Category Archives: #FridayReads

Building Believable Magic Systems in Urban Fantasy

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One of the key elements that defines urban fantasy is the integration of magical elements into the modern world. Whether it’s a hidden society of magical beings, a world where spells and supernatural creatures roam the streets, or the exploration of a character’s newfound magical powers, the magic system in an urban fantasy setting must feel both extraordinary and plausible. Readers need to believe that magic can exist within the framework of their everyday lives without shattering the suspension of disbelief. But how do you create a magical system that feels authentic while staying grounded in the real world?

In this post, I’ll take you through an in-depth guide to building unique and believable magic systems in urban fantasy. We’ll discuss the importance of internal consistency, the balance between magic and real-world rules, and how to keep your readers hooked without losing their trust in the world you’ve created.

1. Establishing Rules for Magic

The first step in crafting a believable magic system is setting clear rules for how magic works in your world. While magic allows for immense creativity and wonder, it also requires structure. Without established rules, magic becomes too arbitrary and unpredictable, making it difficult for readers to connect with the world you’ve built.

Why Rules Matter:

  • Internal Consistency: A magic system must adhere to its own logic. If magic behaves differently without explanation, it risks confusing or frustrating readers. The moment magic becomes a convenient plot device that appears without proper foreshadowing, you lose the trust of your audience.
  • Limits and Costs: Every magic system should have limitations. Power without limitations feels contrived. Magic should come with costs, whether it’s physical tolls on the user, restrictions on its use, or even social consequences. For instance, maybe casting a spell drains a person’s energy, risks the safety of a loved one, or only works at a certain time of day. These limitations make magic feel earned and give characters something to struggle with.

Think about Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files, where Harry Dresden’s magic is often limited by the amount of energy he can draw from the world, the danger it poses to him personally, and the rules of the White Council. Dresden’s magic is consistent but not unlimited, and he is always mindful of the cost of each spell.

2. Make Magic a Part of the World’s Framework

In urban fantasy, magic doesn’t just exist in isolation—it interacts with the real world. For your magic system to feel believable, it should be integrated into society, politics, culture, and even economy, as though it’s always been a part of the world. That is, unless the magic of your world is held in secret among only those in the know… say an underground world of witches like in my Blood Angel Series, for example.

Creating a Magical Ecosystem:

  • Hidden vs. Known Magic: Is magic something that society is aware of, or is it hidden from the public? In many urban fantasy stories, magic is concealed from the general public, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue. However, even in these worlds, magic should still have an impact on the economy, government, or society. Maybe magical beings run secretive industries, or powerful witches control the black market of enchanted items.
  • Magical Institutions and Regulations: Think about how magic would be regulated, if at all. Are there organizations that oversee magical activities? Is magic illegal for certain people or in certain areas? How does the magical community interact with the mundane world—do they cooperate, conflict, or hide from each other? Exploring these societal dynamics can help ground your magic system in reality and avoid making it seem like an arbitrary addition to the plot.

For example, Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter series presents a world where vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures are not only known but have legal rights and recognition, with the government regulating these creatures’ activities. The existence of supernatural beings is integral to society’s politics, and the magic in the world reflects that integration.

3. Determine the Source of Magic

One of the most important decisions when creating a magic system is determining where the magic comes from. Magic can be drawn from a variety of sources—nature, gods, emotions, the mind, or even technology. The source of magic will significantly shape how it functions and is understood in your world.

Common Sources of Magic:

  • Elemental Forces: Magic that taps into the natural world, such as fire, water, or earth, is a common source of power. This can create a connection between magic and the environment, adding depth to the system. For instance, a fire mage might have to be near a flame or rely on natural heat sources to use their powers, making the system more tangible and grounded.
  • Bloodlines or Heritage: Magic might be passed down through generations or tied to specific bloodlines. This can create tension within societies, with some families hoarding power, others struggling to access their abilities, or even forbidden forms of magic associated with certain ancestries.
  • Energy or Willpower: Magic could be powered by an individual’s physical, mental, or emotional energy. A magic user might have to tap into their own life force, willpower, or emotions like anger, sadness, or love to fuel their spells. This can create complex inner conflict, as characters may hesitate to use magic for fear of personal loss.
  • Technology and Science: Some urban fantasy systems blend technology and magic, where magic is not a mystical force but a scientific one, often with technological advancements enabling magical phenomena. Think of how techno-magic systems like those in the Shadowrun series blend cybernetics with spellcasting or enchanted machines.

