Reviewed: August 25th, 2024 Released: July 22nd, 2023 Genre: MM Fantasy Romance
Apprentice magician Talisman Morning has always been lucky. It’s a problem.
Talis knows his luck is a magical talent — but he can’t control it. And good luck for him can mean bad luck for other people, and a lot of trouble. He’s beginning to wonder whether he belongs with the magicians at all, or whether he should give up and run away … until he meets a royal guard who asks for his help.
King’s guard Jeryn de Machaut could use a magician. He thinks he’s overheard a plot against the king, but he has no evidence and no support. But a wayward apprentice with a knack for being in the right place — and stumbling over hidden objects — might be exactly the luck Jer needs.
Together, Jer and Talis will uncover a palace conspiracy, save a king, and find their own best chance at love. Read My Thoughts…
I am very pleased to welcome Erica Sebree to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her fantasy Wild Heart series.
Helen: Welcome Erica. I am very excited to learn more about your series. I saw your latest book, Wild Heart of the Magic released on May 1st, 2024 and you’re working on book four. Tell us a little about it.
Erica: I’m currently working on the fourth book in the Wild Heart fantasy series. Because it’s a series, I’ll tell you a little about books 1-3. Wild Heart of the Storm is the first in the series, and follows the classic fantasy quest trope. The main character comes into her magic unexpectedly when she brings a dead wolf back to life. Not long after, assassins track her down, and she’s forced to flee with the mysterious town metalsmith. Book one features secret identity, found family, untamed magic, and confronting the past. Book two, Wild Heart of the Crown, dives into court intrigue, ancient secrets, and a desperate attempt to heal a barren landscape. Court members continue their scheming in book three, Wild Heart of the Magic, which grows to include hordes of prospective noblemen. With the alarming truths revealed in book two and the barrenness continuing to spread, hidden objects imbued with dark magic must be found (and destroyed) before it’s too late. Book four, Wild Heart of the Darkness, tackles the fallout of the events at the end of book three, and includes a journey back across the sea.
Helen: I love the colours of your covers. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?
Erica:Wild Heart of the Storm features a vast landscape that represents both the starting and ending points of the main character’s journey. It also features her strongest magical ability, wielding storms.
Wild Heart of the Crown takes place mostly in the capital city, so I wanted to feature a portion of the palace—particularly the glass dome of the throne room—and the magical lights (a reflection of magic in the land) in the night sky.
Wild Heart of the Magic revolves around…magic! The unordained priestesses also become more central in book three, so illustrating the opulent temple from the beginning of the book seemed like the perfect setting.
Helen: I love learning the detail behind the covers. I think titles are sometimes even harder to think up! How did you come up with your titles?
Erica: The title for Wild Heart of the Storm came about in a couple of different ways. When I first started compiling a list of all the keywords that described the book, I kept coming back to “wild heart” and was reminded of the movie I saw when I was a kid, Wild Hearts Can’t be Broken. It’s a story about a woman who performs high-dives into tiny pools…on a horse! How incredible is that? So I knew I wanted to include “wild heart” in the title. More specifically, the title highlights all of the main character’s magical abilities: wild represents her ability to grow and direct plants, heart represents her life-giving power, and storm represents her storm magic. But wait, there’s more! “Wild heart” also represents the main character’s independence, and “heart of the storm” illustrates the final battle in book one. As for the series, I wanted to carry that naming structure through to each book. Wild Heart of the Crown focuses a lot on the main character’s new role as queen, and Wild Heart of the Magic brings the magic of their world to the forefront.
Helen: Writing a series is such fun, beacuse you can really dig into the characters and thier backstories. Who was your favourite character to write?
Erica: Both Hazel and Cadwyn are my favorites! I just love fiercely loyal friends. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a big fan of the love interests too (I read a lot of romance), but the unwavering friendships are where the heart of the story is.
Helen: If your main character could answer this question, why would they say we should read your book?
Erica: She would tell you that strength is always inside you, even when it feels out of reach. She’d tell you to find small moments of joy, and to laugh even when things feel beyond overwhelming. She’d tell you to take care of the people, animals, and land under your protection—though the author argues that self-sacrificing isn’t the only way to do this. And finally, she’d tell you that family can be found anywhere, and those who seem prickly at first might end up being your fiercest allies.
Helen: Lovely answer! Which genre do you prefer to write?
Erica: I love writing fantasy because I have the privilege of creating the world. It’s incredibly freeing. There’s a lot that goes into it—geography, history, government, social structures, magic systems—but it also means I get to create a space that’s more equitable and inclusive. And just like reading fantasy offers an escape from the stresses of our lives and the chaos of the world, writing fantasy does too. I feel like I’m able to correct some of the injustices I’ve experienced or witnessed. It’s far from perfect, but it’s a small way I can take action—even if only for my own peace of mind.
Helen: I love world building as well. I sometimes think the new world is almost another character with its own quirks and foibles. If world building frees you, which element of the writing process do you find most challenging and why?
