Reviewed: November 2nd, 2024 Released: November 29th, 2023 Genre: YA Fantasy Epic Romance
Lars vows he’ll be a dragon rider one day, but the choices he’ll face could break his heart.
When Lars is chosen to be the harpist for Master Mage Giddi’s wedding at Dragon’s Hold, he’s honored to play for the mages, dragon riders and the mighty dragons who rule the realm. He vows one day he’ll also be a dragon rider and soar through the skies to protect Dragons’ Realm — and Lydia, the girl he loves.
Then strange new monsters attack Spanglewood Settlement. Lars must fight the village council to ensure their people are defended. Frustrated when the leaders won’t listen, Lars takes matters into his own hands.
But when he imprints with an amethyst dragon deep in Great Spanglewood Forest, Lars never suspects his actions could cost him the woman he loves.
And as he’s drawn deeper into danger, Lars is faced with choices that will shred his heart. Read My Thoughts…
Author ofthe children’s book The Magic of Misty Nook: Santa in a Camper.
I am very pleased to welcome Christine Skippins to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her children’s book series, The Magic of Misty Nook.
Helen: Welcome Christine. I am very excited to learn more about your series of children’s books set in Misty Nook. Tell us about the lastest, Santa in a Camper
Christine: The Magic of Misty Nook, Santa in a Camper is a fun romp through a Christmas party with current and past residents of the Misty Nook animal haven. Dogs and cats abound, and much fun is had by all! Each year, the elves that run Misty Nook (including Santa, himself and managed by Woody the Staffy dog) animal rescue throw a lavish party and invite past residents of Misty Nook to show they have not forgotten those alumni dogs and cats that have gone on to forever homes. I love that all the animals have such diverse personalities in the way they enjoy the festivities, and the separate feasts for dogs and for cats that allow their particular preferences to shine through. This book is a cute read, and would be great for a child with a bit longer attention span than other, pure illustration books with a line of text for each picture. The lovingly crafted portraits of the animals are great, though I would have liked to have seen some depictions of the party space. The book closes with Santa taking off in his camper van to deliver presents all over the world, after handing out gifts to the cats and dogs at the party. It’s a great, simple story for Christmas.
Helen: Your characters are bright and with lovable animal characters. Who is on the cover of Santa in a Camper?
Christine: So why shouldn’t our pets have a Fabulous Christmas party? The cover depicts Woody one of the main characters in his Santa outfit.
Helen: What made you write this particular book?
Christine: The book is inspired by volunteering at a local animal rescue centre and showcases the ways in which the staff enrich the lives of the animals that stay there. It also highlights how they stay in touch with their animal family even after they are rehomed.
Helen: How wonderful. That is a lovely message to remind children of the work that goes on behind the scenes in an animal rescue center. Who is your protagonist and why did you write her/him?
Christine: My Misty Nook stories all revolve around a Magical Animal Centre run by Woody, a Staffordshire Terrier who is the chief elf. He’s inspired by a real-life dog called Woody, who sits at the reception of the animal centre where I volunteered checking everyone in and out, and nothing happens without him knowing!
Helen: My Mum had a staffie. They are the most adorable dogs and so affectionate. I can imagine Woody running the centre. How do you get the ideas for a new book?
Christine: Inspiration is everywhere, and I have a head full of story ideas for both Adult and Children’s stories, so watch this space!
Helen: Typically you write and illustrate children’s book. Have you ever thought about writing in other genres?
Christine: So far, I have been focusing on writing children’s fiction about animals because it combines my passions and skill set. However, as my writing style has developed, I am also writing some adult fiction short stories to explore that genre as well.
Helen: Now Santa in a Camper is out, what are you working on next?
Christine: I’ve just completed a science fiction short story for a writing challenge, and now I’m going to work on my mother’s story. Born in 1937 in London, her early years were lived through the horrors of WW2. It’s my aim to bring her memories of dodging the bombs and being evacuated to the countryside alive. This story, based on fact, will preserve her memories for subsequent generations.
Helen: That is so exciting. I imagine that project, enshrining your mother’s memories in print will be so special. When did you realise you had a passion for writing?
Christine: I have always enjoyed drawing and writing, and creating children’s books has allowed me to develop as both an author and an artist.
Helen: Are you a pantser or a planner? Do you write free form, or do you have a framework you stick to?
Christine: My first draft is always a sensory word dump, and its from that that my story evolves.
Helen: Which element of the writing process do you find most challenging and why?