By establishing where your magic originates, you not only create more specific rules for your system but also provide readers with a clearer understanding of its limitations and potential.

4. Incorporate Magic into Character Development

The use of magic in urban fantasy often plays a central role in character development. A character’s relationship with magic can reveal a lot about their personality, values, and struggles. This is where character-driven conflict can shine—especially if magic isn’t simply a tool, but something that challenges or alters the character’s life.

Examples of Magic and Character Development:

  • Moral Dilemmas: A character might have access to immense magical power but must choose whether to use it for good, evil, or for personal gain. This inner conflict can shape their journey. In The Dresden Files, Harry Dresden’s magic comes with deep moral consequences. His choices, especially when using darker forms of magic, define who he is as a person and affect his relationships.
  • Physical or Emotional Limitations: Magic could come with a physical toll, such as the deterioration of the user’s health or mind. Alternatively, magic might amplify a character’s emotional state. This can add depth to characters, making their struggles more relatable and the magic itself a more integral part of the narrative. For instance, a character might be too emotionally unstable to control their magic, creating tension and stakes.
  • Identity and Belonging: If magic is tied to heritage or bloodlines, a character may feel the weight of their ancestry, the pressure of expectation, or even a sense of loss if they cannot access their magical heritage. How they grapple with their magical identity can be central to their character arc.

5. Use Magic to Enhance the Story, Not Dominate It

While magic is an essential component of urban fantasy, it should never overpower the story. The best urban fantasy integrates magic in ways that enhance the plot, drive character development, and add intrigue to the world—without allowing magic to solve all the problems instantly.

Balance Between Magic and the Mundane:

  • The magical and mundane worlds should interact, not just coexist. Often, the challenges in urban fantasy arise from the friction between these two realms. Magic might make life more complicated rather than easier. This keeps the stakes high and forces characters to think creatively and make tough choices.
  • Magic should be a tool, not a crutch. It can help drive the plot forward, but it shouldn’t remove all challenges. There needs to be an element of danger, uncertainty, and complexity even in magical situations. For example, perhaps magic is unreliable in certain circumstances, or the protagonist’s power might not be enough to overcome an adversary without sacrifice.

Crafting a believable magic system in urban fantasy is an exciting challenge, but it requires careful thought and structure. The magic must be consistent, integrated into the world, and tied to real-world consequences to maintain the suspension of disbelief. By establishing rules, creating a system that fits the world, and using magic as a tool for character development, you can create a magical system that feels grounded, logical, and, most importantly, immersive. When done well, magic becomes more than just a fantastical element; it becomes an integral part of the world, deepening both the stakes of the story and the richness of the characters within it.

Understanding and Overcoming Writer’s Block: A Fiction Author’s Perspective

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As a fiction author, one of the most frustrating, and at times, debilitating experiences you can face is writer’s block. Whether you’re staring at a blank page, endlessly revising the same sentence, or feeling the crushing weight of doubt, writer’s block can halt your creative flow and make even the most seasoned writers question their abilities. But the good news is, it’s a normal part of the writing process. In this post, I will explore what writer’s block is, why it happens, and most importantly, how to push through it.

1. What is Writer’s Block?

Writer’s block is the inability to write or produce new content, often characterized by a sense of being “stuck.” It can manifest in many ways, from a total absence of ideas to a paralyzing fear of not being able to write well enough. While the term “writer’s block” is often associated with a lack of inspiration, it’s actually more complex. It can stem from internal pressure, perfectionism, burnout, or external stressors that interfere with the creative process.

For me, writer’s block has often been an all-encompassing feeling of frustration—a mix of work-life balance stress and lack of time, coupled with the paralyzing fear that what I’m writing isn’t good enough. And while it can be discouraging, it’s important to remember that it’s a temporary setback, not a permanent condition.

2. Why Does Writer’s Block Happen?

Understanding the root causes of writer’s block can help demystify the experience and take away some of its power. Here are some common reasons writer’s block happens:

1. Perfectionism and Self-Doubt

One of the most common culprits is perfectionism. As writers, we often want every sentence to be brilliant, every plot twist to be surprising, and every character to be perfectly realized. But this pressure can paralyze us, preventing us from moving forward.

