Christian Author: James Somers

FREE STUFF CAMPAIGN COMING to AMAZON!!

2012-01-17T12:22:00.000-08:00

Hey Everybody, guess what? I'm giving away free Kindle Fantasy Novels and Free Kindle Bible Studies on Amazon.com! That's right download for free!

Bible Studies will begin this Wednesday, January 18th under James Somers

Fantasy Novels will begin rotating through this free campaign beginning Wednesday, February 1st.

Each Ebook will remain Free for All for five days only, so don't wait to take advantage of this awesome offer!!

THE WRAITH DANCER has been RELEASED!!

2011-11-27T13:28:00.000-08:00

After working on this sequel to The Serpent Kings for the better part of this year, THE WRAITH DANCER is finally available in all ebook formats as of Monday, November 29th 2011!

I'm very excited about this sequel, which takes up the story immediately following the conclusion of The Serpent Kings. For anyone who hasn't read Book One: The Serpent Kings is currently only $.99 cents on Amazon Kindle. I'm not sure how long it will remain this price, so I'd recommend getting a good deal for Christmas! That means you could get both novels for under $4 while this special lasts.

No Spoilers, but this novel is almost non-stop fantasy action from the get-go, introducing some new characters and Wraith Dancer gifts as well.

I do have a third book planned called THE SHADOW WALKER for this series and will update you on its release when the time comes. In the meantime, I'm working on a fantasy called FALLEN, as well as some sci-fi fantasy with BIOTECH. So, lots of stuff in the pipeline as usual. There's also a sequel planned for my fantasy novel, A WORLD WITHIN, to finish that story up. Stay tuned!

New Short Story Will End Up as a Novel!

2011-11-08T07:21:00.000-08:00

I recently entered a 600 word fiction writing contest I was approached with and now intend to extend the short into a novel in 2012. BIOTECH is available for free download to ebook readers over at lulu.com. It's very difficult to come up with any kind of story in only 600 words--literally about one page--but I think I've got a cool plotline to work with. Check it out if you like sci-fi fantasy and let me know what you think!

The Wraith Dancer is still on track for a December release, hopefully by Christmas, and The Serpent Kings is currently discounted at Amazon to only $.99 cents!! Get it cheap while Amazon has this low price...I don't control it!

New Covers and New News!

2011-10-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

I'm still hard at work on the new sequel to "THE SERPENT KINGS," called "THE WRAITH DANCER," and still expect to see it out in all Ebook formats by Christmas 2011. In addition to this sequel, I now plan to finish the Serpent Kings as a trilogy, concluding with a final novel in 2012 entitled, "THE SHADOW WALKER." I had thought to title the novel as The Prophet King, but a recent epiphany changed my fragile mind on the matter.

I wanted to also share new covers for the REALM SHIFT TRILOGY that I think are much better looking! They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but we all know that isn't the case. Anyway, if a picture is worth a thousand words then I believe these new covers say much better things for the Trilogy which remains popular and is still one of my favorite fantasy sagas...check em' out if you haven't already!

THE WRAITH DANCER : sequel to THE SERPENT KINGS

2011-09-30T10:28:00.000-07:00

A look at the new cover for THE WRAITH DANCER, sequel to THE SERPENT KINGS. This new novel will hopefully arrive on Kindle and all other ebook formats around Christmas 2011.

Chronicles of Soone: Revised - Re-titled - Re-covered!

2011-07-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

As of August 2011, The Chronicles of Soone: Heir to the King, will no longer be available through Variance Publishing. We have mutually parted ways under good terms. However, this title is undergoing a complete revision along with its sequel, The Chronicles of Soone: Rise of Lucin, and will soon be released with new edits, additional chapters and new covers.

Heir to the King will re-release under the title: The Chronicles of Soone: Warrior Rising

Rise of Lucin will release one month later under the new title: The Chronicles of Soone: Rebellion's Fate

Stay Tuned for Updates on "The Wraith Dancer" Release - "Fallen" - and other sequels coming!

INFERNO (New Perdition's Gate Omnibus Edition) Now Available!!

2011-07-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

The sequel to PERDITION'S GATE is now available as a new INFERNO OMNIBUS EDITION in all ebook formats--kindle, Nook, etc--This special edition will include both Perdition's Gate (part 1) and Inferno (part 2) for the same $2.99 price! Subsequently, the single Perdition's Gate edition has been discontinued.

The Wraith Dancer (Serpent Kings sequel) will hopefully be ready by Christmas!

Also, The Chronicles of Soone series is undergoing revisions for re-release with additional chapters and New Covers!

Stay Tuned for more updates on sequels coming out and new novels!!

The Dragons of the Valley by Donita K. Paul

2011-01-24T04:31:00.000-08:00

In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.

Dragons of the Valley by Donita K Paul is a continuation of her Dragons Series, young-to-young adult fantasy novels that present allegorical stories of faith and courage in the face of sometimes overwhelming opposition. Ms. Paul's novels are fun and inventive, taking place in a world completely of her own making with various higher and lower races of beings, as well as creatures galore; some familiar in concept while others are more original.

I had read Dragon Light, which I believe must be several novels back in the series and really enjoyed it, though admittedly I had a little trouble jumping in midstream in her continuing storyline--figuring out what was going on and who was who. With patience I figured out the good guys and bad guys and enjoyed the book.

Again, I found myself having to get my sea legs before I could get into the story. But that's just the way it is when you come into a series way down the line and are unfamiliar with the basic characters. The hero in Dragons of the Valley seems to have come from the Vanishing Sculptor; one or two novels back...so just understand where your starting in it before you get frustrated. Adding to that was the need to come up to speed on who the races and creatures are as well...however there is a character index in the back to help with this. As always, Donita weaves a wonderful tale that younger readers and fantasy fans will enjoy. Personally, I had some difficulty maintaining my interest, because I kept having to refer to the character index in order to stay up to speed :) I suppose if I had began Lord of the Rings at The Two Towers I would have faired no better. However, Ms. Paul's novel is full of interesting characters, intrigue and lots of action. I definitely recommend giving it a read if you enjoy fantasy with christian allegory.

What others are saying about Dragons of the Valley:

Chiril is a peaceful prosperous land. However the tranquility ends when an army invades the country. Tipper Schope must hide three statues because if the enemy gets it will mean the end of her nation as she knows it. She enlists her Bealomondore the artist to help her with her quest. He understands he must wield a sword like he did a brush.

At the same time that the terrible foe marches into Chiril, a horrific beast is stalking and killing anyone in its path. No one is safe from the predatory Grawl. Time is running out for the two heroes and their companions as they struggle to reach the Valley of the Dragons where they plan to leave the statues.

The latest inspiration dragon fantasy (see Dragonknight and Dragonquest) is a fabulous tale that, as always in a Donita K. Paul thriller, takes the audience soaring across the author's vivid mythical landscape. As chaos threatens the land, Tipper and Bealomondore are heroic figures; not because they may succeed, but due to risking their lives against overwhelming odds as for instance a peace loving artist picks up the sword. Action-packed with deadly perils from outside coming in and inside expanding out and with a strong cast especially the champions, fans will need a seat belt as this fast-paced novel never takes a respite.

Jonathan Rogers: Feechies, Feechies, and more Feechies!

2010-12-06T14:01:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't heard of Feechies, like those featured in Jonathan Roger's latest novel, The Charlatan's Boy, I wanted to remind readers of Mr. Roger's earlier Wilderking Trilogy, which is still one of my favorite all-time fiction series for young readers or any age readers. In order they are:

The Bark of the Bog Owl
The Secret of the Swamp King
Way of the Wilderking

Get to your local bookstore or online as quick as you can to enjoy this awesome trilogy...lots of action, allegory for the Believer, and did I mention Feechies?!

The Charlatan's Boy by Jonathan Rogers

2010-12-06T05:57:00.000-08:00

The Charlatan's Boy by Jonathan Rogers is a return to the land of Corenwald and did I mention...FEECHIES!! Now, I've just told you enough to buy the book right there, but in case you didn't know what a Feechie is (how uncultured can one be?) then these fellers dwell in the swamps of Corenwald, wear skins, are covered in gray mud, and resemble the most backwood, imbred people you've ever heard of (do I hear banjos playing?)

However, the Feechie folk are also some of the most fun characters to read, that I've found in any recent fiction. The Charlatan's Boy is no exception. Only this time, we have a young ugly duckling who has spent his life as a sideshow act as the Wildman from the Feechifen Swamp. We get an up close and personal look at the life of this boy--his joys and disappointments--as he travels with lowdown medicine man type who's only interest in the boy is how much coin he get off of exploiting him.

There's a great finish to this story that promises more to come...what are you waiting for? Go get it...now! Did I mention it's got FEECHIES in it?!

My Novels Available in All E-book / E-Reader formats!!

2010-10-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone-

I'm happy to announce that my novels are now available through SMASHWORDS! which includes probably every Ebook and E-reader format available right now. I've even included a few freebies in the mix at Smashwords...so don't miss out on a good deal!

Also, check out updated covers and updated versions already released like Perdition's Gate & A World Within, and coming soon like The Order of Shaddai & The Sword of Gideon.

Interview from Kent Holloway's Blog

2010-10-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

KENT HOLLOWAY: I first learned of James Somers this week actually...as I was preparing for an incredible event from Seven Realms Publishing. You see, soon, Seven Realms will be hosting the INDEPENDENCE DAY in NOVEMBER. On November 24, we will be featuring independent authors of all kinds and genres right on the 7R website (www.sevenrealmspublishing.com/independence_day.html). The idea is that we hope that you, the readers, might discover your new favorite author! After all, indie films and underground bands are all the rage today...so we wondered, why not indy authors too? Well, James Somers responded to this event and sent me info on his latest Kindle release "Percival Strange and the Lonely Manor." I started reading up on this young adult fantasy adventure and immediately became hooked. I downloaded the book and am absolutely loving it. And I knew I had to share it with you as well.

At the moment, Percival Strange and the Lonely Manor is only available for the Kindle (we'll have to talk to James about that, won't we?!). And though it's marketed as a young adult (tween/teen) novel...it really is fun for kids of all ages!! I'm 39, going on 38 after all, and am having a blast reading it.

Anyway, here's the product description for it to give you a better idea of just what Percival Strange is up to:

The Lonely Manor has many secrets, and it guards them well...so why is the House beckoning Percival Strange to enter? Is the Manor House as terrifying as it seems or has its greatest secret remained undiscovered? There's only one way to find out...
Percival Strange was only curious when he took his best friend to investigate the scary things happening at the old abandoned manor house out in the middle of the woods. He had no idea the House would kidnap her, no idea she'd be ransomed in exchange for his cooperation with the deadly trials he would have to survive in order to satisfy the creepy denizens of the Imaginative Worlds dwelling there. Some of them seek his help; others his life.
Zombies, Sorcerers, Knights, Wizards, Werewolves, and all sorts of strange creatures face-off as the battle for control of the gateway to our world hangs in the balance. Percival's only hope for survival? Master the awesome powers of Creation within the Imagined Worlds before it's too late for everyone!

Sounds, good, huh? Well, James is extremely prolific! Not only has he written this great YA novel, but he's got tons of other books to consider for every age range (as long as you like high-flying adventure and action)!

1) Tell us a little bit about Percival Strange and the Lonely Manor. In your own words, kind of describe what its about. What are its themes? Who will enjoy this book?

Percival Strange has stumbled upon an old manor house deep in the woods where he witnesses some terrifying things happen. However, what he doesn’t realize is that this house is actually a gateway between our world and the Imagined Realms beyond. Having been created in the image of The Creator, man is also a creative being. We love to make things…but what if the characters, monsters and such that man imagines took on lives of their own? What would they do? Would they regard their creators with awe or envy? Percival is going to find that many of these imagined beings desire to enter our world and take it over for themselves! The novels places two Christian characters, Percival and his best childhood friend Violet, in situations they don’t understand, having to walk by faith. They are willing to sacrifice their own safety in order to help those imagined creatures who desire to maintain peace and separation between our worlds. Percival Strange would be enjoyed by nearly any age, so long as you love action adventure and fantasy on the creepy side with a little humor thrown in for good measure.

2) Having read it, I'm reminded of a great number of childhood favorites. I'm curious as to what helped inspire this book. What influences have you drawn from? Where, ultimately, did you get the idea?

One of my main influences for Percival Strange was the Oz Chronicles, by R.W. Ridley. The stories are completely different, but his series just has this really creepy vibe to it. I wanted to capture some of that “creepiness” in some of my YA fiction and Percival Strange has plenty of it. Another cool series that probably helped inspire Percival Strange would have to be the Bartimaeus Trilogy by Jonathan Stroud. The tongue in cheek humor running through Bartimaeus’ narrative is wonderful. I hope Percival Strange is able to deliver some of that same humor: a dynamic adventure, but never too busy to be lighthearted at the right moments…it’s a nice goal anyway.

3) Now as a Christian, you seem to be really adept at blending tenets of the Christian faith perfectly with the adventures you write. They don't seem to be unnecessary intrusions into the story...but rather, helps to really round the stories out. Helps to give your stories depth. Is this deliberate? Can you give us a little insight into how you are able to do this so well?

I tend to limit ideas I’m serious about pursuing…so that I don’t find myself in territory that would cross scriptural boundaries. On the other hand, if I think I got something cool to work with, I’ll see how I can frame it so that I can use Christian characters…meaning characters whose faith is in Jesus Christ. Believers face the same problems other people do, but it’s our reactions to those problems that will be different. For instance: Percival Strange is a young Christian character. He reacts to indecision by praying, or to unanswerable questions by simple faith that God is still in control of the situation. The fantasy elements like zombies, ghosts, werewolves, etc that are involved in the story are framed in such a way that they don’t violate scripture. Do these things really exist? Of course not. So I couldn’t frame it that way and be scriptural. However, I was able to frame these elements as imagined beings and places since man did imagine all of these things in books and movies and so forth. Man is the creator of these things, but what if these beings were a bit more tangible and wanted to cast off their creators as mankind—created in the image of THE CREATOR—sought to do. Well, now you’ve got a good allegory with a good lesson too. I wish there was a good formula, but I’m really just shooting from the hip. I can’t pretend to be so brainy on the front-end of coming up with these things.

4) As I've already shared in the main portion of my blog, you're extremely prolific. Tell us a bit about your writing career. How did you first decide you wanted to write professionally? What has your journey been like? What would you like to see happen in your writing endeavors?

While in college I took up creative writing just to relieve stress, and the story I was working on kept getting longer and longer until I realized I had a novel on my hands. I kept working on it and began looking into the possibility of submitting it for publication. As I began to go through “proper channels” to accomplish this—and gaining my pile of rejection letters—I began to sense that I had two problems on my hands as a Christian writer. First, secular publishers really weren’t interested in the religious elements of my work. Second, many Christian publishers did seem interested in the fantasy elements. But to be fair, there are Christian publishers who publish fantasy novels, and maybe my particular stories just didn’t appeal. The plain fact is that it’s tough to get published—period. However, I contacted a self published author, Jeremy Robinson, who seemed to be gaining a nice following and doing well on his own. He agreed to read and review my novel, “The Chronicles of Soone: Heir to the King,” (a very Star Wars styled novel). After giving COS a great review, he approached me about publication with his start-up “Breakneck Books Publishing.” Since I was having no luck anywhere else, I gave it a whirl and my first novel was published through Breakneck Books. Following some of Jeremy’s promotional techniques, I saw pretty decent sales for an unknown author on Amazon—even before Kindle came about. Breakneck later was sold to Variance Publishing and COS is still on the list with some bestselling authors like Steve Alten of MEG fame.
Since that time, I’ve tried to get my foot into the door at some of the larger publishers, but with little success, even with a literary agent. So, frustrated again, I discovered the new Kindle from Amazon and the ability to self publish my novels in that format. Having worked closely with Jeremy Robinson on the formatting and cover work for COS I’d gained some knowledge and did everything myself—I’m a closet control freak anyway—then put out my novels on Kindle. I found even greater success with Kindle, selling my wares for a $1.00, receiving .35 cents per download. I managed to sell thousands of copies this way, even as an unknown…mostly because I assumed people would be willing to pay a buck for an interesting sounding story, whether they had heard of me or not. From there, I was approached by Trilogus Media Publishing, who contracted with me to re-release all of my Kindle novels in paperback and new Kindle books—complete with new cover work, re-edits, and some awesome interior design.
As for where I like to see it go from here: I’d love to sell millions of copies just like anyone else would, but I’m satisfied with whatever opportunities the Lord throws my way. I’d still write my novels if no one bought them…it’s too much fun!

5) Okay. Besides Percival Strange, if a reader wanted to pick up one of your books to see what you're all about, which one book would you recommend? Why would you recommend it above all your others?

Hmm…that’s a tough choice. I like all of them. But I would recommend the Realm Shift Trilogy, if I could only choose one…or is that three? Well, it’s a package deal and totally exemplifies my writing style: tons of action, cool bad-guys, a protagonist with special abilities trying to discern the right and wrongs of their abilities, epic battles, how to walk by faith even when you don’t see what good it will do, etc….Besides, it will soon come out in paperback and a new Kindle version, so anyone could read it.

6) Besides writing, what other things do you enjoy doing? Hobbies? Interests?

Well, I’m also the Pastor of Ozone Baptist Church in Rockwood, TN…I work as a Surgical Technologist doing mainly Eye Surgery. Besides spending time with my wife and children, I enjoy music: playing guitar and several other instruments.

7) I have a number of aspiring authors who read this blog. If you could offer only one piece of advice to them, what would it be?

Keep writing—don’t stop. You might get discouraged with the industry, but more and more things are changing so that authors can rely on themselves more. If big publishers aren’t interested, then try smaller ones, self publish, whatever. But don’t ever quit. Being creative is rewarding in of itself! I’ve been plenty discouraged at times, but I’m glad I kept trying.

Thanks James, for taking the time to talk to me about your passion for Christ and writing! I look forward to hearing more about your stuff in the future.

VENOM & SONG by Wayne Batson and Christopher Hopper

2010-09-27T04:01:00.000-07:00

VENOM & SONG by Wayne Batson and Christopher Hopper is the sequel to the first Berinfell Prophecies novel, "Curse of the Spiderking." Following the cliffhanger ending of Spiderking, we catch up with the young Elf Lords as they enter the strange realm of Allyra. They have a traitor in their midst and their enemies are dogging their heels every step of the way. They have to learn their newfound abilities fast if they are to survive.

I found this installment less incumbered by the problems of the first book, particularly trying to follow seven different protagonists, nearly all in different places. The sequel packs them together better, making progress smoother for the reader and keeping details straight easier.
Venom & Song is chock full of action, creepy enemies, and intense plotting. I personally found this series harder to get into for some reason....However, young readers, (especially those who enjoy Harry Potter, Ranger's Apprentice, etc), should enjoy Venom & Song very much. I think it was a bit too "high fantasy" for me, particularly the dialogue, but that's just nitpicking based on my personal tastes. As I said, I would still highly recommend it to younger readers. I received a complementary copy of "VENOM & SONG" from the Publisher.

What others are saying about Venom & Song:

"This isn't just any fantasy book! It's a perfect blend of Elven fantasy and Earth teens. Though the mythical creatures are portrayed a little different than normal, they are still interesting and unique characters. The plot line is great, full of suspense and drama. I particularly like the Seven Elven Lords, with their amazing powers like wind walking and hyper speed. So one of the Lord's death (I won't completely spoil it!) was a very hard hit to me. I'm a reader that knows and has seen that death of main or secondary characters is very important to the story, but when it actually happens, it always makes me sad. I think I need to care less about the books I read. Overall, this book is very good for anyone and is a definite buy."