Christine: With a creative mind, my biggest challenge is checking and rechecking my text, as I have an emotive rather than a detail-oriented eye. I also struggle with knowing when the text is ready for publishing because every time I read and reread, I always find a way to tweak it!
Helen: Do you listen to music when you write, if so, what do you listen to and why?
Christine: I love music and listen to the radio when I am working. Writing is a lonely business, and it helps me to have real life in the background.
Helen: Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?
Christine: I have a small group of amazing advisors, friends and family, who constantly remind me that I am good enough to put myself and my work out there with the best.
Helen: It’s so good to have a support system. Writing can be an emotional rollercoaster. What is the most useful piece of writing advice you’ve received, and by whom? And what advice would you give aspiring writers?
Christine: “Show, don’t tell when you write” is the best advice a retired literary agent gave me. Believe in yourself, and put your best work out there, but be open to feedback, your first book is the start of your journey, where each one will be better than the one before.
Helen: I know most writers are great readers as well. What is your favourite book and why do you like it so much?
Christine: My Reading Choices vary, but I like reading books where I can relate to the location. For example, a rom-com set on a Greek Island or in a French town with markets and cafes or a detective story set in Brighton, the city near where I grew up.
Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today. Just to close us out, what is the best thing that has happened to you since you began writing?
Christine: On publication, my Grandson Harry proudly takes each one of my books to school and shows off my picture on the back of the book to anyone who will listen. To me, that is a priceless pride and memory.
About the Author
Christine Skippins
Christine (Chris) Skippins enjoyed a lengthy career in finance before she turned her attention to writing and illustrating. It wasn’t long before she discovered her niche.
Her involvement with a local animal rescue centre, which she joined to contribute to a community charity, sparked her inspiration. The animals she encountered and the dedicated team that rehabilitated them motivated her to create “The Magic of Misty Nook” series.
Now, Chris animates delightful animal characters through her stories, showcasing how frightened and lonely creatures find love and compassion at Misty Nook.
As a teenager, Chris worked at a pet store and often attempted to take in rabbits, guinea pigs, and even puppies that needed homes—much to her father’s initial reluctance. Eventually, her father relented, and Whiskey the Collie was welcomed into their family. Over time, Whiskey and many other pets became an integral part of Chris’s life.
Born in Chichester, England, Chris is a mother to an adult son and daughter, as well as Rizzo the Spaniel. She’s also a grandmother to Harry and Sienna—her wonderful grandchildren—and Ivy and Rolo—her ‘granddogs’.
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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I am very pleased to welcome Dante Terese to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her novel, The Base, which is now availabe in audiobook.
Helen: Welcome Dante. I am very excited to learn more about your series.
Dante: “The Base – Book 1” is the first in a series that is being converted to a screenplay and marketed for film and television. The story follows the most top-secret military base and the military research scientists who work there. The Base is where the military sends scientists when they notice exceptional talent or profound expertise to work on the newest most top secret classified inventions. As new scientists arrive, the military issues futuristic assignments to the group, then spies and thieves try to steal it. It is a crazy cycle that repeats with many dynamic variations.
Helen: How did deciding to write a series instead of a single novel impact your cover design?
Dante: We just finished a photo shoot for the new cover. I had a lot of feedback from readers who didn’t want the story to end and wanted a sequel, they especially liked The Bug Man, a military research scientist who is an expert on insects. So, I made the decision to write the sequel which is copyrighted, and ready.
Since “The Base” is now a series, I needed the books to have similar covers – so lights, camera, action! The photoshoot on a small farm in Butler, PA the birthplace of the Jeep began. I was fortunate to get two vintage military Jeeps and three actors to portray the lead scientist characters in the book for book covers photoshoot.
Helen: I bet that was fun, actually directing a real photo shoot for your vision of the cover. How did you come up with your titles?
Dante: I had the privilege of visiting a few military bases in my lifetime and was very struck by the strong sense of community and the families I met there. I did not copy the people I met or the actual settings they lived in but I did want show the strong bonds some of the workers and their families had. While the residents were sometimes formal when they spoke to a person of a higher rank by addressing them by their title, everyone called their place The Base.
Helen: Sounds very fitting. Who is the protagonist in your novel, and why did you decide to write them?
Dante: I am the daughter of a research scientist and for much of the book we see the story from the eyes of Macie, the young daughter of Cullen the military research scientist. I found it helpful and sometimes very humorous to explain the story from the perspective of a young child. Macie gives a clean unfiltered view of some of the events and in other instances paints a picture that leaves some room for the reader’s imagination to supply the missing details. I was afraid to show this book to my father because I knew he would research it and critique my research, but I am happy to report he found my research to be sound.
