TopShelf Magazine August 2023

ESSENTIALS

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SCI-FI & SAX

JACKIEM JOYNER

Exclusive Interview

Jackiem Joyner is a multi-talented contemporary saxophonist, author, and music producer who has been captivating audiences for nearly two decades.

As an accomplished author, Joyner has received praise from around the globe and has established the Joyner Book Club to support independent authors and connect readers with new literary works.

Q: WHEN DID YOU BEGIN WRITING STORIES?

A: As a touring artist, the idea of writing stories never initially crossed my mind. It kind of just happened. I can remember being backstage, awaiting the setup of our equipment for a sound check. Basically, out of boredom, I began jotting down thoughts in my Evernote app. What started as random scribbles about a young girl on a distant planet rapidly became a narrative that captured my imagination. Without any experience as a writer, I let myself be carried away by the story unfolding at my fingertips. To my surprise, characters started emerging, plots thickened, and the world I was crafting grew richer with each passing city on my tour. Before I knew it, my pre-performance routine included immersing myself in this fictional universe, eager to pick up where I left off at the previous venue. It was a thrilling discovery, realizing that such boundless creativity could spring forth in those idle moments before taking the stage.

Q: HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON SCIENCE FICTION AS YOUR GENRE FOR WRITING?

genre lets me ask the big “what ifs” and then answer them with, “Well, why not a laser-beam-powered toaster?” On a serious note, it provides a space to challenge norms and imagine futures both bright and bleak. But, hey, even in the bleakest futures, I bet they have some top-notch space coffee! It felt like the perfect playground for my ideas

Q: TELL US, READERS, ABOUT YOUR PREVIOUS NOVEL RELEASE, MINOR ASSASSIN.

A: “Minor Assassin” holds a very special place in my heart. It was a whirlwind of emotions, action, and suspense that I felt compelled to share with my readers. Picture an action-packed spy novel, but instead of the usual debonair gentleman as the hero, we have Jon, a young boy whose life takes a dramatic turn after a harrowing event. This twist was something I wanted to explore deeply—how tragedy can completely alter a person’s path, even if they’re as young as Jon.

A: Science fiction has always had a gravitational pull on me, no pun intended! I’ve been enamored with tales of distant galaxies and suspiciously human-looking aliens ever since I was a young child. The endless possibilities of the universe, the technological marvels, and those really cool spaceship designs – how could I resist? The

The journey that readers embark on in “Minor Assassin” is more than just a story for me. It’s a cinematic experience that weaves through Jon’s devastating backstory, his evolution, and the multi-perspective narrative that also brings in Jayla, his older sister, and a relentless detective named Striker trying to find out just what is going on in his city.

By the time Jon reaches the age of 14-15, after rigorous training in Japan, he truly begins to embody the assassin persona, showcasing the culmination of his training and determination. The transition of this young boy into a formidable force is both challenging and intriguing to

depict.

One of my main objectives was to develop Jon’s character arc. The mysterious allies he meets and the fire that fuels his determination added layers to his transformation. A particular emphasis for me was the depth of character interactions, especially delving into the psychological and emotional dimensions. How would a teenager truly react in such intense situations? This realism and raw emotion add authenticity to the story.

The overwhelming positive feedback from critics and readers has been heartwarming. From the immersive descriptions that paint vivid images in the reader’s mind to the exploration of vengeance and resilience, seeing how “Minor Assassin” resonated with so many has been fulfilling.

To sum it up, with “Minor Assassin,” I aimed to blend the intrigue of a James Bond tale with the transformative journey reminiscent of Karate Kid. For those looking for an intense yet deeply insightful read, this novel offers just that—a gripping revenge saga with layers of depth and emotion.

Q: USING THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WRITING STYLE?

A: Fresh, Adventurous, mysterious,

Q: YOUR NEW RELEASE, ZARYA, WILL BE OUT IN EARLY AUGUST. WHO ARE THE MAIN CHARACTERS IN THIS BOOK?

A: I’m genuinely thrilled about “Zarya: Episode II”! At the epicenter of this story is Zarya, the courageous and techsavvy heroine from the first book. Fresh off her mission to rescue her parents, Aaron and Messina, and the world of

Cydnus, she now grapples with readjusting to society. She’s caught in a whirlwind of emotions, receiving both admiration and resentment in equal measure. All the while, her unwavering connection to Sochi, her AI-enhanced airboard, remains. Alongside her are her unwavering friends, Marco and Kizzy.

Her father, Aaron, becomes an even more pivotal figure in this sequel. As he witnesses his daughter’s brilliance and dedication, he becomes more in tune with her, especially when it comes to groundbreaking tech. Together, father and daughter are embroiled in ambitious projects to safeguard their world. Their interactions with the governing council of Cydnus are intricate and layered, with noticeable friction between Aaron and certain council members.

Enter Flindar, the head of the Cydnus World Council. His towering office provides a panoramic view of New Cebrenia, a city of chrome, glass, and steel, alive with movement. Under his leadership, however, the Council has grown divided and fraught with internal politics, challenging their unified front. His interactions with Aaron showcase a mix of desperation and hope, particularly around Project Viaka, a potential solution to Cydnus’s growing energy needs. With Aaron’s involvement, and Flindar’s faith in him, the two plot a way to convince the rest of the council of Project Viaka’s importance, despite the dangerous undercurrents of betrayal and political maneuvering.

Eros, another council member, is particularly challenging, adding an extra layer of tension to the storyline. He’s kinda like the bad guy, but with a whole lot of power. He sits under Flindar as the Vice-chair. But his intentions are not the same!

As the narrative unfolds, we’re reintroduced to a character—whose identity I’ll keep under wraps for now— but let’s say, their motives are intriguingly ambiguous.

Trust me, “Zarya: Episode II” is set to break new

ground! I Hope!!LOL

Q: WHAT THEMES CAN READERS FIND IN YOUR NEW BOOK, ZARYA?

Themes Present in “Zarya Episode II: Sochi Unleashed”:

1. Man and Machine Collaboration: The mutual understanding and collaboration between Zarya and Sochi are evident. Sochi›s evolution in intelligence and autonomy serves as a prime example of the increasing interdependence and blurred lines between organic beings and artificial entities. Their exchanges also hint at a potential power shift, where AI might, at times, act out of its programmed protocols for safety reasons.

2. Recklessness vs. Responsibility: Zarya›s youthful exuberance, combined with her newfound control over drones, touches on the excitement of pushing boundaries. The thrill of the chase and the sheer delight in her newfound capabilities contrast sharply with the potential consequences of hacking advanced equipment. It›s a delicate dance between seeking adventure and facing the potential repercussions of those actions.

3. Natural Wonder Amidst Technological Marvel: The interaction with the Skylarkon, a native creature of Cydnus, juxtaposed against the advanced tech on display (AI airboards, drones, etc.), paints a picture of a world where technology and nature coexist. This theme speaks to the balance that advanced civilizations must find between progress and respecting the environment.

4. Friendship and Shared Adventure: The camaraderie among Zarya, Kizzy, and Marco is apparent. Their shared sense of adventure, moments of awe (like witnessing the Skylarkons), and playful taunts underscore the importance of relationships, even in a technologically advanced setting.

5. Ethical Quandaries in a Digital Age: Sochi›s ability to override and hack drones introduces ethical questions

about the extent to which one should or can manipulate technology, especially if it›s not theirs. This theme is reinforced by Kizzy›s concerns about hacking the new P7-14 weather bots and the potential legal implications.

6. Security in an Advanced World: The presence of security transports and sentinel drones paints a picture of a society that, while advanced, also grapples with ensuring law and order. The tension between personal freedom and systemic control becomes evident when Zarya and her friends have to evade these security measures.

Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PLAYING THE SAXOPHONE?

A: I’ve been playing the saxophone for 29 years. It’s amazing to think it’s been almost three decades since I first picked up the instrument. It has been a truly enriching journey filled with melodies and memories!

Q: WHICH DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST, WRITING STORIES, PRODUCING MUSIC, OR PLAYING THE SAXOPHONE?

A: That’s a tough one! Each offers its own unique joy. Writing provides an escape, allowing me to dive deep into my wild imagination unfiltered. Producing music presents a creative challenge, while playing the saxophone is pure, soulful expression. However, if I had to choose, I’d lean towards playing the saxophone because it’s the most direct conduit for my emotions. Thankfully, I don’t have to choose!

Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER TO ASPIRING MUSICIANS AND WRITERS?

A: Stay authentic to your voice. In both music and writing, it’s easy to get swayed by trends or external pressures. The most compelling stories and melodies come from the heart and soul. Remember that perseverance is key. Treat every rejection or hurdle as just a stepping stone toward your goals. Keep pushing for what you love doing, no matter what. Your time will come!

Q: WHERE CAN FANS FIND YOU AND YOUR WORK ONLINE?

A: Fans can check out my official website at  www. jackiemjoyner.com. I’m also active on Twitter (@ JackiemJoyner) and Instagram (@ jackiemjoyner). Over there, you’ll find the latest updates on my books, music, and upcoming events.

“The Art Of Music is The Art Of Love”

www.jackiemjoyner.com

https://www.facebook.com/jackiemjoyner

YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCctiIB9r18KuV4bsR1dpV4A

ABOUT JACKIEM JOYNER

Contemporary saxophonist, author, and music producer Jackiem Joyner has set the bar high in his nearly twodecade-long career as a performer. With a number one jazz album, numerous Billboard chart-topping hits, and a series of critically acclaimed books to his name, Joyner has proven himself a rare artist capable of transcending his instrument and captivating mainstream audiences.

Now, as he enters the 18th year of his career amid unprecedented change in the entertainment industry, Joyner remains as dedicated to his art as ever.

“No matter how difficult things become, I’ll never stop doing what I love: playing the sax, writing music and stories, and performing live.”

Born in Norfolk, VA, Joyner demonstrated restless creativity from an early age, a trait that would later define his career. Despite his humble upbringing, he

managed to acquire a saxophone as a child, which quickly became his constant companion. After years of practice, he made his debut with 2007’s ‘Babysoul.’ A masterclass in seductive smooth jazz, the album marked the arrival of a brilliant instrumentalist, paving the way for a prolific recording career that included Grammy runner-ups, hit singles, and abundant critical acclaim, extending through 2019’s ‘Touch’ and 2020’s EP, “Journey of Passion.”

As a performer, Joyner has toured over 30 countries and shared the stage with legends such as the late George Duke, Marcus Miller, Keiko Matsui, Donnie McClurkin, Angela Bofill, Najee, Kirk Whalum, Peter White, and many others.

In addition to his flourishing career as a recording artist and performer, Joyner has been nearly as prolific as an author. His novels, ranging from gritty urban thrillers to imaginative science fiction, have received praise from around the globe, including from esteemed author Stephen King, who invited Joyner as a guest on his podcast.

In 2019, Jackiem Joyner earned the Silver Literary Titan Book Award for his debut novel, “Zarya: Cydnus Final Hope.”

Through the creation of the Joyner Book Club, Jackiem has introduced readers to new literary works, connected writers and readers, and spotlighted incredible stories that might not be featured on every billboard. He also keeps readers informed of current events in the literary community.

“I’m thrilled that we’re also building a community of independent authors to support one another in publishing and marketing our books! We provide practical steps for publishing your own stories, poems, and other literary works!”

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SECONDS COUNT

Authors love seeing their books in the window of a bookstore. On the street, in an airport, at the shopping center—anywhere and everywhere. Easy to want, hard to accomplish. You cannot judge a book by its cover. The great content remains invisible if it misses the reader’s attention and gets passed over. For an author, this is a harsh lesson.

Seconds count to get a potential reader to grab your book. A little transparency, we are guilty of picking up a book because the imagery struck a chord. It might be the title, author’s name, bestselling, award-winning composition, or captivating graphics. The correct combination is critical for a book’s success; the wrong mixture gets ignored or miscast.

