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:
Journey from Skioria
Brief summary of the story:
Tania is lost, shipwrecked on an unfamiliar shore. With no friends or family, the nine-year-old girl must make her way through the realm of the woodland people to a town she’s never heard of. With unexpected allies from the forest, Tania departs on a wild adventure where storms rage and the forces of nature do their very best to end her journey before it has truly begun.
In a land full of forests, oceans, and small people, what will it take for one young girl to make it home alive?
Lord of the Rings meets Narnia in this standalone middle-grade fantasy by author Kandi J Wyatt.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:Skioria and the rest of the world Tania travels through are based off the area where I live, the Southern Oregon Coast. Skioria itself is almost like the Redwoods with large trees, old-growth forest, and space between. The forest is next to the ocean which enables the characters to enjoy strolls on the beach or even the hazards of a spring storm. You can find out more about the trees of the forest on my website.
If we were to visit Skioria as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
You’ll definitely want some help getting up the trees to go visit Trilicious and Kern. These two Skiorians are accustomed to travelers and will gladly welcome you into their home and share some nut bread with you. They’ll even accompany you to a storytelling hour you won’t want to miss.
Storytelling takes place in a large tree with a window cut out that looks out to the stars. You may even hear the story of Aryx and his dipper. If you do, you’ll want to be sure to allow him to guide your journeyings.
What dangers should we avoid in Skioria?
You’ll want to be careful to stay on the pathways because Skiorians live twenty to thirty feet up in the air. Their homes are carved out of large trees and walkways connect each home to the next.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Skioria?
Pine nut flour is common. It’s used to create pancakes, bread, and many other dishes we know. Acorn soup tastes wonderful especially accompanied with a nut bread.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Skioria?Skiorians live in peace with each other and their surroundings. If they fought it’d be with their retractable claws that they use to climb the trees.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Skioria?
To get to Skioria you need to use your own two legs. The wooded paths from human civilization to Skioria don’t allow for any technology. You might be able to take a horse part of the way, but the horse would have to be willing to walk down river, across a lake, through the woods, down a long, steep embankment, along the beach for several days, over a mountain filled with trees and ferns, and then through thick huckleberry bushes. I think walking and having a boat available at the first part would be best.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Skioria that we don’t see on Earth?
If you visit Skioria while a council meeting is held, you’ll get to meet all the woodland people. The Skiorians although fully-grown still are only as big as nine-year-olds. Think of a stocky dwarf and you’ll have the idea—complete with beards, long hair, and hairy arms and legs. Just north of Skioria among thick huckleberry bushes lies Terra. Terrans are shorter than Skiorians to accommodate their surroundings. They also have shorter and less hair so they don’t get caught in the huckleberry branches. The most exotic people who visit during council meetings are the Avarians. You may mistake them for three-year-olds until one turns around and you see a blond beard! They’re short and slender people who love wearing bright colors. The other shock you may have is watching how they leave the pathways of Skioria. Don’t let your mouth drop open, and most definitely don’t scream when they step off the tree and float down to the ground.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Skioria? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.The Skiorians wouldn’t even know what you meant by magic. They live ordinary lives fishing, gathering berries or nuts, and weaving using the fibers in the forest. If they’re superstitious it’s more along the lines of sharing myths and stories of how things came about.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Skioria.
The kids enjoy making their way to the bottom of the trees and finding a clear spot to play tag or other chasing games. Trilicius’s favorite activity is to go fishing. He has a special song he sings at the top of his lungs and off-key. It makes him happy, and he still catches fish.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Skioria as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The days and months roll by the same in Skioria, except they track them by the cycle of the moon. As for holidays they celebrate the longest day and the shortest day of the year as well as the first sighting of various constellations.
What is the political or government structure in Skioria? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?The council leader has the most say in the community. Conifer is the current leader who abides by the rules and holds all others to those rules. As a leader he’s fine, but as a father he fails. His son, Fyrh can never live up to his father’s expectations.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I live on the Southern Oregon Coast. As I gazed out my window at the tall evergreens and old-growth forest with ferns, ivy, rhododendrons, huckleberries, and myrtlewood, I wondered what creatures would live in. The sound of chipmunks chattering, the sight of squirrels winding their way up the trunk of trees, and the flicker of birds’ wings among the rhododendron gave way to the people of the forest. As for their cultures, I tried to go with the personalities of the squirrels, chipmunks, and birds I saw.
The various encounters along the journey all come from places between Gold Beach and Langlois, Oregon. The mountain resides south of us as Humbug Mountain. The brownish-red water in the ocean actually happened the year I wrote the story and was from a landslide. The lake they cross is famous in our area for windsurfing, and has a river that spills out of it and flows north. Our family kayaked the river and found where a creek (as big if not bigger than the river) met the river. The goal of the journey is to reach a town where humans live and find the store owner. That store was patterned off Langlois Market. If you ever find yourself on the Southern Oregon Coast, be sure to stop in and have a hot dog or the Cransan, a turkey sandwich with cranberry sauce, both are excellent with the homemade mustard.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
The book is a middle-grade fantasy journey. It really has no ‘hot-button’ or controversial topics. Instead I focus on friendship.
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 in all formats—ebooks and print—and can be found on most outlets.
The Dragon Courage series: Where dragons and humans live at peace with each other most of the time, and dragon riders learn to survive they must rely on family and friends and set aside justice for mercy, revenge for peace, and bitterness for forgiveness.
The One Who Sees Me: A stand-alone Biblical retelling set in medieval times. When life doesn’t make sense Faru learns there is One who cares about servant girls as well as masters.Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Skioria. 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!
-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:
Hope Ann
Title of book and/or series:
Legends of Light:
Prequel: Rose of the Night
1. Rose of the Oath
2. Song of the Sword
3. Shadows of the Hersweald
Brief summary of the story:
A war, founded in ancient legends, changes the lives of those it touches forever.
Elissa, a villager from the northern mountains, attempts to save her brother and ends up trapped in a hidden valley with a strange host and a treacherous enemy.
Evrard, the Wingmaster of the Prince’s army, races against his own weakening powers to discover the location of his twin and save her from deadly mistbenders.
Haydn, a pardoned rebel from Tauscher’s army, confronts shadows of myth and former comrades in his struggle to keep his sister safe and find the stolen Stormestone.
Each Legends of Light novella focuses on one of the nine aspects of the Fruit of the Spirit while also following the conflict between the Prince and Tauscher and retelling popular fairy tales in a clean, exciting, and inspiring manner.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Mountains and deserts, glittering cities and quiet villages, Aslaria has it all. From the Hersweald Forest stretching into the mountains in the north, to the Shadowfen in the south and the Silver Sea to the west, this is a world rift with unique objects such as stormestones, fen serpents, mirror dimensions, and dangerous draigynos.
If we were to visit Aslaria as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?Go to Zahava, definitely. It’s a great city, the largest in Aslaria, with a huge wall separating a peninsula from the mainland. The Aber River runs through its center and spills into the Sea. It’s this exit that is the coolest part of the city, mainly due to the the King’s palace rising over the river and sprawling on either side. Great arches and pillars and cool courtyards. Battlements cast the river in a deep shade and colored draperies and narrow walkways cross the river high above. Spending an afternoon traveling down the river, then making your way to the top of the castle for the view is well worth the effort and expenditure.
What dangers should we avoid in Aslaria?
Many things—it depends where you are. To the south, one of the most treacherous dangers is the fen serpent. A nocturnal hunter, it can grow to be twenty feet in length and has a very venomous bite. In the woods to the north, you have draigynos to deal with. About ten feet long, these lithe, wingless dragons live in the treetops. Once they catch a scent and start a hunt, few things besides death can sway them. Oh, and wolves. They aren’t as bad as they used to be, but packs still roam the wilds and can be very dangerous indeed.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Aslaria?
Swords and daggers are common weapons, along with the bow. The definition of a fair fight will shift depending on where you travel, however. City-folk tend to expect an announcement of hostility and a chance to prepare themselves. Out in the villages and mountains, the victor will win his cause by stealth, treachery, smoke powder, or all-out strength—whatever happens to be handy.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Aslaria?