Erica: I have such a hard time with transitions! I’m a very organized writer, so I know all the plot points and character arcs. I find inspirational images for locations, structures, weapons, clothing…you name it! But when it comes time to flow from one scene to the next, I get stuck. I don’t always feel like a scene break is appropriate, especially if only a short amount of time passes between the two scenes. I also want the transition to contribute something to the story. Even if those couple of lines don’t move the plot forward, I hope they offer a glimpse into the fantasy world or the dynamics between characters.
Helen: Most indie authors work as well write. How do you fit writing into your everyday life?
Erica: I’ve tried a lot of things over the years (while working a full-time job), and I’ve found that writing for about an hour most evenings is ideal. When I attempted to write in the mornings before work, my mind was free from distractions, but my creativity was lacking. By waiting until the evening to write or outline, I find that ideas and words come to me more easily. And with all my tasks completed for the day, my mind doesn’t wander much.
Helen: Do you plan your books, or are you more of a pantser, making it up as you go?
Erica: I’m a bigtime planner! I had over one-hundred pages of outlines and character descriptions before I started writing the first book in this series. My planning technique of choice is the Snowflake Method. It’s about starting small, then expanding. Over and over. For example, you start with one sentence that describes your story, then expand it to two sentences, then a paragraph, then a page, then four pages. By that point in the process, the plot is pretty clear. Next comes the character summaries. Along with their own sub-plots, each character needs a backstory, motivations, goals, conflicts, and an epiphany (or two). Finally, you outline every scene in the book. I use a spreadsheet so I can reorganize as needed. Others might prefer a text document or a program like Scrivener. The thing I love most about this process (aside from all the organization) is that it’s difficult to run into writer’s block with everything planned out so well. I highly recommend it for anyone that prefers planning or needs guidance with building out their characters.
Helen: There are a lot of methods out there, I think it is key to find the one that works for you. Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?
Erica: Before I wrote my very first chapter, I listed all the things that scared me about taking on this huge project. I worried my writing wouldn’t be any good. I worried I wouldn’t finish the book, let alone five. I worried no one would read my books, or if they did, that they wouldn’t like them. That small exercise took away a lot of my anxiety about writing and publishing. When I need a confidence boost, I go back and read that list. Then I remind myself that I did write a book (three so far), that people do actually read them, and most seem to like them!
Helen: What is the most useful piece of writing advice you’ve received, and by whom?
Erica: Owen and Jodi Egerton spoke at a writing conference that I attended several years ago, and they were delightful! I felt so inspired that I immediately bought their book, This Word Now. There’s a lot of wonderful advice in that short book, but the part that really stuck with me was about writing for yourself and no one else. I have to remind myself of that whenever I start thinking about the audience or doubting my work.
Helen: Great advice. I write for the joy of it. I am fortunate that when I decided to self-publish, my books were well recieved. You have to enjoy your writing in the first place. When you encounter writer’s block, what do you do to overcome it?
Erica: Luckily, writer’s block doesn’t happen too much for me (except with those pesky transitions), but when it does creep up, I step away from my computer. Going for a walk is ideal, depending on the time of day. But any mundane tasks—cooking, folding laundry, or watering the plants—really help to reset my creativity. And the adage that great ideas come to you in the shower is one-hundred percent true!
Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today, Erica. It has been great meeting you. Just to finish, what advice would you share with aspiring writers?
Erica: Find what works best for you! When I first started writing, I heard a lot of the write-every-day advice, and that simply didn’t work for me. I had to figure out what my own process looked like, as I think every writer should. If writing is—or becomes—a struggle, try something different. Does writing in the morning or the evening work better for you? How long can you write and still feel like your creativity is flowing—one hour, four hours, 20 minutes? Where do you write best, at home or at a coffee shop? Do you need absolute silence or does music help? Experiment with different methods of writing. If plotting and outlining isn’t working, try stream of consciousness writing. Does your story flow better when you write in a linear fashion or should you jump around to different scenes? And if a particular scene isn’t coming out the way you’d intended, try writing it from a different character’s point-of-view.
About the Author
Erica Sebree
Erica Sebree lives in Austin, Texas, where she works in public service as a graphic designer. She reads too much romance and drinks too much tea—usually at the same time. She makes frequent attempts at gardening, and will happily talk to any animal who crosses her path. She believes lists should be written in colorful ink, and dreams of one day having a farm sanctuary with many adorable cows. When she escapes into fantasy worlds, it’s to places where magic is vital, animals are guardians, and a stubborn bodyguard’s only weakness is the fierce, reluctant heroine he’s sworn to protect.
As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
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Author ofthe middle grade series, Tally and the Angel.
I am very pleased to welcome Eleanor Dixon to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her fourth book in the Tally and the Angel series, The Sands of Time.
Helen: Welcome Eleanor. Congratulations on your new release. I am very excited to learn more about your series. Tell us a little about it.
