Tag Archive | books

Meet Robin Burnage

May13

Please welcome Robin Burnage to my blog.

Hello Robin. It’s so nice to have you on my blog today. Shall we sit and have a chat about what’s going on in your writing life?

1. Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hi, my name is Robin Burnage, I live in Wales, UK and am delighted to have been asked to discuss my first novel ‘The Threat in the Atlantic’ which is book number eight in the series ‘The Merriman Chronicles’.

I know that sounds a bit weird, so probably need to clarify that the series was originally written by my late Father. He managed to write nine novels in total which I originally published for him. Sadly, he died in 2015 leaving some unfinished works and a plan for the series. Shortly before he passed, he asked me to continue the series.  

That brings back some difficult memories for sure, maybe for another interview.

2. Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

Honestly no unless you can count business plans and marketing blurb for property sales and rentals. I always ‘knew’ I was destined to be self-employed, so writing that sort of thing just sort of flowed. That was in a previous professional life before I quit the rat race and bought a boat to live aboard.

There was a period when I was living on the yacht, that I passed some time writing the start of a crime series – about a nearly retired Police Inspector in The Metropolitan Police in London. I’ve got a few novels underway and a serious lead character with a grudge against the system. But to be fair, cruising around the Mediterranean, popping into Tavernas and mingling with yachties took up a lot of time and I was never that serious about getting them finished.  They are on the back burner whilst I concentrate on The Merriman Chronicles.

3. How difficult was it writing your first book?

It’s certainly been a long process. Just getting into the right place psychologically after my dad passed away was difficult enough. It took until the end of 2022 to get his last novel ‘The Fateful Voyage’ published.  I’m glad I did though, because it rekindled interest in the series, plus helped boost sales beyond anything we could have expected. I think this was a bit of a catalyst for me – a kick in the butt if you like – to get on with the next book.

The starting point was always obvious – pick up where Dad intended the next novel to start. From that point of view, I already had a subject matter and a protagonist in Captain Sir James Abel Merriman.  I also had his crew, a ship and a period of history already mapped out to start the next novel.

There were certainly difficulties in getting the feel of the book right. Like Dad’s but also maybe adding my own flavour. There are some new characters and hopefully a bit of fleshing out of existing ones, adding some more dimensions. I hope so anyway, that’s what I was aiming for.

4. Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

Many times… next question!

5. Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

Uncomfortable question, sorry but can we move on?

6. Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Probably this book can be read as a standalone novel, but it’s much better to be acquainted with the series. Start with ‘A Certain Threat’ and work your way through it.

If you want a flavour of my Dad’s writing without committing to a series, then try ‘The Fateful Voyage’ which is currently not connected with the rest, other than the name Merriman. I’ve set it as book 38 in the series, so it will link up one day. But that means I have a lot of work to do!

7. What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

Oh gosh, just general stuff, I guess. Read lots, write lots. If you want to be an author, then you need to stuff your head with other people’s work.

Wear sunscreen – I forgot a couple of times when I was sailing and seriously burnt my nose. Being severely “tutted” at by an elderly French Pharmacist in Brittany was an experience I don’t want to repeat.

8. What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

OK, this should be obvious – Dad’s old readership audience. There are quite a few reviews on Amazon stating that the reader was sad the series ended. Well, guess what…. Merriman is back!  Hopefully I can gain my own following if – and it’s a big if – that ‘The Threat in the Atlantic’ hits the spot.

9. Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

The cover? You mean the book cover?  Well, I worked with an amazing chap called Colin Baxter, a Marine Artist from the south of England.  I have followed his work for quite some time as he does beautiful paintings of the exact era the book is set. Think of HMS Victory and Admiral Nelson.  Anyway, I had messed around with AI which was a huge mistake, so decided that this next cover needed to be extra special.

We started with a scene from the book. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but it features HMS Thunder and The Hercule engaging in battle. I’ve now got the original painting hanging at home and limited edition signed prints are available which makes it so much more special.

Colin is on social media if you want to check out his other work:-

@ColinMBaxter

10. What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

I have a plan for the next book, but not ready to share too much yet. Besides it might spoil the ending of ‘The Threat in the Atlantic’.