When working on the cover design for our first book in the Enigma Heirs series, Enigma Tracer, our ideas sent us down one rat hole after another. Fortunately, we have a remarkably talented graphic artist who provided excellent guidance we wanted to share along with our experiences. Please note, ebooks are engineered differently from print books,

by Breakfield and Burkey

with hotlinks to connect, and inside colors don’t cost extra.

A paperback provides back cover teasers, and graphics can spill from the front cover through the spine to the back to attack a reader.

When working on the cover design for our first book in the Enigma Heirs series, Enigma Tracer, our ideas sent us down one rat hole after another. Fortunately, we have a remarkably talented graphic artist who provided excellent guidance we wanted to share along with our experiences.

TITLE

A short and to-thepoint title has value.  Red Storm Rising  by Tom Clancy,  When God

Says No by  Judith Briles,  Thaddeus of Beewicke  by Louis Sauvain, and  War and Peace  by Leo Tolstoy are memorable. As a rule of thumb, titles should contain five words or fewer. If you must use subtitles, keep them to three to seven words.

Real estate is the key. Space gets limited, especially at the postage stamp size on a website like Amazon. Legible words are critical when a reader scans the bookstore’s physical or virtual shelves. You achieve this by the color, font size, and title placement in relationship to the reader’s eye. Most people read left to right—a vertical title work when it is a few letters.

Don’t try for the Guinness World Record, currently at 3,777 words. Doing that feels like reading the Lord’s Prayer on a grain of rice. Interesting, but not widely read.

AUTHOR’S NAME

Have you noticed the different sizes and placement of an author’s name on a book cover? A renowned author with a record of delivering great books uses a larger font. The arrangement typically gets placed based on name recognition. On top, if an author is fabulous with the title a secondary consideration.

Devoted fans will often purchase the next book by James Patterson, Bella Andre, David Baldacci, or Danielle Steele because of their reputations. Books by these authors meet or exceed fan expectations. An unknown author without a track record uses a smaller font placed near the bottom with a bolder

title on top.

In our digital world, covers change easily, especially if the author gains popularity. We recommend that any cover change corresponds to your existing inventory. If you have 1,000 books on hand, wait until they sell to issue a new cover or discount your merchandise. You can freshen the content inside when making an image change for additional reader value as a 2nd edition.

BESTSELLING AND AWARDWINNING

There are specific ways New York Times, USA Today, or The Guardian determine their bestselling author lists. The criteria differ to a degree, as do their audiences. Tops of books might display Bestselling Author or Award-Winning Author. Only a foolish author would show such a title not earned.

Remember, these are author awards, not necessarily for the book on which it gets displayed. It indicates an author’s milestone or achievement and compels a reader to purchase. Authors of this tag keep selling, have numerous excellent reviews, cultivate loyal fans, and more. It symbolizes a reader will likely enjoy the book even if they have not read the author before.

CAPTIVATING GRAPHICS

Pictures and images certainly help sell a book. Is it too big or complex, making the title vanish? Does the coloring clash force the potential buyer to run for the restroom? Does the graphic support the title? Does the book use weird font/script making the title/ author name unreadable? These are all questions worth considering.

As an example, if the detailed graphic depicts the New York City skyline, the title could get lost in the buildings or distort the skyline of a New York fan. If there are multiple images in the graphic, the reader’s eye may get confused and look at a different book.

Clashing colors contain unrelated color properties. Some colors do not mix well, while others complement. For example, bright yellow and light peach colors tend to conflict. Often it is the shade that hurts the eyes or offends the buyer. Red and mauve are another pair to avoid.

Colors also have meanings that can complement your story. These are some examples:

* Red conveys energy, enthusiasm, power, strength, and emotion

* Pale yellow signifies friendly, warm, and welcoming situations

* Bold, bright yellow highlights motivation, ambition, creativity, or cutting edge

* Green communicates nature, vitality, environment, and even health

* Blue illustrates dependability, trust, peace, and even thoughtfulness.

Some graphics contradict or overpower the title. For example, if the picture is a big, bold single image of black and red, then a white or yellow Title or Author’s Name pops. The graphics and font color can work together to grab the reader. A flaming phoenix might fail if it dominates the cover of a romance title such as  Love Me Forever.

The rights to pictures and graphics are a vital consideration. Much like your story, creations by artists and photographers may have a use fee or limited use provision. Several websites like Pixabay or Pexels offer free photos and graphics with a simple attribution to the creator. Just because you find it on the Internet does not mean you can use it for free.

We believe a cover is similar to a tattoo. If you see it from a distance and can’t identify what it is—fix it. A full-sized blob-looking rectangle will look like a mushy cover thumbnail online—your choice.

COVER COMPOSITION

Creating a compelling cover is an art. You might hire

a graphical artist familiar with book cover design. An untrained individual can create outstanding covers with Canva or similar graphic software, but experience makes a difference. An author can lose objectivity for the exterior design when they are too close to the story.

The finished product needs to complement both your story and its genre. Bold and beautiful can be balanced and persuasive. Sedate and sweet can capture a lady’s imagination.

GENRES

Each genre carries expectations for cover elements. We won’t address all genres, but highlighting a few would prove beneficial.

Romance  is one of the highest-selling and most popular book genres. The focus of this genre is the development of a romantic relationship. The images often used are a man and woman in an embrace with period costumes. A debutante might be a lady in a lavish gown. Of course, eye candy for images of barechested hunky heroes does get the attention of many a lady reader. The subgenres within may have an image type that equates to the bestselling authors, so look at your competition.

Fiction is arguably the most profitable. This genre generally is a narrative consisting of imaginary people, events, or places. Novels, novellas, and short stories fit into the various subgenres. As such, the images for this genre vary. Readers expect the story and the cover to complement one another. If the tale depicts horror, the graphic is aligned to grab those

readers. The images tend to be more assertive with bolder colors if it is thriller suspense. A science-fiction story tends toward outer space, spacecraft, and or aliens.

Non-fiction  represents content intended to be truthful and accurate information on events and people. The covers reflect the title told by the author. Some examples of this genre are history, biography, memoirs, travel guides, and self-help. These covers tend to represent the fundamental aspect of the book’s subject.

Design images to capture the imagination of the age bracket. Children’s or juvenile literature includes stories, books, and poems for the younger crowd. The reader’s age is a consideration for the word content and length. Grade level can determine the level of graphics and the brightness of colors on the cover and interior. There are several subgenres in this category.

STEPS TO COVER CONTENT

There are several steps we recommend to create your cover. The order of these can differ based on your preferences.

Step 1-Start Shopping . Go to your bookstore and see what’s on the shelf in your genre. Keep in mind staff is knowledgeable in grabbing buyers’ attention, so look for the covers facing out rather than the spines. Make notes of the ones you like, ones you don’t, and why. You’ll find this an excellent way to identify your competition. If you have sample covers, you can put them next to those on the shelf to see how yours stand with the rest.

Step 2-Ask Others.  Many authors leave it up

to their fans to help choose their next book cover. Maybe a vote option in an email, Facebook, Twitter, or your website. When you honestly ask fans for opinions, you’ll get them. If you have a favorite, then don’t offer a vote.

Step 3-Seek Out a Professional.  It might help to get support from a graphical artist, someone with experience in cover design. You can ask for references and look at their work. If they are familiar with your genre and are willing to work with you, you have a winning combination.

Step 4-DIY.  If you want to create your cover, then why not. Canva is one graphical software you can use to design. It is ideal for a front cover as with an ebook. A print book can be trickier because of page count and spine sizing, but you can use various software tools to complete your project.

Step 5-less than 8 seconds. If you grab reader attention, they pick up your book. When they turn it over, are your words compelling and easy to read? Build this content with precise wording that tempts but doesn’t tell all. When they open your book for a quick look inside and smile congrats, you have them. When a buyer shops on the web, the look-inside feature is fantastic. You want to make sure the opening is compelling and provides the right flavor to the story. With the ideal graphic and description, they look inside. Wham! You have them.

AUTHOR TO AUTHOR

You, as the author, should favor the wrapper on the product you worked so hard to write. It needs to provide a window to the content or story through the pictures or symbols on the outside. A few marketing words are also on the back to help drive the sale. There is a very large discussion on Search Engine Optimization (SEO) word choices to use in your description and even the title to improve the search results for your book but we will need to defer that for another time. Please keep it simple and focused. You CAN judge a book

by its cover. Seconds count for an unknown author, and your cover can make a difference in building your audience and fans.

of a Head Start program. Rox enjoys family, learning, listening to people, travel, outdoor activities, sewing, cooking, and thinking about diversifying the series.

ABOUT BREAKFIELD AND BURKEY

Charles Breakfield – Works for a high-tech manufacturer as a solution architect, functioning in hybrid data/telecom environments. He considers himself a long-time technology geek, who also enjoys writing, studying World War II history, travel, and cultural exchanges. Charles’ love of wine tastings, cooking, and Harley riding has found its ways into the stories. As a child, he moved often because of his father’s military career, which even helps him with the various character perspectives he helps bring to life in the series. He continues to try to teach Burkey humor.

Rox Burkey – Works as a business architect who builds solutions for customers on a good technology foundation. She has written many technical and white papers but finds the freedom of writing fiction a lot more fun. As a child, she helped to lead the kids with exciting new adventures built on make-believe characters, was a Girl Scout until high school, and contributed to the community as a young member

Breakfield and Burkey – started writing non-fictional papers and books, but it wasn’t nearly as fun as writing fictional stories. They found it interesting to use the aspects of technology people are incorporating into their daily lives more and more as a perfect way to create a good guy/bad guy story with elements of travel to the various places they have visited either professionally and personally, humor, romance, intrigue, suspense, and a spirited way to remember people who have crossed paths with them. They love to talk about their stories with private and public book readings. Burkey also conducts regular interviews for Texas authors, which she finds very interesting. Her first interview was, wait for it, Breakfield. You can often find them at local book fairs or other family-oriented events.

The primary series is based on a family organization called R-Group. Recently they have spawned a subgroup that contains some of the original characters as the Cyber Assassins Technology Services (CATS) team. The authors have ideas for continuing the series in both of these tracks. They track their many characters on a spreadsheet, with a hidden avenue for the future coined The Enigma Chronicles tagged in some portions of the stories. Fan reviews seem to frequently suggest that these stories would make good television or movie stories, so the possibilities appear endless, just like their ideas for new stories.

They have book video trailers on their YouTube Channel and website, www.EnigmaSeries.com . We invite you to visit the website for FREE stuff along with samples of the books and options to purchase signed copies directly. You may also find it fascinating to check out the fun acronyms they create for their stories. Reach out to them at Authors@EnigmaSeries. com , Twitter@EnigmaSeries , or Facebook@ TheEnigmaSeries .

ASCENDANT - THE ASYLUM SERIES BOOK 2 SUSY SMITH

The world has disintegrated. Civilization has collapsed. Chaos is the new normal.

But I, Lacy Monroe, intend to survive.

My lover Jace and I can't escape my corrupt uncle, Senator Thomas Monroe. He captures and separates us, forcing us to work for him. He sends me to Mexico City to secure an army to overthrow what remains of the US government. He sends Jace on a suicide mission to conquer New Mexico, the only remaining free state in the Southwest.

I was captured. Beaten. Groomed for a sex-trafficking ring. But my brother is looking for me...

Jace plays a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, pretending to help my uncle while secretly sabotaging him. But if his deception is discovered...

I want to become the Ascendant, the one who risks it all and defeats my uncle, then finds some measure of peace. But time is running out for us and this treacherous world we now inhabit.

Don't miss this thrilling sequel to Susy Smith's acclaimed debut novel, Asylum, the perfect "next-read" for fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent.

ABOUT SUSY SMITH

Susy Smith is a celebrated dystopian storyteller, author,

and curriculum specialist for the Kanza Tribe in Oklahoma. Armed with a deep understanding of language, the resilience of the human spirit, and a bachelor’s degree in English, she weaves captivating, award-winning stories that leave readers wanting more.