Eleanor:Tally and the Angel: The Sands of Time is a middle-grade (8 to 13 yrs) adventure that whisks readers to a sun-drenched Greek island where Tally faces her most thrilling quest yet. As the fourth book in the series, this standalone story blends fantasy and everyday life, letting readers explore Greece through Tally’s eyes. Having lived there for twenty years, I’ve infused the book with authentic details, making readers feel like they’re right alongside Tally.
Helen: What a wonderful way to introduce history to young readers. Your cover has a flavour of the mediterranean. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?
Eleanor: The cover of The Sands of Time captures the book’s essence: a churning sea mirroring Tally’s inner turmoil as the mighty Poseidon looms. It’s a visual invitation to join Tally on a high-stakes adventure. I wanted to evoke a sense of wonder and danger, enticing readers to dive into Tally’s world. It’s also great for a summer launch!
Helen: When did you realise you had a passion for writing?
Eleanor: The spark ignited young. School essays were my escape, where my imagination could run wild. I remember crafting stories at five, and by nine, I’d penned a full-length play (though sadly, never performed). My father was a superb storyteller and maybe I got some of those genes. It was many years before that passion turned into writing novels, but I always wrote a daily journal (and still do) and, from age ten, wrote weekly letters to my mother until she passed away when I was in my late thirties. Mum kept and catalogued all my letters and I still have them. They are sometimes a great source of inspiration for plots.
Helen: It’s wonderful to see your series going from strength to strength. They do look great together. Who inspired you to write?
Eleanor: Authors such as Tolkein, C S Lewis, Enid Blyton and J K Rowling all inspired me to write, but the person who kick-started me on my writing career is my best friend Phillipa. We danced, and lived, in Greece at the same time. One day I was telling her about a story I had made up in which I wreaked vengeance on someone who had wronged me. She persuaded me to ‘write it down’ and her encouragement led me to a creative writing course, where I discovered a talent I didn’t know I possessed. However, life and love briefly sidetracked me when I came back to England, and my writing was pushed aside. Eventually, it was my husband who encouraged me to take it up again. And I have never looked back. It was as if he had opened a floodgate. Ideas that had lain dormant for many years tumbled so fast out of my head, I couldn’t keep up. I am so grateful that he saw what was missing in my life and for his unwavering support ever since.
Helen: How do you get the ideas for a new book?
Eleanor: Ideas are like unexpected guests—they burst into my mind uninvited! A single word, a fleeting image, can spark a world. If I am starting a new book with no clear idea, I surf the internet and random phrases seem to ignite something in my brain. The curse that threatens the Yukon village in Tally’s second adventure was born from a trailer for a movie. One word in the movie’s title was the eureka moment for me, but I can’t tell what it was because it would be a huge spoiler! Other times, I lie down in a quiet place, close my eyes and visualise characters and settings until one captures my imagination. I also swim a lot and this is a brilliant time for examining my brain for themes. The time just whizzes by while I’m working out glitches or plot twists.
Helen: Ideas come from all over the place. With so many ideas, what are you working on next?
Eleanor: I’m currently weaving enchantment into the fifth book in the Amberwood Hall Ballet School series, which I write alternately with Tally and the Angel. Blending my ballet background with the supernatural means that Amberwood is not just any ballet school: it has ghosts! The idea for the first book came from an event that happened to me when I was ten years old and was a boarder in a girls’ school at the spookiest old house in the country. The fantasy element, which I love, is a big part of the series and readers don’t need to be ballet fans to enjoy Amberwood any more than one must be a wizard to enjoy Hogwarts.
Helen: What a wonderful combination, boarding school and ghosts!! With all these ideas flowing, do you find you plan your books upfront, or are you more of a pantser?
Eleanor: I started out as a pantser, but my editor has moulded me into a planner. She insisted she couldn’t work with me unless I write out the storyline, which we then discuss, and then a complete chapter breakdown before I write the actual novel. At first I really struggled! I toyed with the idea of writing the book, then going back and summarising it for her, subsequently wowing her with how quickly I finished it! But I never did that. I soon realised that I write much better for plotting the entire novel in advance. Of course, things change along the way and nine times out of ten, a character turns out to be totally different from the original idea. But having a frame to work to means I work much more efficiently. Plus, I don’t get sleepless nights wondering where it’s all going to end. It’s a wonderful preventative to writers’ block.
Helen: It sounds like you have an excellent editor! Have you ever experienced self-doubt as a writer, and if so, how have you dealt with it?
Eleanor: Self-doubt is a constant companion, but I’ve learned to channel it into motivation. Positive feedback from my editor and readers is a powerful antidote, reminding me of the joy writing brings. I always read the reviews for my books and this can be so uplifting.
Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today. It has been lovely learning about you and your books. Just to close us out, if you didn’t write middle grade what genre would tempt you?
Eleanor: The allure of adult fiction beckons. With a wealth of experiences as a young dancer, I have a world of stories to explore. So, I would like to write an adult novel using some of the events that happened to me. It is something I think about a lot. It would be a daunting task after Middle-grade literature because adult novels are so much longer. I’m used to wrapping everything up in about 40 to 50,000 words. I would enjoy the challenge of finding enough material and complexities of plot to fill 80,000 to 120,00 words.