"VENOM AND SONG, book two in the Berinfell Prophecies series is an excellent Christian fiction novel. Seven new "lords" have come back to help Elf-kind win the bloody war against the Spider King. They grew up on Earth, knowing nothing of the Elf war, or of Berinfell, but now they have been returned and must learn to master their new powers in order to help turn the tide of war and win against the viscous Spider King.

Filled with wonderfully written characters, quirky twists of plot, and insightful spiritual messages, VENOM AND SONG is first-class fiction!"

THE WOLF OF TEBRON by C.S. LAKIN

2010-06-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

The Wolf of Tebron, by C.S. Lakin is a fresh new fantasy in the Christian Fantasy genre that brought to mind old nursery rhymes where the "Cow jumped over the Moon," and movies like "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen," where we journey to distant lands that only the imagination can contain. Lakin's voice comes across well and she has no trouble holding the reader's interest, gradually giving us just enough to keep the pages turning.

Tebron opens with a mysterious wizard trekking home from some terrible battle, only to find his wife and child under attack by creatures of darkness. In order to save his infant son, the wizard sends him away with a bear whom he communicates with telepathically. From there, the story centers around the young man, Joran, and his strange ability to mindspeak with all types of insects and animals. For much of the story, I kept wondering exactly when Joran's story would connect with the prologue about the wizard...rest assured Lakin brings it all home by the end of her tale. And by the time Joran's fantastic adventure has concluded, we realize the greater portion of this epic tale is still to be told.

VENOM & SONG: TRIBE BUILDING CONTEST!

2010-06-01T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teen Fantasy Readers: Would you like to win a private book party with bestselling fantasy authors Wayne Thomas Batson and Christopher Hopper? Would you like to win a sword of your very own? Join the Tribe Building Contest that begins today! For details, Visit: www.enterthedoorwithin.blogspot.com

SPECIAL OFFER on PERDITION'S GATE!

2010-05-12T09:53:00.000-07:00

PERDITION'S GATE has UNOFFICIALLY been released by my publisher, TRILOGUS MEDIA GROUP. What does this mean, James?

It means that I can offer the novel at a special discounted rate here on my website during the two weeks before it becomes available on AMAZON.COM.

The novel will become available on Amazon as a paperback and Kindle book before it becomes available in bookstores and other online book sellers -- probably a month from now, so that we can get back further author reviews to put on the cover from bestsellers like Wayne Thomas Batson and Jeremy Robinson, as well as reviews from Megalith and Midwest Book Review.

Here is the link to order PERDITION'S GATE at a 15% discount through Amazon's Createspace website --- everything is handled by Amazon -- safe & secure. Don't forget to input your discount code: KQGWZ7EZ

Synopsis: Raised to kill, as the leader of Babylon's most elite special ops team, Jason Night, codename: Nightstalker, never thought he would fall in love with Sarah Cross and desire to leave the life he's always known. Nor could he foresee the dangerous secret Sarah harbored leading to her death at the hands of another Babylon agent. With the world in chaos, a powerful, charismatic leader, Oliver Theed, rises to lead the nations into a New World Order of his own sinister design. But those rising to power in his wings have their own plans and Theed may be the next target in a deadly cat and mouse game deciding the fate of the world.As Jason questions all that he's ever believed, he seeks answers and revenge. But what he finds will shake him to the core and bring him face to face with Theed, Babylon and a coming Apocalypse that cannot be avoided.

RAVEN'S LADDER by JEFFREY OVERSTREET

2010-04-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

RAVEN'S LADDER by Jeffrey Overstreet

A DEADLY MENACE IS BREAKING THROUGH THE GROUND. THE PEOPLE OF ABASCAR MUST ABANDON THEIR STONE REFUGE AND FLEE INTO VULNERABILITY IN THE FOREST. BUT THEIR KING HAS HAD A VISION…
Following the beacon of Auralia’s colors and the footsteps of a mysterious dream-creature, King Cal-raven has discovered a destination for his weary crowd of refugees. It’s a city only imagined in legendary tales. And it gives him hope to establish New Abascar.
But when Cal-raven is waylaid by fortune hunters, his people become vulnerable to a danger more powerful than the prowling beastmen––House Bel Amica. In this oceanside kingdom of wealth, enchantment, and beauty, deceitful Seers are all too eager to ensnare House Abascar’s wandering throng.
Even worse, the Bel Amicans have discovered Auralia’s colors, and are twisting a language of faith into a lie of corruption and control.
If there is any hope for the people of Abascar, it lies in the courage of Cyndere, daughter of Bel Amica’s queen; the strength of Jordam the beastman; and the fiery gifts of the ale boy, who is devising a rescue for prisoners of the savage Cent Regus beastmen.
As his faith suffers one devastating blow after another, Cal-raven’s journey is a perilous climb from despair to a faint gleam of hope––the vision he sees in Auralia’s colors.

MY REVIEW: I received a free copy of Raven's Ladder, for the CSFF blog tour, from the publisher. As always, Overstreets lyrical prose, while unusual, is compelling reading. Raven's Ladder focuses on King Cal-Raven who seeks to lead his people out of the caves where they have lived since the literal collapse of their House Abascar in Auralia's Colors. However, danger is buidling and deadly vines spreading underground are chasing them out of hiding. Now they have become vulnerable to threats from the other houses. Characters like Jordam and Cyndere appear in this tale as well as the returning Aleboy...there's plenty going on. However, I couldn't maintain the same interest I enjoyed from the first novel, Auralia's Colors. It seemed as though Auralia, being the character behind these colors, not to mention the inspiration of many in the story, is sadly missing in all of the sequels since. She is the connection, but having been killed in the first book, leaves a void that I haven't found the side characters interesting enough to fill. Overstreet is a gifted writer, but I'm finding Auralia's Thread less interesting the further it travels away from that central, wonderful character...Miss you O' Raya :-)

Lost Mission by Athol Dickson

2010-04-12T04:32:00.000-07:00

Lost Mission by Athol Dickson

Among the dirt-poor barrios and ultra-wealthy enclaves lining the hills of southern California, a construction project unearths a long-lost Spanish mission. This discovery sets off a chain of events that presents four unrelated people—Reverend Tucker Lockwood, Concha Rivera, Delano Jones, and Detective Harmony Killeen—with difficult choices. In every case, a greater good could be served with a compromise of some basic moral value. Lockwood could steal to feed the poor. Delano Jones could lie—or at least bury the truth—to protect his monument to God's law. Concha Rivera, a Christian with a strong sense of mission, could trespass to preach the Gospel. Detective Killeen could betray her sense of legal responsibility to defend her family. It seems these devil's alternatives will inspire these modern people to perpetuate the very crime that left the mission buried and forgotten 250 years ago—a mystery that is gradually revealed through research into a mysterious triptych excavated at the mission site, as well as through historical flashbacks. At least two themes of magical realism appear repeatedly through the story. First is the appearances of Santos, a mysterious being characterized by a crooked nose, in both the contemporary and historical storylines. And second, the gradual appearance of faces on the triptych as the story's four protagonists—often with the help of a mysterious Hispanic man with the crooked nose—decide whether they will repeat the mistakes of the past.

Lost Mission was not what I was expecting from the description: "Magical Realism." Maybe that was just my misunderstanding, but it never really grabbed my interest. I found the time jumping a bit of a distraction, though once you get used to it and realize the format of the storytelling it isn't a problem. Honestly this is not the kind of novel I would buy and so I found myself laboring to finish it. Dickson is obviously a good writer, it just wasn't my cup of tea.

Faery Rebels - Spell Hunter by R. J. Anderson

2010-03-15T04:37:00.000-07:00

Forget everything you think you know about faeries. . . .
Creatures full of magic and whimsy?
Not in the Oakenwyld. Not anymore.
Deep inside the great Oak lies a dying faery realm, bursting with secrets instead of magic. Long ago the faeries mysteriously lost their magic. Robbed of their powers, they have become selfish and dull-witted. Now their numbers are dwindling and their very survival is at stake.
Only one young faery—Knife—is determined to find out where her people's magic has gone and try to get it back. Unlike her sisters, Knife is fierce and independent. She's not afraid of anything—not the vicious crows, the strict Faery Queen, or the fascinating humans living nearby. But when Knife disobeys the Faery Queen and befriends a human named Paul, her quest becomes more dangerous than she realizes. Can Knife trust Paul to help, or has she brought the faeries even closer to the brink of destruction?

Faery Rebels, by R. J. Anderson was not exactly the novel I was expecting when I saw the cover, which looked more like a Tinkebell knock-off to me, being a guy. However, I read an Amazon review which said that patience with the first part of the novel would be rewarded by the time you got further in...and they were right. I perservered through some of what I might have expected until the unexpected and intriguing finally took hold. There is a mystery to be solved here and you have to be patient and let it unfold. But once you do, you'll find a story worth reading. The interpersonal relationship between the faery, Knife, and the human, Paul, is especially interesting...far more natural and endearing than the hormonal Twilight fluff so popular these days. Anderson also brings both the mystery and the relationship between Knife and Paul to a satifying resolution by the end. All in all, a satisfying fantasy where a little patience does uncover gold.

North or be Eaten by Andrew Peterson

2010-01-26T14:32:00.000-08:00

I recieved a complimentary copy of "NORTH or be EATEN," by Andrew Peterson. The novel is for young readers, about 10 and up. I found the novel slow to start, although it eventually picked up some. Young readers who are patient will find this fantasy series enjoyable with its various creatures and of course the Fangs of Drang are back. Peterson, a famous singer songwriter, has a vivid imagination and writes with a certain amount of wit, never taking himself too seriously. This second novel may be a little darker than the first, but kids are smarter than they're often given credit for and shouldn't find anything scary about the story. Older readers might not enjoy the series as much. I admit I had a hard time holding interest, but that may be only my personal preferences.

THE SWORD OF GIDEON has been RELEASED!

2010-01-04T09:34:00.000-08:00

The third and final installment in the REALM SHIFT TRILOGY: "The Sword of Gideon" has released on Amazon.com. Just thought I would share that news for all the readers following the series. As always, I hope you enjoy the story!

All of the novels can be purchased in either AMAZON KINDLE FORMAT or TRADE PAPERBACK.

DAY #3 "HEED THE PROPHECIES!"

2009-11-17T06:27:00.000-08:00

On our last day of the blog tour for Wayne Batson and Christopher Hopper's "Berinfell Prophecies," we're featuring the great new website dedicated to the series: HEED THE PROPHECIES (dot)com

On the site you'll find the latest news on the series as well as a public forum where you can interact with the authors and other fans. And if you want to know a bit more about Wayne and Christopher, there's also some great biographical info as well.

DAY 2 : THE INTERVIEW!

2009-11-17T03:31:00.000-08:00

Joining me today are Christian Fantasy authors, Wayne Thomas Batson and Christopher Hopper. Wayne is the bestselling author of the Door Within Trilogy as well as Isle of Swords & Isle of Fire. He is also a middle school teacher with a heart for kids and their eternal destiny. Christopher is the author of the White Lion Chronicles as well as a Pastor and Worship leader. Both of these men have a passion for Christ and have joined forces to bring us a new Christian Fantasy series entitled "The Berinfell Prophecies." Book One, "The Curse of the Spider King," has just recently come out and is quickly moving up the charts. As you can see these guys are serious about their fiction--so buy their book or they might "cut yor 'ead off!"

Wayne was gracious enough to take some time, from his busy schedule, in order to fill us in a bit on this joint effort and the Berinfell Prophecies. Tomorrow we'll feature more cool STUFF on Berinfell Prophecies!

Wayne, how did you two come up with the premise for The Berinfell Prophecies?

I have a file folder on my Mac that contains somewhere around 30 "story kernels." These are kind of cool little nuggets of plot that have the potential to be fleshed out as a novel. One of these I was particularly keen on, I proposed to Christopher. It was about a young boy who thought of himself as pretty unremarkable but was noticed (in a suspicious kind of way) by the school's librarian. CH loved it and together we brainstormed what could be going on here. It soon became apparent that this one boy was not alone. There were seven youths in the mix and there were dark forces stalking them.

Did you have any fictional inspirations for the story?

Tolkien always inspires me. But there wasn't any other story that gave me inspiration.

How about any biblical inspiration for the story?

Biblical inspiration, definitely. The scriptures that speak of God grafting us in, adopting us as sons (and daughters), calling us "friend," those are powerful influencers of this novel.

Describe your process for coordinating the writing between two novelists.

Thank God for technology. CH is a 7-hour drive from me in Upstate NY. So we have used cell phones, iChat, Yahoo Messenger, texting, etc. to be able to go back and forth. We begin by outlining together. We need a road map, so we took quite a bit of time to flesh out where we thought the story would go. We broke it down into scenes, rather than chapters and divided those scenes between the two of us depending on who was most passionate about that scene.

Can Christians learn any important lessons from the Elves in Berinfell? Please describe any allegory taking place in the story.

Curse of the Spider King, as well as, the other Berinfell books will, we pray, encourage believers to stop fighting over things and start fighting the enemy. Our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces in this dark world.

Will Berinfell be a trilogy and what are some things we might see in the next installment?

The Berinfell Prophecies, God-willing, will be at least a trilogy. We're nearly finished the second book, Venom and Song, and are already batting ideas around for a 3rd book.

Where did you two learn to swordfight?

On the Fantasy Fiction East Coast Tour. We actually met a stage combat teacher while doing a signing in Barnes & Noble, I think in Virginia. She taught us some basic moves. And the rest we kind of just make up as we go. Though, I think CH might have some more formal training.

CURSE OF THE SPIDER KING: BERINFELL PROPHECIES #1

2009-11-16T03:59:00.000-08:00

CURSE OF THE SPIDER KING by Wayne Batson and Christopher Hopper, is the huge kick-off to a brand new Christian Fantasy series. And while intended for young readers, there's plenty for young adults and adults (young at heart) to enjoy and keep you turning pages furiously all the way to the end.

Be sure to stay tuned tomorrow for an interview with Wayne Batson and Christopher Hopper!

Curse of the Spider King Reivew:

Nevermind the old cliche, one or two heros to the mix, in Curse of the Spider King we find seven Elf Lords who've been transported to the earth realm as infants. Caught in the Spider King's web during a major overthrow of Elf power in his realm, these infants cannot be killed without unleashing a terrible curse. The Spider King's servants defy his orders and send the infant lords to earth in order to avoid the curse and the wrath of their king. But now the children, adopted by human parents, have grown to maturity and their individual Elf abilities are manifesting themselves. For their part, the children have no idea of their real heritage until the Spider King's assassins begin to move in. Only their secret protectors among the elves can stop them. But the race is on to get them back to their homeworld, where these seven lords will face the Spider King himself in a battle that could save or end the Elves forever!

Spider King is a non-stop fantasy thrill ride that kids will love. It's hard to pick a favorite Elf lord out of the bunch, because each has their own special power which makes them volatile to say the least. It's almost like trying to pick your favorite among the X-Men and both girls and boys will find someone they can empathize with in this exciting tale. Batson and Hopper have overcome the long distance obstacle to seamlessly stitch this story together. I've read both of their individual works and honestly could never figure out who had written what. By the time you reach the cliffhanger ending Spider King will have you locked in its web of action and intrigue, ready for the bigger adventure still waiting in Book 2!

HAUNT OF JACKALS BY ERIC WILSON

2009-10-19T11:06:00.000-07:00

Haunt of Jackals by Eric Wilson When Jesus was resurrected, ancient scripture says many rose from the grave. Today, 36 from this group of undead remain. Known as the Nistarim, they are here to watch over the world.When Judas hung himself, his blood mysteriously gave rise to another group of undead: the unholy Collectors. Now very much alive, they feed on souls and human blood.Both groups of immortals still walk among us in an eternal struggle. Now both are after a single target--a boy named Pavel who may possess the key to the Collectors' unlimited power...or ultimate downfall.Gina, a woman fleeing for her own life, is determined to protect the boy at all costs. She has survived one battle with the undead already, but has no idea how long she'll be able to stay a step ahead of them.The Jerusalem's Undead Trilogy takes readers on a riveting journey, as imaginative fiction melds with biblical and archaeological history.

Amazon Reviewed: I found Haunt of Jackals to be an awesome read. This is not usually the kind of book I read but I won the first book of the series, Field of Blood and I was very anxious for the second one to be available. I love Eric Wilson's writing style and I couldn't put the book down once I started it. I can't wait for the next one. Vampires are really intriguing.

What's So Great About Salvation?

2009-10-09T04:32:00.000-07:00

The Lord has led me to do some non-fiction Bible study writing based upon my sermons. The first Kindle E-book is "WHAT'S SO GREAT ABOUT SALVATION?" which is an in depth look at all the different things we've been given as believers through the free gift of salvation. Many you'll know, but hadn't realized just how great it is...others you may have never considered before. But we have a whole lot of reasons why salvation is the greatest thing mankind has ever been given!

THE VANISHING SCULPTOR by Donita K Paul

2009-09-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

The Vanishing Sculptor by Donita K. Paul : is a delightful tale of otherworldly adventures laced with heavenly meanings. Author Donita K. Paul skillfully transports you to a fantasy world populated with emerlindians, tumanhofers, speaking grand parrots, wizards, and magical librarians; where flying dragons communicate and mysterious portals whisk you across the world. Readers young and old will love journeying along with the enchanting questing party on their mission to save the world and discover a loving God.

“Have you ever looked at a painting from a distance and thought it beautiful, only to draw nearer to it and realize it was more exquisite, complex, and wonderful than you ever imagined? The Vanishing Sculptor by Donita K. Paul is like that. I began reading and liked it. As usual, I found myself happily enveloped in a vivid world full of emerlindians, tumanhofers, and dragons. But then, just when I thought the work was beautiful, something deep within me started to tingle…and I began to see that The Vanishing Sculptor was far more than simple entertainment or escape. I had one ‘Ah Ha!’ moment after another. Clues everywhere, right in front of my eyes, blossomed into truth until, at last, I put down the book and swam in the rich waters of adventure, peace, and blessed melancholy–that rare state revealing you’ve been touched by the story of an inspired author. The Vanishing Sculptor is sure to be loved by readers and re-readers of every age.”–Wayne Thomas Batson, bestselling author of The Door Within Trilogy, Isle of Swords, and Isle of Fire

“Stunning beginning to a new series! Rarely does an author re-capture the exquisite charm and the bold freshness first discovered in their initial series. Donita K. Paul fans are in for a treat as they uncover new wonders and enchantment in the world of Amara. New readers will revel in the magical blend of mischief and mayhem woven with wittiness and intrigue throughout this engaging tale. From the zany disposition of Lady Peg to the spirited charm and wit of Tipper, her youthful daughter, The Vanishing Sculpture, tingles our most fervent emotions of love, joy, and hope. An exciting complement to The DragonKeeper Chronicles and a fantastical adventure for inaugural audiences of all ages.”–Eric Reinhold, author of The Annals of Aeliana, Ryann Watters and the King’s Sword and Ryann Watters and the Shield of Faith

OFFWORLD by ROBIN PARRISH

2009-08-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

I thought Offworld by Robin Parrish was very well written. The premise drew me into the story with the idea that everyone on Earth has disappeared while this team of astronauts has been away on Mars. However, the premise on the book cover isn't accurate...not everyone has disappeared at all, even though it appears they have during the first half of the novel. There's a good deal of action in Offworld and as I said, it is well written. However I found myself disappointed at the end by the reason for everyone's disappearance. I don't want to give spoilers, but with all of the suspense during the first half of the story, I was just expecting something a bit more monumental...something better explained than the Quantum machine thing.