Smith's literary journey commenced with "Asylum," a gripping novel that clinched the 2020 Writer Con contest in the novel category. She continues to engage audiences with "Ascendant," the second installment in the "Asylum" series, further probing the intricacies of survival, freedom, and the dark side of human nature.

In addition to her novels, Smith occasionally crafts poetry, adding a unique dimension to her diverse repertoire. Her authentic writing style echoes her experiences living in a small Oklahoma town with her husband, four grown children, and two furry dogchildren.

To discover more about Susy Smith's work and her distinctive approach to storytelling, please visit Susy Smith's website.

or

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NIHSHANKA DEBROY

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Nihshanka Debroy is the author of Checkmate, a historical fictional thriller launched in the Indian subcontinent in June 2020. Checkmate was reviewed by several prominent Indian newspapers. Nihshanka is a former chess player who twice represented his state at the national level and competed with several opponents who are now grandmasters and international masters. Since childhood, his passion for chess has run parallel with his even older love for the written word.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE WORD AND WHY?

My favorite word is ‘perseverance’ because it almost always brings me closer to my objective. In writing, like in most aspects of life, we often face setbacks when the aim is high. It’s important to keep learning from the bumps so the next attempt, say, the next draft of the book is better. Hit another bump? Learn again. And again, until perseverance helps us break through.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING A WRITER?

As an author, with my fiction work, I can come up with new characters, thrown together amidst conflict. In many day-to-day aspects of life, I run into constraints. Even in writing, I have to be careful while editing. But the creative part of writing allows me to imagine without boundaries and visualize what could be.

IF YOU WERE A SUPERHERO, WHAT POWERS WOULD YOU HAVE?

I would love to possess two powers, both about time:

• An ability to access more than twenty-four hours a day, for time is one of the most precious resources we have.

• An ability to predict the future. Where are we headed? What new ideas will make the difference? How will

the world change?

IF YOU COULD TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF ANYTHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Every experience is an opportunity to learn. Even if things do not go the way you want, setbacks often open new paths. So keep learning, keep striving, keep getting better.

AS A CHILD, WHAT DID YOU WANT TO DO WHEN YOU GREW UP?

follow.

Almost everything under the sun - at times, I wanted to be a ping-pong player. At other times, I wanted to be an accountant or a software engineer. I am glad about where I’ve landed, with writing being such a key area of my life.

WHERE DO YOU DREAM OF TRAVELING TO AND WHY?

I dream of traveling to Ströbeck, a village in Germany. Ströbeck has a long association with chess. There’s a legend that a military commander was imprisoned in a tower there in the 11th century. Apparently, he was so bored that he made a chess set and taught the guards how to play the game.

ANYTHING YOU WOULD SAY TO THOSE JUST STARTING OUT IN THE CRAFT?

Be consistent about the time you spend on your author career. Whether with the actual art of writing or with marketing, small steps add up to large outcomes. Do something every day or two to keep the momentum going.

WHAT’S THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT REASON FOR YOUR SUCCESS?

Consistency - for over a decade, I have done something related to writing every week. Whether it’s drafting a chapter, editing it, building my website or something else, I have tried to make every week count. For me, writing is not a hobby or occupation but a way of life.

HOW DO YOU GENERATE NEW IDEAS?

I document new concepts when they occur to me. Not every such concept is directly tied to a book idea or even complete, but I note it down or record it on my phone. I pay particular attention to the ideas that surface again and again. In addition, when I am between book drafts, I look at my idea repository. The concepts that still stand

out often lead to book outlines.

WHAT’S THE KEY LESSON YOU WANT EVERYONE TO TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR WORK?

There’s a story to be told or question to be asked about almost everything we come across, whether it’s the events around us, the game of chess (subject of my first novel), numbers (subject of my first non-fiction work), or something else that resonates with you.

Feel free to grab a copy of my book, ‘Twelve Short Tales’, a collection of tiny stories that spark emotions and trigger questions.

Here they are, at https://authordebroy.com/giveawayfiction/.

ABOUT NIHSHANKA DEBROY

I am the author of Checkmate, a historical fictional thriller available in the Indian subcontinent. Checkmate was reviewed by several prominent Indian newspapers and was a ‘#1 Audible India Historical Thriller Amazon Bestseller.’

I am a former chess player who twice represented my state at the national level and competed with several opponents who are now grandmasters and international masters. Since childhood, my passion for chess has run parallel with my even older love for the written word.

Through my writing, I explore Indian themes through a Western lens. My first book Checkmate was launched in June 2020. I live near Atlanta, Georgia, where I am working on my next book alongside my professional career.

Want to learn more about my books and blog posts? Check out the rest of this website, and grab a copy of my short work ‘Twelve Short Tales’ at the ‘Giveaway’ page.

To email me, just use my first name at <name of this website>. Or follow me on Twitter or Facebook. I love to hear from readers.

SPOTLIGHT ON RICKY'S DREAM TRIP

This is a combination of three award-winning Ricky's Dream Trip books now in one volume with added information for classroom use and at-home activities...

This is a combination of three award-winning Ricky's Dream Trip books now in one volume with added information for classroom use and at-home activities. Ricky travels to the Ancient world through his dreams with his pop pop by his side. In Egypt, the land of the Pharaohs and pyramids he meets the boy prince, Tutankhamen, in a search for a beloved missing pet. Immerse yourself in the culture of Ancient Egypt with this terrific adventure. Next Ricky and Pop Pop meet Aristotle as they visit the land of the Ancient Olympics, see the temple of Athena, and help Alexander the Great! In the third time-bending dream trip adventure to Ancient Rome the fate of Julius Caesar, one of Rome's greatest leaders, hangs in the balance. It is up to Ricky to confront his own fears and change the course of history.

ABOUT WILLIAM STEVENSON

William Stevenson spent much of his career as president of National Tax Consultants, Inc where he distinguished

himself as one of the few nonattorneys admitted to practice in front of the United States Tax Court. However, he also earned a Doctorate in Education from Temple University. Although this gave him a full understanding of how children learn, the Ricky’s Dream Trip Books were inspired by his personal experience as a Pop Pop. He wrote the books he would have liked to have for his grandson and the Ricky’s Dream Trip series was born.

VISIT POP POP PRESS

AUDIO BOOK REVIEW

PLAYING WITH HELLFIRE MILA YOUNG & HARPER A. BROOKS

by Pelican Freak

SO MUCH FUN

An intriguing read that pulled me in right off the bat. It’s interesting and gripping right away, and I breezed through it, thanks to fun topes, & high-quality writing.

Epic world-building.

Intriguing demons.

Strong female lead.

Soul-trade.

Mystery.

All sorts of supernaturals.

“Play” dens / parties, etc.

Fun twists on legends / mythology / christianity.

Written in alternating POVs, this gives the reader a bigger picture than the leads have, and adds a layer to the fun. Overall: 4 stars ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Audio: This is a dual cast that pretty much sounds like a full cast

due to talented narrators and the overall sound quality is perfect. 5 stars.

About The Reviewer - Pelican Freak

Pelican Freak is the online alter ego of an author PA who works with authors in all genres, some of who are international best sellers. Pelican Freak reads all genres and is brutally honest in what is reviewed.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE WORD AND WHY?

Thesaurus. I could not survive without a book of synonyms. Back to One is my adventure as a writer. I enjoy discovering new ways to express myself with the written word. I often scan my manuscripts to ensure I haven’t repeated the same adjective too many times and look for alternate methods of describing the same thing. It helps expand the way I look at subjects and be more creative.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START WRITING?

Loneliness. I began writing in earnest as a latchkey child. I was shaping new “friends” and “loved ones” in the characters I created who were part of me to keep me company. To entertain myself, I would write poems, short stories, tales, plays, and even screenplays to create a safe, engaging world.

DO YOU HEAR FROM YOUR READERS MUCH? WHAT DO THEY SAY?

I hear from readers all the time! At the moment, they are all clamoring for the next novel in my Back to One Series. So far, I have received rave reviews, several writing awards, and avid fan cheers for the original Back to One and Ambient Light, the second novel in the series, and gasps of excitement over the third novel, Cinéma Vérité. Luckily, I have already written four books in the series and am working on the fifth and sixth. The fourth novel,

Slating Magic Hour, will be released next April 2024. My readers have fallen in love with my two protagonists, Cate and Kyle. Wonderfully relatable, I’ve been told they have become my readers’ best friends.

HOW DO YOU COME UP WITH THE TITLE OF YOUR BOOKS?

The stories are set in the movie business. I felt it was appropriate to use industry terminology. “Back to One” is called out by the first assistant director when the director wishes to reshoot a scene. Everyone returns to their first position; cameras, crew, extras, and actors. “Ambient Light” is a type of lighting in a setting; soft, natural, and flattering, and “Cinéma Vérité” was a 1960’s French documentary storytelling style. It means truthful cinema. Continuing that tradition, each additional novel will hold a film industry term as its main title.

WHAT DOES LITERARY SUCCESS LOOK LIKE TO YOU?

The Best Sellers list, without a doubt, for the novels. Also, since the books tend to lend the stories to be made into a motion picture or miniseries that would be an outstanding achievement!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT WRITING?

Go to the movies! For me, the experience must be in a theater where you can “lose yourself” to the images on the large screen.

WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES A GOOD STORY?

Engaging, relatable characters attempting to live the best life they can despite adversities. There are exclusive extras in Book 2, Book 3, and Book 4—they contain access to a playscript of the movie Cate and Kyle make at the end of these books. Ambient Light’s movie Way Down is available as a special free bonus and Dangerous Type in Cinéma Vérité, as well as Wonderwall in Slating Magic Hour. They are complimentary and available through a link at the back of each book—free and fun. Really draws the reader into Cate and Kyle’s professional worlds.

WHERE DO YOU DREAM OF TRAVELING TO AND WHY?

My goal young in life was to see the world. I have seen quite a bit, but there are more adventures ahead. These locations find a place in my writing and make the description of them far more authentic by sharing my personal experiences.

ANYTHING YOU WOULD SAY TO THOSE JUST STARTING IN THE CRAFT?

Write to please yourself, not an audience. Readers can feel that enthusiasm if you are happy and entertained by your writing.

STATE A RANDOM FACT ABOUT YOURSELF THAT WOULD SURPRISE YOUR READERS.

how long I could do it. It was a freeing experience. I felt better since I was pretty “hooked” on chocolate then. Now I have better self-control.

WHO ARE YOUR CHEERLEADERS?

My son, William, is my biggest cheerleader and my older brother. It is lovely to have two generations of my family stand behind me, urging me on.

Many thanks to my terrific publisher, Hidden Shelf Publishing House, for believing in my vision.

WHAT WAS YOUR HARDEST SCENE TO WRITE?

Without question, love scenes. Keep in mind these are not explicit scenes. They are very mild and romantic. I blush the whole time I write them and often have to stop mid-paragraph, leave the room, compose myself, and finally resume. I feel as if I am peeking into a very private moment. Silly, huh?

WHAT BOOKS ARE IN YOU BACK TO ONE SERIES?

BACK TO ONE Series:

Back to One (Book One),

Back to One: Take 2 Ambient Light (Book Two),

Back to One: Take 3 Cinéma Vérité (Book Three), and soon-to-be-released

Back to One: Take 4 Slating Magic Hour. (Book Four)

Coming in 2025 & 2026:

Back to One: Take 5 Hero Shot &

Back to One: Take 6 Persistence of Vision

ABOUT ANTONIA GAVRIHEL

I gave up eating chocolate for twelve years straight to see

Antonia was born into a show business family. Her father was a comedian and actor and her mother was a big band singer. She was surrounded by the entertainment business all her life. Growing up, she would quietly sit and do her

homework while her mother would cut an album or tape a variety show or her father would film a scene on a movie set. Her older brother is an executive in the radio industry and when she was a kid would sit her in front of microphones from the time she was tall enough to reach them.

Antonia’s mother, ultimately, put her in front of the camera at a very young age. There she found a home in acting and has been acting ever since.