11. Any last words before we wrap things up?

I think I would like to give encouragement to indie authors. It’s tough having to do everything – writing, editing, proofreading, publishing, promoting…… you know the list goes on. But…. I also know that it can be rewarding. Being “published” with an agent and traditional publisher isn’t always the best route to market. At least as a self-published author, you control your own destiny… sort of!

Bio:

Robin Burnage is a first-time author taking on the challenge of continuing his late father’s series “The Merriman Chronicles”. His debut novel “The Threat In The Atlantic” picks up the story of Captain James Merriman on his return from his mission in the Adriatic in 1810.

Previously a property professional (for which he does actually have recognised qualifications), sailing and travelling always had a greater pull than accounting and spreadsheets.

He sold his business in 2012, bought a yacht and headed off on a five-year adventure as a full time liveaboard sailor. He also then travelled through Europe in an old Land Rover and then a motorhome before settling back in bricks and mortar.

He currently lives in Wales overlooking sand dunes and the Irish Sea As always he is dreaming about his next adventure.

Links:

Amazon author pages: 

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Robin-Burnage/

https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Robin-Burnage

Website:

https://www.merriman-chronicles.com/

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7419857.Robin_Burnage

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MerrimanChronicles/

Twitter:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/merriman1792/





West of Santillane

May8

Please welcome Brook Allen to my blog. Hello Brook. Please come and sit down for a chat this morning.

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post. It’s such a pleasure to be here, Mary! I write historical fiction and my goal with a novel is to immerse the reader within the period and create believable characters. I still have a day-job (sigh), but I hope to retire soon and devote myself to full-time WRITING! I love traveling, reading, and researching my next project, and snuggling with my black Labrador, Jak.

How difficult was it writing your first book? It took fifteen years to write the Antonius Trilogy. First off, I didn’t know what I was doing. Second, during that time, my aging parents needed caregiving, so Antonius took a backburner to everything. They were so supportive, and my dad read many of my drafts for Son of Rome. However, they passed on before I was ever able to publish the complete Trilogy.

Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you? Not getting traditionally pubbed has certainly given me pause, and lately, it seems that marketing a new book has become so much more difficult and frustrating. However, I believe in my work and I’m a stubborn old woman who refuses to give in.

Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer? Naturally, my husband has been SO supportive and even helps me problem-solve when I have plot-holes. However, NYT bestselling novelist Margaret George has become a very dear friend and has cheered me on every step of the way. She sees the positives in self-publishing when so many traditionally published authors do not. And more importantly, she doesn’t consider my work “less” than her own just because I am self-published. We have such a great relationship. I treasure her.

What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom? A scholarly man once told me, “Knowledge is never wasted.”. I’ve really taken that to heart with my researching process. I start researching six months ahead of starting to write, letting ideas and possibilities tumble through my mind. Then, once I begin writing, I’m STILL researching as I go. I find myself able to include jewels of information that pops up in certain scenes that I’d never considered adding. Knowing your stuff about the subject-matter associated with a project is integral to its success.

What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience? I write for adult audiences who want to know something more about a historical character, or who might be fascinated by my book’s cover or back-cover blurb.

What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt? I’ve just completed a new work: WEST OF SANTILLANE, the untold story of Julia Hancock. Julia married William Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition. Most of the story takes place after the men return from the Pacific, and most people aren’t aware of what took place once they came home. Honestly, there was just as much drama going on as when they were traveling west. What’s more—Julia was in the middle of much of that drama. It was fascinating, getting to sort through letters and documents of Lewis & Clark—getting to handle them. There was a glut of fine information, and my heartfelt prayer is that I did the project justice. So far, it’s gotten rave reviews.

Any last words before we wrap things up? Go pick up WEST OF SANTILLANE! It will have its first promo during the week of May 13th, and the Kindle version will only be .99. It’s Julia’s story of adventure, forgiveness, and self-discovery.

       WEST OF SANTILLANE PRESS KIT

ISBN: 9781732958579

***For bulk retail shipments of books/print on demand: Ingram-Spark:

https://www.ingramspark.com/

CONTACT INFO:

            Brook Allen, Historical Fiction Author

            133 Piper Glen

            Blue Ridge, Virginia 24064

            (540)520-3479

            1brook.allen@gmail.com

                                                   CONNECT WITH BROOK

EMAIL: 1brook.allen@gmail.com

WEBSITE: https://www.brookallenauthor.com/

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/1BrookAllen

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Historical.FictionWriter/photos/a.1921073788134240/274856848538 4762/

GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard?ref=nav_profile_authordash

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/brookallen54/

                                                            Brook Allen Bio

Author Brook Allen has a passion for history. Her newest project, West of Santillane spotlights history from a little closer to home. It’s the story of Julia Hancock, who married famed explorer, William Clark. Each character of this thrilling, adventurous period was researched throughout southwest Virginia and into Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, Idaho, and North Dakota. It launches in March of 2024.