2. Fear of Failure

We’ve all had moments where the fear of failure takes over. Will anyone even care about this story? What if my characters aren’t compelling enough? This fear can be crippling and make it difficult to write anything at all.

3. Lack of Inspiration

Sometimes the creative spark simply isn’t there. You’ve exhausted all your ideas, and the well feels dry. Maybe the voices in your head have just stopped talking. This type of block is especially frustrating when you have deadlines or a manuscript to finish, self-imposed or by a publisher. The absence of inspiration can leave you staring at a page, unable to fill it with the words you know are there—but just can’t seem to find.

4. Overwhelm or Burnout

Writing a novel or long-form piece of fiction is an enormous task. The sheer scope of the project can lead to burnout, especially if you’re pushing yourself too hard. The sense of overwhelm that comes with large projects can cause you to shut down entirely.

5. External Stressors

Personal issues, work-related stress, or family matters can all affect your ability to focus and create. If your mind is occupied with external distractions, it can be hard to summon the mental space needed for storytelling. In truth, this is the one that gets me more often than not. I am a creative, but I am also a teacher… I love to help others. Therefore, in many aspects of my life, I say ‘yes’ way too often. I overcommit myself and cause undue stress. That stress becomes overwhelming, and my creativity ends up suffering because of it.

3. How to Overcome Writer’s Block

While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to overcoming writer’s block, there are strategies that have worked for me and many others. Here are some techniques that may help you break free of the block and get back to writing.

1. Embrace Imperfection

The most important thing to realize is that writing doesn’t have to be perfect on the first draft. In fact, it often isn’t. Perfectionism is a silent killer of creativity. Give yourself permission to write badly. Write the worst possible version of a scene. You can always revise it later. But if you don’t get the words down at all, you’ll never have the chance to improve them.

One of my favorite pieces of advice for dealing with writer’s block is simply to “write through it.” Even if you’re unsure of where the plot is going or how a scene should unfold, writing something—anything—will help break the blockage. Sometimes, just putting words on the page will unlock the next step in the story. I used to have a friend who, whenever she experienced writers’ block, would simply start typing numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12. and so on. She would do that until the next idea came to her. Sometimes she would type into the hundreds, and sometimes beyond, but it helped her to break the writer’s block cycle.

2. Set Small, Manageable Goals

If the task of finishing a novel feels overwhelming, break it down into smaller, more achievable steps. Rather than focusing on the daunting idea of finishing an entire manuscript, set daily or weekly word-count goals. Some days it might only be a few hundred words. But consistent, small goals can build momentum and help you feel a sense of accomplishment.

3. Change Your Environment

Sometimes the problem isn’t with the writing, but with the environment you’re trying to write in. If you’re feeling stuck, try changing your location. Go to a coffee shop, write in a park, or even move to a different room in your house. A new setting can spark creativity and help you see your work in a new light. For me… sometimes I just need to clean or reorganize the workspace I’m already in.

4. Let Your Mind Wander

If you’ve hit a wall, step away from your project for a while. This doesn’t mean giving up on writing, but allowing your subconscious to work on the problem. Go for a walk, take a shower, or read something unrelated to your story. Sometimes, the best ideas come when you least expect them.

5. Use Writing Prompts or Exercises

Another way to combat writer’s block is through creative exercises or writing prompts, like in #WritingPrompts. These can help break up the monotony and get your creative juices flowing again. Even if the prompt doesn’t directly relate to your story, it might inspire new ideas or help you work through a specific scene.

You could try prompts like:

  • Write a scene from the perspective of a side character.
  • Describe your protagonist’s home in detail, including things they would never show to others.
  • Write a letter from your antagonist to the protagonist, explaining why they’re doing what they’re doing.

6. Work on a Different Project

If your current project feels impossible, it might help to switch gears. Start working on a different story or creative endeavor. This doesn’t mean abandoning your main project—just give yourself a mental break. A change of focus can help reset your brain and bring back your creative energy.

7. Talk It Out

Sometimes, verbalizing your thoughts can help untangle a complex plot or character dilemma. Talk to a fellow writer or a trusted friend about what you’re struggling with. Don’t be afraid to admit that you’re blocked—chances are, they’ve been there too. Having a sounding board can give you fresh perspectives and ideas you hadn’t considered.

