Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name:
Kandi J Wyatt
Title of book and/or series:
An Unexpected Exploit, book 3 of Myth Coast Adventures trilogy
Brief summary of the story:
A regular summer hunting trip takes a new turn when Franklin falls into the mythical realm of Shinwano. When he returns home he finds a poacher, NSA agent, and his friends all interested in the portal—and all for different reasons.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Shinwano exists on a separate plane of the time-space continuum. It looks like Earth but instead of humans populating it, its inhabitants are mythical creatures.
If we were to visit Shinwano as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
First off, make sure to get the permission of the sanraksaka; otherwise you’re in for trouble. Once you have Ladaku’s approval, then you’ll be free to roam. Be sure to travel north to the Parhada Mountains and visit the dragons there. You’ll also want to meet the gryphons across the lake and, if they’ll let you, the fairies. Keep your eyes open for fauns and brownies as well. A trip to Tsenturi’s cave would be helpful as well. The centaur may allow you to look into his scrying pool. Of course, your trip wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t look up Kajri the unicorn and hear her story of how she went through the rift in the time-space continuum not once but twice!
What dangers should we avoid in Shinwano?
For the most part, Shinwano is a peaceful land, but there is one creature that you’ll want to beware of. The guatama prowl through the night seeking creatures they can turn to serve their master. If they can’t trick you to follow them, they’ll destroy you. Their power has been growing recently, so be careful and stay inside at night, especially since they’re invisible!
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Shinwano?
Ladaku may try to serve you rasa juice. Don’t be put off by the bitter taste. Once you get pass that, the drink will provide energy, help your body heal, and quench your thirst. The rasa berry grows wild on bushes much like Earth’s blueberries do, but they have a taste more like a cranberry or a wolfberry. Cantharellus will show you the best wild mushrooms available and won’t be offended if you don’t like them because he’ll gladly eat what you don’t want.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Shinwano?
The manisa of the sanraksaka are known for their bhala, or staff, fighting. They train with tall, hardwood staves that are as tall as them and as thick as their wrists. To humans the Sanraksaka bhalas are as big as tree limbs.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Shinwano?
The only way to get to Shinwano is through the rift in the time-space continuum, protected by the Sanraksaka. Once there, you’ll travel on foot unless a unicorn, centaur, or dragon is willing to carry you.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Shinwano that we don’t see on Earth?
The forests around Gamu, Ladaku’s village, are full of tall, straight eucalyptus trees and bushy, mushroom-shaped myrtlewood trees. The ground cover consists in berries, mushrooms, and ferns.
Deer, rabbits, chipmunks, and other ordinary animals provide food for the inhabitants of Shinwano who prefer something more than vegetables. The lake is full of fish which is excellent grilled over a fire.
The inhabitants are what set Shinwano apart from Earth. Eight distinct races populate the land.
Sanraksaka are large, hairy, and ape-like. Humans may know them as sasquatch, bigfoot, or yeti. The sanraksaka live in villages throughout Shinwano. The women help create weapons for hunting and defending the portals and are in charge of food gathering, while the males are fighters or farmers. Both men and women train their baccaharu, or children, in the ways of Sirjanakarta, the Creator.
North of Gamu, centaurs roam the land. They prefer to live in caves and are known for their wisdom and insight. Across the lake near Gamu, gryphons soar on the thermal currents off the mountains. Fauns and satyrs live in the plains and woods north of Gamu. They interact with the unicorns who prefer the tree-covered areas.
Kopala, or brownies, hide among the lower bushes throughout Shinwano. They love the mushrooms that grow wild in the forests. Kopalalook like living, large teddy bears with their ears higher on their head.
Fairies live in each of the different sections of Shinwano—mountains, lake, grasslands, and woodlands. Every group has distinctive wings. The woodland fairies can be mistaken for butterflies. They flitter among the bushes blending into their surroundings. While in the grasslands, keep your eyes open for flowers that don’t look quite right. The king of the grassland fairies has deep red wings that look like rose petals. Over the lake, the fairies have wings similar to dragonflies, and in the mountains their wings are more durable and resemble beetle wings.
In the mountains to the far north dragons soar. They prefer the rugged terrain where they have ample food in mountain goats, bears, and deer.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Shinwano? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
In a realm of mythical creatures, magic abounds. Fairies, unicorns, dragons, and kopala wield magic in various amounts. Even centaurs could be considered magical in the use of their scrying pools. Unicorn horns give healing, while their tears provide longevity for skin. By their nature, dragons have magic. Their scales can be used to provide a source of magic to non-magic users. Kopala have the ability to use a small bit of magic, but they can track magic users. Of all the creatures, fairies can wield the most magic. They don’t have spells they cast, but a simple laying of their hands on an object can provide strength, imbue it with magic, or give magic to another. The guatama use their master’s magic. His goal is gather all the magic in the land and pervert it.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Shinwano? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
No technology exists in Shinwano, but humans have brought technological objects through the portal, even though it doesn’t last long without batteries or any way to recharge.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Shinwano.
The manisa train with hand-to-hand combat as well as their bhalas. This happens in a sandy arena outside Sam’mana’s yurt while other sanraksaka watch. At night the sanraksaka sit around the fire and the village storyteller shares tales with the baccaharu and adults alike. All creatures enjoy celebrations and feasts. The fauns and satyrs dance with unicorns observing and enjoying.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Shinwano as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Shinwano has seven days in a week and four weeks in a lunar cycle. They count the years in seasons. There aren’t any specific holidays or special events celebrated regularly.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Shinwano? Please describe what it involves.
All creatures respect Sirjanakarta, the Creator of Shinwano and Earth. Even the guatama fear Sirjanakarta. The stars remind the sanraksaka of Sirjanakarta’s care and protection. He speaks to the different races in unique ways. The centaurs hear him through their scrying pools, while bhalascommunicate Sirjanakarta’s ways to the sanraksaka. Sirjanakarta speaks directly to fairies. Despite all this, the creatures of Shinwano have no specific religious practices. Their belief in Sirjanakarta permeates everything in their lives.
What is the political or government structure in Shinwano? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Each race has a different political structure. Dragons are solitary creatures without much internal governing, as are unicorns, fauns, satyrs, and kopala. The sanraksaka are ruled by the manisa, their warriors. The head manisa has the final say for the village. Each village has their own group of manisa and a head manisa. Fairies have a leader for each of their divisions.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Shinwano?
Just be open to different ideas in each people group.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
The sanraksaka came about because a sophomore student suggested I write a book about sasquatch. At the time I knew it was going to be part of the Myth Coast Adventures trilogy, but I didn’t know how the story would unfold. As book 2 finished, and Kajri gave us a glimpse of Shinwano, I began to wonder, ‘what if?’ What if the tales of sasquatch, prevalent here in Southwestern Oregon, really were from protectors of portals sliding into our world?
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Surprisingly, there are no controversial topics; well, my main character, Franklin does go hunting. The main thing some readers may have issues with is this book has more of a Christian bent to it. As Franklin learns how to use his bhala and the longer he’s in Shinwano, he grows to learn more and more about Sirjanakarta.
Author Autobiography:
Even as a young girl, Kandi J Wyatt had a knack for words. She loved to read them, even if it was on a shampoo bottle! By high school Kandi had learned to put words together on paper to create stories for those she loved. Nowadays, she writes for her kids, whether that’s her own five or the hundreds of students she’s been lucky to teach. When Kandi’s not spinning words to create stories, she’s using them to teach students about Spanish, life, and leadership.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
My books are available on all outlets in both ebook and paperback formats.
Myth Coast Adventures trilogy
An Unexpected Exploit
Dragon Courage series
Stand-alones
Where can readers connect with you online?
I’m most active on Instagram and Facebook for social media, even though I do have a twitter account. I’m on Amazon, Bookbub, and Goodreads, and have my own website as well.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Shinwano. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
-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.
![](https://testdev636428150.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/86409-artificiallove_fc.jpg)
Author’s name: RJ Conte
Title of book and/or series: Artificial Love
![](https://testdev636428150.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/9b747-lisbeth2.jpg) |
Lisbeth |
Brief summary of the story: Deep in the heart of the wild west, rebel marauders are drawing out a bloody civil war that no side can win. Many ranchers, including Lisbeth’s father, die trying to save their farms, leaving their women to fight to keep their land and stay alive.
When Lisbeth and her mousy younger sister Ruth come face to face with the uncouth land pirates who seize their farm as a scouting base, they only have one plan to protect their virtue: pretend to be commonplace, advanced domestic robots. Suppressing their fears, enslaved to the ruffians, the two young women are determined to convince the men they’re not human.
Their plan hits a snag when they meet Dane: a gorgeous prisoner-of-war who has a secret belief that robots can become sentient and develop emotions on their own… and he’s determined to use Lisbeth as proof.
Can the sisters keep up their ruse and survive? For fans of The Twilight Zone meets Gone with the Wind and Magnificent Seven
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: Think Gone with the Wind or Magnificent Seven – 1800s with cowboys, wagons, ranches, and extremely sophisticated robot servants! In other words, the genre is cattlepunk.
If we were to visit Lisbeth’s country as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? It’s not safe due to roving marauders and the ongoing Civil War. Not a good time to visit. But if you’re in a safe area, I’d recommend you have a chef robot cook you up a big heaping plate of Johnny cakes and grits, sit on the veranda watching the sunset over the tumbleweeds, and go for a horse ride over the mountain pass.
![](https://testdev636428150.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/131d2-dane.jpg) |
Dane |
What dangers should we avoid? The land pirates. These ruffians will shoot you on sight or at least take your farm and rope you into servitude… or worse!