Brook belongs to the Historical Novel Society and attends conferences as often as possible to study craft and meet fellow authors. In 2019, her novel Antonius: Son of Rome won the Coffee Pot Book Club Book of the Year Award. In 2020, it was honored with a silver medal in the international Reader’s Favorite Book Reviewers Book Awards and then won First Place in the prestigious Chaucer Division in the Chanticleer International Book Awards, 2020.

Though she graduated from Asbury University with a B.A. in Music Education, Brook has always loved writing. She completed a Masters program at Hollins University with an emphasis in Ancient Roman studies, which helped prepare her for authoring her Antonius Trilogy. Brook teaches full-time as a Music Educator and works in a rural public-school district near Roanoke, Virginia. Her personal interests include travel, cycling, hiking in the woods, reading, and spending downtime with her husband and big, black dog, Jak. She lives in the heart of southwest Virginia in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains.

                                    West of Santillane Back Cover Blurb

Desperate to escape a mundane future as a Virginia planter’s wife, Julia Hancock seizes her chance for adventure when she wins the heart of American hero William Clark. Though her husband is the famed explorer, Julia embarks on her own thrilling and perilous journey of self-discovery.

With her gaze ever westward, Julia possesses a hunger for knowledge and a passion for helping others. She falls in love with Will’s strength and generous manner, but, like her parents, he is a slave owner, and Julia harbors strong opinions against slavery. Still, her love for Will wins out, though he remains unaware of her beliefs.

Julia finds St. Louis to be a rough town with few of the luxuries to which she is accustomed, harboring scandalous politicians and miscreants of all types. As her husband and his best friend, Meriwether Lewis, work to establish an American government and plan to publish their highly anticipated memoirs, Julia struggles to assume the roles of both wife and mother. She is also drawn into the plight of an Indian family desperate to return to their own lands and becomes an advocate for Will’s enslaved.

When political rivals cause trouble, Julia’s clandestine aid to the Indians and enslaved of St. Louis draws unwanted attention, placing her at odds with her husband. Danger cloaks itself in far too many ways, leading her to embrace the courage to save herself and others through a challenge of forgiveness that will either restore the love she shares with Will or end it forever.

                                                Where to buy the book

                          *Print copies are now on sale for $19.99.

Amazon.com

amzn.to/48KZn3N

Book No Further (Roanoke Market)

Botetourt County Historical Society & Museum

***For bulk shipments of books/print on demand: Ingram-Spark:

https://www.ingramspark.com/

Fourth Gold Medal!!

May7

Congratulations!

Your book, Christmas in Evergreen, has been chosen as Best Book in the Category of Suspense, in the NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award Winners for Winter 2024.

Al Galasso

Winter 2024 Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards

Book Link

Synopsis:

“My husband, Steve, and I have always had a great relationship, married, for the last five years. He’s a private investigator, and I have my artwork. Much of his work involved using a special laptop, one that was rugged and lockable, in his home office and I had my art studio where I could lose myself in painting and creativity. Life was wonderful, until the day I read a completely chilling and startling “Hit List” on his computer screen. Confusion ran supreme in my brain and then it hit me. My name was at the top of that list! Wait! What? No! Never! Yet I read “Kim Daily” plain as day. What would you do if you found out you were the next target on your husband’s hit list? Steve intentionally left his laptop open for me to read. He simply can’t be an assassin! I would know. Or would I? No! That’s impossible! Steve has been the kindest husband for five years and he was a crack ass private investigator; not an assassin. Yet why was my name at the top of his hit list? Why did he even have a hit list? My mind reeling in shock, I had to do something to stay alive! Think, Kim, think! Get your best game on right now as time is running out!” 