Helen: Oh my, how nerve wracking. That have been quite a relief to pass muster! Who were your favourite characters to write?
Dante: The most challenging part for me was writing the villains who are tremendously successful from a financial standpoint but really evil people. It was a difficult balance to show their lifestyle but not glorify what they do but I believe it was worth the effort.
Helen: Getting the balance right and making them believable can be quite challenging. Did you have to do a lot of research for The Base?
Dante: I do tons of research because I want the book to be challenging and plausible for the audience. It was amazing how many times when I set out to study a topic how I was proven wrong and pointed into a completely different direction, I am very thankful for that because I didn’t want the readers to feel cheated or serve them something that was a thin piece of pure fantasy.
Helen: Research can take you down a rabbit hole! I think all writers have a head full of useless trivia from all the weird things we look up. What is the most useful resource you use in your writing?
Dante: I can’t say enough good stuff about libraries! They are an absolute gold mine of information and the best part is it is all FREE. I am so thankful to my parents for introducing me to this before I started school. I have always had a library card; I continue to go there frequently for my research and reading. They are an absolute treasure.
Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today, congratulations on the release of your audiobook version.
About the Author
Dante Terese
Dante Terese is a dynamic new voice in fiction, blending deep themes with compelling narratives in her work. Her debut novel, Sex, Death, & Diane, celebrates the courage of those who dare to think independently and speak their truths, exploring the quiet power within each of us. Her recent science fiction release, The Base- Book 1, takes readers into the high-stakes world of military research, where ethical dilemmas and espionage intertwine in a suspenseful tale of innovation and integrity. This is the first book in a series. She is also a baker, pastry chef and gardener who does volunteer work in the many communities where she has lived.
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: October 10th, 2024 Released: September 10th, 2024 Genre: Fantasy Romance
Do not touch the sword. Do not turn the key. Do not open the gate.
In the land of the unforgiving desert, there isn’t much a girl wouldn’t do for a glass of water.
Twenty-four-year-old Saeris Fane is good at keeping secrets. No one knows about the strange powers she possesses, or the fact that she has been picking pockets and stealing from the Undying Queen’s reservoirs for as long as she can remember.
But a secret is like a knot. Sooner or later, it is bound to come undone.
When Saeris comes face-to-face with Death himself, she inadvertently re-opens a gateway between realms and is transported to a land of ice and snow. The Fae have always been the stuff of myth, of legend, of nightmares… but it turns out they’re real, and Saeris has landed herself in the middle of a centuries-long conflict that might just get her killed.
The first of her kind to tread the frozen mountains of Yvelia in over a thousand years, Saeris mistakenly binds herself to Kingfisher, a handsome Fae warrior, who has secrets and nefarious agendas of his own. He will use her Alchemist’s magic to protect his people, no matter what it costs him . . . or her.
Death has a name. It is Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate. His past is murky. His attitude stinks. And he’s the only way Saeris is going to make it home. Read My Thoughts…
I am very pleased to welcome Samuel Lawson to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about his fantasy Slovian Chronicles series.
Helen: Welcome Samuel. I am very excited to learn more about your series. Tell us a little about your latest book.
Samuel: High school is a battleground, but for Tommy, it’s where his true destiny awaits. Born beneath a sky where fate is written in the stars, Tommy Archer is anything but ordinary. Bullied and overlooked, Tommy’s life takes a cosmic turn when new students arrive at school. Suddenly thrust into a world of magic and mayhem, Tommy discovers his true purpose—to save the world from impending doom. With his newfound friends by his side, Tommy embarks on an electrifying adventure where courage is tested and alliances forged. Can they defy the odds and protect humanity from its darkest hour?
Helen: I am assuming your main characters are on the cover. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?
Samuel: I chose the cover because it visually encapsulates the essence of my characters and the challenges they face. It portrays their journey and the looming threat to Earth, which is central to the plot. The mysterious and adventurous feel of the design symbolizes the balance between their ordinary teenage lives and the extraordinary destiny that awaits them.
Helen: It definitley gives an adventurous vibe. How about the title? How did you come up with it?
Samuel: The title Earth Protectors came naturally because it perfectly reflects the core of the story: a group of teenagers tasked with the monumental responsibility of saving Earth. The title captures the gravity of their mission, and I felt it was the best fit for the story’s theme of protecting the planet from total annihilation.
Helen: What made you write this particular book?
Samuel: A part of me wanted to see myself in the story, so I created a character who reflects bits of my own life’s experiences. Writing Earth Protectors was a way to channel those reflections into an imaginative adventure, incorporating themes that resonate with me personally, like friendship, courage, and self-discovery.