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common? Pistols and rifles abound.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel? Definitely horses and wagons.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology? Yes, the artificial intelligence! Robot servants and farmhounds abound, making the ranchers’ lives easier. In the wealthy capital, robots may also exist as nannies, companions, and surrogate children. If you give them an expensive “emotion pack,” they become much more like human beings and act far more sentient.
Is there a particular religion practiced? Lisbeth and her little sister Ruth are Christians.
What is the political or government structure? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? The snobby heads of state in the capital were out of touch with the rest of the way their poorer class lived, and when a rebellious uprising occurred, they were too fat and lazy to defend themselves well. The rebel uprising took over, and now half the country is in a never-ending, bloody civil war. Dark times.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? Fearing sexual abuse, and how far two women will go to protect themselves. Rights for robots and whether emotional AI should be treated like humans. Romantic relationships between AI and humans, etc.
Author Autobiography:
RJ Conte has kissed only one boy in her entire life – and she married him – inspiring her to write about sweet or powerful love stories ever since. She writes issue-driven fiction that explores human nature and the depths of the soul while pointing readers to their Creator.
She writes a blog on parenting, publishing, painting, and perorating at http://blonderj.wordpress.com/
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/BlondeRJConte/
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to this cattlepunk town. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
Are you an author of a sci-fi or fantasy novel that takes place in another world? Click here to find out about having it featured on Realm Explorers!
-Annie Douglass Lima
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Juli D. Revezzo
As witches Caitlin and Trevor prepare for a family gathering, a creature out of fantasy and myth bounds into their lives demanding they repair his precious cloak. But the cloak isn’t made of run of the mill material, but is also laced with magic. How will they satisfy his demands? And if they don’t, will he eat them?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Well, since the Antique Magic series is urban fantasy, there are two. One is the world Caitlin and Trevor live in a small town just outside Pensacola called Gulf Breeze. It’s a small town of about 6,500 inhabitants. The coolest thing about the town is they are in view of a fort from the early days of the Civil War. The fort is, supposedly, haunted, so that’s why I chose the location. They have the accompanying weather—heat, mild winters, thunderstorms, and hurricanes, which they frequently fret over. Throughout the series, under an assignment from the goddess Arianrhod, the couple have dealt with (and helped) spirits that come to them for assistance. But this is the first time they’ve ever had a dragon drop by.
The other is the Welsh “Otherworld”, Annwn (pronounced, but it’s okay to say Annwin if you like, in fact, good ole Wikipedia says one of its pronunciations is Annwvyn). Annwn is, like, their heaven. The entrance and Ariarhod’s castle, is Medieval in tone. But Annwn has tons of areas and can fluctuate between eras (the battleground especially changes depending on the mood of the Otherworld soldiers and what tournament they’re holding). Caitlin and Trevor frequently visit Arianrhod’s courtyard, where (especially Cait) is usually turned away at the gate by the temperamental guards (in Mourning Dove Locket) or let in on special occasions (in Caitlin’s Book of Shadows). In The Dragon’s Seamstress, the couple learns there’s a whole other section they’ve never known about where dragons live. Mostly, the Otherworld inhabitants come to Gulf Breeze with their problems.
If we were to visit Gulf Breeze as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
If you’re a history buff, you have to go Fort Pickens! 🙂 It’s a really cool, old fort, built in a pentagonal shape with lots of nooks and crannies to explore. If you’re not a history buff, definitely head to the beach.
![](https://testdev636428150.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/968d3-bannerfortdsrealmexp.jpg)
What dangers should we avoid in Gulf Breeze?
Sometimes, the ghosts and other entities can get a little confused, so tread lightly, if you run across one. (And as a practical tip, if you go to the beach, be mindful of undertow.)
(And in Annwn, you can find yourself in trouble if you try a raid on the Spoils of Annwn. 🙂 So be warned. Don’t try to go after their riches. You don’t want your soul eaten by a proper Hound of Annwn. [see below for more on them.])
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Gulf Breeze?
They have great seafood.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Gulf Breeze?
We try to avoid confrontations, but Caitlin has some self-defense training, and…she can throw magic at a pesky imp and fry its…erm, tail, even without the help of her latest charge. 🙂
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Gulf Breeze?
Cars, bicycles, other automobiles. But Caitlin has the special talent of being able to teleport, learned from her mentor, a “guardian” sent to her and Trevor by Arianrhod. And they’ve learned the goddess, enjoys, especially, our expensive, flashy cars.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Gulf Breeze that we don’t see on Earth?
Caitlin and Trevor have adopted a Hound of Annwn named Rhonabwy (pronounced Ron-a-bwee). He is a dog-being out of Celtic legend, with white fur and red-tipped ears, (a marker of the Otherworld) who can detect supernatural beings. He can speak telepathically with Caitlin and Trevor and their witch friends are learning to hear him. His fur is always cool to Caitlin’s, instead of warm, and his eyes glow red when he’s in protection mode. He doesn’t have to obey the laws of physics so can just appear at their sides, and …do other things that if I tell you, here, will be a spoiler for
The Dragon’s Seamstress! Shh…
Ahem, Rhonabwy was originally raised by Arianrhod’s supernatural kennels, to join the Hounds of Annwn, who hunt souls, but…he didn’t like that job at all. So, Arianrhod’s pack-keepers ousted him, and Caitlin found him loping around a corner in her hometown, one day, and fell in love. He’s been with them ever since, and yes, defends her against, and warns her of, supernatural threats. But, poor thing, he ain’t sure how to deal with this dragon. 😉 There are other gods living in Annwn, too, but as Arianrhod is the patron goddess of Trevor and Caitlin’s family, she’s the only one who visits them. Her, Michela (their family guardian), and the gate guardians.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in a huge role? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Caitlin is a witch, and first encountered the supernatural in the first book in the Antique Magic series, The Artist’s Inheritance. Here, Trevor (who is a woodworker) started building an odd chair that the goddess Arianrhod tried to get him to give to her. But, she didn’t just walk right up and ask, but tried to blend in with human society, and so sent her emissary, Michela. On the other side, a pesky imp tried to keep Trevor from giving it up. All the while, Caitlin sensed there was something otherworldly about Michela, Arianrhod, and this imp—and got hit with a bunch of odd visions, including being visited by the ghost of her husband’s ancestor.
She thought she was going mad, until she reconnected with an old friend from school, who just so happened to be a witch, too. It was the friend who realized what was happening to Caitlin. So she knows everything Caitlin needs to learn and between her and her coven, they helped Caitlin get control of her budding powers and drive off the imp, and save her husband’s sanity (and life). Then, in the next books, Caitlin gained more and more control and learned more about ghosts (they’re not scary, after all—for the most part—just lost and lonely and in need of her “ear” and a helping hand). She can blast an enemy, if necessary, she can pick up an item and “see” its history. She sometimes gets yanked into a vision of the original owner’s life, which (as discombobulating as that can be) it can be helpful. From her coven, she’s learned enough herbalism to whip up helpful medicines; she’s learned the history and legends of this goddess, and Trevor’s Welsh ancestry. They both have (Trevor too is a witch).
They even helped a teen witch gain control of her own growing powers and they’ve both frequently visited Arianrhod’s realm of Annwn (that’s a whole ‘nother Realm Explorer’s), but they don’t go often, onscreen. (It makes an appearance in the freebie “
Caitlin’s Book of Shadows”.
Caitlin’s magic also comes in handy in that she and Trevor run an antique store, and from time to time, she senses spiritual and magical vibes from treasures people bring in or inquire about. These always work into the series, somehow. For instance, in The Dragon’s Seamstress, a customer comes in looking for antique “witches” brooms that turn out to be a little more than meets the eye.
Also, in the book, the dragon is (obviously) magical, and furthermore, he has a cloak that he wears that is made of the beards of all the kings he’s defeated. One beard might, they speculate, have come from King Arthur. Also, at one point, he gives Caitlin a gift that pushes her powers beyond even those of her old school chum, the longtime witch. So, I can’t wait to see what she can do next!
![](https://testdev636428150.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/23911-antiquemagicbanner2019-ebookcopy.jpg)
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Gulf Breeze? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Caitlin and Trevor live in the modern world so they have everything we do: television, coffeemakers, computers, cars, Internet etc.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Gulf Breeze.
The usual—movies, books, radio. Trevor likes to surf. Gulf Breeze also has antique stores, like Trevor and Caitlin’s. I can’t say whether those others receive magical and magic-touched items like Cait and Trevor do, though. 😉
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Yes; as a matter of fact, in
The Dragon’s Seamstress, the couple are gearing up for Thanksgiving dinner with their families and friends. Caitlin and Trevor also celebrate the holidays peculiar to the Welsh and pagan calendars. Samhain (October 31),
Gwyl Awst(August 1), also the full moons, they always try to get together with their coven. They do only close their antique shop on national holidays, though (New Years, Christmas, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, etc).
Is there a particular religion practiced in Gulf Breeze? Please describe what it involves.
Caitlin and Trevor (and their coven) are pagan so they revere pagan gods—in their case, in particular, the Welsh gods of Trevor’s family, that being the goddess Arianrhod. They also, via their coven, revere the goddess of light. The coven gets together on solstices and equinoxes, Samhain, Gwyl Awst, August 1st (the abovementioned Gwyl Awst), May 1st, and so on, according to the modern pagan calendar. They cast circles, which contains their magical energy while they do their charms. At least when they’re together. If Caitlin needs to defend against a pesky imp, circles, be damned, she’s just going to blast the thing! She’ll also “bless” the homes of her friends and family to keep them safe and happy, and their environment loving and peaceful. She’s also been known to cook the best feasts around, and mix up fine teas.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Gulf Breeze?