About the Author
Eleanor Dixon
Eleanor Dixon writes exciting, page-turning, high-stakes books for young people (though many adults enjoy her books too!). Her Tally and the Angel series (recipient of Mom’s Choice and Literary Titan Gold Awards) are travel adventures with each book taking place in a different country. The series takes its inspiration from Eleanor’s extensive global travels. Visit different countries with Tally from the comfort of your seat. And help her and Jophiel, the angel, foil dastardly plots.
Eleanor used to be a ballerina and taught in her own school in Athens, Greece (she speaks Greek fluently!) and is well qualified to write her Amberwood Hall Ballet School series, about a ballet school with a difference: it has ghosts! The first two books have been shortlisted in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards and The Graceful Ghost, the first, has also been shortlisted in the UKSelfies2020 awards. If you want a free taster, download The Ghosts of Amberwood onto your Kindle for nothing! It is the prequel and tells how Grace and Rodney became… the ghosts of Amberwood.
Eleanor adores animals and always has dogs, cats, hens, sheep and an abundance of wildlife at her UK home.
As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.
By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.
Reviewed: August 15th, 2024 Released: September 3rd, 2009 Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Ten days after the war ended, my sister Laura drove a car off a bridge. These words are spoken by Iris Chase Griffen, married at eighteen to a wealthy industrialist but now poor and eighty-two. Iris recalls her far from exemplary life, and the events leading up to her sisters death, gradually revealing the carefully guarded Chase family secrets. Among these is The Blind Assassin, a novel that earned the dead Laura Chase not only notoriety but also a devoted cult following. Sexually explicit for its time, it was a pulp fantasy improvised by two unnamed lovers who meet secretly in rented rooms and seedy cafés. As this novel-within-a-novel twists and turns through love and jealousy, self-sacrifice and betrayal, so does the real narrative, as both move closer to war and catastrophe. Margaret Atwoods Booker Prize-winning sensation combines elements of gothic drama, romantic suspense, and science fiction fantasy in a spellbinding tale. Read My Thoughts…
This week I am chatting to Christine Priestly about her debut novel, Ella’s Dominion, which released on April 1st, 2024.
Helen: Welcome Christine. Congratulations on your new series. I am very excited to learn more about your books. That cover. It’s absolutely gorgeous!! Tell us a little about your book.
Christine: Book One of The Lost Warriors, Ella’s Dominion, is a dark mediaeval fantasy about forbidden magic, dark desires, and a woman’s struggle for power.
Born into a world that hates and fears what she is, Princess Ella of Erldan’s life has never been her own. A mere pawn in her family’s political machinations, she’s forced to hide her magic at the risk of enslavement—or worse. Against a backdrop of political intrigue and heresy, Ella finds herself torn between two brothers—lust for one and love for the other—and must confront the unintended consequences of using her powers to navigate the dangerous world she inhabits, lest she burn for it.
Helen: Your cover is gorgeous. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?
Christine: JV Arts (https://www.justventurearts.com/) did an incredible job representing the story’s iconography with this cover. The sword in the centre holds the Sacred Stone, once the source of magic (represented by blue mist), while the Sun and Moon (opposing religions) struggle for dominion.
Helen: It is always great to understand the author’s thoughts behind the cover design. Is there any special meaning behind the title?
Christine: The book explores various kinds of power, including magical, political, religious, sexual, and interpersonal, and the myriad ways people use, control, and suppress power. Navigating this world, the central character, Ella, born with powerful magic, yet rendered powerless, struggles for dominion over herself and her life.
Helen: What a great theme and plenty of content for you to work with. What made you write this particular book?
Christine: I didn’t intend to explore a particular idea or theme, but one emerged as the characters interacted with each other and their world. I studied mediaeval history at university and became fascinated with the various ways power and religion intersect. The story explores what it might be like to navigate a world where something you are born with and can’t change defies religious rule. The story follows several main characters, navigating power and privilege which sometimes conflicts with their own beliefs (themes very present in today’s world).
Helen: Who is the protagonist in Ella’s Domninon, and why did you write them?
Christine: Ella of Erldan was originally a minor character in a prequel for a book I wrote while in my teens. I became immersed in her story and started the series with her, a generation earlier, instead. She doesn’t follow the ‘chosen one’ archetype or trope of the ‘hero’s journey’ but is born into power and privilege. Yet, her situation renders her powerless, and she must navigate using the tools she has available—with some unintended and tragic consequences. While she starts out quite young and naïve, we see her grow across the series in a very adult world.
Helen: Which character was your favourite to write?
Christine: This is hard to answer. I enjoy writing so many characters. I love writing the villain, Gohran. He’s complex and broken, riddled with self-loathing and internalised hatred, and it’s fascinating to get inside his head, but he’s not someone I would ever want to meet.