A page turner until I began to see my expectations let down toward the end.

"THE REALM SHIFT" has been RELEASED!

2009-07-31T09:37:00.001-07:00

After some time, trial and a title tweak, THE REALM SHIFT has been released on Amazon.com under the KINDLE BOOK format. The novel is also available as a TRADE PAPERBACK. The second novel, THE ORDER OF SHADDAI, (updated: Has been released) and the final Installment, THE SWORD OF GIDEON, will release early spring 2010. I've done the cover work on these and was very pleased with how they've turned out.

Synosis: THE REALM SHIFT - "The strangest thing about Ethan's first encounter with a demon was not that he could see the creature, but that the demon could not see him....Hunted by these malevolent spirits and the Warlord allied to them, Ethan struggles to stay alive in the midst of a growing rebellion within his homeland. As war erupts, he must flee to the white walled city of Emmanuel, in hopes of fulfilling the long held prophecy of "Shaddai's Deliverer," or die in the attempt. At every turn, enemies, both seen and unseen, conspire to kill Ethan before he discovers how to unleash the awesome power of the Realm Shift."

"The Realm Shift's intrigue is second only to its action!" -- Wayne Thomas Batson, author, The Berinfell Prophecies and The Door Within Trilogy.

"The Realm Shift doesn't just draw you in, it sucks you in! The story is full of mystery, adventure, danger and inspiration. I highly recommend it!" -- Brian Tubbs, Pastor, Sligo Baptist Church.

"The Realm Shift is written in a grand mythic type of storytelling reminiscent of Tolkien's Lord of the Ring Trilogy. It grabs the reader from the get-go and takes you on an intense ride through its thrilling, unstoppable trajectory!" -- Rai Aren, author, The Secret Sands.
"The Realm Shift is spiritual warfare as you've never read it before. An awesome book!" -- Betty Dravis, author, Toonies Invade Silicon Valley and 1106 Grand Boulevard.

ENCLAVE by KAREN HANCOCK

2009-07-17T07:32:00.000-07:00

ENCLAVE by KAREN HANCOCK: When Lacey McHenry accepts a prestigious research fellowship at the world-renowned Kendell-Jakes Longevity Institute, she sees it as a new start on life. But a disturbing late-night encounter with an intruder leads to an unexpected cover-up by Institute authorities, and she soon realizes there's more going on than she ever imagined.
She finds a supporter in genetics researcher Cameron Reinhardt. However, Reinhardt is a favorite of the Institute's director, and she can't help wondering if he, too, is in on the cover-up. The brilliant but absentminded researcher turns out to have his own secrets, some of them dark and deadly.

I hate to be negative, but I just couldn't get into this novel. While I realize Mrs. Hancock is a wonderful writer, this particular story seemed to have so much going on that it became muddled up for me...I couldn't find a place to hold on to in the story, an anchor for my interest, I suppose. I didn't particularly care about the characters or where the plot was going.

Maybe its just my own preferences here...I'm used to her fantasy and found it more enjoyable, personally.

HALLOWED GROUND now AVAILABLE!

2009-07-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

"HOLLOWED GROUND," the sequel to my thriller novel, "HALLOWED BE THY NAME," is now available! This intense sequel jumps thirty years into the future, allowing me to add some near future tech into the mix in an "I-ROBOT," sort of setting. Jonathan Hallowed is back in this one as well as my ever mutating villilan, Nemesis. And there's a completely new threat in this one, Samuel Stokes, a young man, born as part of a eugenics type breeding project, possessing powerful Telekinetic abilities and out for vengeance against those who created him. Think, "Akira," if you enjoy Japanese Anime and you'll get an idea of the kind of non-stop action available in this one!

Check it out on AMAZON KINDLE, where my other novels have been doing very well recently. "HALLOWED GROUND," is also available as a PAPERBACK with links here in the sidebar!

TOM PAWLIK'S "VANISH"

2009-06-22T04:17:00.000-07:00

In Tom Pawlik's "VANISH," Three strangers each encounter the same mysterious storm and awake the next day to find that everyone else has vanished. There's Conner Hayden, a successful but unscrupulous trial lawyer who has forsaken his family for his career; Helen Krause, a middle-aged model struggling to come to grips with her fading beauty; and Mitch Kent, an enterprising young mechanic unable to escape a past that still haunts him. Afraid and desperate for answers, their paths eventually cross and they discover they are being watched. Elusive and obscured in shadows, the "observers" are apparently forcing them to relive vivid hallucinations of events from their past. They discover a mute homeless boy in tattered clothing and believe he may hold the key to the mystery, but the "observers" soon become aggressive and the four are forced to flee. When the boy disappears, the four decide to head from Chicago to Washington, D.C., in search of answers...and more survivors. Winner of the 2006 operation first novel contest, Vanish is a nonstop suspense thriller in the vein of Ted Dekker.

NEW NOVEL SERIALIZATION!

2009-05-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

I'm serializing my new novel, placing new chapters on a new blog site for it each week, (hopefully). The new novel is called "APPRENTICE," and is geared toward fans of G.P. Taylor's "Shadowmancer" series, as well as Susanna Clarke's "Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrel."

CLICK THIS LINK -- APPRENTICE - NOVEL BLOG

SYNOPSIS--"Brody West has traveled to London with his father, but soon finds himself robbed of his father, his sanity and very nearly his life. Brody encounters a mysterious benefactor who tells him he has a work to do, but gives no detail about it. Brody's journey leads him through London streets, the company of thieves, Faerie Lords, Angels and realms beyond human sight. A sinister plot is brewing in London and threatens to enslave the populace and a ten year old boy may be the only one who can stop it!"

TUCK BY STEPHEN LAWHEAD

2009-05-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

TUCK BY STEPHEN LAWHEAD--"Pray God our aim is true and each arrow finds its mark."
King Raven has brought hope to the oppressed people of Wales--and fear to their Norman overlords. Along the way Friar Tuck has been the stalwart supporter of King Raven--bringing him much-needed guidance, wit, and faithful companionship.
Deceived by the self-serving King William and hunted by the treacherous Abbot Hugo and Sheriff de Glanville, Rhi Bran is forced to take matters into his own hands as King Raven. Aided by Tuck and his small but determined band of forest-dwelling outlaws, he ignites a rebellion that spreads through the Welsh valleys, forcing the wily monarch to marshal his army and march against little Elfael.
Filled with unforgettable characters, breathtaking suspense, and rousing battle scenes, Stephen R. Lawhead's masterful retelling of the Robin Hood legend reaches its stunning conclusion in Tuck. Steeped in Celtic mythology and the political intrigue of medieval Britain, Lawhead's trilogy conjures up an ancient past while holding a mirror to contemporary realities. Prepare for an epic tale that shatters everything you thought you knew about Robin Hood.

REVIEWS FOR TUCK:

"For those who haven't read Hood and Scarlet yet, I would highly recommend doing so before reading this. The focus of the book is on Tuck, but there are a lot of supporting characters and plots that surround Tuck. As with the other two in the series, this is a book filled with action/ adventure. Once you enter the forest, you will not want to return to civilization!"

"I am huge fan of Stephen Lawhead and 'Tuck' secures the reason why. The King Raven trilogy has been amazing from the beginning. His real world interpretation of the legend of Robin Hood is haunting, stunning, and thought provoking. 'Tuck' is the final book in the series and it does a wonderful job of wrapping everything up. The plot never slows down, but never feels rushed. I kept thinking to myself, "How is he going to finish this whole series when there are only 50 pages left in the book?" Twist after twist will keep you engaged in this book until early in the morning. The action in the book is so well written you feel as if you are in Celyddon with Rhi Bran and his followers. The intensity is communicated so well. I can think of no down side to this book except that it wasn't longer! Highly recommended. If you haven't read any of this series before, make sure you start with 'Hood' and read 'Scarlet' next. 'Tuck' won't make much sense unless you read it last."

"PERDITION'S GATE" NOW AVAILABLE!

2009-05-14T04:47:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, my new Suspense-Thriller, PERDITION'S GATE, is complete and available. You can get the novel on Kindle Books at Amazon.com or as a PAPERBACK NOVEL as well as the novel being downloadable for free in pdf form on the paperback link! Click the cover to see the back cover synopsis. Anyone willing to download the pdf at the paperback link and review it over on its kindle book page on Amazon would be greatly appreciated!

CONCEPTS AND ACTUAL BOOK COVERS: BY ME

2009-05-01T13:53:00.000-07:00

ANYONE NEEDING BOOK COVER HELP, JUST LET ME KNOW...I'M WILLING TO HELP IF I CAN PROBABLY JUST FOR A REVIEW OF ONE OF MY NOVELS...YOU CAN'T BEAT THAT :)

NEW MORE DRAMATIC COVER!

2009-05-01T06:11:00.001-07:00

Hey folks, I've done some revision to the cover for my Christian Action-thriller, HALLOWED BE THY NAME. See if you think this is more dramatic! Click the cover to check out the back copy description. "Jonathan Hallowed undergoes a real trial of faith as he tries to understand why God has allowed this situation to happen to him and whether or not to sacrifice his life in order to use the power he's been given in order to save those around him."

"PERDITIONS GATE" COMING SOON!

2009-04-27T11:58:00.000-07:00

I've got several new novels about to be released in the near future..."Hallowed Be Thy Name" has already been released as a paperback and Kindle book as well as "The Chronicles of S0one: Rise of Lucin."

PERDITIONS GATE is coming soon. This is a Christian action-thriller involving special ops, in a near future setting, lots of intrigue, etc. Check out the back cover copy when you click to blow it up :D

For any self published authors interested in Book Cover work, I'm also willing to do that and CHEAP. email me jamessremos(at)yahoo.com and we'll talk. This PERDITIONS GATE front and back cover is a sample of my work--click it to see full size.

HALLOWED BE THY NAME - PREVIEW

2009-04-23T14:19:00.000-07:00

PREVIEW: FIRST TWO CHAPTERS OF "HALLOWED BE THY NAME"--now available!

1 PROWARD STREET STATION

Only an idiot would dare travel through Donalee at night. That’s what Dr. Trenton Hallowed had read in today’s newspaper. He opened the door of his Lexus sedan, a tall man of slim build, dark hair and stepped into the street at the intersection of Walnut and Vineyard. New-car-smell segued into late evening after-the-rain. He toggled the trunk switch and the lid popped open. Trenton placed his key set in the pocket of his suit pants and removed a knee length white lab coat, folding it up as he walked around to the rear bumper and set it inside. A Genetic Corp employee pass-badge lay clipped on the front pocket face up.
Trenton removed a brown suit jacket from the trunk and pulled it on. He paused a moment to wipe his wire-rimmed glasses with a monogrammed white handkerchief then seated them securely upon the bridge of his nose with an after-push. He retrieved a beige fedora and black leather briefcase and capped his outfit before closing the trunk lid.
Trenton scanned the area and then crossed Vineyard Street reaching into his pocket to depress the keychain. The hazard lights on the Lexus flashed behind him with a chirp as he stepped up onto the sidewalk. Rainwater splashed his hat brim from the streetlight as he passed under. To his right, a digital billboard flashed the date and time in between advertisements. Trenton scanned the Rolex on his left wrist. His timepiece read two minutes fast at 10:30 PM.
Trenton opened one of the glass double doors to the Vineyard Street Subway station and walked inside. This late in the evening, the station was virtually abandoned. Custodians operated sweepers while a few others waxed the floor. Walking through the station, he noticed how impeccably clean everything was.
The marble floor showed very little signs of wear as did the costly leather couches and mahogany tables sitting in the vestibule. The custodians performed a duty, not a necessity. Only then did Trenton consider that most people living in Imperial City’s Hilton borough didn’t need public transportation. It held a stigma here.
As Trenton approached the turnstiles, he saw a burly security officer leaning against one of two attendant booths. One stood dark, while the other housed a lone female attendant with curly blonde hair who was engaged in conversation with the officer. They seemed surprised to see anyone actually coming into the station, especially at this time of night.
“Good evening, sir,” the security officer said. He straightened and Trenton wondered if all he did every night was stand there talking to the pretty girl in the attendant booth. “Would you like an escort?” the man asked.
“No thank you.” Trenton kept his fedora at an angle shadowing his facial features. He passed his right hand over the turnstile sensor and it automatically scanned the Hilton identification band on his ring finger. A green light on top of the turnstile flashed and Trenton walked through unhindered. “Have a lovely evening, sir,” the security officer said.
Trenton kept walking and did not reply. An escalator carried him down to the train platform. Two more security officers sat at a desk to his right. They were already looking at him by the time he cleared the short hallway leading onto the platform. He made a mental note of several camera mounts positioned in the ceiling corners. “Hello, sir,” one of the men said from behind the counter.
Trenton nodded to them with a slight tug on his brim. Neither of the guards showed enough interest to actually come over and investigate. He examined his watch again. 10:37PM.
A train howled coming through the tunnel on approach to Vineyard Station. The automated train engine emerged from the tunnel trailing five passenger cars. When the car doors opened with a hydraulic hiss, the yellow barrier gates followed suit—five gates swung open giving access to this lone passenger. Trenton boarded and sat down in the empty train car.
The computer controlling the train waited two more minutes, sounded an intent-to-board alarm bell then closed the passenger cars. Trenton pulled a current newspaper from his briefcase, began reading and waited. No other passengers had boarded while in Hilton, just as he had expected.
In a matter of minutes, the train covered miles of underground and overland track. It left the Hilton borough altogether—immediately entering the Branton borough. Trenton read with the pages held aloft blocking his view of any passengers who might board. All he heard at each stop were the doors. He waited.
When the computerized female voice announced that his train had passed into the Donalee borough, Trenton’s palms began to sweat. This was it—his field experiment was about to happen. The train stopped at the Proward Street station—the same as the news article Trenton had read. The door hissed and opened. The smell of sweat and cigarette smoke invaded the train car along with several sets of footsteps.
Trenton’s newspaper exploded away from his hands revealing four armed men—two with knives, one with a lead pipe, the last swinging a thick chain. Trenton noticed two overly made-up young women waiting outside the subway car door. One held a .38 caliber pistol—Saturday night special. Two of the men grabbed Trenton out of his seat and slung him out of the train onto the platform. Trenton stumbled but did not resist. The doors closed back into place. Seconds later the automated train left the station, leaving the famous geneticist behind.
Trenton stood on stained gray concrete in the midst of the four men and two women on the Proward Station platform. Graffiti adorned every wall. “The wallet and briefcase now, fancy pants!” one of the men said. Trenton searched for camera mounts and found all of them torn down.
He smiled. Perfect.

2 CHAOS

Detective Michael Stamos depressed the button to roll down the passenger side window of his unmarked police cruiser. “Richard do you have to smoke those things?” he asked. “You’re gonna get cancer.”
“At least I’ll die happy,” Richard said. He blew a stream of cigarette smoke out the window.
“Well I don’t want cancer. My dad passed away last year.”
Richard looked at him. “I thought he had a heart attack.”
“What’s your point? He died…I don’t want you to kill me with your nasty habit.”
Richard chuckled, drew a final drag and flicked the butt out the window. “Happy?”
“I will be when you finally quit.” He rolled the window back up.
“Maybe I’ll quit when you get married.”
“Hey now, I like my space,” Michael said. He turned a corner keeping one eye on the GPS screen.
“You’ll never find a woman with that attitude. You gotta give a little—stop being such a lone wolf.”
“I like lone wolf and who says I’m looking?” He turned another corner and ran through a red light—siren blaring outside and police lights flashing. “Besides, I’ve got you,”
“Now that’s scary,” Richard said, rolling his eyes.
“Yeah, yeah…I mean, if I want someone to nag me about what I’m doing and where I’m going, I’ve got you. I don’t need a wife for that.”
Richard ran his thick fingers through his wavy gray hair. “Do we have any information on this one?”
“Just six dead bangers.”
“A Joy deal gone bad?”
“Sounded more like a robbery that backfired,” Michael said.
“Vigilante?” Richard mused. “Interesting.”
“That’s all we need. If they’re any of Ming’s people, we’ll have a bloodbath on our hands.”
“I should’ve capped him when we had the chance,” Richard said.
“They’d have locked you up on that one.” A multitude of police lights flashed down the road ahead of them—a swarm of angry fireflies. “The guy was unarmed.”
“Yeah, but he was guilty,” Richard said.
“You know how that goes.”
“Would’ve been nice to get him when he was still just a two-bit punk,” Richard said as he checked his sidearm beneath his beige sport coat. “Now nobody can get near him.”
Michael pulled up to the subway station at Proward Street. He and Richard got out of the car with their badges ready just in case some rookie tried to stop them crossing the police line. They ducked under the black and yellow tape and walked through a nest of black and whites.
The two detectives entered the Proward Street subway station, passing several officers they knew well. An emergency entrance bypassed the turnstiles and all the traffic flowed through it. Mike and Richard walked through with several forensics technicians and followed them down three flights of stairs to the large subway platform below.
Emergency lighting had been imported because most of the platform lighting had been damaged. Fluorescent bulbs still flickered. A uniformed police officer vomited into a station-labeled trashcan. “Oh boy.” Richard sighed. “It’s gonna be one of those nights.”
“Nothing we haven’t seen before,” Michael said. But as he and his partner entered the crime scene, Michael realized he was wrong.
Crime scene investigators and technicians worked like ants gathering food for the winter. The entire platform was showered with gore. Cameras flashed almost continually. Richard stood wide-eyed. Michael felt like joining the uniform at the trashcan.
The area had been taped off to prevent officers from messing up the crime scene. Michael and Richard remained behind it. The call involved six gang members. One, a female, lay dead with her own pistol shoved halfway inside her mouth. A Caucasian male had been wrapped like a horseshoe around a support pillar with his back broken. An Asian male, gang member lay ten feet away crumpled in a heap beneath a blood-smeared wall. It appeared as though he had been swung by his legs and repeatedly smashed into the graffiti and white tile of the Proward Station platform.
Another female lay on the dirty concrete floor—her body nearly unrecognizable as being human. An African-American male had been bludgeoned to a pulp and thrown up into the roof girders—ten feet in the air.
A team worked feverishly to manually back up one of the automated passenger trains. When the men finally got it pushed back to the point where technicians could examine it, Michael saw evidence of the sixth gang member. All that remained of the man was the splash of crimson left on the front of the automated subway engine—the final resting place of a wayward insect.
“Who could’ve done this?” Michael asked.
“—Or what?” Richard licked his lips as though something fowl had been belched up.
One of the crime scene investigators, Linda Phelps, signaled Detective Link to come through the tape barrier. “Hey, Mike, we're in.”
The two detectives passed under the tape and cautiously made their way around technicians collecting forensic data. They walked over to the first female victim where Officer Phelps knelt examining the body. “The gun was forced into her mouth through her teeth,” she said. “The killer broke her fingers forcing her to pull the trigger.”
“One person did all this?” Richard asked.
“There is only one set of shoeprints besides the victims—my first impression is a loafer or dress shoe, size eleven. Whoever did this is incredibly strong—the guy in the rafters is 220 lbs easy,” Linda said.
Michael noticed the bloody prints smudged in various places on the concrete.
“So we’re looking for a linebacker on angel dust?” Richard asked.
“Try a grizzly bear,” Michael said.
“Actually, you’re both wrong,” Phelps said. “The bruising patterns suggest someone with normal handbreadth.”
Michael looked closer at the bruising on the girl’s arm. “How is that possible?”
“That’s why you’re a detective, Detective.”