Horses or feet, normally. And small boats, of course, for those who dare brave the rivers. I have heard rumors of griffins to the east but have yet to discover if there really are any still alive or if they are only legend.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Aslarai that we don’t see on Earth?
I’ve already mentioned the fen serpents and draigynos. There are also the dragoss reeds to the south. A leathery, yellowish plant, the fibers can be shredded and woven into a sturdy rope.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Aslaria? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic… ehhh. It depends how one uses the word. There are certainly things we can’t do or don’t have in this world. Take Stormestones. These glowing rocks are the heart of a select number of mountains. A Keeper can break off pieces of this stone, fill them with rain, and carry them elsewhere to provide rain where there is none. At least that is what they were made to do, but many men have turned them into weapons and now they have almost vanished.
There is also the Melody Realm. An alternate mirror dimension, the Wingmaster can view the undercurrent of light and darkness that most Aslarians can sense, but not see. Using his song, he can hold the darkness at bay, fighting invisible battles that can affect the whole land.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Aslaria? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.Some. Take smoke power. An unoriginal name, I grant you, but sprinkle and light a pile of this and soon you’ll have enough smoke to veil your movements. Some men have even claimed to be able to combine it with a flash powder, allowing one to throw a handful in the air and envelope themselves in a cloud of smoke.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Aslaria as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The days are numbered from first to seventh, and the months are numbered according to their season. They run similar to earth’s months, however. Oath Day is celebrated each year near the beginning of spring—an event that recognizes the King’s Oath to save those of Aslaria from Tauscher’s hold.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Aslaria? Please describe what it involves.
The religion isn’t very structured—it is more in the larger cities than in the villages. Those who follow the King meet to speak of His writings and to remember His promise in the King’s Oath. They trust that the Prince will come and defeat Tauscher, destroying the Stieg der, and they try to follow the King’s law as best they are able.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit?
Betrothal is done in the form of exchanging bracelets. Silver is most common, though the materials might be cheaper if one is poor or quite lavished if you are a nobleman. A young man wanting to court a lady will leave a ribbon in her hair or tucked in her glove, normally at some dance. If she accepts him, she’ll tie it around her wrist, at which point he’ll come and replace it with a bracelet. Otherwise she might return it or (as some girls are known to do) keep the ribbon in a collection of their own.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Mist. I love mist, so I used it quite a bit in Song of the Sword. I also like to take the names and a very slight tint of a culture for my books. Rose of the Oath has a German/Saxon slant. With Song of the Sword, I went with French and when I got to Shadows of the Hersweald, I delved into Welsh names and a rougher type of feel.
Author Autobiography:
Hope Ann is a speculative fiction writer who lives on a small farm in northern Indiana. She has self-published three Legend of Light novellas and writes regular articles for Kingdom Pen as the Writing Team Captain. Reading since the age of five, and introducing herself to writing at age eight, she never had a question that the author’s life was the life for her. Her goal is to write thrilling Christian fantasy and futuristic fiction — stories she longed for while growing up. After graduating from homeschool, Hope now teaches writing to several of her eight younger siblings. She loves climbing trees, archery, photography, Lord of the Rings, chocolate, and collecting shiny things she claims are useful for story inspiration. Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books? Please include links.
All three of my books are in Kindle format. They will be available in one print book this fall. You can find the various formats below:
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Aslaria. 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!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Chrys Cymri
Title of book and/or series: The ‘Penny White’ series currently comprises of three books: ‘The Temptation of Dragons’; ‘The Cult of Unicorns’; and ‘The Marriage of Gryphons’. The fourth book will be called ‘The Vengeance of Snails’. At least two more books are planned.
Brief summary of the story: Penny White’s life changed forever when, one afternoon, she was asked by a dying dragon to give him the last rites. She discovered that there is a parallel world to our own, and that beings such as dragons, unicorns, and gryphons regularly cross over. In order to help her better understand this world, she was given an Associate, Morey, a cat sized gryphon with sarcasm management issues. She also has to deal with a darkly handsome dragon, Raven, who keeps turning up where she least expects him, and a small snail shark, Clyde, whom she adopts after accidentally killing his mother. A handsome police inspector, Peter, is her boyfriend, and she also has to cope with a much younger brother called James.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Lloegyr is the equivalent of Great Britain in the parallel world of Daear. The national language is Welsh, although a number of citizens can also speak English. Until recently, the various races such as dragons, unicorns, gryphons, elves etc. lived apart from each other. But the country is undergoing an industrial revolution, which has brought them to live alongside each other in the cities.
If we were to visit Lloegyr as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? Book a ride on a tacsi dragon for wonderful views over the red roof of Llanbedr Cathedral and the older parts of the city. For the best ale, albeit in the smelliest conditions, check out the taverns in the harpy section. Visit the law courts to watch the unicorn judges administer justice.
What dangers should we avoid in Lloegyr?
Don’t get into trouble with the vampires, the fine is usually a portion of your blood. Harpies love to get drunk and fight, so don’t watch yourself in their bars. Avoid the snail sharks.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Lloegyr?
So long as you don’t expose your teeth in a smile, you’ll be mistaken for a vampire. So if you go into a tavern, you might be asked what type of animal blood you fancy.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Lloegyr?
Mostly teeth, hooves, or claws. Elves, dwarves, or weres might carry knives.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in Lloegyr?
Dragons who have hired out their services as tacsis are quite common.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Lloegyr that we don’t see on Earth?
Well, they do cross over to Earth, but most humans can’t see them. Our brains simply dismiss their existence as being impossible.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Lloegyr? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
There must be magic involved for dragons and gryphons to be able to fly, and weres to be able to shift between humanoid and animal shapes, but no one uses magic as such.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Lloegyr as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The times and seasons match those of Great Britain, although the weather is a bit warmer in Lloegyr. Missionaries from Great Britain have spread various faiths into Lloegyr, so the Christians there, for example, keep the festivals of Christmas and Easter. The Eisteddfod, a multi-day celebration of music and drinking, is also very popular.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Lloegyr? Please describe what it involves.
Many religions are practiced. The situation is as complex as on Earth.
What is the political or government structure in Lloegyr? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The various races had their own forms of leadership/government. Now that they are living together, common policies are coming into existence. The police force is formed of dragon-elf partnerships, and the judges are unicorns. Democracy is in its infancy.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?Penny White is a full time Church of England minister who lives in Northampton and loves ‘Doctor Who,’ single malt whisky, and dragons. I share all of those characteristics with her!
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? The industrialisation of the country has brought the various species together and, as a result, some are falling in love across the racial divide. A shadowy organisation called Cadw ar Wahânare against, for example, gryphons marrying were-foxes or dragons falling in love with humans. The organisation has already arranged the deaths of several beings who were in mixed species relationships.
Author Autobiography:
Priest by day, writer at odd times of the day and night, I live with a small green parrot called Tilly because the upkeep for a dragon is beyond my current budget. Plus I’m responsible for making good any flame damage to church property. I love ‘Doctor Who’, landscape photography, single malt whisky, and my job, in no particular order. When I’m not looking after a small parish church in the Midlands (England), I like to go on far flung adventures to places like Peru, New Zealand, the Arctic, and North Korea.
Free ebook!
Anyone who signs up to my newsletter list will receive a free ebook of their choice. Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
The books are available on Amazon, both for Kindle and in paperback.
Where can readers connect with you online?
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I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Lloegyr. 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!
-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: David G. Johnson
Title of book and/or series: Star Wolf (Shattered Galaxy Series)
Brief summary of the story:
Molon Hawkins, a daring, free merc captain, earns his living navigating the dangerous borders between factions in the civil war that shattered humanity’s vast star empire. For the former scout captain and his veteran command crew aboard Star Wolf, most contracts are milk runs. Most…
When a routine rescue mission goes awry, Molon finds his rescuee, Dr. John Salzmann, inextricably tied into a web of intrigue that threatens to upset the balance of power in the galaxy. Can Molon and John follow the threads and discover the forces behind the plot? If so, what can a lone ship do to stop it?