Daisy

5.0 out of 5 stars The Heart of Evergreen Book 1

Reviewed in the United States on January 12, 2024

Christmas in Evergreen is a story that grabs a reader from page one with a hook that never let’s go. Kim discovers the unthinkable. Staring back on her husband’s laptop is a hit list. Shock wraps around Kim as she sees her name sits at the top. Accepting the truth of this discovery, Kim flees for her life. The reader goes along worrying and fearing each step of the way. Expect to gulp extra breaths of air as you turn the pages.

With the help of others, Kim escapes to the town of Evergreen. She grabs the opportunity to begin anew…if that’s even possible.

The author has set the wheels in motion for Evergreen to become an enthralling and exciting series. The best is yet to come!


Adele Royce

5.0 out of 5 stars Plot-twisting Action Plus Heartwarming Romance

Reviewed in the United States on February 3, 2024

Verified Purchase

In Mary L. Schmidt’s latest novel, she pulls the reader into a sinister assassination plot that threatens her main character, the courageous and beautiful, Kim. When Kim’s perfect life is disrupted by the discovery her husband might just be trying to off her, she takes matters into her own hands. What results is a deep dive into a new life Kim never expected but might just be the light at the end of the tunnel. There is something for everyone in this heart-stopping thriller-turned romance. I can’t wait for the sequel!

Reader Editor

5.0 out of 5 stars The Suspense Builds and Then…. Wow!

Reviewed in the United States on January 16, 2024

Verified Purchase

Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen Book 1, by Mary L. Schmidt, an author who has a flair for detail and slowly building up to a stunning, unexpected, and life-changing occurrence. A story of how two women become friends through adversity, and how they progress in their lives. I cannot say more of what brought these two women together and how they fared after a tragedy without creating a spoiler. What I can say is that the character, Kim, flees for her life after inadvertently seeing something devastating on her husband’s laptop. I had high hopes this story would go another way, but it did not and Kim and her friend become bonded forever as they bring together the shattered pieces of the puzzle of their new lives. These women are strong and determined to make the most of what they are left with.

Again, Schmidt’s flair for detail brings us into a scene as if we are present with the characters. Her writing also shows evidence that she researches her topics, or perhaps builds many of her scenes from knowledge she already possesses. Since this seems to be the start of a series, I believe it will be an exciting one. This certainly cannot be the only life changing occurrence in these characters lives, so I am looking forward to the next book to see what life throws at these to women.

Full Circle

May5

Book Link

SECOND EDITION OUT NOW!!

The year is 1786 and in the quiet countryside of Mere in Wiltshire sits ‘The Willows’, a small estate whose sole produce has being the growing of flax. It has been the current family’s home now for three generations since inherited by George MacMartin in 1716. Elizabeth Hamilton – the present owner – and her son Stewart had lived alone there until a cousin; Alexander was taken into the family when Stewart was 12.

Life there has not always been peaceful, and for the last 21 years the house has held a secret from the past which has been kept safely hidden even from Stewart. His Father Andrew Duncan, who left when Stewart was just 3 years old, has been privy to this, and has used this secret many times to extort money from his wife Elizabeth to feed his gambling addiction.

Stewart Hamilton the son is impetuous by nature, but he is also a man of honour and justice who fights for those less able to defend themselves. As he says of himself ‘I have a hasty tongue,’ and this has been his downfall many times.

It is after Stewart marries that his life is turned into chaos, as by rescuing a young aristocratic girl Catherine Portman whilst on a journey to Exeter, it initiates a succession of vengeance and hatred against him and his family that lasts for a little over three years.

During the course of that time there are still many secrets to be to be unveiled, some good, some life threatening, some life changing, but it is how they reveal themselves that transforms the lives of many people irrevocably….

I Just Found Out!

Apr22

PenCraft’s Spring Seasonal Book Awards

We are proud to announce that your book Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen, has been selected as a winner of the 2024 PenCraft Seasonal Book Award Spring Competition. We hope this award inspires you to keep writing and helps you reach new heights in your career. The PenCraft Seasonal Book Awards recognizes books of remarkable literary quality, artistic excellence, and popularity with readers. Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen exemplified these criteria as a winner in the Fiction – Drama genre. We hope receiving this award will contribute to your ongoing writing success.

A complete list of winners is posted on the PenCraft Book Award site, and all winners will also be listed in a national press release within the next couple of weeks.

Each Seasonal category winner receives a personalized award certificate.

Each winner also receives a sheet of 24 Seasonal Best Book award seals for the PenCraft Spring Seasonal Best Book Award.