If a ghost walks by, say hello.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I’ve an art history degree, and a love of Celtic mythology. I also know some artists, so all of these things tied into the series. Oh, and Caitlin and Trevor’s antique store is inspired by a few that we have around town. And yes, I have actually visited Gulf Breeze. The one in the books doesn’t have exactly the same layout as the real town, but, I have. It’s a nice little coastal town, with lovely beaches, and of course, Fort Pickens. A few other things: Caitlin’s neighbor knits, and I can (a little); also, alas, in 2017, I had experience with the hurricane they talk about in The Dragon’s Seamstress. Welcome to Florida life. (haha). Caitlin lives further north of us and down here in our area, we had rubble—in fact, according to the news, there were piles of it all over the state for even after Christmas, that year. So it was hard not to be constantly reminded of it, that year.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
It really depends on the book. But throughout the Antique Magic series, I’ve covered the Civil War, spousal domination, Cuban history and the Revolution, flappers, and a huge dose of feminism. In fact, at one point, Trevor answers the dragon’s question with “Haven’t you figured out who runs this house yet? Cait does.”
![](https://testdev636428150.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/61125-julidrevezzo_black2band2bwhite320.jpg)
Please share a brief author autobiography.
Juli D. Revezzo is a Florida girl with a love of speculative and romantic fiction and legend, and loves writing stories with all kinds of fantastical elements. She is the author of The Antique Magic series and the fantasy romance Celtic Stewards Chronicles series, along with a few historical romance novels, and short stories published in ETERNAL HAUNTED SUMMER, LUNA STATION QUARTERLY, among others. She is also a member of the Independent Author Network and the Magic Appreciation Tour.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books? Please include links.
The Dragon’s Seamstress releases August 11, 2019 in
ebook and coming soon to paperback via Amazon.
The other books in the series (and the reading order) are:
And, well, to understand everything you should probably read them in order, at least start with book one. Just so you know, some readers think the first two can be a little creepy, as Caitlin is creeped out by her early contact with the ghosts around her. As she gets a handle on things, the “fear” factor vanishes. Really, the ghosts aren’t scary-creepy-evil once you get to know them. They’re more like friendly spirits, or (can I say this?) “Force” ghosts. They’re in need of someone like Caitlin and Trevor to listen to them, and even helpful, when you get to know them. Some can be pesky, some can be belligerent. Just like people.
In
The Dragon’s Seamstress, a friendly ancestral ghost helps the couple figure out what it is that is coming to them for assistance, this time, when the dragon is still playing hide and seek with them. You’ll see what I mean when you read the book.
Where can readers connect with you online?
My
website, of course, is the main place.
Find all my books on
Amazon. I have a few on Itunes, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo, too. Those links are on my website, if you need them. (I’m working on getting the series turned into audiobooks, but it’s going to take time. If that’s your favorite format, feel free to join my newsletter—linked below—and I’ll let you know when they’re available.)
They can follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Bookbub, I have a Pinterest board for the Antique Magic series, and you can join my newsletter here, if you like, to be kept abreast of new releases. Here’s the synopsis, if you’d like to check it out:
Since Caitlin and Trevor vowed to assist the Otherworld and opened their enchanted antique shop, they’ve seen many strange things. But now, someone comes in asking for a mundane item: kitschy “witches” brooms. Has their magical life returned to normal?
As the couple prepares to host a family gathering, fate intervenes and something they’ve never seen before roars into their life: A creature out of Welsh legend and fantasy: A blundering, somewhat underdeveloped dragon—not at all the type of dragon they ever expected to meet. Forced to undertake his unique challenge, Caitlin and Trevor are perplexed by his demands, but the magical beast is certain they are the only witches who can help him.
Doing so might unlock an ancient hidden secret. Refusing might destroy them.
I hope you will enjoy The Dragon’s Seamstress as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thank you for having me again here at your lovely little home, Annie!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Gulf Breeze. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
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:Marty C. Lee
Title of book and/or series: Wind of Choice (Unexpected Heroes #1)
Brief summary of the story:
Ahjin’s skydancing dreams die when he’s condemned to a hated job. The sixteen-year-old winged boy is left with one chance to win his freedom—rescue a kidnapped god.
How hard could it be?
But when the other gods disappear, the elements run amok. With a spunky gilled islander, a desert explorer, and a shapeshifting healer, Ahjin races to save his shattering world.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Kaiatan is a planet with three continents and a large archipelago. Each land group holds a different race (different species). The shapeshifters live north, the winged people to the east, the gilled islanders to the west, and the desert people to the south.
If we were to visit Kaiatan as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
If you aren’t afraid of heights, you can admire the view from high cliffs of Ioj. The capital,Vasi, is the most metropolitan city in the world, with a large library stocked from their new printing press, an elegant palace, and the elaborate temple of Irajahan, God of Air.
Darrendra is quietly agricultural and forested, but the temple of Darravani, Goddess of Earth, in the capital city, has the most impressive gardens in the world. Her elephant-shifter priests are mild-mannered if you behave. You MUST have permission to travel through the land!
Nokailana has no elegant architecture, but if you can swim, you can admire the underwater towns and their road-pictures. Catch one of the festivals held every six days to enjoy food, music, and merriment, and, if you’re lucky, maybe a glimpse of Makanavailea, Goddess of Water.
A good guide can lead you along the west coast of Iskra to see the famed desert horses. Most of the areas attractive to tourists are too far south, but if your ship is swept off-course, visit the craft workshops and the perfume gardens. Don’t draw the mischievous attention of Resef, God of Fire.
What dangers should we avoid in Kaiatan?
It is simple to visit Ioj or Nokailana, but don’t venture past the shores of Iskra without a desert guide, and whatever you do, don’t enter Darrendra without permission. Due to the slightly lighter gravity and the higher air density and oxygen content, monsters can grow to impressive sizes. Giant kraken swim in the ocean, the desert has scorpions as big as a panther, man-sized bats roost in the forest, and knee-high spiders haunt northern Ioj. And recently, someone kidnapped all the gods. Until the perpetrator is caught, be very wary, and watch for the earthquakes, hurricanes, and tidal waves spawned by the gods’ absence.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Kaiatan?
Bows are common everywhere but Nokailana, though they vary from the simple recurves in Ioj to the powerful composite bows in Darrendra. Iskrins use swords, knives, and staffs in addition to a variety of bows. Iojif use weighted throwing ropes and slingshots. Darrendrakar vary wildly in their weapons use, so you might see axes, swords, staffs, knives, or merely their natural weaponry (teeth, claws, horns, etc). Nokai are remarkably good with their harpoons, and you don’t want to be on the wrong side of their serrated knives.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Kaitatan?
Ships, horses, wagons, etc. If not transporting cargo, the Darrendrakar tend to travel on their own two (or four) feet and the Iojif prefer to fly themselves.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Kaiatan? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
The priests of Irajahan use telepathy to communicate with him and each other. Each Nokai baby is given a gift from their goddess, which might or might not be “magic,” such as universal interpretation. While you might consider the shapeshifting Darrendrakar to be magic, they consider it an entire natural situation, but they do have the occasional citizen with an odd talent. Iskra is famed for the amazing healers from their Tukiko clan, and Resef occasionally creates a fire mage for his own devious reasons.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Kaiatan? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Ioj is quite proud of their new printing press, and Iskra makes a fine spyglass.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Kaiatan.
The cliffs of Ioj are the site of the annual cliff-diving competition of the winged race, and there are several companies of aerial acrobats that perform regularly.
Fishing, sailing, and swimming are popular in Nokailana. They also have an annual swearing competition (not for the faint of heart, and no, you don’t see it in the book).
Iskra has horse races that are open to the public, if you can get there through the desert. Darrendra also has an annual “horse” race, but the runners are Darrendrakar in their second shape, and visitors are not allowed.
What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The Nokai celebrate their goddess every six days as well as on special holidays. When the Nokai come of age at 6000 days, they throw a party. (Really, if you’re in a party mood, Nokailana is the place to visit.)
Ioj holds monthly presentations at the temple for the new adults that just turned sixteen years old.
What is the political or government structure in Kaitan? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Ioj has an appointed potentate that takes care of day-to-day matters, but Irajahan rules in name and fact. If he weren’t a god, he’d be called a dictator, but as is, everyone keeps their mouth shut.
Darrendra has local councils of men and women in each village, including the headman (or woman) and local priest. Interkindred conflict is settled by the temple priests in the capital.
Iskra has similar local councils. Disputes or interclan conflict are settled by a joint council of clans or by direct intervention from Resef. The joint council is considered safer than the god’s humor.
Nokailana has one elected leader per village. Terms are short, as nobody wants to be stuck with the responsibility for long. Makana’s priests are dolphins, but they don’t have much to do.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I do have a suicidal-thoughts scene. It never gets to actual suicide.
Author Autobiography:
Marty C. Lee told stories for most of her life, but never took them seriously until her daughter asked her to write a particular one. The plotted six chapters grew to an entire novel, and now a series is in progress.
Her characters take over her brain on a regular basis. If you catch her muttering to thin air, she’s probably arguing with one of her characters. She has learned to keep a notebook by her bed to jot down ideas so she can go to sleep and deal with them in the morning.
In between writing and spending time with her family, she reads, embroiders, gardens, and teaches small children at church. She prefers walking over bicycles or cars, because her feet are less scary. (If she walks, she can read at the same time, which is a nice bonus.)
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
It’s on Amazon, Kobo, iBooks, Nook, Overdrive, and a bunch of other places. You can get the ebook (mobi or epub) or a paperback in regular or large print.
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Kaiatan. 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!