BLAGGARDS MOON by George Bryan Polivka

2009-04-20T04:31:00.000-07:00

BLAGGARDS MOON by George Bryan Polivka, the author of the Legend of the Firefish series, has come out with another excellent novel from the world of Nearing Vast!

This piratey tale reminded me very much of recent pirate novels I've read by my friend, Wayne Batson. However there are some differences. Isle of Swords & Isle of Fire were generally slated for a little younger audience and carry a faster pace than Blaggard's Moon by far. Polivka's voice tends to be a bit more literary. He's taking his time to really craft a tale here, where the others are more of a thrill ride. Both are excellent for what they are and it simply depends upon your personal taste. If you liked the Legend of the Firefish then you won't be disappointed, but if you tend to enjoy the "thrill ride" more, then prepare to take some time with this one. One thing that jumped out at me right off the bat was Polivka's use of "Sea Monkeys." How many of us can still remember the lovable little sea monkeys in comic books that you had to send off for...I believe you ended up with a packet of sprinkles or something in the end...well, these sea monkeys may just scare you out of your wits! Enjoy :)

HUNTER BROWN AND THE SECRET OF SHADOW

2009-03-16T14:12:00.000-07:00

HUNTER BROWN AND THE SECRET OF SHADOW by The Miller Brothers is one of the latest Christian YA fantasies to come our way and appears to be quite a hit with young people already.

The novel is set for young teens and is very similar in scope to Wayne Batson's Door Within Trilogy. Hunter is your typical awkward teen, but codebearers in another dimension already know who he is as do the vile Shadow. When Hunter is led to discover a mysterious book in a bookstore that suddenly isn't there anymore, his whole existence is turned upside down. Soon he's being hunted by Mysterious creatures he never even knew existed called the Shadow. The Book transports him into another world where an epic battle is underway and Hunter Brown is already a vital key to the ultimate outcome.

I'd recommend this one for teens and tweens and both boys and girls who enjoy portal fantasy novels will likely enjoy it!

HALLOWED BE THY NAME

2009-03-16T13:58:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone, I've been busy writing as always it seems and I've just released a new Christian Thriller, Action, Horror novel entitled "HALLOWED BE THY NAME."

"Feeling sure he has finally cracked the secrets of man's evolution, Dr. Trenton Hallowed uses himself as a guinea pig for his new genetic mutagen. He soon finds himself upon the threshold of unbelievable power. But a vicious beast is waking within him. An increasing number of people turn up brutally murdered in the lower districts of the city as Trenton celebrates new success. Jonathan Hallowed, the victim of a mob hit during one of Trenton Hallowed's exhibitions, wakes in a morgue drawer wrapped in a body bag. His flesh is riddled with bullet wounds, yet he lives. Jonathan must figure out what has happened to him and why the police are calling his cousin Trenton a vicious murderer. Even worse, Jonathan may be the only one who can stop him."

Click the link to purchase a paperback copy for merely the print cost -
HALLOWED BE THY NAME - PAPERBACK COPY
This has been a little bit of a departure from the YA stuff I've been working on, but I've really enjoyed it. As always, the story zoooms along with plenty of action.

CYNDERE'S MIDNIGHT by JEFFREY OVERSTREET

2009-02-12T13:47:00.000-08:00

CYNDERE'S MIDNIGHT by JEFFREY OVERSTREET is the new sequel to Auralia's Colors by Waterbrook Publishing.

House Abascar has fallen in a torrential firestorm and Auralia has been transformed and taken by the mysterious Northchildren. In the wake of the destruction King Calraven tries to hold together the refugee survivors of his once great house, Auralia's young friend, ale boy, now impervious to flame, roams the land saving people from the ruins and from Cent Regus beastmen seeking to plunder the remains. Meanwhile, the heiress, Cyndere, has lost her husband to the beastmen as he sought to find survivors in Abascars ruins and she hopes to fulfill their dream of freeing the brutish beastmen from the Cent Regus curse of the Essence.

Mr. Overstreet has not lost his flare for dramatic prose. It is quite lyrical at times and while some complain of the broken conventions of writing, I say, rules were made to be broken--at least if it produces an interesting product. On the upbeat, Cyndere's midnight seems more focused than its predecessor and Overstreet being a Christian novelist we can begin to find the allegory that may be lurking beneath the obvious. Personally, I'm glad to see that element coming out...at least I believe I'm seeing it :)

On the downbeat, Cyndere's midnight suffers a bit from the lack of Auralia. And while I understand the progression of the plot, she was a very interesting character. Still Cyndere begins to become endearing, though I have to say, my personal favorites here are the ale boy and the beastman, Jordam. The beastmen are great characters and add the action element here. Unfortunately the novel doesn't MOVE swiftly, but for the patient reader, you'll find an enjoyable sequel.

CHRONICLES OF SOONE:RISE OF LUCIN AVAILABLE!

2009-02-03T06:29:00.000-08:00

HEY FOLKS, I wanted to let you know that The Chronicles of Soone: Rise of Lucin is now available in two formats!

TRADE PAPERBACK EDITION:

AMAZON KINDLE EDITION:

Lucin, the Fallen One, is victorious on planet Castai and the reign of the king has ended in a savage coup. The final days of mankind's hope are fading with the rise of a sinister foe.

THE MIGHTY FALL
King Tiet Soone and a small band of warriors have barely escaped planet Castai with their lives. No place is safe for them with Lucin on the hunt.

A FINAL PROPHECY
A mysterious prophet has come to direct the king towards his destinyвЂ”a second confrontation with Lucin and his army of assimilated humans. But with the reconciliation of Lucin's Mithrial brethren, the Agonotti, the odds for success are worse than ever. Outnumbered and outmatched, the king must risk all he has left or witness the end of mankind.

This sequel to COS:Heir to the King has tons of action and a lot of plot twists...I don't want to give it away, but a major character meets his demise in this one! Thanks to Jeremy Robinson for another great cover!

NEW "BIBLE-SMART" STUDY BLOG LAUNCHED!

2009-01-26T04:30:00.000-08:00

Please take a look at my new Bible-Smart blog!! This is "a bible study for the average joe" in hopes of making God's Word more accessible and understandable--check it out and leave comments and questions at will.

ANOTHER DAY IN HISTORY

2009-01-20T09:24:00.000-08:00

WEll, we stand upon the making of history today with our first Black President. Some people are mad, some sad, some worrying themselves to death over what this all portends for Christians. I for one am not the least bit worried.

I know some may think our next president is the anti-christ or something or the kind, but biblically I'm sure that isn't the case. That person will ride into history after the Christ removes the church (according to the order given in Revelation).

I'm reminded that God has not lost control of the world for even a moment and the same goes for today. The next administration should be an interesting one to be sure, but God is still in control. WE are a day closer to the coming of the Lord Jesus today-the same could be said for yesterday, and the day before that.

Beyond everything happening in the world, I'm confident that no matter my personal circumstances, God is firmly in control. I'm saved by his gracious sacrifice for my sins and no one can take away Eternal Life granted unto me through faith in Jesus Christ. I'm glad God elected/ chose to accept everyone who would believe on His son and glad that God convinced me to receive him as my personal savior and become a part of that elect group.

Everything is right with the world...God's plan and purpose is right on schedule...and believers must simply strive to do the work we are left here to do--proclaim salvation through God's son, his sacrifice for the cleansing of sin, his resurrection for our justification and his soon coming again!NOthing in the world can stop God's purposes...that allows me peace which passes all understanding!

SHADE by John B. Olson

2008-11-17T09:47:00.000-08:00

Christy Award–winner for Oxygen, Olson, a biochemist-turned-novelist, keeps pace with a page-turning thriller that will please fans of paranormal spiritual battle tales. In a goth-vampire–infused mind-bending race through the streets and underworld of San Francisco, Hailey Maniates discovers a deeper diagnosis than paranoid schizophrenia for her hallucinations. One man wants her as bait in a cosmic duel, and another—Melchi, the child of prophecy—wants to save her life. With the help of her graduate school friends and Melchi, Hailey turns from victim to fellow soldier with Melchi in the battle against the evil Mulo, the spirits of the dead who act like vampires. With breathless pacing, a sharp sense of suspense, memorable descriptions and a churning plot, this novel is a must-read for those who enjoy such authors as Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti. Readers will appreciate carefully woven themes from Dracula, science, faith, conspiracy theory and divine battle. Christian themes surface in the supernatural warfare, and a Christian character, Susan Boggs, helps Hailey see beyond the physical world to a deeper reality.

SHOUT OUT TO JEREMY ROBINSON!

2008-10-21T14:03:00.000-07:00

I'd like to take a moment to send out a special SHOUT OUT to a good long distance friend, Mr. Jeremy Robinson!! In case you aren't familiar with Jeremy Robinson, he's a self made success in the publishing world and on the rise. Jeremy began his publishing career as a print-on-demand self published author utilizing LULU.COM to bring us "The Didymus Contingency." This exciting time travel thriller gained him a large fan base and the endorsement of bestselling thriller novelist, James Rollins, who consequently has endorsed Jeremy's work ever since. Following on his self published success with his first novel, Jeremy took on the task of starting his own publishing company, Breakneck Books. Jeremy put his graphic arts talent to use along with a great deal of marketing savvy and brought us his next novel, "Raising the Past," along with a gaggle of new authors like myself, (Thanks Jeremy!)

Breakneck began to see some measured success, particularly through Jeremy's broadening fan base, the release of "Antarktos Rising" and ultimately his book deal with Thomas Dunne Books. Around the same time, Breakneck Books came to merge with Variance Publishing and has seen some bestselling authors climb onboard with their latest upcoming novels.

In addition to Jeremy's new three book deal for Thomas Dunne is his continued novel releases at Variance Publishing including a re-release of "Antarktos Rising" into trade paperback. This will mark Jeremy's first official release into the realm of brick and mortar bookstores, though many more are soon to come! And if that wasn't enough, "Antarktos Rising" has been acquired by a Japanese Animation company to produce the Anime version in 2010 with a big budget! NOT BAD FOR A SELF PUBLISHED AUTHOR!

WE GIVE PROPS WHERE THEY ARE DUE AND HIS TIME HAS ARRIVED--CHECK OUT THE OCTOBER 22nd RELEASE OF "ANTARKTOS RISING" IN YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE AND SEE WHAT THE HYPE IS ALL ABOUT!

BEYOND THE REFLECTIONS EDGE

2008-10-20T04:33:00.000-07:00

Bryan Davis' BEYOND THE REFLECTION'S EDGE is another well written, intriguing story to add to the expanding Christian Fiction universe. I've always been impressed by Mr. Davis' exacting prose. He's a master writer! The story involves multiplied dimensions where timelines and events are out of sync with one another. Alternate selves come and go between creating havoc and all is moving to a potential destruction of reality. What more could you ask for in great fiction?

Here's what others are saying about the novel as well :)

Bryan Davis has outdone himself again! I have been hooked on his stories since Raising Dragons and Eye of the Oracle and I thought he couldn't possibly create another work as good as these. The thrilling, mind-bending plot in Beyond the Reflection's Edge captivated me, proving me wrong, while at the same time the witty, lovable characters captured my heart. I loved this book and I can't wait to see what Bryan Davis comes up with next!

What do you get when you have interdimensional mirrors, violins that speak, and a 'broken' camera? Why, Bryan Davis' new fantasy novel of course! When Nathan Shepherd's parents are murdered during a concert, Nathan and his tutor Clara, must run for their lives before the killers find them too. With mysterious happenings behind every corner, Nathan, and his new friend Kelly, must solve the mysteries which cross multiple dimensions, before time runs out, and they are all destroyed. I was worried that after reading Davis' Dragons in our Midst and Oracles of Fire series, nothing would be able to live up to the story and characters which brought those books to life. I am pleased to say that my worries were far, far, far, from being valid. Beyond the Reflection's Edge brings some wonderful characters who are realistic and touching, as well as unique, and easy to relate to. It is, in a word, a masterpiece. The storyline is mind bending, spell binding, and heart wrenching, all at the same time. The spiritual themes are ever present, but not overbearing, and leave you with things to ponder long after the last page is turned. The story is captivating from beginning to end, and left me hungry for more. All I can say is, well done Mr. Davis! Your books are quickly becoming my standard for excellence in the Christian fantasy genre!

MARCHER LORD PRESS DAY 2

2008-09-22T13:47:00.001-07:00

MARCHER LORD PRESS does it again with another enchanting addition to its ranks with "HERO, Second Class," by Mitchell Bonds.

This fantasy tale sets traditional high fantasy on its respective ear and then tickles it. I kn0w Mr. Bonds must keep Monty Python and the Holy Grail jammed into his DVD player because I've not had the pleasure of such wonderful silliness since watching the duel between Authur and The Black Knight.

Bonds is a wonderful storyteller and every bit of this romp is trod with tongue firmly in cheek. Its easy reading and fun to boot. What better way to spend a first class weekend than curled up with Hero, Second Class?

MARCHER LORD PRESS

2008-09-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

Marcher Lord Press is set to meet some of the growing demand for Christian Speculative Fiction -- that by the way is not being met with the major publishers at the moment.

The Personifid Invasion by R. E. Bartlett takes up the story previously published by Realms Fiction's Personifid Project, also by Bartlett, and delves deeper into a world of human perfection gone horribly wrong. Similar in scope and feel to Scott Westerfields, The Uglies series, this novel series adds the dimension of wicked spirits inhabiting the new bodies people are trading up for. Becoming a Personifid, means becoming artificial but perfect. It also means you might be under demonic control. The writing is crisp and clean and will keep you turning the pages.

Broken Angel by Sigmund Brouwers

2008-08-26T09:25:00.000-07:00

Broken Angel by Sigmund Brouwers is up this month on the Christian Sci-fi / Fantasy blog tour!

"In this addictively readable futuristic Christian dystopia, Brouwer (The Last Disciple) takes readers inside a state run by literalistic, controlling fundamentalists. There, reading is a serious crime; citizens are drugged into submission; and those who break rules are either sent to slave labor factories or stoned to death. Occasionally, a few brave souls try to escape to 'Outside.'
"At the center of this novel is Caitlyn, a disfigured but graceful and brave young woman whose father essentially orders her to make a run for it. For reasons not revealed (even to Caitlyn) until the very end, she is chased by a variety of people who want her dead or alive. While trying to escape, Caitlin meets up with two traveling companions who have their own reasons for fleeing, and she is aided by a sort of underground railroad. Its leaders believe the fundamentalist government has distorted true Christianity, so they risk everything to help people get Outside to freedom.
"The terrific pacing is surpassed only by the character development; the many supporting characters are extremely well-drawn. Brouwer adds even more suspense by regularly revealing that some of these characters are not who they appear to be."
- Publisher's Weekly

NEW CATALOG FOR MY PUBLISHER!

2008-08-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, my publisher, Variance Publishing, has just come out with their new catalog which includes my first novel, The Chronicles of Soone: Heir to the King.

I'm stoked about the possibilities with this merger of my former publisher, Breakneck Books and Variance. They've got a starting lineup of New York Times and International bestselling authors, so they mean business!

I'm hoping to see great things and be a part of great things over here. I've got two manuscripts up for a submission at Variance, (an action thriller, "HALLOWED BE THY NAME") & (a YA fantasy, "A World Within").

Both are chock full of action and fun characters, so it depends on which one meets the current demand at Variance.

DONITA K. PAUL'S "DRAGON LIGHT"

2008-07-22T04:48:00.000-07:00

DONITA K. PAUL'S "DRAGON LIGHT" is a fresh and often humorous cap to her very successful Dragon keeper Chronicles. The characters are engaging, though, in true High Fantasyese, many of the names are difficult to pronounce. I had not read her previous novels, but with the aid of the glossary in the back getting up to speed with the different races and terms was not difficult.

The novel is charming, presents some new twists on dragons and wizards I found interesting (especially Ms. Paul's further explanation on her "wizards" powers in the world she's created), and even better there was a very cool villian to face in the story. I highly recommend the novel and may find myself out obtaining the earlier novels as well.

Ms. Paul is also a part of the new MOTIV8 Christian Fantasy tour and here's a bit more from that site about Ms. Paul.

The author of The Dragon Keeper Chronicles answers some of our questions. Not all. She was hard to catch between her bouts of obsessive writing.

How did you begin writing?
I began my career as a writer because my mother was tired of my singing. Now you are probably envisioning some young thing vocalizing around the house in an off-tune manner as a June Cleaver-type mom tries to prepare dinner.
Not quite.
I was 46 and the one fixing dinner.
I had been a school teacher, and Mom was used to blessed quiet while I and my two teens spent most of the day away from the house. But I got this weird infection in my leg that disabled me and ended my life as a permanent first grader.
So I was home . . . singing . . . loudly . . . usually on pitch . . . very shaky on the lyrics, but no problem. I was perfectly willing to make up my own words.
And I liked to sing the same song over and over. Kind of a mindless background to whatever I was doing.
“Tomorrow” from Annie was, and is, one of my favorites.
Sweetly my mother said to me, “If you sing “Tomorrow” one more time, there may not be a tomorrow in your future.” And I got sent to my room.
Honestly. She said, “Go to your room and write a book.” So I did, and the rest is history.

Now, why do you have spiritual truths tucked in odd places in your books?

For the same reason a baseball enthusiast says he’s “batting 1000” when he does well on a job project. For the same reason a fisherman says he “landed a big one” when he’s talking about a sale he made at work. For the same reason an astronaut says “fly me to the moon,” when he asks for benefits with his pay package. For the same reason those guys hit a line drive, catch something hook, line, and sinker, or blast-off. It is their lingo. And after being a Christian for many, many years, and before that “thinking” I was a Christian from the cradle up, I just verbalize in terms of homeruns. I mean, I verbalize in terms of how God works in my life. It would be very difficult to hide my beliefs and not let them infiltrate my stories.

What do you hope to accomplish as a writer?

I assume you don’t want a crass answer like “bigger and more frequent paychecks.” I didn’t think so. It’s very hard for me to claim noble intent. I like to tell stories. I like to reveal things that God has revealed to me. I like to make people feel better. I like to offer hope. I love truth. I especially like to comfort people with the same comfort with which God has comforted me.
So, I want to reveal God’s Truth, inspire believers, persuade non-believers to give God a chance, and entertain the multitudes. The acronym for that is RIPE. When we offer someone fruit that is ripe, it is appealing and nutritious. I’m hoping the fruit my tree bears is ripe.

What excites you about this West Coast Fantasy Fiction Tour?
ROAD TRIP!
WACKY COMPADRES!
WONDERFUL READERS!
GOD SHOWING UP AT EVERY TURN!
Sights and sounds I’ve never seen before. Scenic vistas. Long hours in a van. Strange hotel beds every evening. Restaurant food, morning, noon, and night. Maybe even communicable viruses. Who wouldn’t be excited?

8 fantasy writers from 8 different publishing houses visiting 8 cities in 8 days, motiv8ting readers to explore fantastic positive literature.

What about that statement makes you willing to face the viruses?
Two things.
First the unity of it. We’re working together without regard to the commercial aspect of who gets the biggest profit.
And what we’re working for is the second thing: Putting positive literature in front of readers, offering a delicious array of nurturing books, increasing their awareness of God, and strengthening their hold on the Truth.