A National Press Release announcement of all winners.

All Seasonal Award winners are also invited to our Annual PenCraft Book Award Ceremony. The event will consist of Dinner and the awarding of personalized plaques to all “attending” winners. The award ceremony and Dinner will probably take place in Las Vegas in February or March of 2025.  You will be notified of the actual date and place after the announcement of the Annual Winners in October of this year.

We hope you and your significant other or friend can join us to celebrate and help honor you and all the talented authors whose books won.

David Hearne, Editor In Chief, PenCraft Book Awards

Beauty of Poetry

Apr11

Book Link

From Amazon:

Beauty of Poetry written by Author Brenda Mohammed is filled with poems of various genres separated by picturesque posters before every genre. She has penned poems on love, nature, world icons, world monuments, peace, motivational poems, and Christian life. As a cancer survivor, she has dedicated a section for persons fighting cancer, surviving cancer, or lost loved ones because of this dread disease. The book is easy to read as readers can read his/her favourite genres in the order they prefer. The famous English poet John Keats said, “An object of beauty gives us perennial joy. Beauty never fades and is not devalued. A thing of beauty is a joy forever and it makes us forget the sorrows and sufferings of the world.” Keats also conceptualized beauty as truth and truth as beauty. He said, “Beauty is truth, truth beauty that is all ye know on earth, and all ye need to know. Heard melodies are sweet, but those unheard are sweeter.” Another famous English poet, William Wordsworth said, “Poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words. Painting is silent poetry, and poetry is painting that speaks. Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings: it takes its origin from emotion recollected in tranquillity.” All the above describes the beautiful poetry in Beauty of Poetry, and what makes it special. It will be a beautiful asset to your library.

My Review:


Mary Schmidt

5.0 out of 5 stars Touching poetry Reviewed in the United States on April 7, 2024

Verified Purchase

This book is a very touching book with many poems that touch the heart. From writing about the beauty of a butterfly landing on one’s clothes before flying away, the beauty of gardens in other countries, overcoming situations in which she could have drowned, gone septic, cancer striking, an array of hard to fight viral illnesses, dengue, the list is endless but the central theme that with God all would be won persevered. The power of love for God and belief in Him is the driving force.

The Mysterious Disappearance of Mr Darcy

Apr4

Book Link

From Amazon:

What secrets lie in Mr. Darcy’s past?

During a summer sojourn in Ramsgate, Elizabeth Bennet meets Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy—an irresistible, eminent, and seemingly unobtainable model of an ideal gentleman. Following a whirlwind romance with Mr. Darcy and a blossoming friendship with Georgiana Darcy, her life is forever altered.

When Darcy disappears under mysterious circumstances, the new Mrs. Darcy’s world is thrown into chaos. A friend of Darcy’s provides much-needed support as Elizabeth is confronted with rumours insinuating lewd explanations for his absence. Could any of them be true?

In this Pride and Prejudice variation, a Regency mystery romance, Elizabeth cannot be certain what to believe or whom to trust. She is determined to find out what befell Darcy, but will the truth break her heart?

TRIGGER WARNING: THIS STORY MENTIONS A PAST ASSAULT ON A YOUNG WOMAN THAT IS THWARTED BY A MAIN CHARACTER.

My Review:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best one yet Reviewed in the United States on April 2, 2024

Verified Purchase

Miller doesn’t let up one little bit. In this Pride and Prejudice version, she has outdone herself. I loved this novel. Of course, most all characters are known to me, having read all of her other versions, and Jane Austin. I do find I love this version the best. Thanks.

Murder on Pointe

Mar15

Book Link

From Amazon:

Fiona can’t wait to attend the performance of Coppelia at the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh. Her old friend, Silja Ramsay, is dancing the principal role. They have dinner after the show, but when they return Pittsburgh Ballet Theater is down one dancer! Ballerina, Alexis Cartwright, has been found dead in the dressing room. Is this murder a result of hot tempers among the cast members? Or is it a random act of violence? Will there be more murders? Homicide Detective, Nathan Landry, isn’t taking any chances. After finding out Fiona has a strong background in ballet he recruits her to go undercover among the cast of Coppelia. Can Fiona help catch a killer, or will she be the next victim?