-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:
Ian Vroon
Title of book and/or series:
Ayphae
Book 1 of The Flames Chronicles
Brief summary of the story:
They woke up seven years ago with no memory. They found themselves in a land of glowing flowers, mushroom houses and psychedelic spores. They have only dreams, flashbacks—fragments of thoughts they can’t explain.
But now the land is withering. Mushrooms are crumbling to ash, trees turning to mush—and no one knows why.
Enter the aiethepa spore. This fungus grows fast and thick throughout Ayphae. No one knows what it does, and no one can open it. Some blame it for the withering—others think it will breathe life into the land.
Paths cross, and an alliance is born: the three with lost memories, a field scientist, a ranger-turned-speaker and a pragmatic politician. But can they find the problem—before it’s too late?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Ayphae is a world of mushrooms that think using your brain. So for instance, sparkler mushrooms will send out sparkles that arrange themselves in pretty patterns—using your brain to determine what defines “pretty.” Murmuring mushrooms will use your subconscious to bring out thoughts that are comforting to you, which you will hear as a sort of “murmur.” Memory mushrooms will search the recesses of your mind for lost memories and restore them to you (or make you forget things). Mirror mushrooms will alter your visual center so they look like an exact duplicate of you. All these mushrooms think using your brain—provided you’re in their neural net.
Mushrooms with a neural net are known as “net mushrooms.” Apart from you, they have will, but no brain to exercise that will. You grant them that intelligence by wandering into their net. However, you are not aware of them thinking using your brain. It does not affect you in any way, shape or form.
If we were to visit Ayphae as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Visit the Obo Mushroom in Obo City (the capital). It’s a giant mushroom the size of several cities—and its cap is so wide, it spans the entire horizon. This mushroom sits at the very center of Ayphae, and people live inside it. The Marden (Ayphae’s ruler) also has his office there.
Though no one knows why, the sun will always rise from behind the Obo Mushroom. No matter where you’re standing, it will always seem like the sun’s rising from behind it and setting behind you. And the Obo Mushroom itself is a net mushroom—it’s sustained by the emotional energy of Ayphae’s inhabitants. Its roots stretch across the whole land.
What dangers should we avoid in Ayphae?
Beat mushrooms (called “drums”). These dangerous mushrooms are taller than you, have large legs to stomp the ground and are fiercely territorial. If you come across one, it will demand that you match its beat. After stomping out a rhythm, it will expect you to stomp the same rhythm in return. If you don’t, it will attack you. There are five colors of drums in the wild, and they like to travel in herds with the same color. If different colors meet, they will challenge each other for the land by stomping out beats or outright brawling.
Yeast marshes—glowing ponds of ultraviolet muck—should also be avoided, as they are nearly impossible to get out of. You’ll have to be rescued by a pathfinder (Ayphae’s equivalent of a ranger, but more extensive).
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Ayphae?
Like everything else, the food in Ayphae is quite unique. Marvel mushrooms are usually the main ingredient. These fungi are net mushrooms, and they can change their molecular structure to taste like anything. The caterer programs them to have a specific taste when making the dish, and the best caterers can even invent their own flavors (and combine them). Soups are most prevalent as the main course, as the most nutritious mushrooms (felrusii) can only be eaten cooked. (I actually have a real mushroom soup recipe in the back of my book.)
Scent spores can be programmed to smell like anything, so they help the dish further.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Ayphae?
Slingshots are the most common weapon. These can fire frost puffers—fungi that explode and freeze whatever they land on—as well as firebuds. Firebuds are mushrooms that burst into flame when you bop their cap. Firing them is more about intimidation than anything else, as they won’t inflict any serious burns before their flame peters out. In fact, firebuds are usually dropped into jugs of water to make them boil quickly. The frost puffers are better weapons. (Some people use tar as well, though this is less common.)
The martial arts style used is unique to Ayphae, and mostly focuses on agility and defense. Ayphae doesn’t have much crime, so the police usually don’t have to bother.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or through Ayphae?
Spincars • These cars use spinning mushrooms for wheels. Spinning mushrooms will spin by themselves (they go faster when injected with alter spores), so they can propel wooden carts. Since the carts are covered, you would most likely view them as a wooden car. Spincars can come in many sizes and be convertible, but they all share a few common features. Rearview mirrors, brake stems (flowers growing in the spincar’s wood whose roots grip the spinners to keep them from moving—as otherwise you wouldn’t be able to park the car!), a shroomshift to change speed or go in reverse (they just change the level and type of alter spores being injected into the spinners), and so forth. Now and then you need to replace the spinners, as they do wear out.
Pravel • To keep the roads in good condition, a type of pavement called pravel is used. It’s actually an intelligent yeast that repairs itself as you walk or drive over it. It compensates based on pressure, so areas where more people walk will still be in pristine condition. Essentially, the roads you walk on in Ayphae’s cities are one unicellular creature that adapts to your footsteps.
Jellibs • Transparent pink eggs with the consistency of Jell-O that grow on the ground like watermelons. They open up so you can hop in (size varies—some carry only two people, while others can house an entire dance troupe), and you float along the stream. They can also travel through the roots of obosas (giant mushrooms people live in) at about 60mph. This allows swift transportation, and it’s the standard means of getting around outside the big city. Spincars would be used in the villages, but dirt roads can’t handle them very well. Since pravel is in limited supply, only the cities use spincars.
Aerophytes • these glider-like spores appear to have leaves for wings. They can fly you along any air current, but they nest inside aerophytus flowers to rest. Like other net flora, they read your mind.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Ayphae that we don’t see on Earth?
Dancing Mushrooms • They usually travel in “troupes.” If you come across some in the wild, they’ll want you to dance with them. They’re especially impressed by good dancers—so if you perform well enough, you’ll get a reputation across Ayphae. Pretty soon, any dance troupe will be able to recognize you and demand your performance.
Mirror Mushrooms • When you look at a mirror mushroom, all you’ll see is yourself. And your reflection might be doing something different—so it’s not quite like staring into a mirror. Instead, these fungi read your mind and alter your visual center so you always see what they want you to see when you look at them. They’re quite mischievous, and their laughing sounds like birds chirping. But they really value athletic feats, and they’ll shower you with applause (a sound like rustling leaves) when you do backflips and other tricks. They’re classified as prankster mushrooms because they like to mess with you.
Flying Mushrooms • These unruly mushrooms fly across the sky. When they land, they usually nestle in groupings. Frills likes feather dusters spread out from beneath their caps, which are very sensitive to movement. Their most common predators are birds.
These are just a couple examples, but you can find others in this questionnaire. Most of the transportation uses wildlife (aerophytes, spinners, etc.), for instance. In fact, pretty much everything in Ayphae relies upon mushrooms of some sort. Clocks, houses, cars, medicine, you name it. Everything is a fungus or flower of some kind, from the pavement to the lamps.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Ayphae? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Ayphae has a plant-like Sage who protects it (his name is L’Hwon). However, he can only protect it from outside dangers. Currently, there is a barrier protecting the land of Ayphae and isolating it from the outside world. No one can come in or out, and no one knows how the barrier got there. Otherwise, magic has no impact upon Ayphaeans.
These are the only magical elements in Ayphae. Some limited magic will be involved in future books, but I’m more of a sci-fi-in-a-fantasy-setting kind of guy. I want rational explanations, imaginative functions and things that will make people wonder. None of the same-old dwarves and elves kind of thing.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Ayphae? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Earphones • Have you ever seen a picture of a fungus that looks like an ear? Imagine one growing on a tree—then imagine you can speak into it and someone will answer. These are Ayphae’s equivalent of telephones. An operator sits at a central earphone and patches people into other earphones (they’re net fungi, so they read the operator’s mind). This allows information to travel much more quickly across Ayphae. It also allows for tunes to become popular, along with talkshows.
Running mushrooms • these small mushrooms can run very quickly. No human can keep up with them, so there used to relay messages. A note is tied to them, the sender concentrates on the destination in their mind—and the runner reads your mind and sprints to that location. This can also be used to deliver small packages, although jellibs are preferred for larger products. Running mushrooms are used to steer cargo jellibs, so no one has to make the trip from town to town.
Malady mushrooms and bevel lichen • These net mushrooms (and lichen) can be programmed to combat any disease—viral, bacterial, fungal or protistal. As a result, disease has been virtually eradicated in Ayphae, along with allergies and other nuisances. The malady mushrooms tend to be better at combating more advanced diseases…but they have a nasty sense of humor. Sometimes their spores will make you sicker instead of curing you. For that reason, they’re usually kept in reserve and only used if the bevel won’t work.
Bubble-scopes • a special tree resin creates a bubblelike film over these microscopes, allowing scientists to see on a microscopic level. This has given them an atomic-era level understanding of chemistry, so they are beginning to understand fission (though they lack the tools to split the atom or do anything remotely close). They do have laser tulips—special plants that emit a laser from their piston—but that only helps them so much. Their ability to conduct advanced chemistry has allowed them to create mixes from all sorts of different mushrooms in Ayphae. These mixes can do crazy things, like make you sweat mist that glows in colors that represent the emotion you’re feeling.
Shroomlamps • In lieu of electricity, which has not been developed, people light their houses with shining mushrooms that act as lamps. With their caps reversed, the smaller lamps can be used as flashlights. Glowing mushrooms are also a thing. They are planted near the front walkway and light up when anyone comes near. They act as porch lights.
There’s so much more. For instance, trumpet mushrooms project your voice, like speaker boxes on a stage. I don’t want to detail everything here, though. You’ll find out more when you read Ayphae.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Ayphae.
Parties are the main feature in Ayphae. People gather around to hear singers, speakers and debaters—not to mention watching dances, eating food and whatever other special events are present.