My most likeable character would be Amber, Ella’s magic tutor, and my most fun character is Lynden, who becomes Ella’s friend and confidante. She’s someone I’d love to hang out with.
Helen: Congratulations again on publishing your book, such a great acheivement. When did you realise you had a passion for writing?
Christine: I can’t recall a time when I didn’t. I wrote stories in primary school, loved any class involving reading or writing, and studied writing and literature at university. I’m always immersed in stories.
My parents told me to ‘get a real job’ so I kept my writing as a hobby, with long hiatuses of ‘real life’ in between. Now, in my late 40s, I have found my way back to my passion.
When I reflect on my earlier work, I don’t begrudge the delay, because my writing benefited. My characters are stronger, more complex and fully realised now, and my stories are more mature and believable.
Helen: I agree, I think there is a time to write and a time to publish, and they are not necessarily the same. I started writing very late in life, though I have always been a huge reader. Who inspired you to write?
Christine: We always had books in our house growing up. My grandparents read to us, we read books in school, and I just loved immersing myself in different worlds. My sister and I read stories aloud to fall asleep to, and I remember loving any chance to write something creative in school.
Helen: Having now published your first novel, which part of the writing process did you find most difficult?
Christine: Writing the logistical elements of a story, whether that’s action in a scene, or larger plot elements involving lots of moving parts (in real life, I need to rotate maps to know which direction I’m facing!).
Helen: What are you working on next?
Christine: I’m currently working on Book Two in my debut series, Ella’s Curse. Ella’s Curse explores the consequences of the choices and actions that occurred in Ella’s Dominion.
Ella’s Dominion started relatively slowly, and built up with the sense, as one reader described, of ‘running towards the edge of a cliff’. That tension continues in Ella’s Curse, and shares heartbreaking and darker moments.
While Ella’s Dominion involved a love story, the series is definitely not a romance, so don’t go into it expecting a happy-ever-after!
As in Ella’s Dominion, Ella’s Curse follows multiple third person points of view, so we get to know the characters intimately, through the twists of their tangled webs.
I’m in the editing process now and can’t wait to deliver the final version to my readers!
Helen: So exciting that you have another book in the works! It has been wonderful chatting to you. Thank you so much for joining me today. Just before we finish, what advice do you have for aspiring authors.
Christine: Block out the noise of the ‘shoulds’ and enjoy your journey. Allow the story to evolve, hone your skills, and make the story as strong as it can be. If it connects with readers, and makes them feel invested, you’re doing a great job.
Thank you for having me.
About the Author
Christine Priestly
Christine Priestly is an Australian author with a penchant for sipping tea, cuddling cats, and spinning stories (and poles!) in her spare time. By day, she’s unravelling the mysteries of human desire as a sexologist and hypnotherapist, but by night, she’s weaving tales that will leave you breathless and entertained. Her work has appeared in magazines and anthologies over the years, adding a dash of darkness and a pinch of spice to the literary world. So, grab a cuppa, pet your feline friend, and get ready to dive into Christine’s world of words—it’s one wild ride!
As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.
By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.
Reviewed: July 26th, 2024 Released: April 4th, 2024 Genre: Fairytale Retelling
Natalia doesn’t believe in fairytales. Until she’s thrown headfirst into one. Now she has to trust a big bad wolf with both her life and her heart.
Natalia is done with men. Her cheating scumbag of an ex-boyfriend just the latest in a line of disappointments. She’s definitely not going to be taken in by a sexy Scotsman with an honest-to-God castle, a disturbing affect on her libido, and a shit-ton of secrets.
Damian knows she’s his fated mate. He’s waited his whole life for her after all. But Natalia doesn’t believe in destiny, or wolf shifters, and she sure as hell won’t trust him to keep her safe. But if she doesn’t then her life and his whole pack are in danger.
Scarlett Legacy is the first in the Highland Wolves series, a set of stand-alone but interconnected paranormal romance stories. If you like fairytale retellings and sexy Scotsmen in kilts, then you’ll love this fast-paced shifter romance. Read My Thoughts…
Reviewed: July 23rd, 2024 Released: March 23rd, 2013 Genre: Contemporary fiction
One USCG Commander + One Veteran Navy SEAL = Fireworks from Stem to Stern
When Coast Guard Commander Taylor Campbell returns to Rock Harbor, Texas, to tend to her uncle’s estate, she meets a veteran Navy SEAL, Jake Solomon, and learns her uncle didn’t drown accidentally. His murder was one in a string of murders of a group of Vietnam veterans who called themselves the Compass Points.
Before her uncle died, he sent Taylor a message with the location of his buried treasure. Unearthing it will place her squarely in the killer’s crosshairs, but she’s determined to fulfill her uncle’s last wish.
Jake, sent to protect her and find the killer, has other plans. Despite the fact she’s a feisty dynamo in a pint-sized package, his mission would be much easier to accomplish if he could forget how good she’d tasted when he kissed her. Read My Thoughts…
This week I am chatting to Michelle M. Pillow about her new Merely Mortal series,and the first book, Merely Mortal.
