common to Glistens?
This breed of fairy shifters is, for the most part, peaceful. But they have a magic system with a basis in fire and cold light. They use their light to transform objects and guide others to safety. But sometimes their magic is needed to combat evil forces.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. do Glistens use to travel?
Glistens don’t own motorized vehicles such as cars and motorcycles. One of the Glistens in the story has managed to get his hands on an old bicycle. Even so, their preferred method of travel is flight.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter that we don’t see on Earth?
If you’ve seen a firefly, you’ve probably seen a Glisten in its insect form. They don’t keep pets and they share the same vegetation as humans.
There are also Rabbits that are nothing like the fluffy creatures we know. It’s best not to feed them.
Author Autobiography:Chess Desalls is the author of the YA time travel series, The Call to Search Everywhen. She’s a longtime reader of fantasy and sci-fi novels, particularly classics and young adult fiction. Her nonfiction writing has led to academic and industry publications. She’s also a contributing editor for her local writing club’s monthly newsletter. The California Writers Club, South Bay branch, has awarded two of Chess’ stories first place for best short fiction. When she’s not reading or writing, she enjoys traveling and trying to stay in tune on her flute.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Readers can connect with Chess through Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Pinterest, Instagram, her website, and her blog.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the Glistens’ 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 the world of Drako, in Realm Explorers Part XCXVIII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the world of Drako, in Realm Explorers Part XCXVIII!
-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: Malinda Andrews
Title of book and/or series: The Ryder Chronicles, The Incalescent Trilogy
Brief summary of the story:
To Riona, life was simple. She and her mother lived on the outskirts of a village in the secluded Rhal-Dages Mountains of Bjergen. They grew, or hunted what they could, and traded for the rest. Her best friend for the twenty years of her life, Damien, and his family were there for her without question. At least until a mysterious figure reveals something within her, setting in motion events that sweep Riona into a conflict decades in the making.
After another figure’s unexplained visit, Riona is required to accept that the abilities she has had for so long, and tried to hide, come from magic. But since Moriel destroyed the legendary Ryders and their powerful dragons twenty-one years prior, magic was something to be feared by the people. Magic was dangerous, and those using it were sought out and killed.
Forced to leave her home, Riona is stalked by nightmarish shadow figures, as she tries to uncover the truth of who she is. Her choices, and discoveries, could mean the destruction, or salvation of the people she loves most.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The entire world for this trilogy contains several Realms. The Realm where book one takes place, and where the main characters are from, is called Bjergen. It is a mountainous realm that also includes a large, ancient, forest to the west of the mountains. Rivers, and small streams litter the landscape, providing the necessary irrigation for the people to farm small plots of land to supplement their hunting.
If we were to visit Bjergen as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
If you were to visit Bjergen you would be in for a hiking lovers trip! This Realm covers the Rhal-Dages Mountains and surrounding forests. Most of the realm is made up of small villages, but the capitol city of Erskine is the crown jewel. The majority of the city is built directly into the mountains! The home of the ruling family is extensive, and offers rooms to accommodate visiting Dragon Ryders and their Dragons, complete with oversized balconies!
What dangers should we avoid in Bjergen?
At one point in the history there would have been the danger of wild dragons. Now, there are wolves, and large wildcats that stay away from the villages and populated areas.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Bjergen?
No, the main faire is pretty typical medieval menus. Ales, meads, venison, roasts, fowl dishes are all common.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Bjergen?
Heavy armor complete with heavy horse and infantry units make up the majority of Erskine’s standing army. Due to skirmishes on their eastern front, Erskine is also well versed in archery and building defensive structures.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Bjergen?
The main mode of transportation is either wagons, horse back, or of course walking.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Bjergen that we don’t see on Earth?
Prior to both the rise of the Ryders, and then Moriel’s vengeance, dragons would have been prevalent throughout the realm. Some are friendly, some not so.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Bjergen? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic was once something that was common, but after the fall of the Ryders magic became taboo. There are three types of magic systems. One is inborn magic, magic that runs through the blood of the first people in the 5 Realms. The second is the magic of the Dragon Ryders. Being bonded to a dragon gives the human abilities that they would have otherwise not have had. Using and having those magical abilities will change the individual at a genetic level, which will pass to the offspring of a Ryder. The third type is ritual magic. This is extremely taboo, and banned. The books that contain this knowledge have been hidden away. This magic is also extremely dangerous to the user.