Star Wolf is the debut novel in the exciting new Shattered Galaxy setting by David G. Johnson, bestselling author of the award-winning Chadash Chronicles series.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
This is set several centuries in our future. Mankind has discovered another dimension known as “voidspace”, a malleable dimension where locations can be manipulated and “folded” together allowing people to enter voidspace, fold together the current location with a far distant one, and then exit at the other point, effectively traveling great distances in real space in a very short time. This basically allowed FTL travel and the expansion of a vast human star empire. Unfortunately, we quickly discovered we were not alone…
If we were to visit the Shattered Galaxy as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
There are so many different worlds and systems within the setting of the Shattered Galaxy, but in this story the main “location” in the story is on board the ship known as Star Wolf. There isn’t a lot of recreational activities aboard this mercenary star frigate, but lots of great characters to meet and interact with. It is the breadth and depth of characters aboard Star Wolf, all of whom are like a large, somewhat dysfunctional family, that makes it a unique place in the galaxy.
What dangers should we avoid in the Shattered Galaxy?
There are of course the universally hostile aliens (or the politically correct term “non-human sophonts”), the Prophane, which should be avoided at all costs. Even the member of Star Wolf’s crew who is a Prophane Pariah (outcast from her people) is someone you might want to tread lightly around. Her call sign is Voide and she is Star Wolf’s security chief, but the volatile nature of her people runs in her veins. Beyond that, pirates, money-grubbing corporations, the infamous GalSec (Galactic Security), and anyone not of the same faction as you in the galactic civil war are pretty much dangers to steer clear of if you want to survive.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served aboard Star Wolf?
There is a wide variety of fare available catering to many different non-human sophont races aboard ship, but rumor is the best brandy on the ship is the captain’s private stash…
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in the Shattered Galaxy? Technology levels vary greatly from world to world and system to system. Low tech worlds might still be dealing with swords and bows or early gunpowder firearms while core worlds might have neural weapons, lasers, flechette rounds, or sometimes even more experimental weapons. A mercenary captain has to be prepared to face and function in a wide variety of situations where planetary laws might greatly restrict what weapons can be carried.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to other worlds?
Voidspace capable ships are the only way to travel between systems without spending decades or centuries to get from place to place. Once in a system, however, or on planets, again technology level of that local system will determine whether local transport is horse and buggy, ground vehicles and airplanes, or hovercraft and anti-gravity vehicles. Intersystem travel is relatively affordable and safe if you book a low berth, which basically means you are a passenger-popsicle for the duration of the flight. More expensive high berths accommodate more wealthy travelers who stay awake for the journey and enjoy luxury amenities on board transports. Of course most of our heroes are based on Star Wolf, so they get to travel awake, and all it costs them is a mercenary contract and signing up to risk their lives to carry out the mission decided on by Captain Molon Hawkins.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Shattered Galaxy that we don’t see on Earth?
I already mentioned above the Prophane, gray-skinned, yellow-eyed, and a mind set only to kill and destroy all non-Prophane. Beyond that, Captain Hawkins is a Lubanian (loo-BAN-yun), a wolf-anthro humanoid race. We also meet the comms officer, Mel. She is a Fei, a light-blue-skinned race with psionic/empathic abilities. There are also the Angelicum (Angels) and Daemi (Demons) who actually are offshoots of the same parent race. Beyond those are many minor races, Doppelgängers (shape shifters) Dractauri (large reptilian centaurs), and thousands of minor races who have not achieved a technology level to permit voidspace travel. Needless to say if you travel around much in the Shattered Galaxy, you will find no shortage of new races and people to meet and get to know.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Shattered Galaxy? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
While there is not “magic” per se, certain levels of technology can be almost magical in its ability to do things far beyond mundane capabilities. Beyond that, there are rare individuals (and the Fei race) who have psionic abilities, mental powers that can range from telepathy to telekinesis to mind-control to even more strange and powerful manifestations. I’d say the broad spectrum of psionic abilities are the closest thing to “magic” in Shattered Galaxy.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Shattered Galaxy? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples. Many have already been touched on, but many of the technological advancements have been driven by the civil war, so they revolve around weaponry, defenses, and medical technology. One interesting offshoot is the development of CIDs/NIDs (Cerebral Interface Device/Neural Interface Device). These are datajacks that tap into a human brain and/or nervous system and allow humans to control or interface directly with machines. While we see some instances of how CIDs/NIDs are used in Star Wolf, future books in this setting are going to explore these aspects of technology much deeper.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Shattered Galaxy as on Earth?
Actually with Earth being the origin of humanity, and time being so variable and relative, Earth’s standard time of days/weeks/months/years are used as a calibration or plumb line for time aboard Star Wolf and other ships/systems. While individual planets obviously will have day/week/month/year cycles dependent on their planetary and orbital characteristics, all human colonies and ships also keep a conversion algorithm in place and for all interstellar messages, etc, the Earth-standard time and date stamp is used. Interestingly the variable gravity for all the different worlds are measured in Gs. One G is standard Earth gravity, and all other calculations are either percentages or multiples of that standard.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Shattered Galaxy? Please describe what it involves.
The remnant of Christians are called the Faithful in Shattered Galaxy, but they are largely persecuted and hunted by various anti-religion factions, particular Dawnstar Technocracy. One of the heirs to the pre-Shattering Emperor Halberan, Enoch Halberan, actually took vows and became a minister in the Faithful religion. He has set up his region of space, the Theocracy of the Faithful, as a safe-haven for Faithful refugees from other factions. Non-Faithful are not discriminated against or hunted in the Theocracy, but Faithful from everywhere are welcome to seek refuge under the protection of Enoch Halberan and the Theocracy.
What is the political or government structure in Shattered Galaxy? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
There are five main human factions, four led by the Halberan children and heirs, and the fifth is the remnant of the old Empire under marshal law and controlled by High Archon Zarsus. The other human factions are the New Halberan Empire under Seth Halberan, The Rimward Demesne under Phoebe Halberan (allied with Seth), the Dawnstar Technocracy under Tubal Halberan (allied and a puppet to High Archon Zarsus and the Provisional Imperium), and The Theocracy of the Faithful led by Enoch Halberan.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Yes, a love of Sci-Fi and living for the last six years in a country where religious freedom is controlled and often persecuted. That contributed a lot to the situation I have set up with the Theocracy of the Faithful in Shattered Galaxy.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Well for Christians there is the question of “do aliens exist”. I speculate here that they might, and what that might look like within the context of Biblical truth. The Bible does not explicitly preclude the possibility, and while Shattered Galaxy is a work of fiction, I endeavored to keep my speculations to areas that are at least “gray areas” or open to interpretation within Scripture. It is merely a “what if”.
Author Autobiography: I have a Bachelor’s in Asian Studies and a Masters of Divinity in Biblical Languages. I have been a lifelong fan of Science Fiction and Fantasy and have endeavored to write my novels from a biblical worldview and contain my “speculation” to the gray areas not explicitly contramanded by Scripture.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
Where can readers connect with you online?
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I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the Shattered Galaxy. 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!
-Annie Douglass Lima
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name:
Lara Ann
Title of book and/or series:
The Alora Chronicles
Brief summary of the story:
I’ve just met the perfect guy…pity he’s a figment of my imagination.
What happens when your dreams are better than reality?
Ash has been dreaming about Wyn, he’s different than anyone she’s ever met before. He’s been trying to convince her that he’s real and he needs her help.
It’s like something out of a fairytale and we all know fairytales aren’t true…right?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Alora is a parallel universe to earth. It is a land of forests, Elves and magic.
If we were to visit Alora as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Who wouldn’t want to see what an Elven city looks like? I know I certainly would. I would recommend doing a tour of the Castle and then taking a horse ride up to the lookout that gives you a view over the city all the way to the ocean. After that I would go and see the treehouse stronghold known as Sanctuary.
What dangers should we avoid in Alora?
Like anywhere, there are bad Elves that live in Alora. The place I would definitely stay away from though would be Onvyr. The Elves there would probably kill you once they realised you were human.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Alora?