Being raised by entertainers gives one an interesting perspective on life. When Antonia was in college she went to her father and told him she wanted to go on to law school to become an attorney. In his entertainer’s mind he had the perfect solution.

“Honey,” he said. “Why don’t you just get a part in a TV show or film and play a lawyer. Hey, you can even play a doctor!” That was classic entertainer-speak for everything. Just play a new part.

Although she enjoyed acting, the most consistent dream in her life was to be a writer. Her love affair with words, and the visual pictures they create began at a very young age to amuse herself. Being a latch-key child, writing stories and plays allowed her into a world of adventure, drama, love and laughter as she sat isolated at home. Writing was her passion, writing was her salvation.

Back To One came into being when her son was two years old. After work, after settling her son to sleep, Antonia would sit at her brand new (1994) computer and create the story of a woman, not unlike herself, whose life and adventures she could only wish to have. It took about a year to write and fine-tune and then came the real work of selling the manuscript to a major publishing company.

So, for the next 25 years, on and off, she would submit the manuscripts to publishing houses, literary agents and production companies. It made the rounds and came close a couple of times—once with a Beverly Hills literary agent and once with a production company filming in Arizona.

Redefining her ambitions, she decided to put herself through law school to finally become the attorney she originally wanted to be as a young college student. However, the intense commitment of law school while still

working full time meant the manuscript found a comfy home in the drawer beneath her bed for a time.

The manuscript would make an appearance when the stresses of everyday life became too much to handle. Rereading it somehow gave her a sense that all was right with the world.

The summer of covid, Antonia retrieved the manuscript at her son’s beckoning and updated the 1995 story to 2005. Passion for writing reignited, she continued Cate and Kyle’s journey in a second manuscript.

It is a truth that everything comes to you in its own time. You just have to be persistent and never give up. So when Antonia least expected it, a serendipitous meeting would change her life. And the rest, as they say, is history.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

Website: www.antoniagavrihel.com

Facebook: @antoniagavrihel

Instagram: @antoniagavrihel

WHAT IS A BOOK CLUB AND SHOULD I JOIN ONE?

by Deena Rae

Abook club is a group of people who come together on a regular basis to discuss and explore books that they have all read. The primary purpose of a book club is to provide a social and intellectual forum for its members to share their thoughts, insights, and opinions about the chosen books. Members typically read a predetermined book within a certain timeframe, often a month, and then gather to discuss their reactions, interpretations, and feelings about the book. Book clubs can vary widely in terms of structure, focus, and frequency of meetings. Some book clubs are casual and informal gatherings among friends or acquaintances, while others may be more organized and have specific themes or guidelines. Some book clubs focus on a particular genre, author, or time period, while others have a more diverse reading selection. The discussions in book clubs can range from

literary analysis and character development to personal reflections and connections to real-life experiences. Participating in a book club can offer several benefits, such as fostering a sense of community, expanding one's reading horizons, and providing an opportunity for thoughtful and engaging discussions. It can also encourage participants to read books they might not have chosen on their own and to approach reading with a more critical and analytical perspective.tools. Authors greatly benefit from the support and engagement of readers through their reviews.

PROS OF JOINING A BOOK CLUB:

Community and Social Interaction : Book clubs provide a platform to connect with likeminded individuals who share a love for reading.

"

a group of people who come together on a regular basis to discuss and explore books

This sense of community can lead to meaningful friendships and engaging discussions.

Diverse Reading Selection : Book clubs expose you to books and genres you might not have chosen on your own, expanding your literary tastes and introducing you to new authors and ideas.

Accountability and Reading Commitment : The structure of a book club encourages you to read regularly and complete books within a specific timeframe, helping you stay disciplined in your reading habits.

Intellectual Stimulation : Engaging in discussions about books can enhance your critical thinking skills, as you analyze themes, characters, and narratives, and learn to articulate your thoughts more effectively.

Deeper Understanding : Hearing different interpretations and perspectives from fellow members can deepen your understanding of a book and lead to insights you might not have considered.

Sense of Accomplishment : Finishing a book and participating in thoughtful discussions can provide a sense of achievement and satisfaction.

Broadening Horizons : Book clubs expose you to a diverse range of viewpoints and cultural perspectives, fostering a greater understanding of the world.

CONS OF JOINING A BOOK CLUB:

Time Commitment : Keeping up with the reading schedule and attending meetings can be challenging, especially if you have a busy lifestyle or other commitments.

Reading Preferences : Book club selections might not always align with your personal preferences, leading to frustration or disinterest in

certain book choices.

Pressure to Participate : Some individuals might feel pressured to actively contribute to discussions, which could be uncomfortable for those who are more introverted or prefer to listen.

Conflict and Disagreements : Disagreements over a book's merits or interpretations can lead to tension or uncomfortable interactions within the group.

Rushed Reading : The need to finish a book within a specific timeframe might lead to hurried reading, reducing the enjoyment and understanding of the material.

Limited Flexibility : Book clubs can restrict your reading choices, preventing you from exploring books outside of the club's selections that you might be interested in.

Lack of Interest : Not all book club discussions might resonate with you, and there could be times when the chosen book doesn't capture your attention.

When deciding whether to join a book club, it's important to consider these pros and cons in relation to your own interests, availability, and personality. Additionally, the specific dynamics and atmosphere of the book club you're considering can greatly influence your experience.

ABOUT DEENA RAE

Deena Rae was born and raised in Texas – home of bluebonnets, boots, beef and big hair – into a family that was in the printing and publishing industries.

With a total of 20 years in publishing, in 2010 she decided to branch out as eBookBuilders helping established & new authors, designing books, ebooks and websites.

EDO VAN BELKOM

REMINDER: This is an interactive magazine. Click on book cover or link to follow.

Q: WHEN DID YOU FIRST BEGIN WRITING STORIES?

I began writing stories in high school, but I don’t consider them a starting point because I really had no idea what I was doing and the result wasn’t anything that could be called stories... more like scenes or fragments.

And while I studied creative writing in university, again I never produced anything that could be considered a short story. That didn’t happen until I was out of school and had been working as a daily newspaper reporter for three years. I had written a story on the work computer called “Baseball Memories,” about a man who memorizes baseball statistics so much that his brain decides the numbers are more important than anything else stored in his brain and clears out other memories to make room for more baseball stats. That was my first short story sale (Aethlon: The Journal of Sport Literature, published by East Tennessee State University) and was reprinted in Year’s Best Horror Stories XX, edited by Karl Edward Wagner.

So that was like hitting a home run in your first MLB at-bat, and just like a Major League ball player, it took me a bunch of years to figure out how to do it again, to actually write stories that could be sold and published with some regularity. That learning process took place in two ways: one, at a weekly meeting of a writer’s group, called, The Cecil Street Irregulars, where we read and critiqued two stories a week -- something I did for two straight years, and two, by writing dozens of stories for various men’s magazines. Sure the stories had to have a sexual element, but they also needed plausible storylines, real characters, and beginnings, middles and ends. Eventually, I learned to write consistently and no longer needed to workshop stories, and if I needed an opinion on something I had written, I chose to show them to just the people whose opinions I respected,

rather than the entire group..

Q: WHO WAS YOUR FAVORITE AUTHOR?

For years I knew I wanted to be a writer, but was never sure about what kind of writer I wanted to be. I dabbled in poetry, which was terrible, and we also tried writing rock songs, but they were just as bad... we had a penchant for using the word BABY! a lot, sometimes using it throughout the entire song.

But one day I read THE OCTOBER COUNTRY by Ray Bradbury and right then I knew exactly what kind of writer I wanted to be. Each story in the book left me with a sense of awe and wonder! So I decided that those were the kinds of stories I wanted to write, the ones that made the reader say, “Wow, that was terrific!”

Another of Bradbury’s contemporaries, Robert Bloch, is another of my favorites. He had an ability to combine humor and horror and that type of story appealed to  me. Over the year’s I’ve written plenty of stories that others have pointed out share Bloch’s satiric wit. One of my stories, “The Rug,” written as an homage to Bloch, appeared in the anthology ROBERT BLOCH’S PSYCHOS and was a finalist for that year’s Bram Stoker Award.

Other more contemporary writers would include the likes of Joe R. Lansdale, Ed Gorman, Richard Laymon, and also my very good friend, science fiction writer Robert. J. Sawyer.

Q: WHERE DID THE IDEA FOR YOUR NOVEL, WOLF PACK, COME FROM?

For years I had written exclusively for adults, but I was always looking for places to sell and publish. There was

a call for an SF anthology for young adults called WHAT IF? edited by Monica Hughes, a great Canadian author of science fiction for younger readers. Well, I sold a story to Monica, then approached the publisher, Tundra Books, about doing a similar anthology but in the horror genre called BE AFRAID! They said yes, and I did the book, which was a finalist for book-of-the-year from the Canadian Children’s Book Center. So I did a second book, BE VERY AFRAID! which did well, but not as well as the first. (I joke that I proposed a third book, called SHIT YOUR PANTS!, but they weren’t interested.)

So, with the anthology series done, my wife (who at the time was a children’s librarian) encouraged me to continue writing for young adults. My idea was to write a novel about teenage werewolves who had all the usual problems that teenagers have -- puberty, bullies, homework, boyfriends and girlfriends, etc. -- and were also werewolves. I also wondered what if werewolves were adopted as infants and raised as human by say, a forest ranger. This set up the core situation in the novel. That just left the prologue, where the ranger is fighting a fire and rescues some wolf cubs that had been saved by a wolf that never survived the fire. I pitched that scene to the editor at Tundra Books, Kathy Lowinger, and she asked for a proposal. I wrote it up, the series was off and running.

Q: HOW MANY BOOKS ARE IN THIS SERIES?

The first book in the series is simply called WOLF PACK, which also became the name of the series. WOLF PACK was fortunate on its publication because it was shortlisted for the Silver Birch Award, which is voted on by school-aged children in the province of Ontario. Basically, there are ten books on a list, and students must read five

of them to be able to vote for their favorite. A tangential benefit to the award process was the book was required to have at least 5,000 copies in print to be on the ballot. So, it immediately went into a second printing and eventually had three printings and was the publisher’s bestselling title for that year. WOLF PACK was a clear Silver Birch winner in 2006 (it also won the Aurora Award in 2005) and that allowed me to write a second book in the series, LONE WOLF.

However, without the award to help sales, the second book didn’t perform as well as the first. Yet, I was still able to do two more books in the series, CRY WOLF and WOLF MAN. There might have been more stories to tell, but book publishing is a resultsoriented business and when the sales dropped off, it marked the end of the series at four books.

Q: TELL US ABOUT THE CHARACTERS FROM THE WOLF PACK.

There are four members of the pack, Noble, Argus, Tora and Harlan. They each have their own set of abilities and characteristics that set them apart from the others, but that make the pack stronger as a whole. They are introduced to Ranger Brock in the midst of a wildfire when the ranger sees a wolf appear out of the flames with a wolf cub in its mouth and deposits the cub in a safe place away from the fire. He sees the wolf come out of the flames four times, each time bringing a wolf cub with it. It returns to the heart of the fire after the fourth cub is saved, but never returns.

After the fire is under control, Ranger Brock returns to the spot where the cubs had been dropped off and finds them

alive. He brings them home to his wife, Phyllis, where they soon realize that the cubs are more than just baby wolves.

That’s the basic premise. The story picks up sixteen years later with the cubs now having been raised by the Brocks as their own and attending high school with all the problems that entails.

Q: WHAT MAKES A STORY UNFORGETTABLE?

There are all kinds of things that can make a story unforgettable, but it’s basically whenever a story has something that stands out from the norm. That could be a terrific iconic character, a situation that is unique and compelling, a story arc that captures a reader’s imagination, or simply a quality of writing that sets the work apart from the rest.

But, that’s something a reader needs to answer for themselves. Something that makes a story unforgettable for me, might be something that’s run-of-the-mill to someone else.

Q: HOW DOES IT FEEL TO HAVE YOUR BOOK MADE INTO A TV SERIES BY PARAMOUNT?