I close with a true story called Grand Prize.
Thursday, June 17th, 2008, around eleven o’clock AM Mountain time, I received one of the Grand Prizes given out to writers.
The award was given at a book signing at Mardels. I had no idea God had orchestrated the presentation. I signed a book after a brief conversation with a shy and beautiful teen girl. She leaned over and whispered, “My friend and I have decided to keep our relationships pure like Kale and Bardon did in your books.” She picked up her autographed copy and skedaddled, unaware that tears had sprung to my eyes and I was hallelujahing all over the place in the privacy of spontaneous worship to our Lord.

The accolades of men are nice. An affirmation from God is GRAND PRIZE.

2008-07-03T09:42:00.000-07:00

Hey folks...In recent news:

The Chronicles of Soone will be available around fall in bookstores from my publisher, Variance Publishing. If the book does well in this reprint then the entire series may be picked up for mass market editions :) I'm hopeful of course.

Also, I've been working to prepare the Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift manuscript for the International Christian Retail Show coming up in July--my agent will be presenting the manuscript to publishers there :) once again I'm hopeful!

I've been doing work on the second Ethan Hawk manuscript and also doing revisions to my older "A World Within" epic fantasy...this one hasn't been taken out to the gate yet...maybe one of these days :)

we'll see what happens!

SOME VERY GOOD NEWS!

2008-03-18T09:27:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone--

I have some great news to share...my current publisher, Breakneck Books, is merging with Variance LLC Publishing. Breakneck will become the paperback division while Variance will do Hardbacks. My friend bestselling author, Jeremy Robinson, will be re-releasing his books Antarktos Rising and The Didymus Contingency as hardbacks through variance...and kudos to Jeremy for a recent three book deal with St. Martin's Press!

What does this merger mean for myself...well my novel, The Chronicles of Soone: Heir to the King will be re-published as a mass market paperback with a small print run allowing it to be marketed and distributed to Brick and Mortar bookstores nationwide, instead of merely being available on Amazon.com and other online bookstores.

My hope is to also submit my revised version of Chronicles for the mass market paperback as many grammatical errors remained in the first version...please pray for me on that!

Also, my publisher has given me license to begin a serialized version of Chronicles of Soone in PODCAST form...which should soon be available in weekly episodes on podiobooks.com!

On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness

2008-03-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness by Andrew Peterson. Playwright Peterson (Behold the Lamb of God) spins a whimsical fantasy novel that will appeal to both adult and YA readers. When the three Igiby siblings find a mysterious map, they embark on an adventure to discover family secrets about the father they never knew and a hidden treasure that many have long desired to find. Leeli, the youngest, can sing with a beauty that captivates dragons; Tink, the middle sibling, has the makings of a king; and Janner, the eldest, possesses a bravery that will protect them all. But the children's curiosity get the entire Igiby family into trouble with the Fangs of Dang—frightening, scaly-skinned, lizard creatures that drip venom—who have ruled the land of Scree since the Great War. Soon, the Igibys are scrambling for their lives. Peterson's style is lighthearted and funny, but following the Igibys' story requires patience and attention to detail and character so as not to get lost. The sheer amount of names, places, creatures and history Peterson invents will frustrate some readers—it is so complicated that he inserts explanatory historical footnotes throughout (though many are amusing).

“So good–smart, funny, as full of ideas as action.”–Jonathan Rogers, author of The Wilderking Trilogy

“A wildly imaginative, wonderfully irreverent epic that shines with wit and wisdom–and features excellent instructions on how to cope with Thwaps, Fangs, and the occasional Toothy Cow.”–Allan Heinberg, writer/co-executive producer of ABC’s Grey's Anatomy, and co-creator of Marvel Comics Young Avengers

“Sometimes, in order to find out who we were supposed to be, we need to get lost in other worlds: Oz, Camelot, Narnia. In On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness, Andrew Peterson provides new and needed places like Aerwiar, Skree, and Glipwood–places where we need to get lost and found.”–Michael Card, author of The Hidden Face of God and The Parable of Joy, and singer/songwriter of more than thirty albums

“Totally fun! Andrew Peterson, a natural storyteller in the oral tradition, has nailed the voice needed to translate a rip-roaring fantasy tale to the written page.”–Donita K. Paul, author of DragonSpell, DragonKnight, DragonQuest, and DragonFire

Ethan Hawk Leaping Over Hurdles

2008-02-22T06:11:00.000-08:00

Update: "Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift," as survived its first scrutiny at a major publisher. The Editor's "reader" liked the sample chapters and book proposal and the editor has requested more to submit to the "sales board." There is still plenty of competition, as fantasy manuscripts are plentiful, but I take it as good news...so far :)

In the meantime, I'm busy pecking away at the second novel of the "Book of the Prophets" series: Ethan Hawk and the Order of Shaddai.

I always wonder when going from one novel to the next in the series, if I'll be able to maintain the level of intensity and action in the story without having to rehash what I've done before. So far, so good. EH and the Realm Shift is action packed and the second is managing to write itself out in the same fashion. This has to be one of my favorite series to write so far and I certainly hope the Lord will grant my petition to be able to share it in print :)

Chris WAlley, The Shadow of Night

2008-02-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

Chris Walley "The Shadow of Night"---

In the spirit of C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien, The Lamb among the Stars series weaves the worlds of science and the spirit, technology and supernatural into something unique and haunting. On the faraway planet of Farholme, humans live in peace under the gentle rule of the Assembly. War and evil are ancient history. But suddenly, almost imperceptibly, things begin to change. Slowly a handful of men and women begin to realize that evil has returned and it must be fought. From the Inside Flap
Imagine a future that todays generation can only dream of. A trillion people live under the gentle rule of the Assembly on over a thousand Made Worlds. Peace and stability have reigned for nearly twelve thousand years, and war and evil are merely ancient history. But all that is about to change.
On Farholmea Made World at the edge of the Assemblystrange and troubling things are happening. Slowly, incredulously, a handful of men and women come to recognize the unthinkable: Evil has returned once more, and it must be fought. Forester Merral DAvanos and his friends are entrusted with the daunting task of confronting their worlds elusive enemy.
Now isolated from the rest of the Assembly, Farholme must fight its battles alone. It falls to Merral to lead the untried forces of Farholme into war against opponents well-hidden and armed with strange powers. Yet even as he faces extraordinary and terrifying foes, Merral finds he has an unexpected enemyhimself.

What people are saying:

When I watch the news I sometimes wonder what it would be like to live in a world where evil didn't exist. What if we didn't need an army, or police, or weapons? Where no one lied, everyone could be trusted, and envy was unheard of? Well, that's the way it was in Farholme, a Made World, copied from Ancient earth, until Merral Stefan D'Avanos saw what he thought was a meteor streaking against the night sky. Suddenly, the peaceful world of Farholme began to change. At first he barely noticed the changes. There were just hints that something was wrong; a deception, a vision, a show of fear. Then Vero, a Sentinel from Ancient Earth showed up to check out what was going on. As Vero and Merral began the investigation, they became embroiled in a desperate battle agains the powers of evil. At first they didn't understand what was happening to Farholme, but both men believed in God and they were willing to follow wherever He led them. Chris Walley has created a world so vivid it seems almost real. This is a fascinating story of the battle between good and evil with a different twist. Full of action and suspense and engaging characters, it pulled me into the story from page one.

I just finished reading the two books that actually make up this single hardcover - Shadow At Evening and Power of the Night (accidentally rebought this book thinking it was a sequel - it's not). My 13 year old son recommended the books to me and I was extremely impressed with the quality of the story and the way that Chris Walley knits together a compelling sci-fi story with a Christian point of view. As a long time sci-fi/fantasy reader, I didn't think it was really possible for it to be done in a believable way, but he does it. His main character's evolution as he comes into contact with evil is a challenge for all believers! A must-read!

ETHAN HAWK GETS HIS DAY!

2008-02-11T12:17:00.000-08:00

This picture really reminds me of one of the main villians--had to post it!

Hello All--Just an update: My agent, Gregg Wooding and I are working to prepare a Book Proposal to be presented to publishers in upcoming months. The final touch will be several reviews of the novel by four of Christian Fantasy's finest authors and one Youth Pastor in my area.

I'll not name the authors -- if it gets published I'm sure you'll see them on the cover! -- but I just want to say publicly, if you read this guys -- You're the best for taking time out of your busy schedules to review "Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift."

So, we're geared up and gung-ho, praying hard and hoping for the best as Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift begins the journey through the gauntlet that is the publishing industry.

For anyone interested, I have sound bytes over on my MYSPACE page where you can listen to a select chapter of Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift including some pretty cool intro music!

Auralia's Colors by Jeffrey Overstreet

2007-12-21T03:46:00.000-08:00

Jeffrey Overstreet's "AURALIA'S COLORS" is a delightful fantasy novel where four great Houses have forgotten their distant past and connection to one another. In particular, House Abascar has banished color from their daily lives at the behest of a jealous queen. The lives of the people have lost all joy, celebration, meaning. The Wintering of House Abascar threatens to bring down the kingdom itself.

Then a mysterious, young orphan girl begins to harness the colors of the Expanse into wonderous gifts which have a power all their own. Auralia's Colors may be the salvation of this House or its very undoing!

I thoroughly enjoyed "Auralia's Colors." Overstreet's prose is as lyrical as poetry. There are some unconventional literary things going on, but unless you are a literary pharisee, it's nothing that should detract from the story. I would highly recommend the novel, but there is a question that arises for me having read it and one I would love to have discussion over.

"Where is the Christianity in Auralia's Colors?"

I've honestly searched for the allegory, the veiled references to faith, redemption, Christ, God, even the basic good versus evil, and I've not found them. This prompts me to wondering: does Christian Fiction need to be Christian? I'd love opinions on it!

In the meantime, get Auralia's Colors for yourself, it's a wonderful story!

ETHAN HAWK Audio segments on MYSPACE!

2007-12-17T04:16:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, I've got three ETHAN HAWK audio segments loaded up on my author page at MYSPACE. click the link to check it out and please leave comments, add me as a friend and so forth. There are also a few audio files for A WORLD WITHIN as well, if you're interested!

ETHAN HAWK AUDIO AT MYSPACE

Ethan Hawk is proofed and sent!

2007-12-06T10:25:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, my latest novel manuscript (#5), Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift, has been proofed and sent to my agent Gregg Wooding. This is a big relief, but leaves me waiting now to see if any of the queried publishers are going to respond positively. I've always got more writing work to take on, so I'll just stay busy with it and pray!

This picture from the web reminded me of the main villian in Ethan Hawk - a Nephilim conqueror named Mordred who is sometimes indwelt by a demon named Jericho.

Out of four series I've started so far, this one may be my favorite...but when you put so much into a novel it's really hard to pick favorites!

SCARLET BY STEPHEN LAWHEAD

2007-11-19T09:50:00.000-08:00

SCARLET by Stephen Lawhead--After losing everything he owns, forester Will Scarlet embarks on a search for none other than King Raven, whose exploits have already become legendary. After fulfilling his quest--and proving himself a skilled and loyal companion--Will joins the heroic archer and his men.
Now, however, Will is in prison for a crime he did not commit. His sentence is death by hanging--unless he delivers King Raven and his band of cohorts.
That, of course, he will never do.
Wales is slowly falling under the control of the invading Normans, and King William the Red has given his ruthless barons control of the land. In desperation, the people turn to King Raven and his men for justice and survival in the face of the ever-growing onslaught.
From deep in the forest they form a daring plan for deliverance, knowing that failure means death for them all.
Scarlet continues Stephen R. Lawhead's riveting saga that began with the novel Hood, which relocated the legend of Robin Hood to the Welsh countryside and its dark forests. Steeped in Celtic mythology and the political intrigue of medival Britain, Lawhead's trilogy conjures up an ancient past and holds a mirror to contemporary realities. Prepare for an epic tale that dares to shatter everything you thought you knew about Robin Hood.

What's being said by fans--"When I read HOOD I have to admit that I began it fully expecting to take in the story with a grain of salt. I was pleasantly surprised that Lawhead could re-imagine the story of Robin Hood and convey his image in a manner that captured me in the first chapter. SCARLET is a sequel that does not disappoint. The character development was flawless and I could feel myself emphasizing with Will "Scarlet" Scatlocke and at least relating with the Sheriff (but not quite empathizing). The thing I found greatest about this book was that while it's still a story about Robin Hood, it is mostly related as narrative by Will Scatlocke and Will plays as the central character. Both HOOD and SCARLET are great novels for those interested in a more grown-up version of the story of Robin Hood as well as those that enjoy historical fiction (although I cannot vouch for how historically accurate/inaccurate the books are). They are reminiscent of Mary Stewart's MERLIN TRILOGY in that both relates fantastic tales of seemingly far-fetched accounts that may or may not have occurred in a manner that is, at the least, believable if nothing else. These KING RAVEN novels are the first novels I've read by Stephen R. Lawhead so I'm not giving my review based from the standpoint of someone who loves all things Lawhead. Having said, if TUCK is as great as the first two novels in this series, I may become a Lawhead fan after all."

Ethan Hawk Going Fishing!

2007-11-09T12:11:00.000-08:00

Hello all! My new manuscript for Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift is going fishing in the publishing industry that is...guess what, already have seen some interest!

A query has been sent to one Christian publisher and the editor has already requested the Book Proposal and sample chapters!!

That's a very good start....Personally, I'm very excited about the potential for this series. The series is outlined for four books, but there is excellent potential for more the way the story is set up. If I'm anything in this game, it's persistent! And I'm continuing to forge ahead in hopes of publication for my novels.

This just in...Rise of Lucin is not dead in the water yet...One publisher is still holding onto the manuscript pending a decision. And my agent is still working for the manuscript as well.

UPDATED: "Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift" has been completed in a personal record of 1.5 months! I owe that to previous chapter outlining for the whole four book series. It allowed me to ZOOOOM! Admittedly I added some chapters and made minor changes when the story called for it, but overall I did not have to deviate from the original ideas. The queries are going out to a number or publishers, so...In the end, the Lord's will be done!

FLASHPOINT by Frank Creed

2007-10-26T05:48:00.000-07:00

FLASHPOINT by Frank Creed may just be one of the freshest pieces of Christian Fiction to come along in years. I've personally never read a christian novel quite like it. Frank Creed pushes the reader into a cyber-punk future where some Christians are become hyper enhanced warriors called Sandmen (anyone remember Logan's Run?) and Frank has included plenty of ultra-cool technology to help out in the fight against the One World Government which has seized control of the world. One of the coolest aspects of the many awesome fight scenes between sandmen and their foes is the way Mr. Creed takes the reader right into the action in "Bullet-Time" to catch every cool move as it happens. And if you're looking for family friendly, all of the "Kill'n" is done with tranquilizers by the Christians. "Thou shalt not Kill" is still in effect here for these high tech, mindware enhanced believers, but they still mean business. This short novel is full of "ultra-fresh" sci-fi ideas and its protags are two teens who are bent on rescuing their parents and their church. If you loved the Matrix, Terminator, or the like then you'll find "Flashpoint" to be fresh and fun reading from cover to cover and it leaves you wanting the next installment!--James Somers: Author "The Chronicles of Soone."

I've also had the opportunity to interview Mr. Creed:

1.) What was your inspiration for Flashpoint and this series?

This has to do with my whole life. During the Iran Hostage Crisis, I heard TV reporters using the term "fundamentalist terrorist" without regard. I'd been taught in Sunday-school that those who believed in the Bible were Fundamentalists. That bothered me and it was the planted seed.
Shortly before being saved in the early 1990s, I read a copy of Hal Lindsey's, Late Great Planet Earth.
I always wanted to write fiction, but as a fan of science fiction, and with my new fascination in eschatology, everything clicked. Christ coming in the near future? Cyberpunk (near-future dystopian high-tech sci-fi), was the perfect genre.
I did learn soon that obsession with the end Times was not very useful. The Gospel is all about love, and new believers are easily distracted.

2.) You are obviously a big action fan. What influences the way you write an action scene?

Congratulations on asking the hardest question I've ever had to answer in an interview. (No problem,) My short answer is life. And I mean all of it, highs and lows. Pack it all into 60k words. What don't kill ya' makes you stronger. Yeah that's a cliche, but when you can pack all that pain into so little space--that's action. Blow by blow.

If one wants to learn how to write a tight action scene, check the Cyberpunk series called Shadowrun. Thanks to Kevin Lucia's Titletrack, I discovered Mel Odom's Website and I got to nag him one night to write another of my top three favorite cyberpunk novels. Run Fast, Die Hard is a classic. Argent, his main character rocks. One of my top ten novelists replied by next morning. I Smiled.

Cyberpunk is all about action:
Top novels Wolf and Raven, Run Hard Die Fast, Striper Assassin, by Michael Stackpole, Mel Odom, and Nyx Smith.
Top Films: The Matrix, Blade Runner (genre debateable--sue me), Johnny Nemonic.
Sci-fi aside? Die Hard, Raiders, and Bourne--all-that. My big complaint about action films, if bullets miss there has to be a reason why.

3.) Would you say that, as a writer, you have been more influenced by movies or other books? And what are your favorites?

Both--but there's another fiction source--gaming. Tabletop dice-rolling role-playing games and first-person-shooter computer games have shaped a big part of my fiction. Props to TSR (now Wizards of the Coast), and ID Software. Gaming fires imagination. For purposes of evangelism and discipleship, look for Flashpoint the Role Playing Game in 08.
All-time favorite movies: The Matrix, Schindler's List, Monty Python and the holy Grail.
All-time favorite authors: George Orwell, CS Lewis, and ML Tyndall.

4.) Are you a disciplined writer or seat of your pants? Do you outline everything first or allow the mood to strike?

Beginning and end. I do write out a rough outline before I begin a fiction project.
But from my creative approach, a story must tell itself. I detail the outline as I go.

When it comes to fiction there is no moral absolute. There is no proper way. We're all created in the image of the Creator, so we fallen-scribes have that going for us. I cannot believe a number of creative methodologies through which successful authors approach.

5.) What can we expect in the future from Frank Creed as a writer and this series?

War of Attrition: Book Two of the Underground: the Unholy Trinity, trauma-action, and a surprise at the end--stand alone novels only in this series. Necessary background data included.

In coming months, Frank Creed the writer will be offering manusript evaluation services

6.) How did you come to be published with the Writer's Cafe Press?

Here comes the big secret. Marry a schoolteacher. I met my wife online, on May 9, 2003. Cynthia edited many things for local schools and education organizations, and offered to edit Flashpoint.
We wound-up marrying. Because it took her two years to get her Green Card, the only thing we could think of for her to make income was her editing skill. She started a business called the Writer's Café. After years of editing and networking, she learned that the Web and trend for corporate outsourcing had changed the publishing industry forever. A small independent press could now do everything that the traditional houses had been doing for decades.
When she told me she wanted to publish Flashpoint, it was very exciting, but that excitement was tempered by an amateur feeling. Face it, being published by your wife is a short step away from being published by your mom. I gained confidence quickly as she published a fantasy anthology (Tales for the Thrifty Barbarian), and A Child Underground, the memoirs of a Holocaust survivor. By the time the Biblical speculative fiction Anthology, Light at the Edge of Darkness, was compiled in August of 06, my confidence was complete.
I may be sleeping with my publisher, but our business relationship is completely professional. She respects me as an artist, and I get the same kind of deadlines, contracts, and expectations as everyone else she publishes. We work well as a team and I expect this to be a huge advantage as together we live the crazy-paced lifestyle. Book signings are also desperately needed weekends away.
Just as everything else in my life goes into my books, how God gave me a gift like Cynthia, is absolutely unreal. In conclusion: marry a schoolteacher! TWCP is currently booked through Dec of 2008.