My Review:

First off, I’ve not read any of the books in this series in order. I’m okay with that. Reading book one was perfect since the last in this series was book twelve. Anyway, Fiona has a grandmother, now deceased, who starts fresh coffee for Fiona. That’s sweet. As in the other books I’ve read, this one involves murder and laughter both. Not that murder is funny since it isn’t, but being this is fiction, the humor is nice to have. Fiona goes undercover as a ballerina to help catch the one responsible for another ballerina’s death. The shenanigans go from there. Fiona lives to tell this story, and she’s in book 12 as well, so never fear, she lives.

Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather

Mar6

Please welcome Jordan K. Nightsage to my blog. Good morning, Jordan. Shall we have a chat?

1. Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hi Mary, thank you so much for having me here.  I’m Jordan, I am from Metro Detroit, Michigan, USA.  I am a relatively new author of illustrated children’s books, middle grade novel series, and young adult novel series in the epic fantasy adventure (with a touch of sci-fi) genre.  I am a single father with two young children who are my main inspiration to write and publish.  I am an attorney in my day job and currently a master’s student.

My books all take place on the continent Aurea Olam, on the planet Terris, in Alpha Dimension.  To give you an idea of how the fictional universe is set up, Earth is in Omega Dimension (where Leo James is from) and the highly advanced Sigmatic Civilization is from Sigma Dimension.  These are essentially parallel worlds and traveling between dimensions does not require space travel, at least not as far as I have gotten in the story so far.

My first illustrated children’s book, ‘Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather’ just came out in February and I am excited about it.  The next book in the series will be ‘Leo James and the Magical Golden Antlers’ and will introduce Milah Quin as Leo’s new friend.  I have two more children’s books written and being illustrated right now.  One of them will be called ‘Leo James and the Lion’s Magical Quest’ and the other will be titled ‘Milah Quin and the Quest for the Pirate’s Treasure’.  I am also working on a middle grade novel series, the first book of which will be called ‘Leo James and the Runestone Compass’.  I am also finalizing my first young adult novel called ‘The Wounds We Carry: The Eradicators, Part 1’.  Milah Quin will also star in the young adult sci-fi fantasy series ‘The Sigmatic Paradox’, the first book of which I am working on now as well.

2. Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

Writing has always been a part of my life but, up until 2023, I always focused on expository writing mostly for school and work.  As my children have grown to reading age, I have been inspired to start exploring this wonderful new world of creative writing.  I came up with the character of Leo James first and the rest has sort of grown from there.  Now I have a whole expansive fictional universe for my stories to take place in.  My first book idea was ‘Leo James and the Runestone Compass’; however, the first book that I finished was ‘Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather’.  I have been having so much fun through this whole journey, I would really like to do this full time if I can.

3. How difficult was it writing your first book?

I would not say that writing my first book was too difficult.  Publishing and promoting it have been more difficult.  I have learned a few valuable lessons the hard way through this process and hopefully I won’t make the same mistakes again.  There are a lot of details to attend to in publishing and time management is always difficult with kids, work, and school in addition to writing, publishing, and promoting my books and expansive universe.  ‘Fenix Feather’ is only about 1,000 words so it did not take too long to write.  My other books for older kids and teenagers have of course taken longer to write.

4. Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

I can’t say that I have wanted to give up, but I have definitely found myself discouraged and worrisome over a few bumps in the road that have come up.  For instance, after I had uploaded ‘Fenix Feather’ to a bunch of different platforms, applied for copyright registration for multiple versions of the book, and done a number of other time-intensive things for the book, I realized that there was an error from a previous draft in the final version.  I had to do a lot of work all over again despite having other responsibilities and opportunities to attend to—this was probably the closest I have been to quitting.  I did not quit though thankfully.

5. Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

I have several great people in my life who are very supportive of my creative endeavors.  Several family members and several friends have been very supportive, especially when it comes to helping with my kids when necessary.  My family and friends buy my books, share them with their friends, and are almost always ready to offer an encouraging word.  I couldn’t do any of this without the people around me, that’s for sure.

6. Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

First, thank you so much for picking up and reading my books!  Without my readers it wouldn’t be worth it to me.  I take great care in writing and editing to try to put myself in the shoes of my readers and write something that will be moving and meaningful to them, regardless of what their personal experiences have been in life.  I want to speak to my readers’ mind, soul, and spirit when I write.  I also always appreciate constructive feedback, so don’t ever be afraid to contact me by social media or through my website at https://JordanKNightsage.com.