Well Argus would probably serve you some eel stew and then laugh at you while you pulled faces. I would recommend some of the sweet desert balls as a favourite.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Alora?Stave fighting is the predominant form of combat, although archery and magical elements are also used. The honour code says stave fighting is the true form of combat to display your fighting skill.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Alora?
Elves ride horses or walk to get where they are going, although to travel between worlds you will need one of the rare travelling artefacts. The Jaega Locket belonging to Ash is the most powerful of the artefacts.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Alora? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
All Elves possess magic in the form of gifts. Some of these manifest in childhood, while others aren’t apparent until the Elf reaches adulthood at the age of 18. These gifts can be almost anything from the rare gift of mind telepathy with animals that Wyn has, to the more common gift of speed. Some gifts are used to help others like healing, where others can be used to inflict pain and influence mood.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Alora? Please describe what it involves.
Elves believe in a Creator. Although this is not widely discussed in the books.
What is the political or government structure in Alora? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Alora is a Monarchy, although the rule is not passed from generation to generation. Instead there is a competition of strength, skill and moral courage that determines the next ruler. All Elves are eligible to compete as we see in book 3.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
The Elves are probably a reflection of what I feel makes a more ideal society. Although they certainly aren’t perfect, they strive to work together for the good of all. Even though there is a ruling monarch ideally they don’t see themselves as greater than the people they rule, but rather a a protecter and organiser of the society. This is evidenced by the fact that anyone can become King or Queen.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Loyalty, war and racial inequality and social standing as well as slurs upon a person because of their birth parents.
Author Autobiography:Lara is an Australian writer who writes young adult fiction. She lives in Tasmania.
Having moved to the island state in 2013, the stunning coastline and beautiful forests inspired her to set part of her series The Alora Chronicles here.
In her spare time she enjoys wandering through national parks and chasing waterfalls with her family.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
All my books are available on Amazon
Where can readers connect with you online?
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https://www.facebook.com/laraann.books/
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Alora. 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!
-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:
Sharon Ledwith
Title of book and/or series:
Lost and Found, Book One; Mysterious Tales from Fairy Falls
Brief summary of the story:
Fairy Falls was bores-ville from the get-go. Then the animals started talking...
The Fairy Falls Animal Shelter is in trouble. Money trouble. It’s up to an old calico cat named Whiskey—a shelter cat who has mastered the skill of observation—to find a new human pack leader so that their home will be saved. With the help of Nobel, the leader of the shelter dogs, the animals set out to use the ancient skill of telepathy to contact any human who bothers to listen to them. Unfortunately for fifteen-year-old Meagan Walsh, she hears them, loud and clear.
Forced to live with her Aunt Izzy in the safe and quiet town of Fairy Falls, Meagan is caught stealing and is sentenced to do community hours at the animal shelter where her aunt works. Realizing Meagan can hear her, Whiskey realizes that Meagan just might have the pack leader qualities necessary to save the animals. Avoiding Whiskey and the rest of shelter animals becomes impossible for Meagan, so she finally gives in and promises to help them. Meagan, along with her newfound friends, Reid Robertson and Natalie Knight, discover that someone in Fairy Falls is not only out to destroy the shelter, but the animals as well. Can Meagan convince her aunt and co-workers that the animals are in danger? If she fails, then all the animals’ voices will be silenced forever.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
I took all of my childhood and adult experiences from vacationing and living in cottage country to breathe life into Fairy Falls, and the surrounding area. When you think of a small, northern tourist town, what emotional cord does it strike? Vacationing with the family when you were young? Visiting your grandparents at their cottage? Camping in the backwoods with your friends? Whatever vision you conjure, I’m sure you have plenty of happy memories of that special place. That’s the basis of creating the town of Fairy Falls. I wanted to give my teen psychic mystery book series a nostalgic feeling coupled with a sense of adventure and…wait for it…the supernatural. Welcome to Fairy Falls. Expected the unexpected.
If we were to visit Fairy Falls as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
When we used to live in cottage country, we’d visit the local bakery in the tiny town five minutes south of us. The smell of fresh baking does something to a body. Sometimes it takes you back to when life was simpler. The downtown core of Fairy Falls hosts such a bakery, and is situated so you can sit at one of the ample tables beside the Vista River and enjoy your sweet treat, while watching the boats slowly putt by. Or better yet, book a boat tour to go on a three-hour cruise that takes you through a lock system, and into Blueberry Lake. Other draws to this tourist haven include The Court Jester, the local bar and grill, serving up down-home food courtesy of the area famers and growers. Oh, and make sure you don’t forget to stop by the Fairy Falls Farmers’ Market on Saturdays to score a deal from one of the crafters, produce, or food stands. Tell them Sharon sent you…
What dangers should we avoid in Fairy Falls?The usual suspects. Bears and blackflies. Oh, and the odd swarm of mosquitoes.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Fairy Falls?
Yes, you must go to the Court Jester and try the Jester Burger! It’s topped with a slice of Canadian back bacon and pepper jack cheese, and piled high with onions, garlic, and mushrooms, all fresh from the Fairy Falls Farmers’ Market. Add a pint of locally brewed Blackfly beer, and this meal will bring tears of joy to your eyes! Sit on the patio and enjoy the view of the Vista River where it may transport you to back to those good old days, and happy childhood memories.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Fairy Falls?
Same as anywhere on Earth: trains, planes, automobiles, and boats. And like any small northern town, Fairy Falls has a train station that runs along its outskirts, a bus depot in the middle of town, and a bustling marina on the bend of the Vista River, just past the Court Jester. Fairy Falls also boasts access to a small airport fifteen minutes south, just off the busy highway. Those who love to explore trails hop on their all-terrain vehicles and take in the sights too. So there’s plenty of ways to get to, or get out of Fairy Falls, but trust me once you’ve arrived here, and experienced the beauty of nature and serene setting this town has to offer, you’ll never want to leave.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Fairy Falls? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Well, it’s not so much magic, but more on the paranormal side. Fairy Falls has always been a magical place, but for some reason it seems to be a haven for those with psychic abilities. In Lost and Found, the animals at the Fairy Falls Animal Shelter need a champion to save their shelter, and find one in rebellious Meagan Walsh, who’s a bona fide telepathic animal communicator. There are others with different psychic powers who have been (or will be) drawn to Fairy Falls, not to hide, but feel that they have been forced here by circumstances beyond their control. Or could it be a matter of serendipity that has brought them to the small, tourist town?
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Fairy Falls? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Honestly, it’s hard enough just to get high speed internet in Fairy Falls. However, cell phones are getting better reception as more towers are being built, and seeing satellite dishes on almost every cottage roof has unfortunately (or fortunately) become the norm. But in my opinion, as far as advanced technology goes, sometimes it’s nice to unplug while you’re visiting Fairy Falls, and let nature stir your soul.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Fairy Falls.
Lacrosse is very popular in Fairy Falls. Even the local high school has a winning team that’s hard to beat. Summer swells in population with the tourists and cottagers, so fishing, boating, water skiing, and tubing are favorite sports and past times. In the long winter months, hockey is the staple along with curling, as well as snowmobiling across the network of frozen lakes and trails. And believe me, you’d better have a sport or hobby to keep you busy during a Fairy Falls winter, because sometimes the ice doesn’t come off the lakes until May. Brrrr!
What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly in Fairy Falls?
That’s an easy one! There are three long weekends during the summer months, and Fairy Falls relies on these holidays to boost their economy enough to keep the town running all year round. The first long weekend is in May where firework celebrations dominate the skies. The second is at the beginning of July which includes more fireworks, street parties, and starts the beginning of farmers’ market season. The third is usually on the first weekend of September, when Fairy Falls hosts their famous fall fair which includes a concert, carnival rides, and a smash-up derby.