Helen: Welcome Michelle. Congratulations on your new series. I am very excited to learn more about your books. Tell us a little about them.
Michelle: My new release is an urban fantasy, Merely Mortal. It features a young woman, Tamara, a mortal who is born into a supernatural family. Being the odd one out, she’s been raised like a delicate little butterfly who needs to be protected. Everyone expected her to die first, as her natural lifespan is human. The story begins with her attending her family’s funerals. The police suspect her as the one responsible for the fire that killed them, and she’s forced to go on the run. That is when she meets Paul and his five-year-old daughter, who are dealing with their own loss. Things unravel from there.
I am especially excited to share that it marks the beginning of a brand new series and is my first venture into writing in the first person POV. This fresh perspective allows you to dive deeper into Tamara’s world, experiencing her emotions, conflicts, and victories firsthand. It’s been exciting to explore this new writing style, and I believe it adds an intimate layer to the storytelling. I can’t wait for you to join Tamara on her journey and experience the magic and mystery from her unique viewpoint.
Helen: I love the sound of your books, more to add to the TBR list! Your covers are beautiful. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?
Michelle: A big theme in Merely Mortal is Tamara’s transformational arc as she tries to find her place in the world. As a mortal, she’s been told by her supernatural family that she is not special and has an expiration date. The butterfly represents her change and coming into her own. There are also other symbolic meanings in the book, but I don’t want to give away spoilers.
Helen: Is there any special meaning behind the title?
Michelle: The title Merely Mortal reflects Tamara’s struggle with her human limitations while being born into a powerful supernatural family. It underscores her journey of self-discovery and the realization that her humanity is both a vulnerability and a strength. The phrase merely mortal challenges the notion of mortality as a weakness, instead highlighting the resilience and depth of the human spirit.
Helen: A bit of reverse psychology, maybe? What made you write this particular book?
Michelle: The themes of identity, belonging, and self-discovery are universal, and I wanted to explore them through the lens of urban fantasy. I liked amplifying these themes by showing how an ordinary human would navigate a world filled with extraordinary circumstances, and what it means to find one’s place in such a setting.
Helen: I love creating my own worlds, and I agree, fantasy gives you plenty of opportunity for unusual situations. The Merely Mortal series is urban fantasy, do you write in any other genres?
Michelle: I am a multi-genre author. Over my career, I’ve published everything from historical to futuristic, contemporary to fantasy to mystery to gothic. However, I primarily write paranormal and sci-fi romance, as well as urban fantasy. These genres allow me to blend elements of romance, adventure, and the supernatural, creating rich, unique worlds. The flexibility enables me to explore complex themes and characters.
Helen: Who is your protagonist and why did write him/her?
Michelle: Tamara, the protagonist, is a complex and relatable character—just like we all are. I wrote her to explore the theme of self-discovery in a world that constantly challenges her sense of identity. This is something I feel many can relate to. Her journey is one of growth and resilience, reflecting the universal struggle of finding one’s place in the world, especially when you don’t feel like you belong in your own family.
Helen: If Tamara could answer this question, why would she say we should read your book?
Michelle: LOL, she’d probably beg you to read it because she doesn’t want it to be over. She’d probably beg someone to take over for me since I haven’t been the nicest to her.
Helen: We are so mean to our characters!! But we have to keep our readers hooked, so we don’t have much choice. How do you find new ideas for your books?
Michelle: Ideas for new books often come from a mix of personal experiences, random observations, and what if scenarios. Sometimes, a single image or a snippet of conversation can spark an entire story. I also draw inspiration from history, mythology, and various cultures, weaving these elements into my fictional worlds.
Helen: I’m one for the ‘what if’ questions. They do lead you down interesting paths. With all these ideas bubbling, what are you working on next?
Michelle: My current work-in-progress is Mostly Shattered, the second book in the Merely Mortal series. This installment will delve deeper into Tamara’s journey, uncovering new threats and alliances in the supernatural realm. The themes of mortality and belonging will continue to play a central role as Tamara grapples with her evolving identity and the responsibilities that come with it.
Helen: Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?
Michelle: I remind myself of the reasons I started writing in the first place, and I rely on the support of my writing community and family. I also remind myself to take breaks. Burnout can lead to negativity and doubt.
Helen: Have you ever experienced writer’s block, and if so, what do you do to overcome it?
Michelle: Switching gears and working on admin or marketing before returning to the book with fresh eyes helps. Sometimes you just need to step away and let it breathe.
Helen: I find that the most difficult, leaving the book to stand for a while, but you are right, a fresh pair of eyes will make all the difference. What is the best thing that’s happened since you began writing?
Michelle: The best thing has been the connection with readers. Their support and enthusiasm for my stories are incredibly rewarding. Knowing that my books have touched their lives and provided escape and inspiration is the most fulfilling aspect of my career.
Helen: Most authors are great readers. What is your favourite book?