Thanks for taking the time, Mr. Creed and I hope all goes well with your exciting new Christian Action series.
To be interviewed by the Chronicles of Soone mastermind. The honor is all mine, Mr. Somers.
To God be the glory,Frank Creed--novelist & founder of the Lost Genre Guild

THE WAY OF THE WILDERKING

2007-10-24T12:01:00.000-07:00

Let me just say that THE WAY OF THE WILDERKING is an awesome finale for the series!! The Wilderking Trilogy has become one of my all time favorite stories period--secular or christian!

Jonathan Rogers has capped off his Wilderking Series in style with this last edition to the trilogy! I rushed out to get this book after reading The Secret of the Swamp King and I wasn't disappointed! Mr. Rogers continues to ramp up the action and it seems the only one who doesn't realize Aidan is the legendary Wilderking of prophecy is Aidan himself. But that will all change in this exciting conclusion to the series. There are exciting moments and sad ones as well. But it all comes together wonderfully and never disappoints. Dobro Turtlebane is in rare form as he leaves the swamps with Aidan and tries to mingle with civilizers for the first time...not to be missed!--James Somers, author: The Chronicles of Soone.

THE SECRET OF THE SWAMP KING by Jonathan Rogers

2007-10-23T04:37:00.000-07:00

THE SECRET OF THE SWAMP KING by Jonathan Rogers. I've got to hand it to MR. Rogers, he's done a wonderful job of following up on young Aidan Errolson. He's now a few years older and a member of King DArrow's court. True to the biblical parallels with David, Aidan has incurred the jealous wrath of his king. He may be the most loyal member of King Darrow's court, but Aidan is sent on a suicide mission to the Feechiefen Swamp in order to retrieve the legendary Frog Orchid. King Darrow thinks to see the end of young Aidan, but he meets up with his friend Dobro and becomes a Feechie friend to all Feechies. There's someone impersonating the legendary Wilderking out in the Feechifen and Aidan must find out who is enslaving Feechies to the civilizers ways of war and commerce. This book has more action and more intrigue to it. I loved it and read it in two days. Highly recommended!--James Somers, author: The Chronicles of Soone.

THE BARK OF THE BOG OWL by Jonathan Rogers

2007-10-22T03:59:00.000-07:00

Bark of the Bog Owl, by Jonathan Rogers was a book I actually thought I might not have much interest in. I was given the book to review and absolutely fell in love with the engaging story, great writing and fun characters. Can a fantasy story which lacks: dragons, elves, and magic really be so good? Oooh Yeeaah! There's plenty of action for young Aidan Errolson and his Feechie friend, Dobro Turtlebane. In fact, let me say that Dobro may be one of the most fun characters I've read about in a long time. There's nothing but page-turning-fun going on in this first book of the Wilderking trilogy. I got the first for free, but I had to go get the second and third myself and read both in two days apiece! The story stands out for its lessons on faith in the One God and for the inventive parallels with the story of young David from the bible. I highly recommend the entire series--James Somers, author: The Chronicles of Soone.

AND WE HAVE AN INTERVIEW WITH JONATHAN ROGERS:

1.) Is the Bark of the Bog Owl your first novel and how long did it take you to get published?

Yes, it was my first novel. I was blessed to find a publisher very quickly. I finished Book 1--or, rather, a version of Book 1--in December of 2002, my agent started shopping it around (as Book 1 of a trilogy) shortly after the new year, and it sold in the spring. I spent part of 2003 making edits--editor Gary Terishita asked me to make the book longer by about a third--and The Bark of the Bog Owl came out in the spring of 2004. So it was a pretty whirlwind-ish process. At the time I didn't appreciate how unusual that was.

2.) Did you go through the whole submission rejection thing before finding an agent and publisher or was it a quick process for you? [this is covered in the previous answer]

3.) How did you come by the decision to make parallels with your Aidan character and King David from the Bible?

Eugene Peterson gave me a whole new way of looking at David's story. His book Leap Over a Wall demonstrates how much narrative richness there is to be mined there. Peterson has a lot to say about the "earthiness" of David's story, and that had a big impact on me...though in the end, the "earthiest" people in the book are the feechie folks, not Aidan. Peterson got me thinking about David, but I have to say, I think my story gets better the farther it strays from David's story.

4.) Feechies have to be some of the most fun characters I've read about in some time. How did you come up with Dobro Turtlebane?

One summer I worked on a construction crew with a fellow whose hobby was hunting wild hogs in the swamp--without a gun. He had some dogs that would catch the hog by the ear, and he would tie it up and carry it out of the woods on a pole. He was about as earthy a fellow as you could ever hope to meet. I filed that guy away, and ten years later when I sat down to write the Wilderking, he became Dobro Turtlebane.

5.) Most fantasy novels revolve around Dragons and Elves and stuff like that. Was there a conscious effort on your part not to include these sort of characters in your Wilderking novels, and if so, why?

Yes, I suppose you'd say I made a conscious decision not to include dragons and elves. In my very first outlines of the story, I don't think I had quite decided whether the feechiefolk would be elfish, magical creatures or just swamp people. It didn't take long for me to decide it would be more fun if the feechies were so different from "civilizers" that they just seemed magical. So feechies can disappear, but not the way an elf or a sprite disappears. They disappear the way a snake disappears. I once saw a copperhead on a leaf-strewn trail, and in the second it took me to bring it to a friend's attention, the snake just melted into the leaves. Even knowing it was there, I still couldn't see it for ten seconds or more; the camouflage was that good. That's not magic, properly speaking, but the effect was very much the same as magic.

I guess you could say I went down the path of seeing how "magical" the natural world could be, and decided that, for my purposes, it was magical enough. If you've ever been to the Okefenokee Swamp or Mammoth Cave, it's hard to picture a fantasy setting that could be more fantastic. And though I've never encountered a dragon, I suspect it would be a lot like encountering an alligator.

In he original proposal for the Wilderking, there's a swamp goblin in Book 2. My wife talked me out of it. In a world with feechiefolks and alligators, she said, what do you need with a goblin?

6.) As a writer, would you consider yourself to be very disciplined and do you outline everything prior to beginning a novel or are you a spur-of-the-moment / seat of your pants type of writer?

I always have a good idea of where a story will end before I start writing. But I give the story a lot of freedom to unfold the way it wants to unfold. I always have an outline--sometimes detailed, sometimes not--but I'm never afraid to throw out the outline. And I always expect a lot of treasures to reveal themselves after I've started writing. Here's an example: When it was time to hunker down and finish Book 3 of the trilogy, I went to my in-laws' farm in South Georgia to write. Eating supper at a restaurant, one of the locals (a man I had only met that night) sat down at my table and got to telling about a bar fight he had gotten mixed up in. Within twelve hours, a feechiefied version of that story was in the book, in the exact form it exists now. (If you've read The Way of the Wilderking, it's the scrape Aidan and Dobro get into at Ma Pearl's public house). It was never in any outline, but it's a pretty important scene in the book.

I like what Anne Lamott says about writing a book. It's like driving at night: you can't see very far ahead, but you can see far enough. You can't see around the next curve, but by the time you get there, your headlights will provide you with the illumination you need to negotiate around it.

7.) What would you say the greatest change in your writing has been since becoming published?
[blank]

8.) What key piece of advice would you give to writers who are struggling to get published in today's Christian marketplace?

Hmmm...I don't know about giving advice to hypothetical people--people whose real situation I don't know. But I do have a few general remarks on the subject of publishing.

I have a cousin who builds houses, and he tells his clients, "If you weren't happy before you got a granite countertop, you probably aren't going to be happy after you get a granite countertop." Which is to say, a big, fancy house won't make your life fulfilling. Likewise, if you weren't happy before getting a book published, you probably won't be happy after getting a book published. Don't look to the things of the world to do what they can't possibly do for you. I do think that's an important thing to keep in perspective.

On a related note, we all hope our writing will have an impact on the people who read it--I know I do. But it's helpful to remember that the people we're really going to have an impact on are the people we see every day. I say that by way of encouragement. People who are "struggling to get published in today's Christian marketplace" are going through the struggle (hopefully) because they want to make a difference in people's lives. If that's your earnest desire, you can be sure you'll have opportunity to do that, whether you get published or not. If there were some way of totalling up such things, I know I've had more influence (for good or for ill) on the people God has put in my life than on everybody who has read my books put together. I realize that we're not talking about a huge number of people who have read my books, but I suspect the same would be true for most authors.

9.) What made you decide to join up with the Christian Science Fiction & Fantasy blog tour?
[I'm afraid I don't have anything interesting to say on this topic: Rebecca Miller asked if I was interested, and I said yes--though I'm still not clear on what a blog tour is, exactly.]

10.) What are you working on now and should we be looking out for new novels from you in the near future? If so, can you give us a teaser to whet our appetites?

I have started a novel for grown-ups. It's neither science fiction nor fantasy, but a quiet book about a quiet life well-lived.

Thanks so much for doing the interview and for writing such an enjoyable series of novels. I look forward to reading what you come up with next.

Thanks for having me on your blog, James. It's been a pleasure.

ETHAN HAWK and the REALM SHIFT

2007-10-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

Well, I just couldn't wait any longer. I've already dived into my next novel and series start-up for Ethan Hawk. I've got the prologue done and will soon finish chapter one for "Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift."

The story begins with Ethan, now over one hundred years old, telling his own story to a group of children in the city of Emmanuel in the kingdom of Nod. As idolatry becomes prevalent and the people begin to move steadily away from the Most High God, the old storyteller has come to tell of the days when a Deliverer was sent from God to bring the people back to his fellowship and to deliver them from their oppressors. None of the children realize that he is the Deliverer the story is talking about...at least not yet.

THE CHRONICLES OF SOONE COMPLETE!

2007-10-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

Well, almost anyway...I've just finished the chapter outlines for the remaining two books in my Chronicles of Soone series. Tentative subtitles are:

The Chronicles of Soone: War Machine

The Chronicles of Soone: Apocalypse

I really hope these and Rise of Lucin get a chance with a Christian Publisher--yep, I'm still waiting to hear what the verdict will be on COS: Rise of Lucin. But in the meantime I've been able to not only outline these, but four novels for my next series, Ethan Hawk, as well. This will all save me a ton of actual writing time when it comes down to it. Please continue to keep me in your prayers for this publishing contract! I've heard back from two publishers which have declined publication--the third is undecided at this time. The Lord's will be done!

ETHAN HAWK and the REALM SHIFT

2007-09-20T04:28:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited about the new series I'm working on at the moment. This one has Nephilim as the enemy and used in a way I haven't seen yet. Ethan Hawk is God's young Deliverer in the story, only he doesn't realize it yet (in Moses-esque fashion). He will be empowered more like a judge though, as God has given him special gifts to utilize in the fulfillment of prophecy in this fictional world and the Kingdom of Nod.

I've just finished completely outlining 31 chapters for the first book and I'm planning on continuing to outline the second book now as well. I don't want to get into writing another novel until I hear news about Chronicles of Soone: Rise of Lucin with these publishers. On another positive note: I've just completed a complete revision of COS: Heir to the King (already published with Breakneck books). I'm not sure what will be done with it--remain at Breakneck or what--but I intend for this much needed revision to come out some way. Stay tuned...

Update: I've just completed chapter outlines for the entire four novel ETHAN HAWK series. The fantasy anthology, LEGENDS & FABLES may appear on amazon.com as early as next month which has my "A World Within" story in it. I sure do hope to hear from my agent soon, with good news on Chronicles of Soone: Rise of Lucin. The waiting game is the hardest part of being an author from what I 've experienced so far...I would gladly swap a deadline for it!

The RETURN by AUSTIN BOYD

2007-09-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

The Return by Austin Boyd: With nothing left for him on Earth, Rear Admiral John Wells didn't hesitate to lead a third NASA team to Mars, but he never dreamed that one day they'd look out their laboratory module into the lights of a slow-moving vehicle not their own. In the third installment of the Mars Hill Classified series, life on Mars becomes increasingly more unpredictable as the past collides with the future and nothing, not even the dead, is as it seems.
Meanwhile, back on Earth, the fate of hundreds, including John Wells' family--presumed dead these last six years--rests precariously in the hands of Malcolm Raines, self-proclaimed Guardian of the Mother Seed and Principal Cleric of Saint Michael's Remnant, and his insidious plans for the Father Race.
Wells will find himself in a race against time and all odds to expose the truth: about Mars, about Malcolm Raines, and, if he's very brave, about himself.

Austin Boyd: A Navy pilot, nuclear weapons officer, and spacecraft engineer, Austin Boyd flew three thousand hours in war and peacetime operations, designed satellites, and built classified systems to track terrorists. A world traveler, NASA Astronaut Finalist, and inventor with multiple patents, he served in key Navy space assignments before retiring to Huntsville, Alabama, where he lives with Cindy, his wife of twenty-eight years, and their four children. He continues to support NASA, military space, and aviation through his work with a major defense contractor. An active Christian, Boyd has served in a variety of lay ministries devoted to evangelism, stewardship, and crisis pregnancy. In addition to writing the Mars Hill Classified series, Boyd has also penned dozens of technical articles about space issues and has written award-winning poetry.

REVIEW: This fast-paced thriller is sure to please fans of the Mars Hill series. Boyd’s third adventure is filled with danger and suspense. The characters are strongly written and even readers who have not read the prior books in the series will enjoy The Return. Boyd tackles tough topics such as cloning, space exploration and colonizing Mars. All of these topics can be found in some form or another in our media today. The Return will give readers a glimpse of what life might be like were any of these things to happen in our lifetime. While it’s scary to even think about, these issues do need be thought through and Boyd brings them to life in a believable way to allow readers to do just that. --Jill Hart

Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift

2007-09-07T13:57:00.000-07:00

I'm about to begin my next series start-up entitled: Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift. This will be another young adult Christian Fantasy novel series...yes, I write new start-ups before finishing the remaining books for other series. It keeps boredom away and besides, I'm waiting with the hope of selling one to a big commercial Christian publisher. So, that's more opportunities to sell something and then write the sequels under a contract!

Anywho, Ethan Hawk and the Realm Shift incorporates Nephilim in a way I've not seen before and should be really cool. I'm going to be trying a different writing technique: plotting out the whole thing chapter by chapter before I ever begin writing. This is new to me--normally a seat of his pants--get in the mood writer.

I'm still waiting to hear news on The Chronicles of Soone: Rise of Lucin from my agent, Gregg Wooding. Hopefully, I'll get good news to share in the days ahead.

James

ISLE OF SWORDS has ARRIVED MATEY!

2007-08-23T14:51:00.000-07:00

Hey folks...I just happened to find WAyne Batson's new book, ISLE OF SWORDS, yesterday! I wasn't expecting it to be out yet...but I got it bundled with a free copy of The Door Within-lost chapters version...two for one! You can't beat that. I just looked at my wife with puppy dog eyes and she gave in and let me buy it!

I'm already about 1/3 of the way through it and its very good--very piratey! I can tell WAyne has been vegging out on Pirates of the Carribean and probably an abundance of piratey research, because you really get the feeling your onboard.

I'll not give away any of the story, but its very engaging, as WAyne's writing style is very engaging in all that he has written.

I also am reading The Bark of the Bog Owl, by Jonathan Rogers and this is a very different writing style, but very good as well. I would highly recommend both of the books at this point!

LEGEND OF THE FIREFISH by GEORGE BRYAN POLIVKA

2007-08-20T09:28:00.000-07:00

From Publishers Weekly: Swashbuckling is the best way to describe Book One of the Trophy Chase Trilogy. Without wasting time, Polivka's first novel drops readers into a fantasy world filled with action, where chivalry is alive and well, and sword fights are frequent. Packer Throme—a failed seminarian turned master swordsman—sets out on a great quest, but not in search of fame. He hopes to honor God by stowing away on (former) pirate Scatter Wilkins's ship Trophy Chase, convincing its captain and crew to seek the legendary firefish—a feat that could raise Packer's fishing village from poverty and win the heart of his longtime love, the beautiful Panna Seline. Happily, Polivka gives this heroine a backbone, not to mention a mighty right hook and her own part to play in this adventure. "It was wrong to have let her, and thousands of young women just like her, believe they had no power, no strength, and therefore could have no place or position," Panna reflects angrily about the plight of women. Though the Packer-Panna romance finds considerable ink, this is a tale almost entirely of pirates, warriors, stormy seas and battles with monsters. The Christian message is palpable, and Polivka's characters relatively complex. With the nonstop action that cuts between multiple story lines, readers will be flipping pages eagerly.

"I am one soldier in a great army of many, many thousands who have been enchanted and changed by the works of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. When I first ventured into Middle Earth, the outcome of the battle between good and evil, between creation and destruction within my own soul was far from certain. In a very real way the eternal loyalties of my heart were forged in Narnia. It is therefore my sincerest prayer that you will find your journey into the Kingdom of Nearing Vast worthy, if only in some small measure, of so rich a heritage, and so complete a victory.”—George Bryan Polivka, author of Legend of the Firefish

LISTEN TO THE PREACHER!

2007-08-16T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hey, guys for any of you who may be interested...I have a preaching broadcast which you can listen to via the WEB on Sundays from 1pm-1:30pm. These are sermons from the services at Grace Baptist Church where I pastor. Just click on the link to the right in the sidebar (on Sundays 1pm) and you'll hear the "KEEP ON THE FIRING LINE" BROADCAST.

Hey and Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing -a Christian imprint of Random House- also has the manuscript reviewing it!

MORE NEWS FROM BETHANY'S EDITOR

2007-08-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

NERVOUS!? What do you mean I look nervous?! No, of course I'm not nervous!

Well, maybe just a little...it seems like the more good news I get the more nervous it makes me on this whole getting my book published business.

Bethany's editor has just told my agent: "Based on the strength of what I’d read previously I’m getting some reviews of the work from Fantasy/Sci-Fi readers. Their opinions will help shape our next step. I won’t have a response based on those comments until late August."

Now, to me that sounds like great news and a step forward. Of course, what if those readers don't like the book? Well, that is a valid question. But the first book (which in my very self critical opinion is not as well written as Rise of Lucin) has received very good reviews from over at Amazon.com and of course my friend, Wayne Batson, was also kind enough to give the first book a wonderful glowing review--gracious words indeed. So, hopefully, since these are fans of the genre who will be doing these reviews for the publisher, they will be very pleased with Chronicles: Rise of Lucin and the book may go forward another step in the gauntlet we call publishing.

I'm not gonna bite my nails--I'm just going to keep on praying for it--His will be done!

James

Anthology Cover & More Great News!!

2007-08-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

Well, for anyone interested, here is the artwork for the upcoming Fantasy Anthology I'm going to be a part of. The Anthology is scheduled to come out in October 2007 and will feature my initial short story version of my new novel: A WORLD WITHIN along with twenty something other fantasy short stories. I get a free copy of the anthology as payment, but I keep all rights (very good since I'm going on with this one to do a complete trilogy of novels). My agent said it will still be good as a publishing credit to make me more marketable. I'm personally just glad someone enjoyed the initial offering and wanted to publish it. Big thanks to author, William Kooiker for getting me an invitation to submit before it became an open call.