What is the political or government structure in Bjergen? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The line of Charncoite has ruled unbroken in Erskine for thousands of years. The previous king was a wise and kind ruler, who passed his crown upon his death to his twin sons who are to co-rule. Along with the king there is a council of advisors that aids in making decisions and provides support and information to the king.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I had come up with this story/realm when I was much younger, but it wasn’t until I was visiting the highlands of Scotland that I really “saw” the landscape. Being amongst the craggily mountains, and sweeping hills really cemented the realm in my mind.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
There really aren’t any “hot-button” or controversial topics, but I do often explore the concept of “nature vs nurture”. There are a few twins, and backstories that include sharing the same upbringing, but how different two people can end up.
Author Autobiography:A transplant to the Midwest from Washington State, Malinda Andrews works as a desk jockey by day, but by night—and sometimes on her lunch break—she escapes the ordinary by writing. The love of writing started young (she credits, or alternately blames, her parents for her love of reading and writing) and she followed her passion for the written word into college. Forgoing financial security, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in December 2012.
The novel that started it all, Through the Mountains, was dreamt up when Malinda was sixteen. Though the assignment was only a ten-page short story, Malinda handed in the first twenty-five pages of her novel. Despite her passion, it would take until the last semester of college for inspiration, planning, experience, and momentum to culminate for the novel to be finished.
An avid reader, Malinda also enjoys crocheting, watching TV and movies, book shopping, hiking, and camping. She lives with her husband and their cats.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books? Please include links.
They are available on Amazon in both Kindle and paperback.
Through the Mountains: http://amzn.to/2aqfmwh
Across the Sea and Hills: http://amzn.to/2aamPxK
Fire and Snow: http://amzn.to/2amLH7u
Where can readers connect with you online?
I can be found online at:
My blog: http://onadragonswing.blogspot.com/
Twitter: @OnADragonsWing2
Instagram: @onadragonswing2
Pinterest: Onadragonswing2
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Bjergen. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the _____ world of ______, in Realm Explorers Part XCXVII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the _____ world of ______, in Realm Explorers Part XCXVII!
-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.
Title of book and/or series: The Dragon Courage series—book 1 Dragon’s Future, book 2 Dragon’s Heir, book 3 Dragon’s Revenge, book 4 Dragon’s Cure (releasing August, 2016), book 5 Dragon’s Posterity, Prequel Dragon’s Past
Brief summary of the story:
In a world where dragons and humans live in peace with each other, it is a privilege to be a dragon rider, but riders, like everyone else, must find their purpose. In this series, twins Ruskya and Duskya fight for their dragons’ futures and their lives! Braidyn struggles with balancing justice and mercy as he searches for a stolen nestling. Kyn and a new friend, Ben’hyamene, discover a breed of wild dragons which have been at war with humans for four hundred years, and the two learn that peace is better than revenge. Kyn helps Duskya and her daughter, Carryn, search for a young rider who stumbles upon a slave trade. Carryn learns that bitterness leaves a person in bondage as much as being a slave. Follow along the riders’ quest in this exciting middle grade fantasy series by author Kandi J Wyatt.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: The world itself has many of the same things our world has: lakes, deserts, mountains, swamplands, oceans, and mines. The center of the world is the inland lake. From there, we tell directions. North of the inland lake is the canyon country of Woolpren and Three Spans Canyon. Here the people are steeped in tradition. To the south of the inland lake is Boeskay. It is situated just south of the lake on the River Sur. The land is fruitful and many people farm here. To the east of the inland sea rolling sandhills spread out as far as the eye can see. The people here herd livestock and roam from oasis to oasis. Heading south and west of the inland sea will bring a traveler to the land of The Carr. A river overflows its banks creating a massive swamp. People live in sod houses on rocky outcroppings or in wooden cabins up on stilts. Their livelihood is dependent on the land whether in logging, farming, or ranching. To the south and west of Boeskay the city of San Valencia sits at the base of tall, rocky mountains. The mountains hold mines for ebony. To the west of The Carr sits the ocean. Its rolling surf crashes against rocks and plays a hide-n-seek game with the grasslands as they ebb and flow between the surf and the mountains.