The dances are quite unique. Dancers can ingest special mixes to make them glow. In addition, they can camouflage themselves, sweat glowing mist and so forth—all depending on the fungal mix they ingest. They often dance on a field of glowing flowers that makes ripples of light with each step—like waves from a pebble tossed into a still pond. Many other tricks are used involving mirror mushrooms (you’ll see what those are), but I don’t want to spoil it for you. (I’ve got over 40,000 words’ worth of notes on Ayphae, so there’s a lot to tell. It’s quite a world, and I’m only showing you a little in this questionnaire.)
As for sports, it’s mostly about hopperball. Hoppers are mushrooms with stems coiled like a spring, which propel you if you jump on them—much like a trampoline. In hopperball, one of the few rules is that you cannot touch a hopper while holding the ball. You must toss it into the air—then in your next jump so you will catch it before it lands. You can also pass to a teammate. Opposing players try to intercept the ball whenever you toss it, so there is a constant give-and-take. Four timed quarters are played.
People also like to play with melody mushrooms (melodies). If you eat them, melodies can give you perfect pitch or make you sing off tune—but either way, they’ll make it so you sound perfect to yourself. You might be singing horribly, but you’ll sound fine to your own ears. People like to eat them, sing to their friends—and based off their friends’ reaction, guess whether they got the positive or negative effect. It’s really more a game about reading people than anything else.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Ayphae as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Days of the week, months, etc. are the same. One peculiarity is the complete absence of holidays. Ayphae has no real concept of special days—other than days when certain events are going on, such as an election or party. People are usually more laid back about things like time.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Ayphae? Please describe what it involves.
Informally, yes. There is a general belief in a set of moral systems set into effect by something, but no real concept of an afterlife or specific deity to go with it. It’s more cultural than anything else.
Truth be told, I wanted the emphasis to be on this society’s real deity: entertainment. I do mention a church somewhere in there, but Christianity or whatever is not present. I made this choice because I wanted to focus more on core issues of philosophy and morality rather than centralizing on a specific system of beliefs. I also wanted to avoid making an allegory. Another fantasy world that does this kind of thing is J.R.R. Tolkien’s middle earth. However, I hope to foster critical thinking about deep issues significantly more than he did as the series unfolds.
What is the political or government structure in Ayphae? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Democratic Monarchy. That is to say, the people elect a king. So he’s not really a king so much as a president with almost absolute power. He must abide by the sacred rules: a seven-year term, after which you can reelect him or elect a new ruler; no executions (that’s for the court of law); no silencing the press…and if he’s smart, he’ll hold a vote and let the people decide on major issues. This makes the people feel listened to. His official title is the Marden.
The current Marden is Joven Marshalltoe. He’s quite a character, and in Ayphae he feels like everyone is getting on his case for the withering land. They’re blaming him for just about everything. He’s done what he can policy-wise, but it’s clearly not enough—the land is going downhill, the crops are failing, everything’s going wrong. He doesn’t want to let the people down—but something has to be done.
And no, he’s not supposed to represent Trump, Obama, Bush, Clinton or any other president. He’s his own character, and should be treated as such. I really like his pragmatism, as it sells his polite but no-nonsense demeanor.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Ayphae?
Everyone gets up early. This is because the houses they live in—obosas—are giant mushrooms that feed off the neuroelectric energy they emit. Specifically, they feed off your emotions. They do this the way you would absorb heat from a campfire—they don’t drain you or anything. So it’s a mutualistic relationship between the humans and their mushroom houses.
This is important because humans put out less emotional energy while asleep (obviously). The obosas need them to be awake for a good part of the day, so they have musical cords running through them called tonal cords. The obosas twang these cords to wake up their inhabitants. Think harp strings, but longer.
This means if you sleep in, your obosa must not be working properly. People will express concern immediately. Getting to bed earlier is an excellent way to compensate.
Otherwise, the culture is remarkably similar to ours. Out in the small towns, people are touchy about private business—but in the big city, they may be straightforward to the point of rudeness. Nothing too unexpected. (Their colloquialisms may throw you off, however. They’re all fungi-related expressions.)
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I love studying science, so whenever I come across new and interesting fungi, they get featured. I also love geology, which will be featured in an upcoming book. Basically, whatever inspires me in creation gets a slot in my books.
The idea of giant mushrooms is just natural. You see something strange and weird, and you want to enlarge it to make it even stranger and weirder. One should think the dancing mushrooms would be credited to a certain Disney movie…but surprisingly, Fantasia had nothing to do with it. I just thought it would be fun if the mushrooms danced. That’s how most of my ideas work. They just happen. (I give credit to God for my creativity.) 🙂
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Most people would like to blame their problems on one political party or the other. In Ayphae, everyone is pointing the finger at the politicians. The question I raise is whether people should look in the mirror. Politicians can’t change your heart—only reflect what you value. Rather than blaming this political party or that party for everything, why don’t we look at ourselves as the potential problem?
I don’t take a conservative or liberal approach. I dismiss politics altogether and foist the responsibility to produce change on us. If we don’t fix things, no one will.
But I don’t like preaching at my audience. So I bring in some counter arguments as well. Government can surely do a few things right—some problems can only be fixed by them. I admit that. But again, I’m as politically neutral as possible. I really want to emphasize individual responsibility. Honestly, it feels like an appropriate message for our time. Everyone wants to play the blame game.
I’ve also taken safeguards to prevent any of my characters from being mouthpieces. I’ve ensured that each protagonist disagrees with me on at least one major thing (different for each character)—and to prevent villains from being reversed mouthpieces, I’ve ensured that each of them agrees with me on at least one major thing. I want my readers to think and question rather than being spoonfed my morality. I believe critical thinking is the best tool we have, as without it we can never improve.
Author Autobiography:
Everything I write puts a new spin on fantasy as you know it. And when I’m not writing, I’m imagining my next book.
I love science and incorporate it heavily into my fantasy worlds. I also love philosophy—and since I hate going with the crowd, I resolve to take the reader on a journey of questioning and suspense, watching my characters struggle with interpreting and reacting to unfolding events.
As I live near the foothills of Colorado, I enjoy exploring the outdoors with my wife—soaking in the sights, sounds and smells of creation. But we are most passionate about our strategy games, usually spending hours or even days nerding out on one game alone.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Enjoy! You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my blog and get a free copy of part 1. That way you can sample it. I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts. (Since I’m still looking for more reviewers, you could be one of them.) 😊
I love interacting with my readers!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Ayphae. 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!
-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:
Larry Paris
Title of book and/or series:
The Darkened Land ,Book One of the Seven Towers Series
Brief summary of the story:
Separated from the world of darkness by a bottomless chasm lie the stones of light. The King has built a bridge from that world to His kingdom across the chasm to give people access once again to the stones. He has established seven cities of light and seven towers as beacons to The Darkened Land.
Lachlaniel’s world is a world of complete darkness, but across the Godwin River there are stones of light. When he sees the light for the first time and beholds the wonder of the stones, Lachlaniel sets out for the Godwin accompanied by Ewald, the woodsman. But creatures of darkness, who hate the light and the stones, pursue them. Guided by Kesniel and protected by Velius they reach the Great City Agapay and the Bridge. The stones lie just beyond, but the quest has aroused The Great Evil. Nameless and powerful he bends his might to crush the city and put an end to the light in his dominion. The city is now in peril.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
A world of complete darkness except for the light from the King’s stones. The great cities form a ring in the north and are approximately 1500 miles apart. There are no ice caps so one can conceivably cross the north pole to cities on the other side of the world.
If we were to visit Pipto as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Visit the Bridge and one of the Great Cities especially one with a Great Stone in the tower’s turret.
Also check out the one of the Kin’s orchards (the fruits are indescribable).
What dangers should we avoid in Pipto?
Wolves, Hashimorts, Solveig, Aiden (dragons Aidan – singular) And don’t go in the Black Tower
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Pipto?
Sword and shield, ax, arrows – typical medieval weapons
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Pipto?
Horses, carts, and walking.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Pipto that we don’t see on Earth?
Giant snakes (over 300 feet long as adults); Solveig – bat-like creatures with poisonous fangs whose bites cause blindness and death; Hashimorts – A giant flying scorpion of sorts; Aiden – speaking, flying, fire-breathing dragons whose armor as adults is quite impenetrable, except for the belly where it is weaker, but a normal man could not penetrate it in his own strength even there; the great evils who can take any form and are huge; the Chuchoteur – thought whisperers; and lesser evils posing as men.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Pipto? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
The supernatural is generally associated with the King; however, the evils also have abilities that humans don’t possess.
The stones of the King give light and reveal light as in the light of a fire. They stay with an owner (although the term ‘owner’ isn’t quite correct) and when removed from his presence will disappear and reappear beside the ‘owner’. Once you’ve crossed the Bridge and obtained a stone you are given the King’s armor which is tailor made for only you. You also gain access to your closet which is always near at hand though not visible. People without stones can see the light from them but most prefer the darkness and many are aggressive to those that have the stones or are seeking them. Many others have never seen the light and know nothing of the stones (as in the case of Lachlaniel, the first character you meet).
The evils generally inhabit animals and on rare occasion people. They are visible as a black mist that rises from the corpse once the animal is dead. They can also assume other forms including human.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Pipto? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Not technology to our way of thinking, but the stones and the swords of the King can bring understanding of things past, present, and future. The stones also serve as a food source and give water. Both are very restorative and life-giving. They also give oil that heals. The Great Stones, of which there are seven corresponding to the Seven Towers and Seven Great Cities, have other properties which will not be described here. The closets have already been mentioned and bring direct access to the King.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Pipto as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
They are the same. There is Passage Day, which is the day that the Bridge was completed.