Another great chunk of news: TSABA HOUSE PUBLISHING, the same who publish Christopher Hopper's WHITE LION CHRONICLES have asked my agent for the manuscript for THE CHRONICLES OF SOONE: Rise of Lucin. For anyone unfamiliar with Christopher Hopper and his Christian fantasy series, he was one of the four authors on the Fantasy Four book tour with our friend Wayne Batson. Now I know you all know who he is! Anyway, I'm praying for good news on COS: Rise of Lucin from these publishers. That is two out of four publishers, including BETHANY HOUSE, which have now finished the initial book proposal and sample chapters from ICRS last month and have asked for more. I'll take all the prayers I can get on this! Muchas Gracias, Me Amigos!

New Wayne Batson Sci-fi Forum!

2007-07-27T15:03:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, check out the new forum for author WAyne Thomas Batson over at Sci-fi Fantasy World.com HERE'S THE LINK....join in and spread the word on Christian FAntasy!

FEARLESS: by ROBIN PARRISH

2007-07-23T04:24:00.000-07:00

The Christian Sci-fi / Fantasy Blog Tour presents author Robin Parrish and his new novel, FEARLESS, the second in The Dominion Trilogy! And be sure to check out the latest reviews and news at BETHANY HOUSE and on our other author blogs! Robin is also the creator and chief editor of INFUZE MAGAZINE--check it out for all manner of coverage on christian entertainment today!

"The world changed after that terrible day when the sky burned, and now every heart is gripped by fear
Earthquakes, fire, disease, and floods pummel the earth, and its citizens watch in horror.
But in the darkness there is hope—an anonymous but powerful hero whom the public dubs "Guardian" emerges from the wreckage. He is Grant Borrows, one a chosen few who walk the earth with extraordinary powers. They travel the globe, helping those in deepest peril and determined to uncover the secret behind this world-shattering cataclysm.
But when signs of a dangerous ancient prophecy begin coming true, dark questions arise about secrets Grant might still be harboring.
The world teeters on the brink.But some refuse to let it fall.
They are:Fearless"

MANUSCRIPT REQUESTED BY PUBLISHER!

2007-07-19T12:46:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, after only one week from the time my agent pitched the book proposal for The Chronicles of Soone: The Rise of Lucin, a publisher has requested the whole manuscript!!

This is very exciting news and my agent said it was the fastest response to a proposal he's gotten after a pitch at the International Christian Retailers Show! I certainly hope that means good things! BETHANY HOUSE is the publisher, so pray for me that all goes well and most of all that all will go according to God's will for me in this! Three other publishers are still looking at the proposal, so only the Lord knows what will happen.

Chronicles would be one of the few Sci-fi fantasy allegories I know of in the Christian Fiction realm...many are based around knights and dragons and themes like that, but COS is very STar WArs in style...so we'll see!

CHRONICLES: ROL UNDER REVIEW!

2007-07-17T04:33:00.000-07:00

THE CHRONICLES OF SOONE: THE RISE OF LUCIN is currently under review by several Christian Publishers including: Multnomah, Bethany House, Tsaba House and Kregel. My agent Gregg Wooding just finished shopping it around at the recent International Christian Retailers Show in Atlanta and said all of the meetings for the book went well. Now it is just a matter of waiting to see what happens. But I trust the Lord Jesus Christ has all things under control and if it be HIS will for the book to be published by one of these publishers then it will surely be done. Of course this book cover is the former cover done by Breakneck Books who were set to publish the book until it came under Mr. Woodings representation--It's still a great cover though. Keep me in prayer - that the Lord's will be done in this. It would be a wonderful opportunity to see the series and those to follow get great exposure.

FINALLY GOT TO MEET WAYNE!

2007-07-13T06:58:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally got to meet Christian Fantasy author, Wayne Thomas Batson, of the wonderful Door Within trilogy. Of course Wayne has been a great help to me, by reviewing my Chronicles of Soone novel and referring me to his agent, Gregg Wooding. Since that time, The Chronicles of Soone: The Rise of Lucin has been represented by Mr. Wooding and just recently shopped around at the International Christian Retailers Show in Atlanta to major Christian publishers. If not for Wayne, the book and series may not have gotten much of a chance. It can be hard to get a foot in the door in the publishing business. I found him to a terrific guy and he also introduced me to his cohorts on the Fantasy Four book tour, currently making its way around the southeast: Sharon Hinck, Christopher Hopper and Bryan Davis...all very friendly.

Stay tuned as we hope to hear good news about my agent's meetings with publishers regarding The Chronicles of Soone!

JUST WAITING AROUND?

2007-05-31T10:07:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm sort of waiting at the bus stop at the moment, although alot is still going on. My agent is getting ready to pitch my novel, The Chronicles of Soone: The Rise of Lucin to some large christian publishers at this year's International Christian Retailers Show in Atlanta. However I'm very busy with the new pastorate at Grace Baptist Church in Harriman, TN and with trying to get up to speed with the activity already taking place at the church with vacation bible school coming up in a week. New members are ready to join, a few are ready to be baptized and I'm right in the middle of moving my family to the area from two hours away.

Writing-wise I'm right in the middle of my new christian young adult fantasy novel, A WORLD WITHIN (which now has two audio episodes ready to go on my website--jamessomersonline.com).

I've not been nearly as active recently on the blog or the web with all of the new happenings and preparation for the ICRS with my agent, but that just means there's alot going on off camera!

God bless,

James

I AM NOW A PASTOR

2007-05-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

As of yesterday's vote, I am now the new Pastor at Grace Baptist Church in Harriman, TN!!

PRAISE THE LORD FOR HIS GRACE TOWARD ME AND MY FAMILY!

I've long hoped the Lord would call me to a pastorate and that prayer and dream has now come to fruition. I believe the pastorate is the highest calling in all of the earth and I'm truly honored to have the privilege to serve the Lord in this ministry.

WINNERS READ CHRONICLES OF SOONE!

2007-05-09T05:50:00.000-07:00

Wanna be a winner? Get a Chronicles of Soone shirt!

Okay, maybe that's a big exaggeration, but John, the son of AMG author, Sarah Onderdonk has just scored big in a locally held competition way out there in Texas...(it's like a whole other country).

John is the fellow in the light blue "Chronicles of Soone" T-SHIRT made available through my publisher BREAKNECK BOOKS. Get yours today and be a winner...stretching again, I know.

I NOW HAVE A REALLY GREAT CHRISTIAN AGENT!

2007-04-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

If I seem to be dancing...there's a great reason. I've just been informed that the agent of my new friend, Wayne Batson, has agreed to represent my book, The Chronicles of Soone: The Rise of Lucin to Christian book publishers this July at the International Christian Retailers Show in Atlanta.

I can't thank the Lord enough or Wayne for his help. The book had been on the plate for publishing this November at Breakneck Books, but was not yet under an official contract. Breakneck Books is wishing me well on this and removing the book from the schedule.

This is a great opportunity for me and my work and I certainly hope the Lord has opened this door so that the book will be published and in bookstores where it can really get a chance to take off with readers. Online is nice, but to really have a fighting chance, brick and mortar is still the best way to reach readers.

I ask for any prayers on the matter that I can get...the book still has to sell, so I'm not out of the woods just yet, but at least I'm riding with a good guide in a Hummer!

Return of the Guardian King

2007-04-16T14:13:00.000-07:00

RETURN OF THE GUARDIAN KING by KAREN HANCOCK: The powerful finale to the Christy Award-winning novels in the LEGENDS OF THE GUARDIAN-KING series. Believed dead by all but the handful of supporters who rescued him from his Mataian enemies, Abramm Kalladorne has fled his homeland to the high mountains of northern Chesedh. Traveling under a new name with a group of bitter and increasingly desperate fellow exiles, Abramm hopes to reunite with his wife in Chesedh, where he will offer his services to her father in fighting the invading armies of the Black Moon. But with every step he is hindered, delayed, and diverted from the direction he desires to go, and it soon becomes clear Eidon has other plans for him. In the royal city of Fannath Rill, Maddie alone believes Abramm still lives. But since she has no proof, her friends, family, and public opinion press her to remarry. With its neighboring realms now under enemy control, Chesedh has become the last bastion of Eidon’s Light. Desperately overmatched, it cannot survive on its own. Yet the rich, handsome eastern warlord who is openly courting Maddie has a vast fleet of galley ships that could turn the tide in Chesedh’s favor....

WHAT THE PEOPLE ARE SAYING:

"Return of the Guardian King is a fantastic ending to a fantastic series. Honestly, it may be the best of the four. A wonderful representation of the self-life man and finding our true rest in Christ and dependence on him. Awesome representations of spiritual warfare with one of the biggest principles being: the refusal to believe the enemies lie over our Lord's truth. And on top of that...just a wonderful wonderful story with great characters. Hopefully Karen will revisit this world."

" Like its neighbor nations Kiriath has fallen. The Shadow rules with an iron fist oppressing any opposition. While most of his countrymen assume he is dead, a few close advisors are fleeing with distraught Abramm Kalladorne as they are forced to take flight way from his beloved Kiriath to take temporary sanctuary in the desert. He hopes to reach his wife Maddie in Fannath Rill in the last realm of Eidon's Light, mountainous Chesedh. Once there he plans to assist his father-in-law fight the Black Moon legions of the Shadow. However no matter how hard he tries to reach his spouse's side, he stumbles until finally Abramm assumes that for whatever reason Eidon has a different fate in store for him. Meanwhile her family insist Abramm is dead having fallen nobly in combat and that to save their country from being the next and final domino to fall she must marry a suitor who can provide the realm galleys that could turn the tide in their favor. Without this aid, Chesedh will lose. Maddie tries to resist the pressure as she believes in her soul she would know if her beloved died, but saving her people and her family seems the right thing to do as the conquerors head in their direction. The fourth tale in the "Legends of the Guardian-King" (see THE LIGHT OF EIDON, SHADOW OVER KIRIATH and THE SHADOW WITHIN) continues the exciting fantasy war between the Dark Moon forces of the Shadow and that of the Light of Eidon. However in this tale the hostilities play more of a doomsday countdown backdrop to the dilemmas of Abramm and Maddie as each ponders what to do next as duty supersedes their personal relationship. Fans of Christian Armageddon sagas will enjoy the fight between the light and dark due to the quandaries confronted by the lead pair, who put human faces on the supremacy war."

CHRONICLES OF SOONE: PODCAST!

2007-04-13T07:24:00.000-07:00

Very soon, The Chronicles of Soone: Heir to the King will be making it's way to the podcast arena. I'm already hard at work putting together the audio files and hope to be up and running with the series in the near future. A fellow author and podcaster, who has a very popular podcast with several of his novels has offered to host Chronicles on his show once I'm ready to go. Hopefully this will generate some very strong exposure right out of the gate. This is a new thing for me and the learning curve is high for an old 35 year old like myself, but as it turns out, I already had the sound equipment necessary and I've even taken on the task of performing the background music myself. The podcast will be free, but it will not encompass the entire novel. For that, fans will need to purchase the novel from Amazon.com or other online booksellers. Hopefully I can gain strong support for the series in advance of the upcoming release of the second book, The Chronicles of Soone: The Rise of Lucin.

If all goes well with the podcast for COS1, then I fully intend to podcast my other novels in advance of their print releases...so, stay tuned!

A WORLD WITHIN ACCEPTED TO FANTASY ANTHOLOGY

2007-04-06T12:23:00.000-07:00

I've recently received word that my new young adult fantasy, A WORLD WITHIN, has been accepted in it's original short story form for the Gallery Seven Fantasy Anthology coming later this year.

The short story version features a little over 30 pages of the novel I'm currently working on for release sometime in the near future. It's always a happy day to submit one's writing and find it well received. I have two novels on submission right now and hope to hear good news in the near future.

SAMPLE: PERDITIONS GATE

2007-03-29T06:59:00.000-07:00

WRITING SAMPLE: "Perditions Gate: Escape from New Eden."

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It was a dreary day out, which in England was not an uncommon happening, but for Jason it was one of his worst days. Having to bury his closest friend was as depressing an event as he had ever experienced. The London Necropolis, Brookwood Cemetery, was the final resting place of many notable people, but that provided no comfort.
There was no one there to mourn Jerome Brown that day, other than his special ops team leader, Jason Night. Four H8 robot counterparts worked the coffin into its place using a lift. They had been the pallbearers for Jerome’s coffin, yet they cared nothing for their deceased cargo.
Alfred stood next to Jason at the gravesite. He appeared as the late fifty-ish butler with graying, wavy hair and a suit with overcoat. A pair of wire rim glasses completed the look. Alfred actually seemed more interested in the robots working the site than anything else.
“A newer model, but still inferior,” said Alfred in his human guise as the dark knight’s manservant. It was a favorite phrase of Alfred’s. Jason often wondered if Alfred really felt the pride he exhibited over his own advanced modifications and obvious superiority. It couldn’t be anything more than the nuances of his special programming, he thought. Maybe that’s all that makes up my personality over anyone else’s, a few variations in the chemical reactions of my brain, a little different pattern in the firing of neurons. Maybe Alfred isn’t much different from a real man in that respect.
The plain stone marker simply said, Jerome Brown, died 2094. It seemed so empty, he thought as he stood staring at the tombstone—nothing about his friendship, his bravery in countless highly dangerous secret missions. Nothing was left to the world of Jerome Brown as a man. After all of his courage and loyalty, countless hours of hard work had only earned him a cold piece of granite and a hole in the ground.
To the public, Jerome Brown was the owner of a bakery in London. He had been on vacation in New Rome and was gunned down by a common street thief. This was his epitaph. It was all the world was allowed to know. Jason held the Vellum in his hand that showed the news article pulled from a local newspaper’s world wide mind portal. He wondered what the news would report when he died. Local, New Rome coffee shop owner dies, perhaps?
Alfred remained by his side, as always. “Sir, we should be going. You don’t want to keep Ms. Cross waiting.” Alfred knew what no person, other than Jerome, had known. He knew about Sarah Cross.
“You’re right, Alfred, time to go.”
They both turned and left the H8 robots to their work, filling in the grave. As they passed other markers on the way out, Jason caught the phrase, Rest in Peace, on more than a few. To him, it seemed more of a question—after all; did anyone know if they really were resting, did they have peace? These were questions he didn’t have the answers to and had no idea where they might be found. Seeing Sarah again would lift his spirits.

A VALLEY OF BETRAYAL by TRICIA GOYER

2007-03-22T06:23:00.000-07:00

A Valley of Betrayal by Tricia Goyer is a gripping historical fiction novel set during the time of the Spanish civil war. Tricia Goyer has the innate ability to transport the reader back in time. This story is an engaging trip back in time to the days of the Spanish Civil War. The challenges of the war and politics behind it were intense, but provided a good backdrop for the faith of the characters in the story. Sophie is an American who is trying to get into Spain during the outbreak of the Spanish civil war. Her purpose for being there is to find her fiancé whom she has not seen for some time. She is expecting to marry him and then head for home. Instead she is caught up into the drama unfolding in this country; in a world and culture that are unfamiliar to her. Sophie will not be able to escape the dramatic impact this conflict is going to have upon her life. Some of Mrs. Goyer's descriptions are often very poetic. The scenes of war and the damage done to the people, who are attempting to go about living their normal lives is a reminder of just how important it is to find the peace which only Christ can give. Goyer manages to display the horror of war, and yet still offers the hope that can only come by faith in God...Highly Recommended.

2007-03-21T08:53:00.000-07:00

Double Vision by Randall Ingermanson is a hybrid sci-fi, thriller, romance novel that never seems to decide which genre it really wants to be.
Now, crossing genres is nothing new and there's certainly nothing wrong with it. But I was actually expecting more of what the cover promises -- suspense and intrigue.
As it turns out though, there was some suspense, a bit of intrigue and a clean cut Christian love triangle centering around an autistic "mozart" styled quantum physics prodigy named Dillon.
Double Vision has enough premise to be any of several kinds of novel and do well. My hope was that it would run more with the quantum computer disaster possibilities and the thriller elements that could have gone much farther than they ever did, but that's simply because of my personal tastes. The novel does a nice job of providing an interesting story, with good writing and the romance elements are always battling with the quantum computer scandal for prominence. I have to say that were I to take up romance novels on a regular basis, Double Vision would be the sort I would gravitate toward with its sci-fi elements. And since Ingermanson is himself a physicist, he has no trouble presenting quantum mechanics in a way that even us know-nothings can handle. While I can't escape the idea that this premise could have been handled in a much edgier fashion and made for far more excitement, Double Vision does deliver for a christian romance with a bit of intrigue and a lot of heart.

SAMPLES: The Chronicles of Soone: The Rise of Lucin

2007-03-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a random sample of my upcoming sequel, COS: The Rise of Lucin. This is the opener for the book...coming soon from Breakneck Books Publishing.