When we were notified about interest in the television rights to the Wolf Pack series it seemed a bit comical because the book was by then 16 years old and the entire series had been out of print for about ten years. Who in their right mind would want something whose time in the spotlight had clearly come and gone. Well, it turned out that CBS Viacom had already committed the project to Jeff Davis and when they contacted me they needed to option the book right away to complete a deal they’d already made.

I didn’t know that at the time, and there was no reason why I should have. I’d had film interest in my work before and even had things optioned,

but each time nothing came of it and that’s what I thought would happen this time as well.

But thankfully, I was wrong. Within months of signing the agreement, Paramount announced the new series by TEEN WOLF creator Jeff Davis would be streaming by the end of the year. Six months after that they were in production, and after another six months, the show began streaming on Paramount Plus in January of 2023.

In a word, it’s a bit surreal to see your work adapted and appearing on the screen. I still marvel at the opening credit screen that reads, “Based on the Novel by Edo van Belkom.” But that being said, it’s also a bit disappointing not to see more of what you wrote up on the screen. This isn’t just my experience, but the same experience a majority of novelists have had when their work is adapted to the screen. I’m sure more of what I wrote will find its way into the TV series if there is another season or more, but for now I’ve made my peace by saying, my novel WOLF PACK is the inspiration for the TV series, not the guidebook.

Q: WHERE CAN READERS FIND YOU AND YOUR BOOKS ONLINE?

I can be found all over social media. I’ve said many times, if you can’t find me you’re not looking hard enough, as my name, Edo van Belkom will lead you to my pages on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. As for the books, the first novel in the series, WOLF PACK is available in print format through all the usual online retailers. It may be available in some brick-andmortar bookstores, but that would be hit and miss. WOLF PACK and the other three books in the series, LONE WOLF, CRY WOLF and WOLF MAN are all available in e-book format, again from Amazon and all the usual places that sell e-books.

And, all four of the books are available in audiobook format from Audible, read by Alan Carlson, who does an excellent job narrating the series..

Past that, there will be upcoming editions in Italian, Arabic and from the Czech Republic, although I’m not sure when any of them will appear.

ABOUT EDO VAN BELKOM

Edo van Belkom, a former reporter on the sports and police beats for newspapers in and around Toronto, arrived on the horror scene in 1990. His first short story sale, Baseball Memories, was selected for the prestigious Year’s Best Horror Stories edited by Karl Edward Wagner. The story was also nominated for Canada’s prestigious Aurora Award and appeared side-by-side with work by authors such as Mordecai Richler and W. P. Kinsella in The Grand Slam Book of Canadian Baseball Writing.

Van Belkom hasn’t looked back since. Some 150 short stories have sold to a variety of top magazines and anthologies in the sf, fantasy, horror and mystery genres as well as Simon & Schuster’s BEST AMERICAN EROTICA. He has twice won the Aurora Award, taken home the Bram

Stoker Award once, and been a finalist on many other occasions in a variety of categories spanning his work as a novelist, anthologist and non-fiction author, and his YA novel WOLF PACK won Ontario’s prestigious Silver Birch Award. Overseas, his work has been published in Germany, Spain and Italy. SCREAM QUEEN (2003) and BLOOD ROAD (2004) are his first major mass market horror novels.

Born in Toronto in 1962, van Belkom received a B.A. in Creative Writing from York University and now resides in Brampton, Ontario with his wife and son.from the time she was tall enough to reach them.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

Facebook: @edo.vanbelkom

Instagram: @edovanbelkom

X: @edovanbelkom

YouTube: @edovanbelkom

TikTok: @edovanbelkom

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PURE CHAOS!

This book got off to an absolutely chaotic start and I was so here for it!

It also put a fun little spin on pooka and leprechauns and mixes supernaturals into the ‘real world’ so between all of that I was sucked in straight away.

Irish folklore.

Rare supernaturals.

Alternating POVs.

Pure chaos energy.

A fun, crazy FMC.

AUDIO BOOK REVIEW

FLAWED CREATURES BEATRIX HOLLOW

by Pelican Freak

Overall: 4 stars ⭐ ⭐

Audio: Perfect narration and overall sound quality.

Irish magic.

It quickly gets into the steam and … I felt like it didn’t stop for hours! If you like books that are more spice-driven than plot-driven, with some darker tones and supernaturals, this is the read or listen for you!

About The Reviewer - Pelican Freak

Pelican Freak is the online alter ego of an author PA who works with authors in all genres, some of who are international best sellers. Pelican Freak reads all genres and is brutally honest in what is reviewed.

NEAR MINT CONDITION

Comics have been my escape from reality since 1983, and my favorite series has always been the X-Men. Since I was born in Peru and grew up in Kentucky, I definitely connected to these mutant outsiders.

Seven years ago, I started the YouTube channel Near Mint Condition with my friends in order for us to hang out and talk about things we love - video games, toys, anime,

full time career.

I work with many publishers, primarily with Marvel, by coordinating announcements of upcoming collected

and comics. However, during the pandemic in 2020, we could no longer film panel videos, so I focused on doing solo comic reviews. The channel grew, and since I was laid off, I took a chance and made being a YouTuber my

editions of single issue comics bound into a book. I feel so blessed to be able to be a voice for comic collectors when it comes to relaying to Marvel what they would like to be published. I also work with DC, Dark Horse, Titan Comics, Vault Comics, IDW, Fantagraphics, Humanoids, Udon, and Yen Press. Not only do I review the books, but I also advise the publishers about mapping, box size, covers, etc.

Finally, I am proud

wonderful community that has come together through the love of comics. Through weekly live chats, video comment engagement, Discord, AMAs, and book club meetings, we have built a positive, honest community that focuses on comics and leaves out politics and drama. We want people to feel comfortable and just have fun.

ADVICE ON COLLECTING

Collect what you love, what makes you nostalgic. Unless the challenge is fun for you, don’t fall for the completist mentality.

Be patient. Even if the publisher says the book will never be reprinted, it will be reprinted. Don’t spend a ton of money because the book is out of print.

Shop around. Find local comic shops. Search for free shipping or discounted books from smaller online businesses.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The world of comics Is a huge beast - how can you know everything about them? Have fun.

of the

This is an interactive magazine. Click on book cover or link to follow.

Q: WHEN DID YOU BEGIN WRITING STORIES?

I began telling stories as soon as I was born. My parents say I was an easy child, especially in long car rides, because all I needed was my She-Ra: Princess of Power action figures and a few Cabbage Patch Dolls

and I could entertain myself for hours. Once I could read and write, I started penning fanciful tales. When I was a teenager, I tried creating poetry, which I was NOT good at, but shortly after, I realized I had longer tales that could be told through novels.

Q: HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON THE YA DYSTOPIAN GENRE?

the inequalities between the reborn class and the onceborn class. Unfortunately, large goals often have large set-backs. Changing a system isn’t easy and there are going to be hard choices for her to make and sacrifices that may be more than she is able to give.

Q: WHAT THEMES CAN READERS FIND IN YOUR NEW BOOK, RESTORE?

The themes of sacrifice, acceptance, equality, family, forgiveness, and hope. Lexil has to come to terms with her past, acknowledge her own flaws, as well as those of others, and understand that not everyone sees things from her point of view.

Q: WHO ARE THE MAIN CHARACTERS IN YOUR BOOK RESTORE?

I feel that stories often select the authors. I’m not sure I sat down one day and said, “I will write dystopian”. Instead, I wrote a story about a young girl, afterwards realizing the setting was dystopian. Of course, I’m sure I was subconsciously influenced by novels such as The Giver, The Hunger Games, Matched, Divergent, etc.

Q: TELL US, READERS, ABOUT YOUR NOVEL, RESTORE.

Restore is the third book in The Reborn Marks Series. Lexil has grown as a character, realizing that she has power to influence the world around her. She is determined to end

Lexil is the main character in the series, however she has a strong ally in Finn. These characters are similar in some ways, in that they want to idealize the world, though Lexil is more active in how she wants to change it –differing in how she was at the start of the series.

No longer can she be termed as  docile. She is learning to affect change. She is becoming a leader, but an imperfect one. She is making

mistakes, some that might be costly. At times, there will be no one to rely on except herself and she has to have faith that she can accomplish what she is setting out to do.

Q: USING THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WRITING STYLE?

I’m not sure I know how! Lol. I think I write with emotion, empathy, and a bit of simplicity. I try and see inside a character’s heart and let a moment speak for itself without a lot of analysis from the narrator.

Q: WHICH DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST BEING A WRITER, TEACHER, OR DANCER?

It’s a tie! Each are vastly different (though, all creative) and I gain satisfaction from them all in different ways. (Also, you forgot dragonboat paddler/coach).

Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER TO ASPIRING WRITERS?

ABOUT JENNA GREENE

Jenna Greene is a YA/ Children’s author from Alberta, Canada. She is also an elementary school teacher. When she isn’t reading or writing, she enjoys dance and dragonboat racing. Jenna is known for her Reborn Marks series, her Imagine series, and her pictures books.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

Website: jennagreene.ca/

Facebook: @jennabutrenchukgreene

Instagram: @authorjennagreene

X: @jgreenewrites

Amazon: Jenna Greene

TikTok: @jgreenewrites

Just start. Start writing. Yes, some of it will be pure garbage. But that’s ok. You won’t improve until you try. Every novel that I write, is slightly better than the last one because I’m learning as I progress. Tell a story and enjoy the process. Edit later.

LOVE IT, CANNOT WAIT FOR MORE...

This book gripped me right off the bat. It may feature high-school kids, but they’re dealing with adult issues. They also tend to have either too much money or not enough money— both of which will make a kid group up fast, so they’re mature and it’s plausible.

Anne did a great job of working in plenty of teenage banter and make it sound legit, without boring this much-older reader. It was cute, and even made me laugh-out-loud at times. One thing I really liked was, when there was a bit of bullying, it did not show the same old tactics that I feel like I read in a ton of bully-trope book lately—it had some originality. < That’s super hard to find!

Light bullying at first.

Prank war.

Racing.

Stalking.

Dark themes which I can’t list due to censorship.

Rags-to-riches, sorta.

Spacey, superficial, checked out parent.

Secretly sweet male lead.

An absolutely unhinged male antagonist.

Violence.

AUDIO BOOK REVIEW

BRADFORD BASTARD SHERIDAN ANNE

by Pelican Freak

A frustrating lack of justice—which I think will make later events in this series very satisfying.

This was a onesitting listen for me, since I was so invested.

And the audio was pure perfection: Perfect sound quality. Smooth voices. Dual cast. Performance instead of bot-like reciting.

About The Reviewer - Pelican Freak

Pelican Freak is the online alter ego of an author PA who works with authors in all genres, some of who are international best sellers. Pelican Freak reads all genres and is brutally honest in what is reviewed.

Q: WHEN DID YOU FIRST BEGIN WRITING STORIES?

A: I never actually thought in my lifetime that I would be a writer, let alone an award-winning author. The reason I decided to write a book, in general, involved a situation at work, where I do a lot of technical report writing. One afternoon I had a customer reach out and tell me their entire report was plagiarized.  This particular report was 450 pages and I prayed that wasn’t the case.  There is no way it could be true. Unfortunately, it was 100% true and I had to rewrite the entire report from scratch. This particular report was already lengthy, some 450 pages long and it grew to 750 pages.  Afterwards, I thought to myself, "Man, it feels like I just wrote a novel. That's it, I am going to write a book!" And that is exactly what I did, and what an incredible journey it’s been.

Q: WHO WAS YOUR FAVORITE AUTHOR?

A: My favorite author is C. S. Lewis.  I remember doing a book report on ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ for school and I loved the imagery and details he included. As I got older, I enjoyed his writing style even more.  I read ‘A Grief Observed’ about 2 years ago after my mom passed away. It was helpful going through that difficult situation in my life. I also came to realize that my writing style is similar to his.

photographic evidence provided in each chapter to add legitimacy to the entire story.