7. What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

Let’s see, I have gotten a lot of good advice over the years so I will keep it to book advice.  I would probably say that the advice to seek out advice and guidance from other authors and people in the industry who know more and have more experience than me has probably been the best advice I have received.  The reader and author communities have really been very friendly and helpful, which has been a very pleasant surprise since I started writing and publishing.  I would give this advice to other new authors as well—know when to ask for help.  And check out the reviews when selecting freelancers—having someone to recommend a freelancer from personal experience is often even better.

8. What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

As mentioned above, my target audience is children ages 4-9 and their parents for illustrated children’s books.  My children’s books use fantasy, fairy tales, and modern mythology to teach very human and I believe timeless lessons to kids.  For instance, ‘Fenix Feather’ deals with themes of facing fear, courage/bravery, friendship, family reunification, and helping others (specifically helping animals but I think the lesson applies to others in general).

My middle grade books are intended for kids 8-12 and anyone who enjoys fantasy adventure books like ‘The Hobbit’, ‘Harry Potter’, ‘Percy Jackson’, and ‘The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe’.  I work in some more mature topics, there are real antagonists for the heroes to struggle against (unlike in the children’s books), and I work in themes like courage in the face of unstoppable evil, family, fellowship, depending on your friends, being someone your friends can depend on, resilience, self-sacrifice, and some conservationist/environmental themes as well.

My young adult books have an intended audience of 12–18-year-olds and anyone who enjoys epic fantasy adventure stories like ‘The Lord of the Rings’, later ‘Harry Potter’ books, ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’, and even Star Wars.  I incorporate more mature themes (ex. discrimination, immortality, war and warfare, vengeance vs. mercy, forgiveness vs. hatred, romance, etc.).  I also explore more moral ambiguities and philosophical dilemmas.

All of my writing seeks to bring meaning and a human touch to the various fictional fantasy situations and stories unfolding.  I try to incorporate observations on human nature and society into all my writing as well.  All my middle grade and young adult books also have overlapping characters, locations, and storylines, with the intention of concluding the franchise saga in a future young adult series I have not yet started yet besides some basic outlining called ‘The Reclamation of Light’.

9. Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

The cover for ‘Fenix Feather’ was illustrated by professional illustrator Tamara Piper, who is a great person and great to work with all the way around.  I highly recommend Tamara if anyone is looking for a good children’s book illustrator.

10. What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

My first illustrated children’s book, ‘Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather’ just came out in February and I am excited about it.  The next book in the series will be ‘Leo James and the Magical Golden Antlers’ and will introduce Milah Quin as Leo’s new friend.  I have two more children’s books written and being illustrated right now.  One of them will be called ‘Leo James and the Lion’s Magical Quest’ and the other will be titled ‘Milah Quin and the Quest for the Pirate’s Treasure’.  I am also working on a middle grade novel series, the first book of which will be called ‘Leo James and the Runestone Compass’.  I am also finalizing my first young adult novel called ‘The Wounds We Carry: The Eradicators, Part 1’.  Milah Quin will also star in the young adult sci-fi fantasy series ‘The Sigmatic Paradox’, the first book of which I am working on now as well.

And sure, here is an excerpt from ‘The Wounds We Carry: The Eradicators, Part 1’:

***

Rylan stared into the fire as it danced violently, oblivious to the turmoil within Amon. Both men sat completely still as they soaked in the eerie silence of the dark of night. The moonless sky overhead was like a bland canvas sparingly lit by the specks of stars that dared to interrupt the bleakness of the night. 

Amon was seething as he sat a few feet away from Rylan, and he consciously chose not to speak to anyone after he returned to camp until he saw and spoke to The Razer. When he spoke, he kept a lid on the emotions that bubbled beneath the surface.

“I need to ask you something, and I need you to be completely honest with me, Rylan Wolfmark.”

Rylan threw kindling into the fire and watched as it sent flames into the air before he replied. “A conversation that starts with you calling me by my full name—I’m not sure I like where this is going.”

Rylan’s face remained stern throughout his delivery, slightly confusing Amon if he meant it to be in jest. However, that was not the biggest question on his mind, so he continued unperturbed. 

“How long have you known about Ferox Renovae and the Desolatari and kept it to yourself?”