What is the political or government structure in Fairy Falls? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Fairy Falls is like any small town with a mayor, deputy mayor, and a selection of town counsellors. At the moment, Mike MacGregor is at the helm as this town’s mayor. Unfortunately, Mayor MacGregor is in mourning with the loss of his wife, Joy, who sat on as one of the counsellors for Fairy Falls. She was viciously attacked and murdered, and her killer is still at large. These characters are featured in the next installment of Mysterious Tales from Fairy Falls, Blackflies and Blueberries.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Absolutely! Fairy Falls and its surrounding area is a cumulative result of all the small, northern tourist towns I’ve visited as a child (and adult) that has left an emotional impression on me. Every sight, sound, smell, taste, and feeling of what I’ve experienced has trickled out of me and into the fictitious town that is Fairy Falls.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
In Lost and Found, it’s more about speaking up for the animals, and the need for constant fundraising and continued support for the upkeep of an animal shelter. I also touch on bullying in the work place as well as dealing with bullies. There are some unique ways which my characters try to right wrongs and stand up for themselves and the animals, and I must say, I’m pretty proud of this book and its messages. It truly is a story about being a champion of the underdog.
Author Autobiography:
Sharon Ledwith is the author of the middle-grade/young adult time travel adventure series, THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS, and the teen psychic mystery series, MYSTERIOUS TALES FROM FAIRY FALLS. When not writing, researching, or revising, she enjoys reading, exercising, anything arcane, and an occasional dram of scotch. Sharon lives a serene, yet busy life in a southern tourist region of Ontario, Canada, with her hubby, one spoiled yellow Labrador and a moody calico cat.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
All my books are available in paperback and ebook formats. Below is a list of my buy links for each book series:
Mysterious Tales from Fairy Falls Teen Psychic Mystery Series:
Lost and Found, Book One Buy Links:
And for those readers who love to escape to the past and have a blast…
The Last Timekeepers Time Travel Adventure Series:
The Last Timekeepers and the Dark Secret, Book #2 Buy Links:
The Last Timekeepers and the Arch of Atlantis, Book #1 Buy Links:
Legend of the Timekeepers, prequel Buy Links:
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Fairy Falls. 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!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Sarah Delena White
Title of book and/or series: Halayda (Star-Fae Trilogy book 1)
Brief summary of the story:
A mortal alchemist. A faerie king. A bond that transcends death.
Betrayed by a trusted mentor, Sylvie Imanthiya hides on the fringes of society, caring for half-fae orphans and trading her alchemical creations on the black market. She lives for the one night each season when she can see her dearest friend—a man whose destiny is far above hers.
King Taylan Ashkalabek knows better than to exchange halayda vows with a mortal. Even their friendship is a risk; love is an impossible dream. Then a brutal alchemical attack poisons his realm, unearthing a dark power within him—and leaving Sylvie with the ancient mark of Faerie’s savior.
Manifesting unpredictable abilities and aided by allies with their own secrets, Sylvie and Taylan journey into the wilds of Faerie to heal the damage and confront Casimir, an invincible star-fae determined to claim the realm as his own. But only their enemy knows Sylvie’s true capabilities—and Taylan’s weaknesses—and how to use them in his vicious schemes.
 |
| Sparkly Forest |
Her fate is life. His fate is death. With Faerie in the balance, Sylvie and Taylan must stand together before reality as they know it is destroyed.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Halayda is set in Kyure, a world with several dimensions. The story begins in Sabellyn, a prosperous human city-state with Steampunk technology. It’s a city of industry and trade, located along a major river. Just outside of the city is a gateway into Faerie, a wild land of magic, strange peoples, and semi-sentient forests and mountains.
If we were to visit Kyure as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Make sure you go to Sabellyn on a solstice or equinox day! At each change of season, the fae visit the city and hold lavish celebrations to honor the peace treaty between Faerie and the mortal world. Sabellyn is usually pretty drab, but on these days it comes alive with color and magic.
What dangers should we avoid in Kyure?
If you venture into Faerie, make sure you have a trustworthy guide. There are plenty of stories about mortals going there for adventure or a fling with a fae lover and never returning. When you’re in Sabellyn, stay away from the high-ranking alchemists—unless you want to risk becoming a science experiment.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Kyure?
Depends where you go! Each fae people has a favorite food: spiced river weeds for naiads, rich chocolates for Maithe, raw venison for the Wild Hunt (I recommend skipping that last one). The food on Sabellyn is a lot more practical and less interesting (just ask Taylan for his opinion on oatmeal).
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Kyure?
The fae have developed an intricate, elegant sword-fighting style, and they also incorporate magic into their weapons and fighting techniques. On their own, humans are no match for the fae in battle. They’ve spent centuries developing weapons that can effectively counter the fae, though, resulting in excellent firearms and an arsenal of lethal alchemical potions.
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| Faerie Hounds |
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Kyure?
Most people in Sabellyn travel on foot or by horse-drawn carriages, or by train or river barge if they’re venturing beyond the city. If you’re traveling in Faerie, you’re walking, unless you can get a ride from a pooka (horse shifter) or a lift from a faerie who’s willing to transport you through the elements. Be careful, though—they’re likely to ask for a favor in return, and that rarely ends well!
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Kyure that we don’t see on Earth?
Faerie itself is semi-sentient, and the land and trees tend to have strong opinions about trespassers. There are many kinds of fae, but they fall into two main groups: elementals, who have a connection to a certain part of the natural world; and shifters, who can switch between human-like and animal forms. Most of the fae peoples are loosely based on creatures from Celtic mythology, such as banshees, faerie hounds, and the tuatha de dannan.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Kyure? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Faerie runs on magic (in Kyure, magic is a natural part of the fae realm rather than a supernatural force). The magic, known as glamour, fills all of Faerie and can be used by each fae race in different ways. Some use it to manipulate the elements, such as the banshees, who can travel and communicate through wind. Others, like pookas and the members of the Wild Hunt, use it to shapeshift. Illusions, mind tricks, and emotional manipulation are other common uses of glamour.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Kyure? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
The people of Sabellyn have fairly high technology, including firearms, indoor plumbing, and railroads. Their crowning achievement is alchemy, an elite science that fuses chemistry with soul energy. Alchemy was primarily created as a weapon that could counter fae magic, but it has many other uses, including medicine, protection, and even weather manipulation.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Kyure.
A dice game called Ruj is popular in Faerie, especially among the lower classes.
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| Sabellyn |
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Kyure as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Days and months have different names, but seasons are the same, and years are the same length. The biggest holidays are solstice and equinox days, when the fae and mortal realms come together. The people of Sabellyn also celebrate a few holidays honoring scientific progress and the founding of the city-state, but their celebrations tend to be low-key for the sake of practicality. The fae, on the other hand, will use any occasion as an excuse for a lavish party.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Kyure? Please describe what it involves.
There are no organized religions , but people fervently adhere to certain philosophies. The fae seek pleasure above all things. The “religion” of Sabellyn is progress, and the people of the city-state see scientific advancement and cultural refinement as their highest ends.
 |
| Taylan Ashkalabek, King of Faerie |
What is the political or government structure in Kyure? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Faerie is always ruled by a monarch, who is the highest magical as well as political power. The current king is Taylan Ashkalabek, who has been in power for 1200 years. He is a capable leader who does his best to govern his unruly realm, but his people see him as a killjoy as best and a traitor at worst. Sabellyn is officially governed by an elected Ruling Council, but its true rulers control the city-state from the shadows.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
A lot of the world-building were influenced by my real-world experiences and interests. I’ve been interested in Celtic folklore and balladry for years, so it was a natural choice to base my faeries on the traditional Irish, Scottish, and Welsh sorts (although I took a lot of liberties!). Subtle traces of Arab and Turkish languages and cultures sneaked in too, thanks to the time I spent in the Middle East. The locations were mostly just wish fulfillment, though!
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
None explicitly. My first goal is always to tell a good story. Some subtle commentary on culture worked its way into the world-building, though. There are two contrasting societies in Kyure: the amoral, pleasure-seeking fae and the straight-laced, progress-driven humans. Both of these cultures go extremes and reap the consequences.