Q: YOUR NEW RELEASE COMING SOON, HYSTERICAL HANGOUTS WITH THE HINDLEGS, IS PHENOMENAL. HOW DO YOU COME UP WITH SUCH BRILLIANT STORIES?

Q:

WHERE DID THE IDEA FOR YOUR BESTSELLER, METH MURDER & AMAZON, COME FROM?

A: Meth Murder & Amazon is based on a true story that happened in 2019 to a family I know. The father, Derald Grake, worked for Amazon Web Services. During an open house, there was what appeared to be a child’s body that was found under the bed in the guest room. The real estate agents (assassins) accused him of murder and then 4 days later further accused him of making meth in his garage a la Heisenberg from Breaking Bad. While concealing the names and places of the story, all of the events within the book factually happened. There is even

A: I like to use my own personal experiences to shape my stories.  I am blessed to have been married for 18 years to my beautiful wife and we have 5 children together.  I still remember to this day when I met her parents for the first time and later found out she has 7 brothers and sisters!  So, for my second book I thought it would be fun to create a reality show experience based on meeting the family. When you find the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, it’s a magical experience. And part of that experience is being introduced to their side of the family and forming relationships with your significant other's family.  Sometimes those relationships and the events that transpire can be outrageous and out of this world. Family drama and the family dynamics are fascinating. Families are good and bad, crazy and wild, funny and so much more.  Then, you throw an outsider into the mix and you have a recipe for something truly incredible.

Q: TELL US ABOUT THE CHARACTERS FROM THE HINDLEGS.

A: The main character of the book is Viktor Sniperbone.  Viktor Sniperbone’s previously uneventful life takes a dramatic turn when he embarks on the journey of meeting his beloved Mandi Hindleg’s family. Little did he know that Mandi’s description of her family as “wild” would be an

understatement. Instead of fleeing from the impending chaos, Viktor decides to seize the opportunity and clandestinely document the eccentricities of the Hindleg clan, envisioning it as the ultimate reality show.

Mandi Hindleg is Viktor’s girlfriend.  She is the love of his life and they are thinking about taking the next step in their life. Part of that is introducing Viktor Sniperbone to her parents and 3 brothers.  Mandi is a beautiful and vivacious young woman, full of life and instantly commands attention whenever she enters a room.

Commodore Ateoff Hindleg is Mandi’s father. He is an imposing character and military veteran that takes every opportunity to intimidate and make Viktor’s life uncomfortable.  He takes the formal introduction between dad and boyfriend to a new level when he displays his full armament of shotguns, ammo, machetes, and more right in front of Viktor.  The Commodore is an unforgettable character, with several unbelievable and humorous scenes he is a part of, from a gruesome mutilation to a shocking electrocution incident and more.

Remember, Mandi has 3 brothers (Rider, Tucker, & Hunter) and each one of them attempts to push Viktor to his breaking point and then over the edge.  Whether it is a death-defying jet ski adventure or a magical jellybean trip OR an explosive club scene…the brothers Hindleg stop at nothing in their quest to welcome Viktor into their family.

Q: WHAT MAKES A STORY UNFORGETTABLE?

there, a story that is unforgettable really pushes the boundaries of what is normal and attempts to bring something unique and new to the pages.  This could be the way the story is written OR the senses (hearing, touch, sight, taste, and smell) the author uses to engage with the reader.  Another aspect of an unforgettable story is the roller coaster effect.  What I mean by this is, did the story pull at my emotions and keep me guessing from beginning to end?  Was the story captivating, could I see the visual representation the words depict, and did it transport me on an unexpected journey?  If the story is predictable or reads like something I’ve read before then it is just another story I won’t remember.

Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER PROJECTS THAT YOU ARE CURRENTLY CREATING?

A: My second book Hysterical Hangouts with The Hindlegs debuts September 2023. Hysterical Hangouts with The Hindlegs is a contemporary fiction story infused with humor, satire, suspense, and more. It is a groundbreaking concept that is a true to life reality show in literary form.  It follows the time-honored tradition of finding the partner of your dreams, falling in love and meeting the family.  But not everything is as it seems and the main character, Viktor Sniperbone, secretly records all of the interactions with “the family”. What happens when families stop being polite and start being real?  Follow along as you immerse yourself in the unforgettable family dynamics, unparalleled drama, near-death antics, and outrageous escapades of Hysterical Hangouts with The Hindlegs.

I also have plans to write more books after this one.  One of the concepts is a book about the Navy, titled ‘Never Again Voluntear Yourself’.  I also have some hilarious horror stories dealing with home contractors that a lot of folks could relate to. One titled ‘Framed, Maimed and Plenty to Blame’ and another titled “Floods, Floors, and A/C Connoisseurs’. I haven’t chosen a direction for the next book as of yet, but it is on the roadmap.

A: An unforgettable story consists of multiple parts. First, it must be unique. With so many books and stories out

Q: WHERE CAN READERS FIND YOU AND YOUR BOOKS ONLINE?

A: I have a website  https://gsgerry.com that has all my social media info and a way to contact me.  It also includes a blog and some out of this world free cooking recipes.  My books are available on Amazon, Audible, Barnes and Noble, BookBub, Walmart, Google Play, Apple, Smashwords and more.

ABOUT G. S. GERRY

G. S. Gerry is the award-winning author of Meth Murder & Amazon. His books are quirky and utterly unique, jampacked with humor, suspense, satire and more. He is a father of 5, Navy veteran, cybersecurity expert, and tattoo enthusiast. He is Mastering Experiences Through Humor and writing wrongs along the way. Gerry’s original

writing style has been compared to the likes of Hunter S. Thompson and Lemony Snicket. Gerry grew up in the world of books working for his father's book bindery business when he was just a child. Little did he know the literary universe had something more in store for his life.

G. S. Gerry’s creations offer an escape from life’s harsh realities by providing a hilarious perspective in turning lemons into lemonade. Constructing a world where the unbelievable seems made up and yet, oddly relatable. Gerry’s visionary approach towards life, laughter and entertainment bridges comedy and originality with memorable creations, leaving no stone unturned to help others laugh their way to a better today.

Check out G. S. Gerry and exclusive content on https:// gsgerry.com

MAGNOLIA BLUFF CRIME CHRONICLE: THE KILLER ENIGMA BREAKFIELD AND BURKEY

Enough is Enough - JJ rumbled when the Paparazzi invaded dinner

When JJ and Jo recognize privacy doesn’t exist for them, they head back to Magnolia Bluff to check on their friends and recapture the small-town anonymity.

They reject the status of urban legends in favor of acceptance and a quiet, peaceful life. A supermodel needs time and space to recharge herself between jobs, and he needs time to adore his wife.

Does Magnolia Bluff hold the answers to their prayers, or will a dark past overtake them?

Past, present, and future collide in a perfect storm no one expected. JJ and Jo need to take action. Chief Tommy Jager states he likes them, but he can’t wait for them to get back to their day jobs.

Who will live or die to prevent the truth from being exposed? The answers may be in the graveyard with the fresh flowers.

Their friends are targets – Their dreams are broken – They must fight

ABOUT BREAKFIELD AND BURKEY

Breakfield and Burkey – started writing non-fictional

papers and books, but it wasn’t nearly as fun as writing fictional stories. They found it interesting to use the aspects of technology people are incorporating into their daily lives more and more as a perfect way to create a good guy/bad guy story with elements of travel to the various places they have visited either professionally and personally, humor, romance, intrigue, suspense, and a spirited way to remember people who have crossed paths with them. They love to talk about their stories with private and public book readings. Burkey also conducts regular interviews for Texas authors, which she finds very interesting. Her first interview was, wait for it, Breakfield. You can often find them at local book fairs or other family-oriented events.

"a captivating and sophisticated cozy mystery

Q: WHEN DID YOU BEGIN WRITING?

A:  Writing came to me via an epiphany more than forty years ago, while on a sandy Greek island of Lemnos. I was haunted by the memory of our Swift Boat lead petty officer, Bobby Don Carver. He was killed in action on December 6, 1967 while on patrol along the My Lai shoreline of the Republic of Vietnam. The horrific episodes grew more intense as the years passed after returning from the war.

A ragged sail fishing boat came into view. Immediately, I flashed back to a typical day spent inspecting similar vessels for contraband enroute to the Viet Cong. I questioned my nemesis and mentor why he tormented me so. That’s when it occurred to me that he wanted our crew’s story told and in particular, his story. You see, he was responsible for firing a mortar round into the enemy ship’s pilot house and causing it to run aground at the mouth of the Sa Ky River on the Batangan Peninsula. This 120-ft steel-hulled trawler was code named “Skunk Alpha.”

I had no idea how to write a book. Regardless, I made a promise to him that I would take on the challenge. It’s worth noting that when I put pen to note pad (no computers back then) and began writing the story, the haunting episodes stopped.

Q: HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON HORROR AS YOUR GENRE FOR WRITING?

A:  From the beginning and via my participation in writing groups, I learned that my work would be categorized as Narrative Nonfiction or Creative Nonfiction. My publisher, Texas Tech University Press in Lubbock, Texas, designated the genre as Memoir / Vietnam.

Q: TELL US, READERS, ABOUT YOUR MEMOIR, CAPTURING SKUNK ALPHA.

the 1200-miles of South Vietnam coastline and halt the infiltration of arms and supplies being brought in by resupply trawlers from North Vietnam.

On July 15, 1967 our crew, aboard Swift Boat PCF-79, accomplished that mission by engaging this enemy vessel as it neared the Batangan Peninsula, forcing it to run aground at the Sa Ky river mouth and thus keeping more than 90-tons of cargo which included rifles, machine guns, mortars, rockets, grenades, and explosives, away from the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese regulars operating in the Quang Ngai Province of South Vietnam.

For our action, Premier Nguyen Cao Ky and Chief of State, Nguyen Van Thieu personally congratulated and decorated us and others involved in the intercept mission with the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry medal.

Capturing Skunk Alpha also details the Swift Boat history along with numerous noted combat incidents. It is also a personal journey that follows the author from his youthful years in a Mexican American barrio of San Antonio, Texas and into the harsh realities of war…on the front lines of battle on the high seas.

Toward the end of the book, the tragic loss of Bobby Don Carver is covered in detail in Chapter 20 – The Albatross. The traumatic experience eventually led to a haunting period in the author’s life back home.

Q: WHAT THEMES CAN READERS FIND IN YOUR MEMOIR, CAPTURING SKUNK ALPHA?

A:  I was part of a ragtag combat boat crew of six, a junior grade officer and five enlisted men. Our naval unit was part of Operation Market Time, Task Force 115. The mission was to form an impenetrable barrier all along

A:   Capturing Skunk Alpha brings the reader into Mexican American barrio life in the mid-60s at the beginning. Young love works its way into the story and captures the

innocence of two sweethearts ready and eager to commit to each other forever. He experiences a near fatal set of circumstances at the hands of the notorious Ghost Town gang.

In Vietnam, the author faces continuous bullying from his nemesis / mentor, Carver, making it difficult to follow orders at times. Obeying orders is name of the game of seamanship. Witnessing Carver’s death brings the author to value life to the highest degree.

In summary, the story is filled with emotional struggle and growth for the young sailor.

Q: WHAT WERE YOUR THOUGHTS WHEN YOU WERE IN VIETNAM FOR THE FIRST TIME?

A: The fear of the unknown was my highest concern. The enemy, Viet Cong, looked just like any other villager. The only difference came when you were being shot at by what ordinarily looked like a young village man. Only the North Vietnamese regular army soldiers wore uniforms. A cornered Viet Cong, disguised as a fisherman, could easily open fire on an approaching Swift Boat or toss a grenade into the boat’s pilot house. Constant apprehension and fear ruled our 24-hour patrols.

Q: USING THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WRITING STYLE?

A: Narrative, creative, and descriptive.

Q: ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON ANY FUTURE WRITING PROJECTS AT THE MOMENT?

little fishing along the way.

Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER TO ASPIRING WRITERS?