He kept his eyes fixed on Rylan as he asked the question, studying his reaction as much as his choice of words. 

Rylan drew long, steady breaths as he contemplated his response. 

“Amon… The burden of a leader…”

Amon interrupted him with a curt hand in the air as he looked away momentarily in disgust. “That was not what I asked, Rylan. How long did you continue to lead us into battle after I told you about the visions that plagued me? After I told you that every swing of my sword had started to haunt me?”

“He has spoken to you?” Rylan asked.

“That was not the question, Rylan. I need to hear you admit that you hid the truth from me and the others.”

“I should have done better,” Rylan finally admitted. 

“You can start today by releasing the people we have in cages,” Amon suggested. 

Rylan went mute for what felt like an eternity before he answered. “I can’t, Amon. I’m sorry, but I cannot. I wish I could look into your eyes and tell you that I believe that they are no longer threats to lives, that I can live with myself after what I watched them do to my family… I’ve chosen this path, and I know it will take its toll, as all war does. I must stay true to my mission even if it means I must deaden my heart. Even if it means I must sacrifice pieces of my own soul.” He paused as the weight of his next words settled on him. “I’m sorry, Amon. I must do it this way.”

Amon’s eyes welled up as he heard Rylan’s words. His compromised vision did not allow him to see the streak of fluid that rolled down the side of his war brother’s cheeks. “Thank you for being honest with me.”

“It was the least you deserved.”

Amon rose slowly with an exaggerated grunt, knowing it might be the final time they sat together like that. “Thank you for all the years, Rylan.  You have been a father to me.”

***

11. Any last words before we wrap things up?

Well, I just want to say thank you again for having me, Mary.  And thank you again to all my fans and readers—you are truly appreciated.

Author Bio:

Jordan K. Nightsage, the creative mind behind Aurea Olam, the planet Terris, and Alpha Dimension, hails from Metro Detroit, Michigan, USA. Jordan’s books include children’s, middle grade, and young adult fantasy adventure with a touch of science fiction. A dedicated father of two young children, Jordan’s tales draw from the classic inspirations of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, J. K. Rowling, and George Lucas, weaving a tapestry of epic fantasy and vibrant science fiction with threads of everyday relatability.

Jordan fostered a lifelong dream of weaving his own narratives. He writes with the intention to entertain and ignite thought and empathy, hoping to add a small yet meaningful stroke on the canvas of the world through his words.

Through his novels and short stories, Jordan invites readers of all ages to take part in an exciting voyage of fantasy, discovery, and personal growth. His narrative voice is a testament to the power of stories, how they can serve to entertain, educate, and inspire.

‘Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather’: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CR1YWSFB

Find More of Jordan’s Books: https://amazon.com/author/jordanknightsage

Official Website & Blog: https://jordanknightsage.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jordannightsage

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjordannightsage

Deep Blue Murder 

Mar6

Book Link:

From Amazon:

Fiona is delighted when her new mother-in-law, Rita Landry, invites her and Nathan to a private island in the Bahamas owned by a US ambassador. Sun, sandy beaches, and romantic, tangerine sunsets await the newlyweds, but for Rita and her executive assistant, Hal Underwood, the trip to Deep Blue Isle is a working vacation. Ambassador Taslow has summoned them to the island to discuss a scandal he has fallen victim to. However, when the Landry’s and Hal arrive, they find less than welcoming circumstances: no internet or Wi-Fi, mischievous monkeys, a dangerous tenant, and then there’s that pesky dead body. A storm is brewing on Deep Blue Isle, and it has nothing to do with wind and rain.

My Review:

Mary Schmidt

5.0 out of 5 stars Another winner!! Reviewed in the United States on March 4, 2024

Verified Purchase

This book has been a wonderful read, just like other books in this series. I loved the setting and the creative manner in which the author wove into the story the host of many villains, or maybe one or two? I can’t give away everything, can I? The characters are lively and engaging. The mysteries intrigue, and the setting is relaxing if you’re not one of the main characters. I’ve never heard of wood flooring of any type used on an island anywhere, so I would like to know how it was made or protected from island humidity. Something had to be used on it to make it work. Hopefully, the author will clue me in since I’m clueless. Fiona’s grandmother is a cool ghost, to say the least. Protective of Fiona and Nathan, she is, and brings me to my next question. Has this author been in the presence of a ghost type of situation in real life?