Helen: They say we all write from experience. If your main character could answer this question, why would they say we should read your book?
Samuel: Tommy would probably say you should read the book because it’s not just about saving the world but about discovering the hero within yourself. Everyone has fears and insecurities, but it’s about facing them head-on. He’d tell you that this is a story of friendship, courage, and standing up for what’s right—even when the odds are stacked against you.
Helen: Love it! Which genre do you prefer to write?
Samuel: I write primarily in fantasy because it allows me to explore the boundaries of imagination without restrictions. Fantasy lets me create entire worlds, characters, and realities that wouldn’t exist otherwise, giving me the freedom to weave complex stories with magical elements and universal themes.
Helen: It is freeing when you don’t have to abide by known facts and you can make up your rules. Where do you get your ideas from?
Samuel: Ideas can come from anywhere—books, movies, conversations with friends, or even observing what’s happening in society. I get a lot of inspiration from movies because they provide a vivid backdrop of action, drama, and suspense that I try to replicate in my own storytelling.
Helen: Tough question next. Who is your favourite character?
Samuel: All my characters are my favorites, but if I had to choose one, it would be Tommy. He’s the heart of the story, and his journey from a shy high school nerd to a courageous Earth Protector is something I’m really proud of.
Helen: Writing is addictive. When did you realise you had a passion and you had to share your stories?
Samuel: My passion for writing began in high school when I was inspired by a writing competition I never entered but always wished I had. That unfulfilled desire to participate pushed me to create my own stories. Over time, that spark turned into a passion, leading me to write two books, starting with what I call “drawer plays”—unpublished works that were, in hindsight, pretty terrible! But the positive feedback from friends and adults helped encourage me to pursue writing seriously.
Helen: The more you write, the more you learn. Writing is a craft like any other skill. Which part of the writing process do you find most challenging?
Samuel: For me, the most challenging part is maintaining consistency in pacing and structure. Sometimes I find myself getting carried away with certain scenes, which can disrupt the balance of the story. It’s a continuous learning process, finding that sweet spot between action, character development, and plot progression.
Helen: Who inspired you to write?
Samuel: While I don’t read as much as I should, watching movies sparked my imagination and gave me ideas for my stories. Films provide that visual and cinematic atmosphere that I try to bring into my writing. In terms of specific influences, Hades from Percy Jackson and the Olympians and General Zod from Man of Steel were inspirations for creating my antagonist. J.K. Rowling and Rick Riordan, in particular, motivated me to keep writing and not give up.
Helen: Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?
Samuel: I remind myself that self-doubt is part of the process and that no writer is perfect. Whenever the little voice in my head gets too loud, I take a break, watch a movie, or read something that inspires me. I also look back at what I’ve accomplished so far, which helps to push me forward.
When I hit writer’s block, I stop and take a break. Watching a movie often helps clear my mind, and before I know it, new ideas start flowing. Sometimes, stepping away from the project for a bit can make all the difference.Stop what I’m working on for a while to see a movie then get back to it after some ideas pops back to head.
Helen: Great advice. A change in environment often helps to break a certain chain of thought. Do you find you plan your books or are you more of a pantser?
Samuel: I’m more of a pantser. While I like having a general outline of where the story is going, I prefer to let the characters and plot develop organically. I enjoy the freedom that comes with writing in the moment and seeing where the story takes me.
Helen: If you didn’t write fantasy, then which genre would you like to try and write next?
Samuel: Thriller. In fact, I’m currently working on a thriller, and I’m excited about the direction it’s taking. I hope to release it soon!
Helen: Most writers also read a lot. What is your favourite book, and are there any other books you would you recommend?
Samuel: One of my all-time favorites is Percy Jackson and the Olympians. I love the blend of mythology with modern-day adventure. The characters are relatable, and the humor makes it a fun read, while still maintaining a sense of epicness. I would recommend The Hunger Games series for its fast-paced, gripping plot and the way it tackles societal issues through a dystopian lens. The Maze Runner is also a great read for fans of intense, action-driven stories.
Helen: Some great recomendations. What advice would you give new writers?
Samuel: Take a chill pill. You have everything it takes to write a novel. Mistakes will happen, but they’ll make you better over time. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back, because you never know which book will resonate with readers. Keep writing, keep improving, and enjoy the journey.
Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today, Samuel. It has been great meeting you. Just to finish, what is the best thing that has happened since you started writing?