If we were to visit the Lands of Dragon Courage as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
First and foremost, ride a dragon! You’d have to ask a dragon rider and the dragon for permission, but it would be the best thing ever. Secondly, I’d recommend that you visit the El’shad’n in the sandhills and experience one of their feasts. The heat will have dissipated by the evening feast and their pavilions will be open to guests. Drums will provide a beat for dancing, and after dark, the fire dancers will grace the grounds with their intricate work of twirling fire and blowing it in great balls into the air. Roasted lamb never tastes as good as it does at an El’shad’n feast. There’s just something about the way they grill it over the fire that brings all the favor to the front and gets rid of the grease lamb is known for. While on your visit, you must swing by and say ‘hi’ to Duskya or Ruskya and have a cup of tea. Listen to them tell the stories of the lands. Finally, if you’ve never been to an ocean before, go explore the coast. Listen to the roar of the surf. I’d suggest going in the summer during the Youngling Challenge.
What dangers should we avoid in the Lands of Dragon Courage? You’ll want to be cautious of the wild drakes in The Carr. They’ve been at peace with humans now for a few winters, but they are still wild. You don’t want to disturb their lands. They can be territorial. As long as you aren’t caught out in the open in the winter in Three Spans Canyon or Woolpren you’ll be okay, but winter storms have been known to lock people in their homes for days on end. In the summer time, Boeskay can have tornados. If you’re there in the summer months, you’ll want to keep an eye on the sky.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in the Lands of Dragon Courage?
Depending on where in the land you are, your food will vary. The northern lands of Woolpren and Three Spans Canyon serve meats from their livestock along with corn and wheat. Boeskay is known for the farms. All kinds of fresh produce comes through the market and fish is caught in the river. Tea is a prominent drink in the north; while coffee is served in the sandhills, and lemonade on the western coast of the inland sea.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in the Lands of Dragon Courage?
Swords, knives, arrows, and basic hand-to-hand combat are practiced among all the peoples of the land.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to the Lands of Dragon Courage?
Wagons and horses are the most common means of transportation. A few people are fortunate enough to be dragon riders. They have the wonderful opportunity to travel by way of dragon. Those living in the sandhills can travel using animals bred for the heat.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in the Lands of Dragon Courage that we don’t see on Earth? There is a plant that encourages dragons to have twins. It has a similar effect on humans as well. Dragons are another species that are specific to the Lands of Dragon Courage. Other than that, the world is very similar to ours.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in the Lands of Dragon Courage? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic exists mainly in the form of dragons and their abilities. However, there are some items that are magical—an herb that produces twins, an amulet that binds dragons to people and enables the person to hear others’ thoughts, ebony crystals that can hold the essence of a person so that their presence is felt in an area, creating mental cages of memories to keep a person from knowing who she is. These are all magical happenings. The abilities of telepathy and telekinesis are explained by way of magic.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in the Lands of Dragon Courage.
The main entertainment happens in the summer along the coast. The Youngling Challenge is held where all the young dragon riders who are ready to graduate to full-fledged riders come to prove their abilities as riders. There are competitions for them to show how well they work together as a group, individually, and in team sports as well. They have hand-to-hand tournaments, races, and show their prowess with their abilities to wield their minds as weapons.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in the Lands of Dragon Courage as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The days and months are the same. However they rate the passing of time by winters. The seasons are the same in the land but the severity of the weather depends on where you are visiting. The Carr has rain, fog, and sun all year long, while Woolpren and Three Spans Canyon have distinctive seasons with extremes. The special event for the north is the Youngling Procession where the dragons and prospective dragon riders meet every winter. The dragon rider colony then celebrates the arrival of new riders. In Boeskay, each winter they celebrate when their younglings are old enough to become full-fledged riders.
What is the political or government structure in the Lands of Dragon Courage? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? The Carr has two different sets of government. There is the leader of the humans and the leader of the dragon riders. In recent years, the two have become one. The leader is a young girl by the name of Calum. She is guided by her father, the former human leader, and the former dragon rider leader, Shaylah. The El’shad’n look to Braidyn as their Ah’doneye or leader. The other areas have no political struggles. The riders are helpers who keep peace. In Boeskay, the riders help by fertilizing the farmlands with dragon fire.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit the Lands of Dragon Courage?
In the north, people bow in reverence and greeting to each other. The traditional greeting is “May your dragon fly true.” Among the men of The Carr, they shake hands instead of bowing. They are less formal. The El’shad’n had been ruled by a man who abused power. He required everyone to bow down to him as a king. He also kept the women separate from the men. This is changing, but there is still a cultural reticence for the two to mix in public without a family member around.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Woolpren and Three Spans Canyon are based on two canyons I have visited personally. When I was between my junior and senior years in high school I went to Northern Arizona and saw Canyon de Chelly. I loved the idea of a town built into the canyon wall. The canyons of the high desert of Eastern Oregon are where my in-laws live. When I blended the Northern Arizona landscape with the foothills of the Blue Mountains of Oregon, I created Woolpren and Three Spans Canyon.