What is the political or government structure in Pipto? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Government other than the Great Cities is not mentioned. The Great Cities are governed by a King-Steward and have a council that rules in the absence of the King-Steward.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Most of the People places and things are allegorical to things in the Bible. There is a glossary at the back that gives the meanings of the names and their pronunciation.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
The means of Salvation, which is a hot button for many.
Author Autobiography:
I was born in Dallas Texas and raised in a small town near there. I attended Dallas Baptist University starting in 1975 and graduated in 2010 (yes it took me that long to get through). My degree is in Christian Ministries. I was on the Dean’s List and was Greek Honor Student (sorry I don’t remember what year). I started writing at the end of High School. I began the Darkened Land in the mid 90’s though 2/3 of it was written in six weeks in 2017 (God is good. He helped a lot.) Presently I am writing the second in the series titled The Basaners along with a series of short stories entitled The Physician and an end times novel (first of a series) with the working title Jack Russell and the Repository.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
You can find both print and Kindle versions by clicking
here.
ebook copies are available through Apple, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, and others by clicking the Books2Read link
here.
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Pipto. 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!
-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: King of Malorn (Book 5 in the Annals of Alasia)
Brief summary of the story:
Life as the king’s younger sister should be exciting.
Not for Princess Kalendria. She’s sick of the dissent and of constantly having her family undermined by those who think they could rule Malorn better than King Korram.
Hoping to lighten the mood in the palace, Kalendria plans a ball to celebrate her seventeenth birthday. It doesn’t hurt that their handsome Alasian ally King Jaymin has promised to attend, and she’s been waiting for him to notice her for as long as she can remember.
But unfriendly forces have their own party plans. When Kalendria, Korram, and Jaymin barely survive an assassination attempt, their only recourse is to flee into the wilderness. Tracked by unknown assassins, they must figure out whom they can trust and who is behind the plot. Can Kalendria help her brother reclaim his throne – oh, and catch Jaymin’s attention while she’s at it – before they are all killed and war destroys both kingdoms?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
This post will focus on a new and relatively tiny nation known as Karvasi Territory, which our heroes must pass through on their journey to safety from Malorn to Alasia. Formerly known as the Western Wilderness, this area was part of Malorn until just before the beginning of King of Malorn. Long inhabited by bandits who attacked and robbed travelers and the few settlers who lived there, the Western Wilderness (sometimes called Bandit Territory) has always been dangerous. Malorn’s government finally decided it wasn’t worth the expense and manpower to protect it, and they gave the land to the bandits, requiring all Malornian residents to leave. (King Korram was furious about this decision, but his High Council outvoted him. Since Malorn is a constitutional monarchy, the king does not have the power to make decisions that the rest of the government disagrees with.)
![](https://testdev636428150.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/9271c-smaller_1.jpg) |
See the triangular area to the west, between the two rivers and the mountains (enlarged in the image below)? That’s where the Karvasi live. |
If we were to visit Karvasi Territory as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Stay away! Karvasi Territory is no place for tourists. The bandits (or Karvasi, as their race calls themselves) do not welcome outsiders. You may find yourself stopped and forced to pay a “toll” before you go on. Furthermore, the land is dry and rocky, full of thornbushes and coarse brush, and only a few crops can even grow there. You may be lucky enough to find a stream for water, but in general, the land itself isn’t even friendly.
However, if you find yourself forced to travel through Karvasi Territory, there are a few sights worth seeing. One of the streams there winds through a ravine of reddish rock, in which you can see a scenic waterfall. (The scene depicted on the book cover actually takes place in that ravine.) However, there aren’t many safe paths into or out of the ravine. If, like Kalendria and her companions, you find yourself trapped in there and in a hurry to get away, beware! The waterfall is located at a dead end. Unless you can climb straight up the cliff, your enemies will likely catch you.
What dangers should we avoid in Karvasi Territory?
The Karvasi, of course! Apart from robbing travelers, if they think you mean them harm, they will likely kill you, especially if you are Malornian. However, they do have a cordial trading relationship with the Alasians, so if you can convince them you’re Alasian, they’ll be more likely to let you live. If you must travel through their territory, I recommend bringing a gift of food, tools, or other supplies for them. If you ask nicely and they can see you don’t pose a threat, they might even be convinced to give you something in return. But they know that the Malornian government has ceded the land to them, and that no one is supposed to pass through without their permission now, so they don’t take kindly to the sight of anyone else in their territory. Unfortunately for them, the Malornian government recently sent a large number of soldiers through their land to guard the Telleck River against the Alasians army (after all, the Alasians have reason to believe the Malornians recently assassinated their king). So, the Karvasi have been grumpy about that and inclined to resent anyone they see.
You’ll want to avoid those Malornian soldiers, too. Nothing much has happened since they set up camp by the river, and many of them are bored and looking for trouble.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Karvasi Territory?
Once Malorn’s government ceded the land to them, the Karvasi built a village and planted gardens, but those haven’t started producing yet. At this point, most of their food comes from birds or rabbits that they hunt or whatever they can trade from the Alasians. However, since so many Malornian soldiers are camped out by the Telleck River, trade has been difficult lately, and the Karvasi have been tightening their belts.
If they have enough to spare and decide that they like you, you may be served a type of round, flat bread folded around slices of cooked meat (rabbit is most common), seasoned with a variety of herbs. They may also include sprigs of raw green onion or other vegetables and leftover fried eggs.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Karvasi Territory?
The Karvasi fight with short, curved scimitars. Some (like the burly Blenniel, one of the men our characters encounter) are experts in unarmed combat, and many are proficient with the longbow. They make a particular type of poison that they often smear on their blades and arrowheads, so even if they don’t strike a killing blow, a scratch that merely breaks the skin will leave their victim dead in minutes. So I recommend avoiding fighting with them if at all possible – unless you dare to challenge one of them to unarmed combat, as King Jaymin’s bodyguard Erik does.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Karvasi Territory?
The Karvasi travel on foot. Others who pass through their territory might use horses, carts, or wagons. Boats are common on the two rivers that form part of their border.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Karvasi Territory.
At this point, the Karvasi have to put a lot of energy into trying to survive and avoid their enemies. They don’t have a lot of time for games or fun activities. However, they do enjoy contests of strength and skill, such as the one in which Erik pits himself against their best warrior. Of course, the stakes are extremely high, so I suggest enjoying such activities as a spectator, not a participant, unless you’re quite confident in your own abilities.
What is the political or government structure in Karvasi Territory? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The Karvasi are ruled by a chief named Raddiek. He is in charge not only of the residents of the hidden village our heroes stumble into, but of thousands more Karvasi waiting back in the mountains to the west. When he sends word that it’s safe, the rest will come and join the first wave back in their ancestral homeland.
Author Autobiography:
Annie Douglass Lima considers herself fortunate to have traveled in twenty different countries and lived in four of them. A fifth-grade teacher in her “other” life, she loves reading to her students and sparking their imaginations. Her books include science fiction, fantasy, YA action and adventure novels, a puppet script, anthologies of her students’ poetry, and Bible verse coloring and activity books. When she isn’t teaching or writing, Annie can often be found sipping spiced chai or pomegranate green tea in exotic locations, some of which exist in this world.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
![](https://testdev636428150.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/a4b0a-annie2bspace2bphoto2bvertical.jpg)
King of Malorn is available in both paperback and Kindle formats
here.
You can see the rest of the Annals of Alasia here.
Or, take a look at all my books on Amazon here.
Where can readers connect with you online?
email: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnieDouglassLimaAuthor
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/annie-douglass-lima
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Karvasi Territory. 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!
-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: Laura VanArendonk Baugh
Title of book and/or series: Shard & Shield (The Shard of Elan, 1)
Brief summary of the story:
He can save her life—if he sacrifices himself and those he swore to protect.
King’s bastard Shianan Becknam buries himself in his military career to avoid the family that never wanted him and the dangers of drawing political attention. When the artifact intended to end an interdimensional war is damaged, the mage Ariana is trapped on the other side of the rift with her servant—only the cheery young boy is really one of the monstrous enemy, disguised as a human. Shianan is desperate to rescue Ariana, one of his few friends, but to do so requires committing treason and betraying his duty, leaving his people open to attack.
State mage Ariana struggles to survive as a prisoner of war in a world of deadly magic and unfamiliar customs. Her only ally is her former servant, now a renowned warrior caught up in political machinations. To survive, he’ll have to once again take up the fight against Ariana’s world.
As their people’s wasted armies prepare for fresh battle that will devastate both sides, bastard, mage, and monster must set aside prejudices and rivalries to find an end to centuries of conflict, before they die as traitors.
Book 1 in a new epic fantasy series.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
This was really fun, because I got to create twoworlds!
Chrenada is a land in the human world, surrounded by countries and states such as Vandoga, Tyrg, and the trading empire of the Wakari Coast (settled originally by pirates but no one talks about that now). Chrenada is most similar to, but not exactly like, southern Europe during our Renaissance, if Greco-Roman culture had persisted a bit longer.
But there’s also the Ryuven world, and its inhabitants can magically intrude into the human world, wreaking devastating raids like interdimensional Vikings. When Ariana finds herself there, she discovers cities of wide avenues and tall buildings, where glittering nets shield private areas from other winged citizens.
Bridging the culture gap, especially in a generations-long war, is a part of the story.
And now, I’m going to turn you over to Captain Torg, a career soldier who is going to take you around and answer your questions. Have a good trip!
Hello, your lordships and ladyships. As the scribe said, I’m Captain Torg. Mind your step as we go around.
If we were to visit Chrenada as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
There’s an annual festival in the capital city of Alham which is usually enjoyable, even though it’s a lot of work for us officers. The military gives a big parade, and then there are duel tournaments to watch, featuring the best fighters like Shianan Becknam. This is important because it’s the soldiers who protect the people from the marauding Ryuven.