Michelle: One of my favorites is Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. I love it for its witty dialogue, stubborn characters, and observations of human nature. Also, Mr. Darcy’s first botched proposal. It never fails to make me sigh and laugh at the same time. Austen’s ability to weave romance and strength within the confines of the social norms of her time is something I greatly admire.
Helen: It has been wonderful chatting to you. Thank you so much for joining me today. Before we close was there anything else you’d like to add?
Michelle: The camaraderie and support of the writing and reading communities are invaluable. These are friendships I cherish. I truly believe rising tides can lift all boats.
Thank you for having me.
About the Author
Michelle M. Pillow
Michelle M. Pillow is a prolific NY Times & USA TODAY bestselling author with over a million books sold. Though she writes in many genres, she is best known for romance and mystery. Her rich world building creates portals for the imagination. She is a winner of the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. Fan favorites include the Qurilixen World (a multi-series collection), Order of Magic series, and Warlocks MacGregor series. She loves to interact with readers. Visit her at MichellePillow.com.
As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
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This week I am chatting to Ben Schenkman about his latest release in the The Devil You Know series, Dueling Shoulder Angels.
Helen: Welcome Ben. Congratulations on your new release. I am very excited to learn more about your series. Tell us a little about it.
Ben: My current books are the first two in my series, The Devil You Know.
The first, My Boss is the Devil, focuses on a barista named Nick who is stuck in a dead-end job and dissatisfied with his life. He goes to work for the Devil and has to grapple with the concepts of good and evil. It subverts expectations, because the Devil isn’t what you expect in this story. He has to decide if the ends justify the means, and if it’s worth his soul to make a difference in the world.
The second, Dueling Shoulder Angels, which is just being released now, is a continuation of the story. No spoilers on the first book, but where the first book focused on the Devil, the second introduces God. It also expands the role of Amy, the goth witch/love interest from the first book, and has a redemption arc for another.
Helen: Your covers are very distinct. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?
Ben: I adore my cover(s)! The first book focuses on Lucifer, so has a devilish silhouette behind a faceless man in a suit. I always intended for the main character to be a bit of a mirror for the reader and let them put themselves in his shoes. The cover is a bit of a play on that, with the lack of physical details. There are also coffee icons throughout, which is one of the through-threads of the story. The color is perfect, it was always going to be red and fits with the Devil motif.
The second, introducing a secondary main character and God Themself, adds similar figures for those characters. We add occult symbols to the icons floating around, and change the imagery a bit. The green color is a nod to the “millennial green velvet couch” that appears in the book. My partner, in real life, has that couch.
Helen: You have chosen unusual book titles. Is there a special meaning behind the title?
Ben: My Boss is the Devil is a double entendre. It’s a colloquialism, but in this case it’s also literal. I started writing this book back in 2006, finished the first draft during NaNoWriMo in 2014, and shelved it until 2023. It’s always had the same title, I was very fond of it. I’ve had to reassure bosses of mine that the book is fiction, and not about them.
The second book, Dueling Shoulder Angels, is a play on the trope of the angel and the devil sitting on someone’s shoulders, whispering in their ears. Except Lucifer is a fallen angel, right? So it’s actually two angels, dueling for influence and control.
Helen: Sometimes the title just leaps out at you, and others it is hard work trying to find the right name. I have a new series and I am struggling to find the right titles! What made you write this particular book?
Ben: I was Nick, to an extent, when I started writing the first book. I was working a job with little prospects, and wasn’t sure about my future. I took some of that inspiration and asked, “What if someone like that got a chance to work for the Devil? What would happen?”
Helen: Writers are such curious folk. We are always asking question, which is why we come up with such great stories! When did you first realise that you had a passion for writing?
Ben: I’ve been writing off and on since I was a child. I remember writing stories in elementary school instead of playing outside with the other kids. I even won an award for a short story I wrote in middle school. I wrote poetry all through high school and into college, but then it sort of faded as a hobby with time. Getting back into writing in the past year has really been eye opening, reminding me that I still have stories to tell.
Helen: I’m glad you rediscovered your love of writing. Which genre do you typically write?
Ben: I write primarily contemporary/urban fantasy. I love the genre because there are so many interesting and magical things about the real world. It’s a way to blend mythology and magic with the intricacies of city life. All of my stories, so far, are set in New Haven, Connecticut. I went to college there, and it’s still one of my favorite stomping grounds. Urban fantasy is also one of my favorite genres to read, so I’ve read a lot of work in the genre.
Helen: How do you find the ideas behind your stories?
Ben: A lot of ideas just come to me when I’m not paying attention to anything in particular. I’ve got two new concepts in the background to work on that just came out of nowhere. I had a big document that I keep my ideas in, because otherwise I’d forget them just as quickly as they came. I love talking these things through with my partner, and my friends, and the best way to get ideas for stories is to just talk about them sometimes.
Helen: I agree, a friend of mine is my sounding board. She always gets to hear about my ideas first. Now you have caught the writing bug, what are you working on next?