Author Biography:
Sarah Delena White was raised by wolves in an alternate dimension. She writes eclectic speculative fiction that reworks mythology with a fine balance of poetry and snark. She’s an experienced world traveler who loves to weave world folklore and ancient concepts into vibrant, original story worlds. She is also the Benevolent Firebird (acquisitions editor) for Uncommon Universes Press. When she’s not writing or editing, she can be found making jewelry, singing Irish ballads, drinking tea, and working a variety of odd jobs. She can be bribed with dark chocolate.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
Where can readers connect with you online?
https://www.facebook.com/SarahDelenaWhite/ Facebook
https://twitter.com/Royal_Vagabond Twitter
https://www.pinterest.com/royalvagabond/ Pinterest
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Kyure. 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!
-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:
Aldred Chase
Title of book and/or series:
Apprentice Fool, book one of the Nobody’s Fool Quartet
Brief summary of the story:
The village of Mottle offers thirteen-year-old Keth few opportunities to rebel against cruel Prince Dorian, who usurped the throne ten years ago. But Keth has a dangerous secret, he keeps faith with the old rituals and dances that the prince has banned.
When the prince’s grain collector leaves Mottle with so little grain that they face starvation over the coming winter, only Keth is prepared to do something about it. His attempt to steal back the grain goes wrong, and he only escapes capture by joining a band of traveling players, as their apprentice fool.
Can Keth keep his audience laughing and his secrets hidden, while working to overthrow the prince?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The city of Russett took root in a range of easily defended hills, close to where the River Brack flows into the Sea of Wrack. In a similar way to a medieval city-state, it controls the surrounding fertile land, which is dotted with farms, villages, and market towns. The level of agricultural technology is broadly equivalent to that of the late middle ages.
Russett has no moon, but on nights when the sky is clear you can see the splinter, a narrow golden rip that runs the length of the sky.
If we were to visit Russett as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
The city of Russett is famous for its skins and dyes, as well as for the stench from the local tanneries. Tourists have described the latter as the smell of rotting animals, stewed in their own poo, and mixed with putrid vegetables, while locals say that fresh air is bland and has no taste to it.
The most magnificent building in the city is the Golden Palace, currently the residence of Prince Dorian. It sits on the summit of the tallest hill and enjoys fresh breezes from the nearby Sea of Wrack. The enterprising tourist can easily secure entrance to the palace, but leaving it may prove more difficult.
The tourist who wanders so far from the beaten track that they arrive in Mottle will learn that the village is famous for its rain and many different colored mosses.
What dangers should we avoid in Russett?
Dancing is dangerous. Prince Dorian has banned all of the traditional dances, and you should inform the appropriate authorities if you see anyone dancing. The jovial tourist who insists on joining in will find their hilarity is short-lived, rather like the participants.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Russett?Unless you are wealthy, food is in short supply.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Russett?
Prince Dorian’s guards have swords and bows. Most other people will improvise with whatever comes to hand, such as stones and tools. While not strictly a fighting style, running away is often seen as the best option.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Russett?
Most people will travel on foot, but well-off people will ride on horses. Ships sail the Sea of Wrack.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Russett that we don’t see on Earth?
All the plants and animals are similar to ones that we would encounter on Earth. The old legends talk of dragons, but they’re just stories, aren’t they?
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Russett? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Some folk whisper that the dances banned by Prince Dorian had magical properties, especially at times like sowing the seed and reaping the harvest. A few people have the gift of seeing the wraiths that haunt the wounded land, but it’s not something they boast about.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Russett.
Games and sports like skittles and wrestling are popular. A favorite game for children is tossing pebbles at a wall to see whose lands closest. Dancing has been banned but singing is still popular. Songs that everyone can join in with include: ‘Bang my Anvil Heartily’ and ‘The Tinker and the Jolly Farmer’s Wife.’ For those of a sentimental nature, a favorite ballad involves a heroic dog pining for his master by the wall of the dead garden.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Russett as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The people of Russett do not divide the year into weeks and months, but they are keenly aware of the passing of the seasons. The sowing of the seed in spring and the reaping of the harvest in autumn used to be celebrated by special dances that the whole community joined in. These dances have now been banned by Prince Dorian.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Russett? Please describe what it involves.
While no formal religion is worshipped in Russett, the people have a number of shared beliefs and rituals.
Traditional dances were performed throughout the year and the whole community joined in. These dances helped people to affirm their connection to the land, but they are now banned.
The dead are cremated and every settlement has a beautiful walled garden, called the dead garden, where the ashes are scattered, while mourners sing laments.
People believe that the land was created by weavers who wove it from threads pulled from a star. Having finished the land, many weavers left to create new lands, but two groups chose to remain. One group became the original inhabitants of this land. The second group live in a world beyond the splinter, a narrow golden rip in the sky, visible on clear nights. If ever the land is damaged, they will crawl through the splinter and sew it back together again.
What is the political or government structure in Russett? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Russett is traditionally ruled by a prince. Ten years ago, Prince Dorian came from out of nowhere and invaded with a small force. He defeated the much larger force of the previous ruler, Prince Gawain, at the Battle of Crouchers Hollow. Since then, he has banned all of the traditional dances and he has ordered his grain collector, assisted by a flock of spiteful ravens, to collect ever-increasing amounts of grain from the people. This grain is sold abroad to fund Dorian’s lavish lifestyle.
Keth wants to rebel but the majority of the half-starved people are too demoralized to try and overthrow the cruel prince.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
The landscape is inspired by the beautiful countryside where I grew up in the north of England. When I was little, we still had a working tannery in our town and the smell was unique and terrible; you would take a deep breath then scurry past with a hand across your nose and mouth.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I don’t think any of the topics are “hot button” but I do think that the theme of whether one person standing up against injustice can make a difference is timeless.
Author Autobiography:
My first experience of fantasy fiction was reading ‘The Hobbit’ at school, and I’ve been hooked on the genre ever since. My favorite places for writing are cafes and park benches, but I do most of my work at my desk. My best ideas come to me when I’m travelling by train or walking by the sea. I’m lucky enough to live in Australia where we have many beautiful beaches.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
Where can readers connect with you online?
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I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Russett. 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!
-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:
Elise Edmonds
Title of book and/or series:
Where Carpets Fly
Brief summary of the story:
Mystery and adventure meet in a magical land of flying carpets, vibrant cities, and seafaring folk. Follow Elina Faramar’s journey from the village flying carpet shop to magic school in town. What’s her new magic teacher hiding? Why won’t anyone discuss the nearby, volatile country of Pallexon? The situation turns to a nightmare when friend Kara is mistaken for a spy. Can Elina’s wits and magic save Kara and unravel Pallexon’s secrets?
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Elina lives in the fantasy country of Tamarin. It’s a southern country with a warm climate. The country is split in two by a large river, and most towns are situated on or close to the river, where it’s most fertile. The Sultan, the ruler of Tamarin, lives in a large palace in an island town called The Delta, situated at the southern mouth of the river. Elina starts life in the northern village of Darien, living with her parents above the family flying carpet shop, and then moves to the nearby town of Kamikan to live with her aunt.
The country of Tamarin has vibes of various Mediterranean and Arabian real-world cultures, with various magical elements. The story has an urban feel, and the tech is at a reasonable level of civilisation, but magic is the focus of the country’s tech, rather than innovations like steam. Elina begins to uncover a mystery about the neighbouring country of Pallexon: this country is more technologically developed, but does not have magic. Pallexon has a cooler climate, and the feel I’ve gone for is more akin to Victorian England.
If we were to visit Tamarin as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
I would recommend that you arrive during one of the quarterly Festivals. Entertainments will keep you busy for the whole weekend. The Kamikan circus is particularly celebrated, and you will see wonders like the exotic trained horses from Pallexon – a real rarity, and Elemental Magic acrobats who have amazing displays of fire and water power. Following that, the pygmy camel races are always fun, and you can finish the day off trying the various types of street food while watching a firework display.
What dangers should we avoid in Tamarin?
Tamarin itself is a pretty safe place to be at the moment. But political undercurrents are running quite high. It’s probably best not to ask too many questions about the neighbouring country of Pallexon—people might think you are a spy.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Tamarin?
Traditional Tamarin food is based around lamb or chicken in a spiced sauce. They use many spices, such as cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and pepper, together with combinations of dried fruit like raisins and apricots, to create tasty stews. These meals are often served with couscous or flat bread, and finished off with mango slices and the obligatory pot of mint tea.