Boeskay comes from my childhood in the Mississippi River area of Southern Iowa. The farmlands surrounding the river and the bluffs fill the land. Even the tornados and thunderstorms come from my childhood. However, the market place comes from my time in Ecuador. I loved the way the vendors would set up their wares in colorful displays. The sing-song calling out of what they had to sell also comes into the Boeskay market.
The Carr probably is my favorite because it is what I have known for the past twenty-one years. It is based on the Coquille River valley in Oregon. In the winter time, the fertile fields fill with runoff and the river itself takes on a life of its own as it spills into the plains. The mountains around the valley used to supply many log mills with lumber. They aren’t conducive for dragons, but the valley floor works well for the flying creatures.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? For the most part the series avoids anything controversial and focuses instead on family, friendship, courage, justice balanced with mercy, and revenge versus peace. However, in book four, the topics of survivors of childhood abuse and human trafficking come into play. When I wrote it, I wrote out of my own experience of overcoming the abuse coping mechanisms. At the time, human trafficking wasn’t even spoken about. Yet, somehow, I was able to put together a very believable experience of how young girls can fall into the clutches of this despicable system. As one character says, “I’d like to take down the whole system! Wing, tail, and horns. From the sellers to the traders to the buyers.”
Author Autobiography: Kandi J Wyatt is a wife, mother of five, teacher, artist, and author. In her free time, she enjoys writing fantasy stories and Christmas programs, and drawing with graphite and colored pencils. Portraits are her specialty. Kandi also enjoys photography, thanks to her photographer husband who has let her join his journey as both his model and apprentice, and she occasionally serves as his assistant when he needs a “light stand with feet.”
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Feel free to connect with me on my website, Twitter, Facebook, Goodreads, Google Plus, and Pinterest. I blog every week about things not necessarily book related but what I think would help my readers or about what’s happening in my own life. On Facebook, I share not only my blog posts, but any videos or pictures that pique an interest for my readers or would follow with themes in my books. I participate in Twitter games, #MondayBlogs, #TuesdayTitles (where I suggest books that are great reads), #1lineWed (snippets of either works in progress or from my books), and #momlife. My Pinterest boards are divided by things that fit with my books as well as a favorite quote and a favorite book board. I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the Lands of Dragon Courage. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the fantasy world of Bjergen, in Realm Explorers Part XCXVI!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the fantasy world of Bjergen, in Realm Explorers Part XCXVI!
-Annie Douglass Lima
Thank you so much for having me on your blog today! I’m delighted to reveal the cover for my upcoming release, Flare, Book Two of The Sunless World, an epic fantasy series with a steampunk flavor.
Rafe and Isabella are back
The mages of old saved their world, but left it in eternal darkness. Now it’s time to bring back the light.
After two years of training his magical gifts, Rafe returns home to a land wracked by war. Desperate states struggle to protect their resources of luminous quartz. Magic pulses and earthquakes devastate a world on the brink of extinction. Rafe’s old enemy Karzov has gathered a band of prodigies obedient to his will. He seeks the power of the ancient mages for an audacious and sinister purpose. It’s up to Rafe and his ally, Isabella, to stop himóand undo the mistakes of the past to put their world right again.
Flare will be out in September 2016!
The Sunless World series
“Quartz: The Sunless World introduces a rich and credible backdrop to the adventures of her characters, with a deadly political mire underlying the bright colours of high society.” – By Rite of Word Reviews
“This story is fast, fascinating and highly recommended.” – Amazon.com review
About the Author
I create weird worlds full of magic and machines, and write characters who are called on to be heroes. I’m fascinated by light and darkness, transformation, and things that fly. Giant squid and space dragons appear in my work – you have been warned! A native of Pakistan, I now reside in Northern Virginia, where I read, write, doodle, avoid housework, and homeschool my children.