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NOT so long ago, in another creation of God…. A strong wind was blowing across the grassy plains where the Guniran province was located. Of all of the habitable planets of creation the planet Kosiva was the most sparsely populated, yet one of the most beautiful. With mild climates across most of its land mass and its longer growing seasons, Kosiva was as near a paradise as one could find among the habitable planets. And most important of all to the Guniran clansmen that resided there, it was spared from the ravages of the war.
The province consisted of primarily small homes packed around a small metropolitan area. There were a number of larger structures located there including the Council chambers for the province.
The delegates from the Guniran council seated themselves inside the ornate council chambers; inside one of the larger two story buildings located in the Guniran province. The delegates all wore similar apparel consisting of tan trousers and shirts with a long waist coat that was open in front below the waist, even when buttoned. The borders of the garments were embellished with an intricate pattern of darker material. They all wore brimless caps upon their heads and they had the air of politicians, which made Tiet uneasy.
Politics was a dirty sort of business for the most part with much scheming and backstabbing usually taking place. Tiet preferred open combat in a warrior’s uniform with clearly defined enemies and a sturdy blade to the sort of dress he was made to wear today. Mirah had insisted that he dress formally for the meeting, since so much depended on its successful outcome. She had selected for him, a dark blue semi-formal suit that had been purchased in one of the province’s shops. It was similar in style to the delegate’s attire and Tiet didn’t like it, but he was consenting so long as Wynn and Grod were made to wear the same. With dark wavy locks hanging on his high, tight collar and his olive skin, Tiet was handsome in the attire but terribly uncomfortable. He wasn’t and never would be a politician.
Tiet, Wynn and Grod took their seats and a beverage was poured for each of them by a servant. “Thank you,” said Tiet.
He picked up the wooden cup with its intricate carvings along the rim and took a sip—it tasted quite good, but he wasn’t familiar with what it was.
“Gumji,” said one of the delegates as he took a drink from his own cup.
“Excuse me?”
“Gumji. It is made from one of Kosiva’s native plants,” said the delegate whose name was Onnell. “It has medicinal properties.”
“Ah… my wife is a physician—she might be interested in knowing more about it,” said Tiet.
This small talk would soon become an annoyance. Tiet wanted to get straight to the matter. “Gentleman, now that you have consented to our staying in the area near the province, I would like to discuss the possibility of enlisting some of your people to aid us in a permanent dwelling for our group,” said Tiet.
“And what would you pay our laborers with?” asked one of the other delegates.
Tiet noticed a hint of sarcasm in the man’s voice—he didn’t look pleased to be meeting with them.
“I’m sure we could come to some sort of arrangement,” said Wynn.
“The fact of the matter is you don’t really have anything of value that we would be interested in,” said Onnell.
Clearly the small talk and pleasantries are over, thought Tiet.
“The only reason that we have consented to this meeting is because of Aija’s influence,” said Onnell.
“Who is this, Aija?” asked Tiet.
“He is the prophet of Elithias, The Eternal One,” replied one of the other delegates. “He instructed us to meet with you, as the king of the Barudii.”
“Well, that’s fine,” said Tiet. “So why do we appear to have a problem if your prophet has told you to meet with us?”
“The problem, Master Soone, is that we know who you are,” said Onnell. “We are afraid of the trouble that follows you.”
“And what trouble might that be?” asked Grod. The dark skinned warrior was formidable looking and his deep voice filled the chamber when he spoke. He was large and looked like his muscles would burst out of the Guniran suit at any moment.
The delegates looked coyly at one another and then Onnell continued speaking only to Tiet. “You are the king that fought and defeated the army of the Baruk and now your planet is under the control of the same being that controlled their clan for so long. It is very apparent; you barely escaped the planet with your lives.”
“We are not warriors here,” continued another Guniran clan delegate. “We cannot fight an army if they come to Kosiva looking for you.”
“I assure you, gentlemen, it is not our intention to place you and your people in danger. I am the Barudii king in the stead of my father. I returned from exile to avenge my fallen clan, but the time was right to form a rebellion against the Vorn, so we did so and we won. The Baruk answered this defeat of the Vorn with an attack on the twin Castai. It was only with General Grod’s help that we were able to defeat the Baruk, but that is when their leader, this symbiotic creature, escaped and began a fifteen year assimilation of much of the population on Castai.” said Tiet. “We came to Kosiva on the run from whatever has taken over the bodies of our people on Castai. This is true, but what else could we do?”
“You see Councilmen,” said Grod, his voice commanding their attention, “We had peace. This was all due to the efforts of the King. Tiet is not some war monger who is trying to bring the conflict to your planet. He made peace with me and my Horva brothers, recognizing our struggle for freedom. We, in turn, assisted him against the Baruk. It could not be helped that the creature escaped and later overran the twelve cities. We made every attempt to stop the takeover, but we were simply outnumbered.” Grod’s presence, with a large muscular build and his dark skin, seemed to be unsettling to the Councilmen, though they would not admit it. They knew of the Vorn and Horva only in the sense of the war, as enemies.
“If I may, Councilmen,” said Wynn, his voice more calm than the others, “Our way of escape from the planet is the key to the matter.”
“I don’t follow you,” said Onnell.
“You see, we utilized General Grod’s transgate portal technology, found only on our ship, the Equinox. It would be extremely unlikely that this creature would make any attempt to follow us and more importantly, it doesn’t know where we have escaped to.”
Tiet was growing nervous. The thought was ever present in his mind; his own son carried one of the symbyte creatures inside his body. “So, you see, gentlemen, there really shouldn’t be so much concern,” said Tiet.
“I understand your dilemma, Master Tiet, but please understand ours,” said Onnell. “We are simple people; farmers and merchants. We came here to Kosiva to escape the war. We wanted no part of it then and we want no part of it now. This province is all that we have.”
“Perhaps we should just leave Kosiva altogether then,” said Tiet, frustrated. “We had hoped for peace ourselves, but it appears you are unwilling to grant our petition to stay among your people.”
“We are not saying that you have to go,” said Onnell. “Your suggestion might ultimately be the best solution, but we have been commanded by the prophet not to send you away. In fact, Aija himself desires to meet with you.”
“Where is Aija then?”
“He lives on the mountain of Honnib,” said Onnell. “Aija has sent a messenger proclaiming his desires with regard to your group. He expects to meet with the Barudii king in approximately three months from now and he has instructed us to pay you the kindest hospitality. He claims it by the will of Elithias.”
“Well, this is more like it,” said Tiet under his breath as he looked sideways at Grod. “We would—“
Tiet’s com-link pin beeped on his collar. “Yes,” he spoke chin down toward the pin.
“Tiet, it’s Kale!” said Mirah. She was nearly hysterical.
“Mirah, what’s wrong?”
“Kale—he’s gone—he’s run away through the transgate!”
“Calm down, Mirah, I’m on my way now,” said Tiet. He stood to his feet addressing the Gunirans, “Gentlemen, I have an emergency—we’ll have to continue this at a later time.”
“But we have more details that must be worked out before we—“
“Wynn, Grod, if you wouldn’t mind to stay and settle this, I need to get back to the ship and see what’s happened.”
“Of course, Tiet,” said Wynn. “Go on ahead and we will be along as soon as our business here is finished.” Wynn had more experience with this type of situation. He was measured in his speech, careful never to say more than needed saying and his neatly kept white hair and beard gave him a distinguished look that people respected naturally. Wynn could do this without him.
Tiet headed out of the council chambers. He was trying not to get too excited. Maybe his son had just gone somewhere without his mother realizing and she was mistaken. He was telling himself that explanation, but he wasn’t buying it. There just wasn’t any reason he could think of why Kale would take off through the transgate.
The Gunirans had been kind enough to offer his group several animals for traveling after they had hiked into the province for the meeting. Tiet unfastened the reins of his leore and climbed into the saddle. The domesticated animal was a quadruped with hooves. Its coat was short and fiery red in color with a blonde mane flowing down the back of its neck. Tiet turned the animal, with a pull of the reins, and a quick goading of the leore’s sides with his heels sent them both galloping away toward the outskirts of the province and their ship beyond.

THE LATEST GREATEST ARCHEOLOGICAL DISCOVERY!

2007-03-05T12:16:00.000-08:00

Have you heard about the latest archeological discovery?! Forget the Jesus find--here's a real bombshell!

Scientists have just uncovered a tomb in the arctic north which contained the bones of several people! One was a big boned male along with a female and the bones of a smaller person nearby.

Cryptic writings on the tomb have been deciphered to read, "The Kringles."

That's right folks, scientists are working on DNA evidence and expect to confirm very shortly the discovery of the real Santa Clause and his wife, Mrs. Clause. The smaller set of bones is expected to reveal ELF DNA!

What a devestating blow this will be to the world...while believers all over the world have already said that they still believe Santa to be alive and well, hidden at the North Pole in his workshop, skeptics are already signaling the end of Christmas as we know it.

I'm sorry....really I'm not...we who are born again should remain steadfast in the face of such ridiculous unfounded "discoveries" like we've been seeing in the news recently. Friend, a scientist could just as easily say they had discovered old Chris Kringle, because DNA testing is a comparitive test...ie, you need a genuine sample to compare it with. I'm sorry to tell them that they'll have to wait for the second coming to get one!! Praise the risen Savior!

SAMPLES: PERDITIONS GATE

2007-02-27T08:04:00.000-08:00

A New *Sample* from my recently finished futuristic thriller, PERDITIONS GATE: Escape from New Eden.

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There was nothing but darkness with the occasional spire of light intruding into the drainage tunnel from the streets above. Jason tried to move quickly in the cramped quarters. He kept the capsule pistol aimed down the tunnel before him so that the night-vision image coming from the weapons small scope could be fed to his CLDs. Jason finally saw his man lying motionless and perpendicular with the tunnel, its wall cradling him like a baby. Soulman’s right arm was aimed straight at Jason and he held a capsule gun in his hand.
“Jerome, it’s me, Jason.”
Soulman’s arm relaxed and dropped like it had a fifty pound weight attached to it. He had to struggle just to speak. “Jason…I knew you’d find me. I’ve been trying to hold on until you got here. I tried the transmitter; it must have gotten shot away. I didn’t want to die alone.”
“Die? Hey, don’t start talking like that,” Jason said as he crawled closer to his friend.
“I already know, it’s bad, man. No use blowing smoke; I’m done.”
Jason wished he could argue with him, but he knew Jerome was probably right. He plugged an interface cable from his micro computer module on his left bicep into the same on Soulman’s arm. The two units communicated briefly and then when Soulman’s unit acknowledged Jason’s unit as that of the team leader, Nightstalker, it surrendered all of its relevant data.
Physiologic data, coming from Jerome’s uniform, confirmed his self diagnosis. He had shrapnel lodged in his heart, tears in both iliac arteries, liver damage and several small and large bowel perforations. Jerome’s blood pressure was displayed on Jason’s CLD. It was steadily dropping below critical levels despite the auto tourniquet system. Jason could smell the foul odor of blood collecting in pockets under his friend’s uniform.
“Jerome, you’re dying, my friend.” The words cut at his heart to say them, but it was true.
Jerome nodded his understanding and acceptance of the situation.
“Is there anyone—?”
He smiled through the pain as he labored to breathe. “Now, you know I’ve always been more of a player, man. There’s no one ever been waiting at home for me.”
Jerome grabbed Jason’s arm, then he found his hand and squeezed it tightly. “Jason,” he said with great urgency. “Theed’s men, they knew I was coming.”
“What?”
“I know, but it’s true. They were waiting for an assassin to come into that hospital room and you can see they were ready for me.” It was difficult for him to get the words out.
Jason contemplated what his friend was telling him. If it was true, then they had a mole within BABYLON.
“Jason?”
“Yes?”
“I’m afraid.” And with that, Jerome Brown’s stare became blank and the tension in his face became slack. His grip on Jason’s hand lost all strength and he was dead.
Jason turned away from him, still holding the man’s hand. It was one thing to kill a man targeted for assassination you had never met and a completely different experience to watch your best friend die. It made him glad that very few individuals held such a close connection to him, because he never wanted to experience this again.

SAMPLES: A WORLD WITHIN--PART II

2007-02-23T09:54:00.000-08:00

A WORLD WITHIN: SAMPLE--ATTACK OF THE SPIDER ELVES!

Daniel started to run after the Wil when a thunderous explosion of gnarled tree branches delivered a monstrous creature into the short clearing around the edge of the pond. It was a gargantuan, hairy spider, its body alone the size of a Clydesdale with a man of some sort riding upon a makeshift saddle just behind the crown of black eyes upon its head.
The rider’s hair was silvery white and long with pointed ears that protruded through at the normal place one would expect. He wore a thin beard of the same color and his skin was a ghastly, pale gray. His torso was adorned with a silver breastplate made of layers of metal scales that shimmered with violet color and he carried a long, intricately crafted lance in his right hand. The elf’s form was beautiful and terrible all at once and his steed made him all the more hideous. The elf looked at Daniel and he was frozen with fear.
More ghastly riders appeared, coming through the trees behind the first with their horrid mounts, their eight legs traversing the surface of the mighty forest root system with ease. Daniel tried to run, but he slipped on the ice. His skates were missing, replaced by his normal shoes. The elf rider urged his spider-mount forward to attack the boy with its great, two foot long fangs. Daniel could see the venom dripping as its mandibles opened to reveal the black daggers.
Daniel was snatched away from the jaws by a large bird of prey, nearly his size and powerful. It bore him up swiftly, carrying him by the shoulders. Was he now to be this predator’s next meal? “Don’t worry, lad, I’ll get you out of here,” said Meineke’s voice through the bird.
“Meineke, is that you?” cried Daniel as they soared up toward the twisted branches of the nearby trees.
A blast, like a clear bubble, was hurled off of the end of the elf’s lance. It hit Daniel and Meineke in flight, sounding like a thunderclap. Daniel fell away and landed among heaps of decaying leaves within the gaps in the massive tree roots. Meineke tumbled in the air on a collision course with the thick trunk of a craggy, old tree. His form morphed almost faster than could be seen and he righted himself in time to land on the vertical face of the tree trunk. Meineke was hanging there in his original form, claws set into the porous bark like a defiant squirrel.
He leapt down to the ground with the same elegant precision and found Daniel among the smelly old leaves where the roots hung over them like prison bars. “Come on, Daniel,” said Meineke as he led the boy back into the leaves and intertwining roots.
The Wil was tunneling through, finding their way through the labyrinth created by the roots. Pockets of dead space were littered among the leaves as they tried to keep moving away from the Spider Elves. The spaces between the roots were too small for the spiders to enter, but Meineke could hear them moving around above them, searching for their prey.
Meineke spotted a patch of light and they headed for it. The pair came up through a rotted out trunk that had a large enough hole in its side for them emerge onto the forest floor again. They were running again, with the Spider Elves about twenty yards behind them. Daniel did his best to try and keep up with Meineke. The Wil seemed a natural for such an environment, leaping from root to root and ducking under others to stay ahead of the elven riders and the nightmares they were riding upon.
As they were running through the dense forest, Daniel began to notice something. There was a distinct groaning emanating from all around them. It was like the forest was moaning in agony over the situation. The harder he ran and the closer he and Meineke’s pursuers got to them, the louder the noise became.
The trees were beginning to sway their craggy top branches, yet Daniel felt no wind and the intrusive fog was not being displaced. Could the trees be moving on their own, he wondered. He ran into an area where the roots heaved up in tight bands like a wall before him. Meineke had circumvented it while Daniel was paying more attention to the movement of the forest than his way. He realized, too late, that he was cornered next to a huge old tree with massive boughs.
One of the elven riders was upon him. His mount hissed and bared its venomous fangs for the kill. Meineke was nowhere to be seen. Daniel turned to attempt a climb, but he couldn’t find a purchase anywhere for his incapable, child’s hands. The tree was vibrating underneath his palms and there was a sound like wood twisting under duress. The giant spider lunged forward at the prodding of its rider. Daniel screamed as the sleek black fangs came at him; there was nothing he could do to defend himself.
The ground shook like an atom bomb unleashed, sending Daniel back on his side into the dirt. He looked back at the fiendish predator, only to find one of the massive branches of the tree grinding the spider and its rider into the ground, like a man squashing a bug under his thumb.
The branch began to lift slowly, revealing a ghastly residue from the kill. Daniel thought he might vomit, but that was before the rising branch revealed another elven rider twenty yards away. The rider looked aghast at his former companion’s remains dropping from the branch, intermingled with hunks of arachnid pulp, back into the stew surrounded by eight splayed legs.

SAMPLES: A WORLD WITHIN--PART I

2007-02-21T04:23:00.000-08:00

A WORLD WITHIN: this is the new young adult fantasy that I'm working on currently. This scene is where Daniel first finds himself in the Living Land with its strange inhabitants...just prior to an attack by Spider Elves! (part 2 of this sample coming soon...spider elves attack!)

Daniel lay on the ice, his face numb from the cold. He was aware of his clothes being wet across his front as he lay facedown on the pond. He wasn’t sure if he had his eyes open or not, but he only saw black. The air was strangely warm and smelled of grass and flowers; more like spring than winter. And there was a definite rustling, like wind forcing its way through the full foliage of tall trees.
He felt a poke at his body, Derek finishing his job, no doubt. Then, he felt it again; two pokes to his ribs this time. Daniel might have laughed at the ticklish sensation if his head wasn’t throbbing so badly. Then, the finger poked at his head and he heard the distinct sound of someone close to his face, biting into something like a piece of fruit and the juice squirted onto his cheek.
Daniel winced and opened his eyes, expecting to find his bullies, but instead there was a thing staring at him and it spoke with fruit juice dribbling down its furry chin.
“What are you then, big nose?” said the creature.
Daniel screamed and his head throbbed hard, turning screaming to wincing.
“Well, I’m not that ugly,” said the creature, placing his curled little hands on his hips, a piece of half eaten fruit in one of them.
Daniel was amazed and suddenly realized his jaw must be dangling open well below his face. The creature was sitting on his haunches, but wouldn’t have been more than four feet tall on his tip-toes. He had a lemur like face, but long ears like a rabbit that fell back behind his head like a ponytail. His short silver fur covered most of his body and his hands and feet were ape-like and appeared good for climbing things.
“What are you?” asked Daniel, bewildered.
“I asked you first, big nose,” said the creature gruffly.
Daniel was suddenly aware that he had been insulted. “I’m Daniel and I haven’t got a big nose.”
“Well, it’s bigger than mine,” said the creature. “I’m Meineke.”
“Are you a monkey, Mr. Meineke?” asked Daniel innocently.
“Look, if you don’t want me calling you big nose then don’t call me a blooming monkey! I’m a Wil, of the noble family too.”
“A Wil, what’s that?”
“What’s a Wil? Aye, you’re not from around here are you?” said Meineke.
“Oh yes, I am. This is my family—” and suddenly Daniel realized that the world around him had changed. The frozen pond was the same, but everything beyond its edge had changed dramatically. No more was there a wide clearing sparsely populated by trees near the water’s edge—this had been replaced by a thickly planted forest of trees that looked centuries old and twisted malevolently by time.
Their bark was gunmetal gray spotted with black and the trunks of the trees were monstrous in width. The branches looked like grisly claws raking the sky in opposition to the sun and great roots covered the entire forest floor like a nest of snakes within the crag of a rock. The dark clouds above seemed married to the treetops and wisps of fog created a murky veil that made it impossible to see what lay in the distance.
“Where am I?” asked Daniel as he surveyed his new surroundings with a mixture of fear and awe.
Meineke continued chewing on his fruit, speaking with his mouth open. “Why, you’re right there,” he said, pointing a finger at him matter-of-factly.
Daniel blinked slowly, becoming exasperated with the little creature’s literality. “I mean, what is this place?”
Meineke stood up and spread his arms to the forest around them. “This awful place is Parengore Forest. It’s the home of the Spider Elves; scary huh?”
Daniel kept his eyes searching the various layers of the forest, expecting something terrible to erupt from the murk at any moment. “It’s not so bad,” he lied.
“Yeah, right,” said Meineke sarcastically. “Well, I normally wouldn’t be caught dead around here if it weren’t for the Wielder.”
“How did I get here? Last thing I remember, I was getting beat up by Derek Wentworth.”
“I haven’t a clue,” said Meineke. “I left my companion to find a place to conduct nature’s business and you were lying here, gone to the world.”
Daniel racked his brain. None of this made any sense: the Wil, this forest, Spider Elves, and his house no longer anywhere in sight. Perhaps, I’m dreaming. “Who is this Wielder person you said you were with?” asked Daniel curiously. If he was dreaming, then he might as well find out what the dream was all about.
“Oh, I’m not traveling with him, me and my companion are looking for—” Meineke paused, listening. His ears twitched and perked up over his head.
“What is it?”
“Shush!” hissed Meineke. He bent his head low, allowing his ears to pick up the vibrations traveling through the ground. Suddenly his eyes widened and he straightened quickly. “Come on, they’re coming!”
“Who?!” asked Daniel, confused.
“The Spider Elves—run!” And with that, Meineke bounded away from Daniel and the approaching rumble. Daniel watched the Wil running away and wasn’t sure what to do. Was this real? He took another fraction of a second to consider it. Whatever a Spider Elf is, I don’t think I want to meet one!

MARCHER LORD PRESS

2007-02-20T07:02:00.000-08:00

MARCHER LORD PRESS and WHERE THE MAP ENDS...

I just wanted to say that Jeff's vision of Marcher Lord Press sounds very interesting. As an author currently published with a POD small press, Breakneck Books Publishing, I think it has great potential if done correctly...especially if Jeff can find the right books to publish for the Christian Speculative market and can be effective in marketing them. The ability to get books into distribution with chain book stores is essential to maintaining success. While Amazon is a 10% share of the book market and growing, it can be a fickled place to try and promote a book.

I personally hope Jeff can make a go of it and bring out some new titles for this growing genre. It's a niche market to be sure, but even if you don't sell oodles of books compared to the mainstream, people who enjoy the genre will have another place they can hopefully find some great, God honoring stories. And some overlooked Christian authors may be able to find an outlet for their work to gain some appreciation.

*NEW WRITING SAMPLE COMING TOMORROW--STAY TUNED*