In recent years, imports from other countries have increased, and you’ll find dishes that come from other cultures: roast dinners, and pies, for example – but the Tamarins often put their own twist to these dishes and make them their own.
Street food is common and everything from meat kebabs to sticky sweets to ice cream can be found, particularly at festival time.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Tamarin?
In the last war, between Tamarin and Pallexon ten years ago, the main types of warfare were armoured flying carpets, and naval warfare. The Tamarins had an advantage with their flying carpets, because at that stage, the Pallexis had no airborne weapons, but the Pallexis traditional firearms were very effective against them. The Pallexi naval fleet was also extremely powerful despite having no magic, and the war ended in a stalemate and the current uneasy treaty.
The Tamarins have some magical firearms—mainly combining the standard kind of firearms with Elemental power. There is the steam-rifle, which shoots deadly jets of steam, and the flame-rifle, which shoots fireballs. Both weapons do away with the need for bullets. The Tamarins also have Elemental grenades, which explode with the force of the particular element contained inside them: fire, water, earth, or air, creating violent earthquakes or tornados for example.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Tamarin?
The main type of transport is the flying carpet. These come in all shapes and sizes—and to suit every budget. There are tiny one-person carpets, enormous family-sized carpets with special restraints for children, and commercial carpets with the ability to secure packages below them. Inside city limits, both speed and height are highly regulated, but outside the city, the rules are relaxed. The one flaw of flying carpets is that cannot fly over large bodies of water or areas of extremely high humidity (for example, the jungle) because they absorb the water over time and sink, losing the ability to fly.
For those who don’t like or can’t afford a flying carpet, a pygmy camel is the best option. They are hardy little beasts, capable of carrying decent loads and going for long distances.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Tamarin that we don’t see on Earth?
The plants and animals you see would be very similar to somewhere like those you would see in southern Spain or Morocco. Houses favour climbing plants and decorative trees like palm trees.
The most unusual race you will come across are the river fairies. The majority of people treat them as akin to insects or birds, but those who have skill in Biological Magic know better. The fairies are sentient, and rumours abound that they might also have a sixth sense. A few people can communicate with them, but it tends to be trivial conversation. The fairies love to play with people swimming in the river, particularly children. They prefer the more rural areas, but it’s not unusual to see them in a town, however they do tend to keep more of a distance when there are crowds of people around.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Tamarin? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
There are four branches of magic in Tamarin: Tangible, Elemental, Biological, and Cognitive. Most Tamarins can do one or more types of magic, generally based on inheritance, and the amount of work they put in to develop the skill.
Tangible Magic is the ability to move physical, non-living items. For example, you could use it to shift heavy items around in your home—boxes, furniture, etc. It’s also possible to create a Tangible Charm that means an object can be moved with the use of a verbal command by anyone—this is how flying carpets are created.
Elemental Magic is the manipulation of the four elements: fire, water, earth and air. At it’s most basic level, it’s good for chores like digging the garden! At the other end of the scale, the navy use Elemental magicians to steer ships by manipulating the wind and the sea.
Biological Magic is the skill of talking to plants and animals. Plants are mastered first, and those with this skill are excellent gardeners! From there, people move on to talking to small creatures such as birds, before progressing to larger animals. Once you become proficient at talking to plants, you can persuade them to grow in certain ways and produce better fruit. You can even use them as basic weapons, using climbing plants to wrap around people’s ankles, for example!
Cognitive Magic is the ability to read people’s minds, and to telepathically communicate with other Cognitive users. It’s a secretive kind of magic, and many people are not even aware it exists, because it tends to be used for government surveillance and kept very quiet. It’s possible to read the surface thoughts of another person without them being aware of it, but reading further into someone’s mind can be painful for them and can cause damage, so this is a highly regulated type of magic. On the more benign front, it’s used by mental health healers to treat diseases of the mind.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Tamarin? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Another common use of magical technology is the glow globes. These are the equivalent of lamps and torches. They are spherical globes, that produce a glowing light when tapped—a result of an Elemental Magic Charm. Every home has glow globes. Some with the skill will permanently suspend them in midair and move them around as needed. Other people merely buy special stands to place them in. A lot of people carry a miniature version in their bag or pocket.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Tamarin.
Most villages are situated on the river’s edge. Consequently, most children can swim as soon as they can walk, and spend the little leisure time they have in or by the river. Older children will have flying carpet races outside the city limits, although these have a disreputable nature and a tendency to attract trouble.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Tamarin as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Tamarin has the same calendar as Earth. They celebrate quarterly festivals based around the solstices/equinoxes. Each festival lasts for a whole weekend, and a large proportion of the population takes the time as holiday.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Tamarin? Please describe what it involves.
No, Tamarin is a secular country.
What is the political or government structure in Tamarin? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Tamarin is ruled by the Sultan, from his palace in the Delta. The Sultan’s prime minister and chief adviser is the Grand Vizier. Each individual town is ruled by a Vizier and his committee of advisers. All Viziers report to the Grand Vizier. The position of Sultan passes on a hereditary basis, and the current Sultan’s sons are all given positions of responsibility within the kingdom. The current Sultan is a fair and just ruler, and concerned about current relations with Pallexon. He keeps a substantial army and navy.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
I’ve been on holiday to Spain, and I’m fond of Mediterranean food—Spanish, Moroccan, Greek, Israeli etc, and some of the culinary and architectural details are based on real-life things that I like. I’ve always been a big fan of books with flying carpets, and I really built the world up around how I imagined a fantasy world with flying carpets in a more urban contemporary setting, rather than the traditional fairy tale/Arabian nights feel.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
Elements of terrorism, slavery, economic struggles, and governmental oppression all come into the story as Elina discovers what really goes on in Pallexon. One of the main themes that comes out of the book is the importance of freedom.
Author Autobiography:Elise Edmonds is a new writer from the South-West UK. Reading and writing have always been her doorways into another world—a way to escape and spend time walking with wizards, flying with fairies and dealing with dragons. By day she is a finance professional, and in her spare time she pursues writing as a creative outlet, to put the magic back into everyday life. In addition to reading, Elise enjoys watching movies, playing the piano, and going to Zumba classes. Her greatest loves are God, her husband, her family and friends, and her two beautiful cats.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book?
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Tamarin. 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!
-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: Missy Sheldrake
Title of book and/or series: Keepers of the Wellsprings Series
Brief summary of the story:
The Wellsprings are revered pools of magic, fiercely guarded and hidden away by fairies for decades. The Keepers of the Wellsprings series is the sweeping tale of a time when the threats of ambitious Sorcerers forced these secret sources to be revealed.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The world itself is commonly called the Known Lands. This refers to all the areas surrounding Cerion which have been explored and mapped so far. It’s a world with distinct countries and cultures much like our own, but this world is filled with magic, fairies, and other enchanted creatures. In this interview, I’ll be focusing mainly on Cerion, which is where the story begins.
If we were to visit The Known Lands as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
For a lively, exciting visit where you can get a taste of countries from all over the Known Lands, Cerion is best. This coastal kingdom is well known for its kindhearted people and its peaceful acceptance of all races and creeds. Cerion’s thriving seaside marketplace is a treasure trove of goods from all over the world. If you’re looking for a more magical adventure, you could try to gain entry to Kythshire, a fairyland where the air is thick with magic and no wish goes unanswered, but that’s no easy feat. You’ll need a good reason to visit, and a native fairy to vouch for you at its magically guarded borders.
What dangers should we avoid in The Known Lands?
Sorcerers. If you see a man or woman with black swirling marks creeping across their skin and a wild look in their eyes, keep your distance. The markings are Mage Mark, and warn of the presence of Sorcery. It doesn’t matter which country you visit, you might encounter a Sorcerer anywhere you travel. They are unpredictable, ruthless, wicked people and should be avoided at all costs.
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| Azi’s Sword |
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Cerion?