A: Read, read, read…in the genre you intend to write. Tim O’Brien’s The Things They Carried was most beneficial to me. I benefited from participating in writer groups and critique groups. Learn what the industry calls for as a maximum word count in your genre. Learn how to use today’s technology. Explore editing software, such as Grammarly, Scrivener or ProWritingAid. And finally – write, write, write.

Q: WHERE CAN FANS FIND YOU AND YOUR WORK ONLINE?

A: Simply Google Skunk Alpha. A page plus of links will take you to my website, book trailer, YouTube channel,  New York Times article, book seller sites and much more.

ABOUT RAÚL HERRERA

Raúl Herrera is a decorated Vietnam War veteran. He volunteered for the US Navy in September 1965 and received an Honorable Discharge after four years of service. He has written for Vietnam magazine, Sea Classics magazine, and the New York Times. He served as a board director and president of the Swift Boat Sailors Association. He was selected as one of the Top 10 National Finalists in the John T. Lupton New Voices in Literature Awards for non-fiction (2003). He lives in Richmond, Texas.

A: After spending more than four-decades on this work, my desire to tell the Swift Boat story has come to fruition. Promise made – promise kept. Travel awaits me, with a

THE WOODCUTTER

A tragic accident, shrouded in mystery, leads to a family reunion in the hidden village of Little Hatchet, located in the smothering shadow of GodBeGone Wood, the home of the mythical Woodcutter and Grandma. Alec Eades rediscovers his bond with GodBeGone Wood and the future his father agreed to years ago as nefarious landowner Oliver Hayward schemes to raise money for the village by re-enacting part of the Woodcutter legend. Old wounds are re-opened and ties of blood and friendship are tested to the extreme when the Woodcutter is summoned and Grandma returns.r own paths or their shared bond of brotherhood.

STEPHANIE ELLIS

Stephanie Ellis lives in Wrexham in Wales in the UK with her family and is a writer of horror and dark fiction and poetry. She is an active member of the HWA.

THE JAPANESE BOX AND OTHER STORIES

From the author of the Kindle Award Winning Novel for Best Horror 2020 -Beautiful, Frightening, and Silent-and Pretty/Ugly- Winner of The Kindle Award for Best Novel 2022 (Reader's Choice) comes a collection of short stories contemplating horror, grief, and trauma.

The Japanese Box is a story that blends memoir, creative nonfiction, and the horror of a coming-of-age tory, and a coming of middle-aged story.

Imagine growing up with a reflection that is often absent, and a Japanese box that is filled with things that should never have been there. Memories.

Violence.

The Japanese Box is a love letter to anxiety, trauma, grief, and longing. It is a story of a child becoming an adult, and all the ghosts and misfortunes that happen in order to survive.

The Lithium Moon: Simone is an artist by day, and an emotionally abused wife at night. She is a successful artist with a long history of

She can be found online supporting HorrorTree.com via the Indie Bookshelf

Releases posts. Her website is https:// stephanieellis.org/ where you may occasionally pick up a free story. You can find her on twitter @el_Stevie.

schizoid effective disorder with bipolar tendencies. When her marriage goes from good to bad, she suffers her first miscarriage. The tragedy coincides with a wolf moon—Trauma and magic converge seem to converge in Simone’s head. This story explores sadness, illness, hallucinations, full moons, and the creative process. Fantasy and facts, this poem walks a fine line between nightmares and memories. Grief stories and love stories. Dogs, and drama. Nightmares, and nevermore.

JENNIFER GORDON

JENNIFER ANNE GORDON is a professional ballroom dancer and choreographer by day, and a curly haired neurotic writer by night. She is an actor, a traveler, a photographer, a lover of Gothic Horror, and a dog mom. She lives in the wilds of New Hampshire with her partner on and off the dance floor. She published collection of her artwork, titled "Victoriana {mixed media art of jennifer anne gordon}

A MAN IN WINTER

A mesmerizing psychological mystery from an author who brings a refreshing new voice to horror. This is a quick read, but one that keeps the reader thoroughly intrigued and entertained from beginning to end.

—Catherine Cavendish, author of In Darkness, Shadows Breathe and Dark Observation

Arthur, whose life was devastated by the brutal murder of his wife, must come to terms with his diagnosis of dementia. He moves into a new home at a retirement community, and shortly after, has his life turned upside down again when his wife’s ghost visits him and sends him on a quest to find her killer so her spirit can move on. With his family and his doctor concerned that his dementia is advancing, will he be able to solve the murder before his independence is permanently restricted?

A Man in Winter examines the horrors of isolation, dementia,

ZARYA EPISODE II: SOCHI UNLEASHED (ZARYA: GUARDIANS OF CYDNUS SERIES BOOK 2)

In Zarya Episode II Sochi Unleashed, the fate of Cydnus, a highly advanced desert world, hangs in the balance. With oxygen levels beginning to deplete, this politically divided planet stands on the brink of an existential crisis.

In the heart of the advanced city of New Cebrenia City, Zarya, along with her father, Aaron, and friends Kizzy and Marco, must navigate a complex web of political strife. With Vice Chairman Eros's dark plots threatening their progress, the security of their only political ally, the chairman, is under threat.

Their most powerful asset is Sochi, Zarya's advanced AI Airboard. Yet, Sochi's newfound ability to control other machines presents both significant opportunities and risks.

Meanwhile, Aaron embarks on a perilous journey into the cosmos, driven by desperation to resurrect a long-abandoned project that might be Cydnus's last hope. His mission, shadowed by

loss, and the ghosts that come back to haunt us.

KATIE MARIE

Katie Marie is a horror enthusiast and writer from Norfolk, England.

She has been published in several anthologies and magazines, including The Horrorzines Book of Ghost Stories which won Best Anthology in the 23rd Annual Critters Readers' Poll.

Katie started writing while studying for her Law Degree at Aberystwyth University in the early 2000s and several years and stories later she received her Masters Degree and published her first novel.

You can connect with Katie on Facebook at facebook. com/katiemariewriter or on Twitter @ KatieMarieWrite. You can also visit her website, www.katiemariewriter.com to sign up for emails about new releases, short stories and blogs gushing about the horror genre.

his past, is a race against time, with the future of Cydnus at stake.

Zarya Episode II: Sochi Unleashed delves into the intricate relationship between sentient beings and technology, bravery amidst uncertainty, and the struggle for survival. As Zarya, her allies, and Sochi traverse this journey, the tale evolves into a saga filled with challenges and triumphs. Welcome to Cydnus, a world teetering on the brink of an uncertain future, in this captivating narrative.

JACKIEM JOYNER

Jackiem was born in Norfolk, Virginia and spent most of his young adult life in Syracuse

New York before moving to Los Angeles, California where he currently resides. In addition to writing fun stories, Jackiem Joyner has experienced huge success as a recording artist, with multiple songs peaking at number 1 on the billboard charts and 5 international records released.

RAGTOWN

Helen Carter lives in the backseat of her father’s Model T in the harsh Nevada desert surrounded by thousands of desperate souls trying to endure the hardships of the Great Depression. When her father dies working on the Hoover dam diversion tunnels, she finds herself alone. In this unforgiving landscape, where marriage, prostitution, and starvation appear as her only viable choices, Helen is determined to defy society's expectations of a young woman and create her own American dream. She relies on her resourcefulness to survive but soon realizes she can't go it alone.

Ezra Deal, a young dam worker, brought his sister to Nevada in search of the father of her child, only to have him reject her. Tragically, both his sister and the baby pass away during childbirth, leaving Ezra with a profound sense of guilt. Determined to distance himself from any further responsibilities, he focuses on his job and locating the man who callously denied his sister. But when he learns that his friend, Helen, is running from not only the law but a Las Vegas gangster, he must decide between his own independent lifestyle

TAKE THE BULL BY THE HORNS

Love can heal the scars on your heart

Lachlan

So what if I’ve gone through four nannies in three short years? I know what’s best for my children and it’s not the nanny my mother and ex-wife have hired.

Peyton may be all kinds of beautiful but she is totally unsuitable—city girl, former doctor and no experience.

Problem is, everybody loves her. I don’t want to feel the same; one failure at love is enough. Besides, I have a duty to my family and the farm.

Except the more I spend time with her, the more I’m drawn to her honesty and bravery. I need to remember, a farm is no place for a woman like Peyton; she will not stay.

and helping his friend.

As Helen and Ezra grow closer and become more vested in the diversion of the Colorado River from its course, their lives parallel this monumental change. Ezra can picture building a life with Helen, but she has other ideas. With the help of a thirteen-year-old runaway, a few prostitutes, a dead desperado, and Ezra, Helen embarks on a journey to live life on her terms.

Incorporating actual dramatic events gleaned from the oral histories of the dam workers, Ragtown highlights a time in American history when ordinary men and women overcame the challenges of the Great Depression and thrived.

KELLY STONE GAMBLE

I want readers to take something away from my books and short stories: something memorable, whether it be an interesting protagonist, an emotion or a moment in time. Depending on what characters decide to sit beside me on a particular day, I may write historical fiction or quirky, dark humor.

from my controlling family. It’s time I start making my own decisions.

But falling for my boss is not the wisest one I could make, even if it feels right. It doesn’t hurt that his singing makes my panties melt.

Everything is perfect—I feel heard and seen for the first time (and I don’t just mean my scars). I’m where I belong…until my family get involved. Then I’m left with no job and no home. Now I need to make the biggest decision of all—stand up to my family, choose my happy and fight for love.

**This is a stand alone romance with medium heat**

CYNTHIA TERELST

Peyton

After an accident put an end to my surgical career, I jumped at the opportunity to be a nanny. Moving to Australia will get me away

Cynthia Terelst is a contemporary romance writer who likes to share a little bit of history, some Australian scenery and a whole lotta love. She lives in Queensland, Australia, where the sun shines at least 283 days a year..

REAPER: ROYAL BASTARDS MC

Reaper, VP in the Royal Bastards MC, Jacksonville, Florida is deadly and has no time for love or anything remotely romantic. Lucy tests his patience and pushes his buttons like no other female would ever dare.

When her past comes looking for her, Reaper pretends he doesn't care.

When Lucy looks to him for help, he turns the other way.

But when she begs him to save her, something in him breaks.

If Reaper were to help Lucy, those who would wish him harm would see her as a way to get back at him. They would use her to hurt him.

And Reaper’s heart isn’t like everyone else’s—it no longer beats for love but for violence.

Lucy is going to test his strength, ability to protect his club, and maybe, just maybe, have his heart beat to a different tune.

KATHLEEN KELLY

Kathleen Kelly is a USA Today Best Selling Author and was born in Penrith, NSW, Australia. When she was four her family moved to Brisbane, QLD, Australia. Although born in NSW she considers herself a QUEENSLANDER!!

She married her childhood sweetheart and they live in Toowoomba.

Kathleen enjoys writing contemporary, romance novels with a little bit of steam. She draws her inspiration from family, friends and the people around her. She can often be found in cafes writing and observing the locals.

If you have any questions about her novels or would like to ask Kathleen a question she can be contacted via e-mail: kathleenkellyauthor@gmail.com or she can be found on Facebook. She loves to be contacted by those that love her books.

REMINDER: This is an interactive magazine. Click on book cover or link to follow.

REVIEWED BY PELICANFREAK

This was my first Kappes read, and I was intrigued early on—it was instantly super cute. Unfortunately there were a lot of issues with the book, it had potential but didn’t exactly pan out.

There were major plausibility issues, and I’m not talking just because it has supernatural elements—I can get behind those, if they’re well done. This was like ... someone who knows you better than yourself suddenly placing you at the top of his suspect list for something he should know you wouldn’t do …

And a person eating Ding Dongs basically nonstop. I get it, she likes them, they comfort her, she stress-eats them. Totally get that. But inhaling an entire box in minutes? Eating them nonstop, your every waking minute? Come on. That’s just not realistic. There were a lot of little things like this.

The town started to be adorable … but then it wasn't developed beyond superficially. The characters were like this as well. It seems like the author couldn’t be bothered to properly develop their own book. This might be a good first draft, but should not have gone to press in this condition.