What dangers should we avoid in Chrenada?
Well, the usual. Bandits come in human form as well as the raiding Ryuven. Or you could be caught by an unscrupulous slaver and sold, as slavery is such a large part of the economy. And of course the big danger is the Ryuven, but they tend to strike agricultural targets more than cities, so just stay inside Alham. No worries about the beasts, all the worst ones tend to stay in the mountains these days.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Chrenada?
You know, it’s funny you should ask, because we have just the usual vegetables, grains, meats like chicken and mutton and pork, all the regular staples. There’s always the worry that the Ryuven will take it and supplies will be short, but fortunately we have plenty of plains for growing and grazing and a good trade network. But some other of you Realm Explorers visitors have asked for strange meats, like—what was it called—beef? From a really large goat? What did they call them… Something like cats, except obviously cats are small and not good eating… Oh, cattle! That’s the word. I’ve never heard of any domestic animal so large as what they describe, to be honest! Except for a horse, of course, but no one would eat a horse; it would be like eating gold.
The oddest part was a lady tourist asked once, if we had no cattle and with horses so rare, how did we use our wagons and plows? ‘Soats, I have to say I don’t understand you Realm Explorer folk sometimes. We were walking right through a slave market.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Chrenada?
We’ve got all kinds of fighting, plenty of opportunity to develop it and adapt it to fending off the Ryuven. You’ve got to fight a fast, aerial enemy differently than a human army. Our armor is specialized to provide extra defense from above, and we have arrowheads that are harder to pull out so that the Ryuven can’t heal so quickly.
The good news is, while they can fly and they’ve got magic, they’re pretty fragile things. Break like birds if you can hit them. You’ve just got to finish the job before they can heal.
Oh, and I guess I ought to mention the mages. We’ve got mages for defense, too, grey mages for all the common work and then the Great Circle for strategy and magical defense. But take my word as a captain that it’s the soldiers who do most of the real fighting.
Oh, look, there’s the Great White Mage himself, Ewan Hazelrig! Yes, we certainly do owe a lot to the Great Circle for keeping us all protected!
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Chrenada?
Here in Chrenada, we mostly walk, or we’ll use wagons for loads or if someone can’t walk well or far. Over on the Wakari Coast they use litters, too, with bearers, but you don’t see that as much here.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Chrenada that we don’t see on Earth?
Well, you should hope you don’t, really. The most likely is the Ryuven, and that means you’re caught in a raid. They’re tall and lean, like youths that haven’t really filled out yet, with big skin wings coming out their torsos. A little delicate, almost, because their bones are hollow. Like birds. But they’re dangerous.
There are some of the old monsters still around, but mostly in the mountains now, as I said. Leucrocutas and the occasional catoblepas. But you’re not likely to see them unless you go into the passes at the wrong time of year.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Chrenada? Please describe what it involves.
We’ve got one primary religion, though to be honest it’s not the important beyond a cultural tradition. I guess I mean a lot of people don’t use it that much beyond swearing by it. But some people take it pretty seriously.
There’s a scattering of other beliefs around, too. There’s even some sort of war cult with little strongholds spread all over the kingdom. Mostly rituals about preparing for the war of wars, or something. I don’t understand it, except I know Commander Becknam had to offer them his townhouse as a new property to get the Shard of Elan from them. Weird folk. Don’t see any of them volunteering to fight the Ryuven, don’t think they know much about real fighting.
What is the political or government structure in Chrenada? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
We’re a kingdom, so we’ve got a king. He’s good enough, as kings go, mostly makes decent policy and listens to his council for the most part.
What’s that? Yes, two sons, the prince-heir Soren and the younger prince Alasdair.
Well, yes, there is another son, the bastard Shianan Becknam. How is he with the third son? Well, I don’t know that it’s my place to comment, and I certainly wouldn’t have any insight to that, not as a captain, would I? By the way, how’s the weather where you folks are from? No need to rush out, it’s been lovely to have you, but that’s enough here and I have work to do. I hope you have a great trip back home! Take care!
![](https://testdev636428150.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/65175-elemental-5281-web.jpg)
Thanks everyone, this is Laura again! I hope Captain Torg gave you an informative tour.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
It wouldn’t be fair to call this an East-versus-West book, as the cultures are not that defined, but of course I drew on aspects and influences from our own world. There’s a lot of historic Italy, north and south, represented in Chrenada and the Wakari Coast, Alham and Chrenada are named from my time living in southern Spain, and I drew on historic Asian cultures for some Ryuven practices.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
There are some messed-up relationships in this book, no question, which have created some broken people. There are themes of abuse, and I would alert readers that if this were a film, it would likely carry the MPAA rating of PG-13. However, the story is written from a positive worldview and the intent is not to wallow in the dark but to provide hope, so please look for the light!
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)?
Shard & Shield is available in ebook, paperback, and audiobook. You can find it at many of your favorite outlets at
https://books2read.com/ShardandShield, or ask at your favorite local bookstore or library.
Where can readers connect with you online?
My website is
www.LauraVAB.com and all my social media links can be found there as well. Please be sure to sign up for the newsletter—it goes out only occasionally and you get free stories! 😊
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Chrenada. 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!
-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: Kyle Robert Shultz
Brief summary of the story:
It’s not the people in this town you have to watch out for.
It’s the buildings.
Monster hunter and part-time centaur Todd Crane didn’t ask to be sheriff of Deadwood. For one thing, he’s never had an easy time staying on the right side of the law. For another, he’s too busy trying to find a dangerous sorcerer who nearly destroyed the United States of Neverica.
But some men—and centaurs—have greatness thrust upon them. Not only is Todd the reluctant defender of the peace in Deadwood, he’s the only one who can thwart the schemes of a powerful magical entity manipulating the town from the shadows.
And when Todd’s past comes back to haunt him, the stakes get a lot more personal for him and his friends.
Heroes will fall. Secrets will be revealed. Everything is about to change.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The Afterverse, the alternate reality in which all my stories are set, is a world where every myth, legend, fairy tale, and classic story is a real historical event. These stories have all converged to form a timeline not unlike our own in many ways…except that magic and monsters are real. The United States of Neverica, the country where Deadwood takes place, is a land built upon American folklore.
If we were to visit Neverica as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
The city of Neveryork is a sight to behold…an alternative version of 1890’s New York full of magic and magical creatures. This is one of Neverica’s primary tourist destinations. However, Deadwood takes place on the frontier, where only the bravest or most foolish of adventurers dare to go. It is beautiful despite the danger, though. The Grand Chasm, formed by a magical catastrophe in pre-history, is a breathtaking sight…a massive, rippling, iridescent rift in space-time at the bottom of an enormous canyon. Just make sure you don’t fall over the edge, or you may never stop falling.
What dangers should we avoid in Neverica?
There’s no shortage of dangers on the frontier. Keep your eyes peeled for rattlegriffs (think gryphons, only with rattlesnake mixed in along with the lion and eagle portions). Roving packs of wulvers (werewolves, essentially) are always on the hunt, especially when the moon gets full. Unscrupulous potion-sellers represent a different kind of danger…mainly to your wallet, but possibly to your life if the potion doesn’t work in an emergency or has a very different effect than what was advertised.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Neverica?
Most of the food is the same as what you might have found in our world during the time of the wild, wild west, despite the large populations of fantasy creatures. People generally avoid eating foods made from their meat due to the high risk of magical aftereffects. That said, roc eggs are fairly safe to eat, since the roc is just a very large bird that is not found in our world but which has no inherently magical qualities. Just make sure the eggs come from domesticated rocs. Wild rocs have an uncanny ability to track down whoever trifled with their eggs and exact vengeance.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Neverica?
Most weapons used in Neverica are magical in nature. Potions are commonly employed in combat, either by directly applying them to one’s opponent or by charming a weapon with them to give it magical properties. The latter method is used to craft magical revolvers which have inexhaustible ammunition and whose bullets cause a variety of magical effects depending on which chamber is lined up with the barrel. Some bullets freeze the target, while others set it on fire, transform it in some way, and so on.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Neverica?
Horses are commonplace, though creatures with hooves of their own, like centaurs (as well as creatures with wings), don’t need them. Some humans possess magic rings which allow them to shapeshift into centaurs to travel faster. Pegasi are occasionally used for transport, but they’re very difficult to capture and domesticate, so this is not common.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Neverica that we don’t see on Earth?
Representatives of practically every mythical race have emigrated to Neverica from the Old World. You’re likely to encounter centaurs, fauns, satyrs, dryads, elves, and even dragons. Sasquatches are an offshoot of the orc species native to Neverica. Gorgons are less common, and usually quite dangerous, but there is a significant population of them in the country. Magical plants with mythological origins can also be found, but should be avoided by those without experience in handling them. Narcissus flowers, for example, can afflict a person with dangerous level of self-aggrandizement. Syrinx plants play a mesmerizing melody when the wind blows across them, but it’s intended to lure unsuspecting victims into marshes, where the mud entraps them and the plants feed upon their life essence.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Neverica? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Aside from combat, magic is also used for a variety of everyday tasks and chores in Neverica. Farming, for example, is often aided by dispersing potions across the fields to nurture the plants and to protect them from weather and insects. Scarecrows are fully mobile golems who walk around the fields chasing away pests. Cattlemen also use magic in their work, generally by hiring creatures with helpful powers. Centaurs are particularly good at herding cattle, especially since they have telekinetic powers in addition to their speed and agility.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Neverica? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
In addition to weapons, there are various other types of magic-powered technology in Neverica. Most farm machinery is fueled by magic. Telephones and automobiles use magic as well, but as of the early 1890’s, they have yet to gain popularity outside the cities. The telegraph is fairly common on the frontier, and works by binding a lightning elemental to a transmitter. The elemental is not exactly sentient, but is still prone to violent outbursts, so only the most experienced operators can safely use telegraph machines.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Neverica.