Lately, there’s a trend in two-handed broadswords. This fighting style has mostly been a favorite of girls aspiring to be like Azaeli Hammerfel, the youngest Knight of His Majesty’s Elite. Traditionally, Cerion’s fighters have favored the longsword and shield. The kingdom’s peace hasn’t been threatened for over a century now (a fact its people pride themselves on), but if a war were to break out, Cerion’s Mages would absolutely step in to level the field with battle magic.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Cerion?
As you might imagine for a coastal kingdom, Cerion’s fish dishes are the most delectable you’ll ever taste. Mouli, the well-known cook and housekeeper for His Majesty’s Elite, has perfected a recipe for Azi’s favorite crab-stuffed rolls. This famous recipe has made its way to most every market stall worth visiting. Definitely worth a taste!
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| Cygnets |
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Cerion?
Typically, the usual methods are used to travel these lands: Horses, carriages, and ships. In Ceras’lain, the White Line (the elite force which guards the White Wall at its border), fly on cygnets. These are sort of swan-like dragons. In the frozen lands of Hywilkin to the far north, the patrols are made on wyverns. In the jungles of Elespen, it’s not uncommon to see people riding elephants. There is another, very secret way to travel: Teleportation. This method is rarely used, though, because it’s prohibitively expensive and requires the traveler to be unarmed.
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| A Dragon, Woken from Slumber |
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in the Known Lands that we don’t see on Earth?
The Known Lands’ races vary from humans and elves to fairies, mermaids, and giants. The world is filled with magical creatures, familiar and unique. You might even catch a glimpse of a dragon.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in the Known Lands? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic is a sacred art in the Known Lands. Because of the scourge of Sorcery recently lurking in shadows in every corner of the world, study and performance of magic are approached cautiously and with great reverence. This is because the practice of magic is intoxicating. It’s very easy to be lured from simple magical practice into the rapture and inescapable draw of Sorcery. In Cerion especially, Mages are held to a high standard. To practice magic, you must be marked as an Apprentice by a Master at an early age. You must take your learning at the Mage Academy, a strict and serious school carefully watched over by Cerion’s top Mages. Tuition is incredibly expensive. To be a Mage is a highly prestigious occupation. Mages, especially in Cerion, are respected by all.
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| The Crimson Warrior |
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in the Known Lands? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
The Known Lands are much like our medieval times. There are, I’m sure, some ingenious inventions used, but they don’t play a major role in the books. In the third book, Tib is working on one such invention, but I won’t reveal what it is. You’ll have to read it for yourself.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in the Known Lands as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Yes. There are seven days in a week, and twelve months in a year. In Cerion, the months are named for the seasons. For example, the year begins at Midwinter. Then comes Winterswan (winter’s waning), Springsdawn, Midspring, Springswan, etc. Holidays in Cerion generally follow the seasons as well. The two biggest holidays of the year are Midwinter and Midsummer. Midwinter is similar to our Christmas, where families and friends gather to feast, dance, and exchange gifts. Since winters are harsh in Cerion, most of the Midwinter celebrating is done indoors. It’s a charitable holiday, when the well-to-do open their doors to the less fortunate for feasts and warmth. Midsummer in Cerion is a huge affair. People come from all the countries of the Known Lands to spectate at Cerion Day, a day celebrating peace in Cerion which falls exactly on Midsummer. The revelries are held outdoors, with festivals, parades, and tournaments in the Arena.
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| King Tirnon Gets an Unexpected Visitor |
Is there a particular religion practiced in the Known Lands? Please describe what it involves.
I have always been vague about religion in my books. My characters hold a certain respect and faith in a greater power, and have even been known to say grace at mealtimes. I’ve always assumed that certain magical abilities such as healing and Lisabella’s Peace come from a divine power (or maybe more than one), but that divine power and the worship of it has never been a central theme in the story.
What is the political or government structure in Cerion? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Cerion is ruled over by King Tirnon Plethore. The Plethore Dynasty has been in place for over a century, since Asio Plethore overthrew the Sorcerer King Diovicus as he tried to breach the borders of Kythshire. Tirnon is a humble, wise, kind king. He is fiercely loyal to his friends, a loving husband and father to family, and a thoughtful ruler. He has a council of Mages and Advisors who he listens to daily, and his respect for his people and the neighboring countries has kept Cerion at peace throughout his reign.
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| Flitt: Our Favorite Rainbow-Colored Fairy |
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Cerion?
It’s best not to mention the fairies. It has been so long since anyone has seen or heard from a fairy that people might think you’re touched in the head if you talk about them as though they might be real. Also, it’s rude to ask a Mage to perform magic for you. Magic is a serious practice. It’s used to ward off dangers, and for practical reasons like clearing the ice from the treacherous cliff steps between the sea market and the harbor. Mages do not perform parlor tricks. Asking them to do so is an insult to their integrity.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
My books are inspired by my childhood influences. I was an eighties kid, so many of the movies I watched as a child have stayed with me throughout the years. Legend, Labyrinth, The Princess Bride, Dark Crystal, Disney’s Fantasia, and even Star Wars have all had an influence on my stories. I played Dungeons and Dragons as a teenager, and various fantasy-based MMORPGs for most of my adult life. My love of nature and of travel are also apparent in my books. Ceras’lain, the land of the Elves, is a tribute to my love of the forest. Elespen, which will be the setting for the next book in the series, will invoke the jungles of India and South America. I enjoy studying different cultures and traveling to new places, and that spirit, I hope, carries through in my books.
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| The Forest Wall in Ceras’lain |
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I think the hottest button I’ve touched, and it wasn’t intentional in the beginning, is having a strong female protagonist. Azi, my lady knight, isn’t your typical fantasy heroine. She’s valiant but modest. She has confidence, but she also has self-doubt. She doesn’t try to do everything herself. She listens to those who have more experience than she does, and takes their counsel whenever she can. She truly loves her best friend Rian, and their friendship blooms into a respectful, mutual partnership. There are women in leadership roles. Aside from that, there are same-sex couples and bi-racial couples. I try to integrate many different beliefs into the books as I can, without calling attention to them. It’s accepted as the way things are. This is my way of showing the importance of love, friendship, family, and respect for all people.
Author Autobiography:
Missy Sheldrake is an author/illustrator who has been conjuring images of fairies in one form or another since she was very young. The wind in the trees and the rich scent of forest earth are her most treasured sources of inspiration, and on most mornings you will find her wandering the wooded paths, dreaming of the next adventure she hopes to put to the page.
Missy was born in Connecticut and attended Western Connecticut State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Art with a concentration in painting and illustration. Even then, in her free time, she was writing. She moved to Northern Virginia several years ago and lives there now, on the outskirts of Washington D.C., with her true love and their son. She published her first novel, Call of Kythshire, in March of 2015 and intends to keep writing as long as the fairies allow it.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
Where can readers connect with you online?
Almost everywhere! Click below to follow me on whichever platform you prefer:
My website (check out the “illustrations” tab to see more artwork from the series)
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Cerion. 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!
-Annie Douglass Lima
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Skioria?
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Skioria? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
What is the political or government structure in Skioria? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
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.
The One Who Sees Me: A stand-alone Biblical retelling set in medieval times. When life doesn’t make sense Faru learns there is One who cares about servant girls as well as masters.
If we were to visit Aslaria as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Aslaria? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Hope Ann is a speculative fiction writer who lives on a small farm in northern Indiana. She has self-published three Legend of Light novellas and writes regular articles for Kingdom Pen as the Writing Team Captain. Reading since the age of five, and introducing herself to writing at age eight, she never had a question that the author’s life was the life for her. Her goal is to write thrilling Christian fantasy and futuristic fiction — stories she longed for while growing up. After graduating from homeschool, Hope now teaches writing to several of her eight younger siblings. She loves climbing trees, archery, photography, Lord of the Rings, chocolate, and collecting shiny things she claims are useful for story inspiration. 
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
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What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in the Shattered Galaxy? 
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Shattered Galaxy? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples. 
Author Autobiography: 
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Alora?
Author Autobiography:
What dangers should we avoid in Fairy Falls?
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Russett?
Author Autobiography:
Author’s name: Missy Sheldrake