Audio:

This was … okay. The narrator sounded like AI, opting to dictate the entire book robot-style instead of performing it, so that was a bit hard to take. Which is weird because she did make animal sounds (bunny, cat), but then when it came to reading and dialogue, back to robot-mode.

Overall though the sound quality was decent. There were these weird pauses in between chapters. (I listen to a lot of audiobooks—these were longer and choppier than is normal.)

2-star narration.

4-star production, narration aside.

REVIEWED BY PELICANFREAK

YThis was a completely random library loan for me, mainly because I liked the cover, and I’m so glad it crossed my path.

It was very interesting, intriguing and packed well-developed characters and an interesting plot. It also held my interest nonstop, made me laugh, tugged at my heartstrings and left me wanting more (though it did wrap up perfectly. My desire for more was just due to falling in love with these characters).

This packs supernatural elements in a ‘contemporary’ world, coming-of-age, a queer lead character, young love, loyalty, life lessons, a bit of a plot-twist, tons of drama and so many feels.

I recommend this book to everyone.

5 stars.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Audio:

The narrator did a great job and the overall sound quality is high. I would’ve enjoyed a bit more emotion, as it could sound robotic at times, but mostly it was good.

4 stars.

REVIEWED BY DEENA RAE

THE NEW YEAR WITH A HEARTBREAKING CASE

In this book of Harry Bosch (Book 8) Bosch starts out the new year with a new case. When a dog on a sleepy cul-de-sac goes off for a run and comes back with a bone Bosch is thrust into a a case that no one has known about for 20 years.

With this visit into the Bosch universe Hieronymus Bosch meets rookie Julia Brasher and it looks like a relationship is just getting started.

While Bosch tries to find out who the victim is he is testing further a relationship with rookie Patrolman Brasher. This budding relationship leads to some expected ribbing about being involved with a female so far below him in rank.

Bosch and Jay Edgar turn over various stones trying to figure out who killed, speaking with a forensic anthropologist to find the tale of the bones tells a sad and horrifying story of prolonged abuse at the hands of someone larger than the young boy.

With the plot twists that are expected of Michael Connelly's books this one is right on par. The plot was amazing the who done it was unexpected and the action jumped off the page. Yes, as with the previous books in the series, plot lines are part of the streaming series, sometimes with minor changed and other times with major changes.

...

Read the complete review on the EBookBuilders site. https://ebookbuilderspro.com/city-of-bones/

REVIEWED BY DEENA RAE

BELLY UP FOR MORE LAUGHS AND THRILLS

Ann Charles does it again. I sped through this book that a girl's weekend didn't even slow me down. This series is laugh out loud hilarious.

Once again Violet is shoulder deep in murder and paranormal mysteries while in a battle of wits against countless idiot opponents.

A ghost has attached itself to Cornelius, clients are getting killed and Det. Hawke thinks Violet is to blame. She puts the fear of witchcraft in the Hapless Hawke and it’s a laugh out loud moment.

I love visiting Deadwood and all the whacky characters. Each book is fresh and exciting. The further into the series I get, the more I want to visit Deadwood, go to the saloon and have a Tequila with Vi, Zoe, Doc, Harvey and the rest of the ‘half-abubble-off-normal’ characters that fill the pages of this fantastic series.

A great read, fun escape with the perfect amount of heat, mystery and suspense.

Recommend

I absolutely recommend this book and this series to anyone who love humor and snark with their mysteries.

Disclaimer

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was asked to review this book from the author's publicist, but I received the digital book via the OverDrive/Libby app from the Harris County or Houston Public Library system. It was read as a Kindle Book.

REVIEWED BY DEENA RAE

BETTER THAN BOOK 1

Wow.

This book starts off with a conversation with a serial killer, then if to a high-speed chase and conversation with a pedophile and only gives more twists and turns with every page.

After FBI special agent Atlee Pine beats a pedophile into unconsciousness she is told to “take a break” and get her head straight so she decides to go back to her tragic childhood and try to figure out the mystery of her twins disappearance as well as her past.

Returning to Andersonville Georgia with her admin assistant Carol Blum in tow, Atlee finds more questions than answers, familiar strangers and a serial killer who is dropping bodies at her feet.

A great expansion of Long Road to Mercy. I can't wait to read the next book in the series to see where Atlee’s quest leads her.

Recommend

I absolutely recommend this book and this series to anyone who loves strong women lead characters and more mysteries than average.

Disclaimer

I received via the OverDrive/Libby app from the Harris County or Houston Public Library system. It was read as a Libby epub.

REVIEWED BY DEENA RAE

ABSOLUTELY HILARIOUS.

This book starts immediately after the end of a Fashionably Dead. Astrid finds herself in Hell but it's unlike the hell she's always imagined. It not all darkness and flames, there are gorgeous houses, beautiful trees and attractive demons…and the Devil wears designer clothes to cover his “smexiness".

Meeting Satan and his daughters Envy, Sloth, Greed, Lust, Wrath, Gluttony, Pride and the youngest Dixie along with Mr. Rodgers, Dante, Ernest Hemingway and the hell hounds General George and Bambi. Nothing was as it seems, and the residents who live in Hell are not all serial killers and psychopaths.

Hell is opulent, scary and has a Journey soundtrack playing at all time. To me, the whole Journey soundtrack for hell was laugh inducing.

Ms. Peterman's imagination is awe inspiring and slightly warped. The scenes are set clearly, the dialogue is snarky and humorous, and the plot moves quickly.

I can’t wait to see what awaits Astrid and Ethan, especially since Astrid has a new "job". bravo

Recommend

Recommend to anyone who likes humor with their heat.

Disclaimer

I received via the OverDrive/Libby app from the Harris County Library system. It was read as a Kindle Book.

REVIEWED BY ROXB

FAMILIES CAN BE MESSY

Brian Porter’s debut novel, Dreams of Arcadia, portrays the life changes of Nate Holub. Nate, recently divorced, loves his two daughters. The excellent character development of Nate, and the others, unfolds in a natural, inviting manner. Readers can feel his emotions about the shift from his high-paying veterinary practice in Houston to taking on the diverse animal practice in his hometown as a child in rural Texas. The struggles of returning home spark memories and dreams of his early life, including his father’s unexplained death when he was young. The interactions with his teenage daughters, grandmother Viola, Aunt Ruthie, cousin Wink, and other family relations in the area give Nate powerful insights into his past, present, and future.

Mr. Porter weaves the history of small rancher families specializing in cattle, dairy, and farming. Their struggles to hold onto land and families over the generations have good and bad sides with every choice. Family values and learning from the past are prime aspects of this story. Understanding the various dilemmas country veterinarians face brought extra depth and perspective to small-town living not available in a big-city setting. The detailed descriptions of the sights, sounds, landscape, dwellings, and weather made this a place where readers feel welcomed—as long as they have the right connections.

Families can be messy. Secrets can be honor-bound or based on frailties of anger, with the penance lasting a lifetime....

Read the complete review on the Rox's site.

https://roxburkey.com/dreams-of-arcadia/

REVIEWED BY ROXB

SHOWS THE WORST SIDE OF HUMANKIND

Mr. Landsdale brings readers along like a fly fisherman teasing the water, hoping for a nibble. Then he masterfully shifts direction, increases tension, and busts open doors to the unexpected. Each story depicts crimes, many heinous, sharing sights, sounds, smells, and emotions of the victim and the perpetrator. Things Get Ugly is the perfect title for this book as it shows the worst side of humankind in three-dimensional sensations far too realistic to be simply dark imagination.

These are the first works of Joe R. Lansdale I have read; each was executed perfectly. The tales are fast-paced, with realistic exchanges between characters. It was a bit darker than my norm and memorable as it prickled my spine with fear. These are works of a gifted imaginative creator who uses concise language to keep the story moving from page one to the unexpected end.

I suspect nineteen stories in the collection have a specific meaning to Mr. Lansdale and I imagine that asking the why might provoke an additional tale. I enjoyed exploring the unexpected shifts in well-executed stories, was enthralled with the crimes, and was appalled at the characters’ behaviors. Highly recommended to those who love small-town crime fiction combined into a perfectly titled package—buckle up for this ride to the dark side.

REVIEWED BY DEENA RAE

IS IT REVENGE? IF SO, WHOSE?

Is it revenge? If so, whose?

At a party of theatrical royalty, one of the hosts drops dead while the other host is singing for the party goers. Brant Fitzhugh was poisoned with Cyanide after taking a drink of his theater luminary wife Eliza Lane' champagne cocktail.

With Brant's murder linked tangentially to another in Eliza's past, the suspects keep mounting up. Was it a rival? Was it a stranger? Was it a family member? Was it an employee? Was it the grieving widow? The list of possible perps is long as is the motive. Was the poison for Eliza or was it for Brant? Which one of the golden couple was the intended victim?

What a great thrilling read. I didn't see it coming. That said, if you haven't started reading the In Death series you should start now. With this being book 56, you will have lots of books to fill your summer.

Recommend

Recommend to anyone who likes crime procedurals and isn’t afraid of a little heat and futuristic themes.

Disclaimer

I received it via the OverDrive/Libby app from the Harris County Library system. It was read as a Kindle Book.

REVIEWED BY DEENA RAE

A NEW FOE AND AN OLD ONE

This was book 4 in the Alex Cross series and Alex is facing off against an international serial killer and an old foe who has escaped prison.

With grizzly murders, personal danger and a possible love interest for Alex, this book has so much going on…it didn’t stop me from devouring it in record time.

Mr. Patterson is able to make the reader feel so much –terror, revulsion, hope, fear – he is a master storyteller and this book is no exception.

Secondary characters – Sampson, Nana, Christine (there is a new one for ya) are all well developed and not flat with no depth. Perfect character development

Recommend?

Recommend to anyone who is able to read the goriest details and not be offended…if it is too much, these sections can be skimmed.

Disclaimer

I received via the OverDrive/Libby app from the Harris County or Houston Public Library system. It was read as a Kindle eBook.

This is dark from the very beginning and full of lies, deceit and danger. Wiltcher wove all sorts of scandal, betrayal and rivalfamily drama expertly … 7 hours disappeared in what felt like minutes.

* Non-con.

* Bratva.

* Italian crime families.

* Trafficking of all types.

* Extortion.

* Betrayal.

* Violence.

* NYC.

* Mentions of self-harm /unaliving.

* Firearm x steamy scene.

* Dual narration.

Very well done. 4 stars.

Audio:

The overall sound quality is perfect, 5 stars for the production.

The narration was not up to this narrator’s usual standards, with inconsistencies in regards to the FMC’s accent—it could be distracting at times. This remains one of my favorite narrators, she’s absolutely brilliant, just maybe hasn’t yet mastered a particular accent. 4 star-narration. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

REVIEWED BY PELICANFREAK

Very early into this, I decided, ‘Okay, I’m in. I’ll read anything this author writes.’

This is because it gripped me, and it’s pretty well-written, managing to give the reader backstory, while furthering the plot and developing the characters and setting up the world for the reader. It’s very fast-paced, and early in, we were even given the POV of the antagonist, keeping it that much more interesting. There’s a ton to love here, I’ll list just some of it.

* Bikers.

* Small town vibes.

* Fresh start.

* Stalker.

* Lots of support for the very likable FMC.

* Reverse harem / group scenes.

* Tattoo artist male lead.

* Violence.

* Female on the run / in hiding.

* Diner / Bar / Club settings.

Overall, a very fun read with just the right amount of drama and angst.

4 stars.

Audio:

Nearly perfect sound quality overall with professional narrators who more ‘perform’ than dictact the book, making it a great experience.4.5 stars.

REVIEWED BY PELICANFREAK

MEET THE TEAM!

Deena Rae

Design, Writer, Reviewer

Danielle Interviewer & Reviewer

RoxB Writer, Reviewer

PelicanFreak Reviewer

Mickey Mikkelson

Co-Publisher

Aimee Ravichandran

Co-Publisher