Ben: My current WIP is the third book in my series. The current working title has been “The Devil’s in the Details” but I’m expecting to rename it before publication. It’s another continuation of the story, but adding in even more mythology. It’s the last book in the current series, but it leaves it open enough that I could write more in the same world later.
Helen: So you are busy writing, how do you fit it in to your daily routine?
Ben: I have a full-time job, a son at home (my eldest is engaged and lives with his fiance), a partner, a fire performance troupe, and other hobbies. The best thing I can do is to carve out a little time most days to write, even if it’s just thirty minutes. I mostly write when my son is asleep, after I’ve done all my other chores and exercise. But I also carve out time where I can. My partner and I do “coffee shop time” where we each bring a hobby (she’s an artist, knits, and is an avid reader) to a coffee shop and use that time for our creative pursuits. It’s a delight.
Helen: It sounds wonderful. Do you find you have to do much research for your books?
Ben: It really depends on the book, but I tend to do research in the moment. There are some things I need to work out ahead of time, but a lot of my research ends up being open Chrome tabs while I’m writing. If I’m hitting a part of a scene that I’m not sure of, that’s the time I’m going to take a quick break and do just enough research to make sure I’ve got it going in the right direction. My next book concept is going to take more up front research, though, and I’ve got a couple books on the specific culture/mythology I’m going to be working with.
Helen: It’s funny how we are constantly learning new things in order to write our books. Do you plan your books in advance?
Ben: I call myself a pantser with an outline, so I don’t know if that’s called a plantser? I tend to write linearly, with the story evolving in my head and making its way onto the page. The outline is ever-evolving, and I make notes throughout the writing of the book. But I don’t do a lot of pre-plotting, other than trying to map out rough word count beats. I like the “save the cat” story beats, and use at least a rough version of that in my writing process.
Helen: I think you have to use the method that works for you. Everyone is different, and as long as you are writing, that is all that matters. If you didn’t write urban fantasy is there another genre you would like to try?
Ben: If I didn’t write urban fantasy, I think I’d try and write epic fantasy or speculative fiction. My books would be much shorter than the chonks that a lot of authors seem to be putting out though. I’ve got an idea brewing in the back of my mind for a more epic style fantasy, but it’s going to be a minute before I get to that one.
Helen: I love world building so I tend to write epic fanatsy. Like you, I write what I love to read. What books have you read recently?
Ben: I’m currently reading the Debt Collection series by Andrew Givler, starting with Soul Fraud. He’s another contemporary/urban fantasy indie author. I would definitely recommend them, and it’s been really great seeing another author’s take on similar subject matter as my own books. I listen to a lot of audiobooks, and the narrator he has is very good.
Helen: Hmmm … More books to add to the tbr list! Thank you so much for joining me today. It has been lovely learning about you and your books. Just to close us out, do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
Ben: First, just keep writing. Words on the page are what matter. Second, decide why you want to write. If it’s about getting your story out there, and you don’t care about making money doing it, then your strategy is going to be different than if you’re trying to be a full-time author. You have to make a lot of choices in this business. Do you pursue traditional publishing vs self publishing? What genre you write in matters if you want to write books that “sell.” Considerations like these are important. You’ll save yourself some disappointment if you figure out what you want, to help guide you on how to do it.
About the Author
Ben Schenkman
Ben Schenkman likes many things in life: his 20-pound Maine coon cat, his family, his coffee, and his eclectic hobbies—not necessarily in that order.
Ben also likes to play devil’s advocate in his urban fantasy books by exploring the gray areas of good and evil with questions like, “Does the end really justify the means? Or is it all simply black and white?” Ben leaves these questions lingering in the ether to challenge readers’ conventional thinking and delve into the complexities of moral dilemmas.
As a native of Connecticut, Ben draws inspiration from his upbringing and college years in New Haven, where his novels take place. When he wants to escape being a writer, he’s a massive foodie who goes on gastronomic adventures, an overachiever who collects degrees in Theater, Nuclear Engineering, and an MBA, or the manager/performer of the fire dance troupe, HVBRIS—you know, the basics. No big deal.
Learn more about his work, or talk about coffee and cats, at his website.
As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.
If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.
By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.
Reviewed: July 18th, 2024 Released: February 28th, 2021 Genre: Science Fiction
When a high-ranking businessman and two clones are murdered, Marshal Onima Gwok of the Confederation Bureau of Investigation (CBI) gets assigned the case. But nothing quite adds up. Is there something more insidious going on? There is just one witness – a clone. When the war ended ten years ago, the clones who had fought it were discarded, forgotten, and became second-class citizens of the new confederation. Jace Rojas, designated AC J7-2247, is an infantry clone. When he proves to be more helpful than just being a witness to a murder, Onima decides to bring Jace along to join her team as they look for answers across multiple solar systems. But every question seems to produce no answers – only more questions. Will this be the start of a new war – or something worse? Read My Thoughts…
Helen Garraway 