Samuel: The best thing has been connecting with readers who enjoy my genre. The positive feedback I’ve received, not just locally but from international readers as well, has been incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that my stories resonate with people around the world is a reward in itself.
About the Author
Samual Lawson
My name is Samuel Lawson. I am the author of two books out of Lagos, Southwest Nigeria, and I am also a twin, so heads up, you might mistake my brother for me like most people do…. lol.
My writing blends emotion and adventure, aiming to inspire young adult readers to conquer their fears. In my books, you will find life lessons delivered with love and laughter are the hallmarks of my world. When not crafting stories or reading, you will find me playing the piano, listening to music, seeing a movie, or scrolling through my socials.
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: September 23rd, 2024 Released: July 9th, 2020 Genre: Paranormal Fantasy
If the murderer you’re tracking is a vampire, then you want a vampire detective. Just maybe not this one. It’s not that Jack Valentine is bad at her job. The youngest member of Oxford’s Seekers has an impressive track record, but she also has an impressive grudge against the local baron, Killian Drake.
When a human turns up dead on May Morning, she’s determined to pin the murder on Drake. The problem is that none of the evidence points to him. Instead, it leads Jack into a web of conspiracy involving the most powerful people in the country, people to whom Jack has no access. But she knows someone who does.
To get to the truth, Jack will have to partner up with her worst enemy. As long as she can keep her cool, Drake will point her to the ringleaders, she’ll find the murderer and no one else will have to die. Body bags on standby.
May Day is the first book in Josie Jaffrey’s Seekers series, an urban fantasy series set in Oxford, England. Read My Thoughts…
Reviewed: September 22nd, 2024 Released: January 19th, 2023 Genre: Superhero Fantasy
Hope can be a prism of scars from which light shines.
Twenty years ago, an infamous scientist created Liquid Onyx, a world-changing chemical which led to the rise of superheroes and supervillains.
Jack Roth is not a superhero. He’s an assassin, a killer, a lethal weapon forged and controlled by the evil organisation Obsidian Inc.
Leo Snow isn’t a superhero either. He’s a British secret agent who spends his life protecting the world and saving everyone he can.
When these two men’s lives collide on the streets of Danger City just as Obsidian Inc is gearing up for another cataclysmic scientific discovery, they’ll both need to reckon with their dark past, messy present and potentially hopeful future. Read My Thoughts…
Reviewed: September 15th, 2024 Released: September 17th, 2024 Genre: Paranormal Fantasy
True Blood meets Supernatural in the kickoff of this urban paranormal fantasy series from an acclaimed author. Readers enter a dystopian San Francisco filled with empaths and vampires embroiled in political unrest—and Book 1 is just the beginning.
Much as she wishes otherwise, superstar political consultant Olivia Shepherd was born a powerful empath. It’s a legacy she walked away from long ago—but when she wakes up one morning to find Elsa, a tenacious time-walker, standing in her kitchen, she realizes she can no longer ignore her gifts. She is quickly plunged into the hidden world of powerful “Others” and drafted to work for the Council, a shadowy organization that summons the fog to San Francisco to obscure their involvement in human affairs.
Complicating matters further is Olivia’s new love interest, William. A centuries-old vampire, William is far too jaded to take an interest in human affairs—but Olivia no longer has the luxury of remaining impartial. As shocking details from Olivia’s own past emerge and her role in the Council begins to take shape, will she rise to the challenge of her destiny? Read My Thoughts…
Reviewed: September 10th, 2024 Released: August 24th, 2024 Genre: Contemporary Paranormal Fantasy
Have a frightfully good stay…Morgan Ashton-Drake hasn’t given his ancestral home in Yorkshire a second thought in decades. He has a great life in the States, running his stepfathers hotel empire with his brother. So what if he’s all work and no play. He’s not missing out on anything important.
But when a suspicious death and rather public scandal at his childhood home forces Morgan to return to England for the first time in years, he’s not keen to confront his past. What he didn’t count on was the seriously cute little blonde disaster who seems to be single-handedly running his eccentric grandfather’s hotel.
Ellis Sparks has worked at the Ashton-Drake Manor House Hotel since he was sixteen and he loves it from the bottom of his soul. Always the eternal optimist, he’s never met a frown he can’t turn upside down; that is, until he meets Morgan Ashton-Drake, the grumpy grandson of his employer.
With the hotel in danger of closing, and convinced Morgan is the only one who can help to save it, the resident ghosts decide to try their ghostly hand at a little matchmaking as an incentive to get him to stay. After all, how hard can it be to get a grumpy workaholic to fall in love with a twinky ray of sunshine? Read My Thoughts…