Find me online at:
Website: http://www.rabiagale.com
Newsletter: http://www.rabiagale.com/thank-you/
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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: Gwen Dandridge
Title of book and/or series: The Dragons’ Chosen
Brief summary of the story:
The dragons came from beyond the Crystal Mountains, demanding a virgin sacrifice…and Princess Genevieve learns she’s it when she’s handed a golden token–the mark of the chosen. Genevieve accepts her fate. She must, in order to save her kingdom. But the journey to her final destiny is complicated by the arrival of Chris, a 1970s Berkeley co-ed. To Chris, the whole scenario reeks of deception. Where she comes from, corsets are for burning and virgins are hard to find. She’s sure the dragons are out for more than innocent blood, but the only way to find out what they really want is to accompany Genevieve on her journey. Not what she had planned for her freshman year of college. Genevieve is duty-bound–unless Chris is right. Then her sacrifice would mean nothing. Other than woe to those who duped her…
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
This story begins in the grassy hills and valleys of the medieval kingdom of Verdeux. Off to the west are the steep Fandrite mountains and within that–the Crystal caverns.
If we were to visit Verdeux as tourist, what would you recommend we see or do there?
It depends on your level of adventure. If you’re the adventurous type, head beyond the borders of Verdeux to the Crystal caves and explore the depths of these. There you can marvel at the curious rock formations that grow within. The Fens would also be interesting—if you have a high tolerance for midges and other biting insects. For those of you who are not so daring, the castles are wonderful, cool in the warm summers and fun to explore. For myself, I would be off horseback riding across the rolling hills of Verdeux!
What dangers should we avoid in Verdeux?
Verdeux is a stable country without many predators. Once out in the wilderness, there are many dangers: fire boars, wolves and, of course, dragons!
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Verdeux?
Roasted fire boar if you are in the company of dragons! Otherwise, normal fair for that time: mead, ale and wine to drink; game to eat (venison, pheasant, grouse). It’s a heavy meat culture so you wouldn’t see many green vegetables. J
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Verdeux?
Swords, bows, trebuchets, lances are all incorporated in warfare in medieval Verdeux.
What type of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Verdeux?
Horses and horses pulling carts. Carriages haven’t been invented yet so riding in carts is pretty rough.
Tell us about any sports, games or activities that are available for entertainment in Verdeux.
Princess Genevieve and her father are both avid chess players. Most of the royals play card and board games to while away the hours. During the evenings troubadours are invited to sing and play during dinner. Storytelling is widely used as a way of passing time and socializing. You could join in at a country dance, it doesn’t take much talent, just a desire to have fun and enjoy the music. During evenings, skits are put on by the locals. Sit down and enjoy the show.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I’ve traveled quite a lot in my life and lived in different cultures. I also read widely. These have strongly influenced my writing. Chris lives in a 1970’s Berkeley culture and I lived there during the 1980’s. Genevieve’s world is more medieval French. My stay in France for three months, climbing castle walls and scrambling over drawbridges, gave me a smattering of insight into what a medieval world might have looked like.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
In the book I touch on a number of hot-button issues but in a gentle and subtle way. I want people to think.
1. What are the desirable traits for females in different societies?
In my book, Genevieve and Chris are both strong females in their worlds and both define strength differently. Is strength defiance or is there strength in sacrifice? Is standing up for yourself important or is submitting yourself to the greater good the better way. At any given time, how do you tell which way is best?
2. What does it mean to be human? What defines that?3. What is most important in love?
Genevieve and Chris have to answer these questions. For each woman there are different issues and different choices. How does one decide? What qualities would you want in a partner and why? What qualities would you willing to sacrifice for the perfect partner?
4. Who are you outside of the world that you are raised in?
Would you behave differently if transported across the world to a different culture? Would you change as a person or would you adhere to what you already know?
5. How do you react to adversity? Both Genevieve and Chris are presented with difficult situations. Each one reacts based on her understanding of how the world works. Could there have been another way?
Author Autobiography: Not so long ago, my life centered around Morris and Sword dancing, I started writing around the time I ended my fifty-bell habit. During the last fifteen years I have belonged to SCBWI and have been active within the group. My golden retriever and my husband keep me hiking and roaming the hills. I dabble in stained glass, baking and gardening. When opportunity arises, I also make weird piñatas and hang out in my tree-house.Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book? The Dragons’ Chosen is available as a paperback or in epub, mobi, pdf, lrf, pdb, txt or html versions.
The paperback and kindle versions are available here:
The pdf version can be found at:
Where can readers connect with you online?
I love to hear from readers. Contact me at my facebook account at https://www.facebook.com/Gwen-Dandridge-Author-674339635928556/
Or on my web page at www.gwendandridge.com
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Verdeux. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another fantasy world, in Realm Explorers Part XCXVII!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another fantasy world, in Realm Explorers Part XCXVII!
-Annie Douglass Lima