Racing is extremely popular, and usually involves centaurs, gryphons, and occasionally dragons. Poker is a common pastime, but in the more unsavory districts of Neverica, you will find people playing Bruja, a more magical variation on gambling. The cards used for this have supernatural powers, and more abstract things than money are gambled away—for example, years of a person’s life, or talents, or memories. This game is outlawed across most of the country. A safer diversion is the good old-fashioned game of horseshoes. Just don’t play against centaurs; they’ll beat you every time.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Neverica as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The calendar is essentially the same as our own. Independence Day is one of the most popular holidays, and involves impressive displays of fireworks provided by dragons. Christmas is somewhat different in Neverica due to the fact that Santa Claus makes no secret of his existence in this particular country. He does, however, remain tight-lipped about precisely how he manages to be in thousands of places at once. He is also quite adamant about people remembering that the holiday does not revolve around either him or the gifts he brings.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Neverica? Please describe what it involves.
Christianity is the primary religion in Neverica, and the version observed here is surprisingly similar to the Christianity of our world. There is also a dangerous cult known as Mirabilism, made up of fanatical worshipers of magic itself who embrace chaos for chaos’ sake.
What is the political or government structure in Neverica? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Neverica is a federal republic, like America, led by a president. The current president is an elf named Edward Whisperleaf, who is a popular and well-respected figure. However, rumors persist in some quarters that he made bargains with dangerous magical entities in order to ensure his rise to power.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Neverica?
In a general sense, magic and monsters are considered to be perfectly “normal” in Neverica, so betraying surprise at such things may get you a few strange looks. Regardless of what bizarre or remarkable things happen, try to remain calm.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I currently live in southern Idaho, so a lot of the scenery descriptions are described by what I see out my window—rolling desert landscapes, dramatic canyon vistas, etc. The easygoing and patriotic Idahoan culture has influenced the atmosphere of my stories in the Neverican setting as well.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
None. Though my Christian beliefs aren’t hidden in my works by any means (and particularly not in Deadwood), I steer away from anything overtly controversial.
Author Autobiography:
I started writing stories in my early teens and never stopped. My first published book, and the first Afterverse book, was The Beast of Talesend, released in early 2017. Since then, I’ve continued to build on the characters, storylines, and world introduced in that novel through sequels and spinoffs. My passion is telling stories which entertain without offending or preaching, and which families can enjoy together.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
All of my books are exclusive to Amazon. You can find a full list of them, organized by series, on my website. If you want to get a free sample of my work, you can download short stories by joining my email list. My most recent book, Deadwood, can be purchased here.
Where can readers connect with you online?
I’m most active on my Facebook page and on Instagram. These are the best places on social media to interact with me. I’m also on Twitter. I don’t spend a lot of time on that platform, but it’s a good place to keep up with my announcements. I also have a blog where I post updates on my work and articles about writing and creativity.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Neverica. 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!
-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:
Savannah Jezowski
Title of book and/or series:
The Witching Hour Series
Brief summary of the story:
The lights are going out.Part One: As shadows encroach on the city of Lite, one cat stands between humanity and the hounds of darkness. Romeo takes it upon himself to find a suitor for his human Isabel in order to save the city and sets his sights on the unlikeliest of candidates. Will Romeo find that perfect match for his human before it’s too late? Can true love really save the day?
Part Two: When Isabel disappears in the middle of the night, the city of Lite is once again plunged to the brink of disaster. This magical cat finds himself trekking through the dangerous wildlands to rescue the young queen with a clownish wizard, a sassy she-cat, a pretty healer, and a mysterious soldier. However, their only hope may be the very thing Romeo fears most. Can Romeo and his friends save the day before the shadows consume them?The Witching Hour is a frolicking fantasy adventure with fairy tale themes and clean romance. Perfect for fans of Diana Wynne Jones and Lloyd Alexander.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The Witching Hour takes place in a world that strongly contrast light and dark. Darkness has taken over most of the world, so that even in the middle of the day, the wild lands are covered in shadows. The city of Lite is one of the few safe havens left in Romeo’s world. (Romeo is a magical cat, if you’d like to know). Lite is known especially for its glass rooftops and glittering lights. The city is protected behind a towering wall that is kept secure by a magical connection to the king and queen.
If we were to visit Lite as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
You definitely need to go see the royal palace. It’s a breathtaking structure of vaulted rooms and glass rooftops. Romeo would also suggest you visit the kitchens. Cook is stingy and won’t give you treats, but the maids will slip you a snack when Cook’s back is turned. He also says the mice are quite tasty in Lite and ought to be sampled. (I don’t recommend that, however).
What dangers should we avoid in Lite?
Don’t leave the city. Ever. There are shadows and hounds and other beastly things beyond the city walls that will drag you away, where you’ll never be found.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Lite?
The weapons in Lite are of the usual sort in a fairy tale setting—swords and knives and the like—However, magic is the greatest weapon at your disposal. There are wizards and magical cats to keep the city safe from the hounds of darkness lurking outside in the shadows.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Lite?
Due to the dangerous conditions outside the city, travel rarely occurs in Lite. If you simply must venture outside the city, you will have to travel by horse or on foot, I’m afraid. I don’t recommend it.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Lite that we don’t see on Earth?
There are several species you will encounter in Lite. Magical cats are the most important ones (so they say), but you will also find sentient hounds in the wild lands, and other creatures like golems and a positively horrid monster known as the darkening king. He’s rather an unpleasant combination of tree and shadow and pure evil. The shadows are also alive. They have the power to influence your emotions and thoughts, luring you away from what you ought to be doing and into dark places you shouldn’t go.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Lite? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
As I’ve already mentioned, magic is very important in Lite, as vital as air and water to the people and creatures who live there. Without it, they’d be overrun by the shadows and lost to the darkness. The magic system isn’t spell based and doesn’t require the use of wands or anything of that nature. It’s more instinctual—a gift that some people and creature are born with. There is also a very special connection between the royal couple and the city. If something happens to the king and queen, the lights begin to go out and unpleasant things happen. Light is the primary source of magic and keeps everyone safe.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Lite as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The days and months are pretty much the same, as are many of the major holidays. However, there is one special event that happens in Lite that doesn’t happen anywhere else in the real world (or other fictional ones, that I know of). There is this special Alignment, and a new king and queen can ONLY be chosen on the day of the Alignment, also known as the Witching Hour. They even wrote a song about it. When the moons merge, the magic activates, and the light chooses the people who are destined to rule and keep the city safe.
Black is the Glass at midnight,
Strong the shadow’s power,
Blacker the soul that falters
When strikes the Witching Hour.
This stanza of the “Witching Song” refers to the moment of choosing—if the man or woman the light chooses to become the next king or queen falters or runs away from their calling, the city would fall prey to the darkness. It’s a very serious matter.
What is the political or government structure in Lite? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
When the story begins, an elderly woman named Sylvia is struggling to rule the city on her own. The magical strain of keeping the lights on by herself is causing her to buckle, though. She’s a very determined and gentle soul. Young Isabel was chosen years ago to replace her, but a king needs to be found first before the young couple can relieve Sylvia of her duties. That’s where Romeo comes in. He takes it upon himself to find a suitor for Isabel, but the bloke he chooses isn’t the most likely candidate.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Lite?
I suggest you be careful what you say around the animals. You never know which ones are magical and which are just normal cats and dogs. If you accidentally insult the magical variety, you’re likely to find mice on your pillow for the rest of your life or get beaned on the head by small flying objects.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
The animals in my story were inspired by own dogs and kitties. The mannerisms, likes and dislikes, and general temperaments of Romeo, Pursy, and Ash are blatant reflections of my own dear fur babies. You’ll also find some subtle Cinderella influences in Part One of the story: the glass rooftops, the magical cat in place of a fairy godmother, a gender-swapped chimney sweep and princess, the grand ball where a prince is to be chosen, and things of that nature. Also, the whole concept of the Alignment, of the king and queen being chosen, light versus darkness, good versus evil, is heavily influenced by my Christian upbringing. I had planned for the original tale to be more heavily allegorical in nature, but the story and characters wanted to take a lighter, more fairy tale spin. So I slipped in some Christian themes where they fit naturally and let the story run its course. Besides, who am I to argue with magical cats?
Author Autobiography:
Savannah Jezowski lives in Amish country with her Knight in Shining Armor and a wee warrior princess. She is the founder of Dragonpen Designs and Dragonpen Press, which offers author services such as cover design, developmental edits, and interior formatting. Her debut novella “Wither” is featured in Five Enchanted Roses, an anthology of Beauty and the Beast, and is a prequel to The Neverway Chronicles, a Christian fantasy series filled with tragic heroes and the living dead. She is also the author of When Ravens Fall, a Norse Beauty and the Beast retelling. She is featured in several Fellowship of Fantasy anthologies, including Mythical Doorways, Tales of Ever After, and Paws, Claws, and Magic Tales. When she isn’t writing, Savannah likes to read books, watch BBC miniseries, and play with cover design. She also enjoys having tea with her imaginary friends.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Where can readers connect with you online?
You can enter to win a FREE paperback of THE COMPLETE STORY, Parts One AND Two in one cute paperback. To enter, simply enter the rafflecopter giveaway. Winner will be chosen March 30th. This giveaway is US ONLY.
Enter the Giveaway!
Be sure to check out all the stops in The Witching Hour Blog Tour. There will be fun character interviews, guest posts, book reviews and more!
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Lite. 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!
-Annie Douglass Lima