4. Writer’s Block Isn’t Permanent

It’s crucial to remember that writer’s block doesn’t last forever. It’s a temporary phase that all writers go through. Even the most successful authors face it. When I’m struggling with writer’s block, I remind myself that it’s just part of the creative process. Some days will be harder than others, but that doesn’t mean I’m not still moving forward.

Also, be kind to yourself. The more you pressure yourself to “overcome” writer’s block, the worse it can feel. Give yourself permission to write badly or to take breaks. The most important thing is to keep writing, even if it’s just a little bit at a time.

Writer’s block is an inevitable part of the creative process, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your story. Use it as a signal to change up your routine, experiment with new ideas, and embrace the imperfections that come with writing. Every writer faces this challenge at some point, but the key is persistence. Keep writing, keep experimenting, and above all, be patient with yourself. Your words are waiting—sometimes, all you need is a little time and space to find them again.

The Synchrotron by Rain Hunter

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The End of the World has Never Been This Incompetent!

The Synchrotron

by Rain Hunter

Genre: Science Fiction Comedy

✔️A deadly virus.
✔️A world overrun by monsters.
✔️ Six scientists on a dangerous mission to cure the world.
We are screwed…

They only wanted a Nobel Prize. Instead, they will have to save the world.


It was going to be the experiment of the year. Preparing to blast x-rays through a piece of palladium at the most dazzling European synchrotron, Anna and five of her fellow scientists expected a few hiccups.

Not a horde of hungry spleen-eating zombies.

The world has succumbed to the virus, leaving only scattered survivors.


When Anna and her friends realise that the infected can be cured back into humans, they pledge to find a cure no matter the cost. Equipped with a lab wrench and questionable lab ethics, Team ID26 are humanity’s last hope.

But what is the price of saving the world?

Running out of time, Anna and her friends will face the impossible choices between life and death, morality and cure. When the future of the world is at stake, what will they have to sacrifice?

**Only .99cents!!**

Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

What is similar between science and postapocalyptic survival?

Everything that can, will go wrong.”

Rain Hunter is a writer of post-apocalyptic science fiction. Having spent years as a materials researcher, Rain intricately weaves scientific precision into the stories. “I’ve had a fun lab run over the years and might have picked some degrees on the way,” laughs Rain. “But the most important thing for my books is that the science has to be real. No more can-and-know-it-all characters! If I know how to cook meth from baking soda and cough syrup, I won’t be able to start a rocket engine, full stop. Even in fiction!”

Rain is a huge fan of the zombie genre, both in movies and books. “I’d kill to be a zombie extra in a film. Even if they smash my brains out in the first two seconds. Sign me up anytime.”

Dark humour and irony are the main ingredients in Rain’s novels. “I am sure the world will die laughing. That’s what I would do.”

Rain lives in Birmingham (England), which serves as a main inspiration for the goriest post-apocalyptic scenes. In their spare time, Rain plays a harp in the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Nah, not really. 

Website * Facebook * Instagram * TikTok * Amazon * Goodreads

Would you like a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

How about we speak about all the things that you learn that are NOT writing? Are you an indie author? You will know all about the daily grind of DEY – do everything yourself. From creating your own website to your own ads. Here are some of the professions I’m mastering so that more people could see my books (I didn’t even say buy):

  • Editor. Here is an example: one of my editors (US-based) offered on her website a separate service for converting British English into American English (all those ises into izes). Reasonable – as a British author I would like to be understood by my American fans. (Hello? Any American fans around?) I specified with her that I was writing in British English (just to make sure). Guess what came back? All my en-dashes brutally converted into a bunch of em dashes. My novel started to look like written by a rabid AI. Well, if she doesn’t know the differences in bloody dashes, how could I trust her as an editor?
  • Cover designer. It’s okay if your novel is a mainstream romantasy (no disrespect, just not my genre) and you can photoshop some stock images into an epically looking fae/princess/warrior. It’s a completely different piece of guts when you need to explain to people what a synchrotron is. I attached photos. Photos didn’t help.

Also, explaining what is post-apocalyptic comedy turned out difficult. Or I’m just shit in explaining.

  • Instagram influencer. Yes, it’s a bloody job. Some people are good at it and are paid for it. Not me, sorry. I have 107 followers. They seem to be reading all types of books but not MINE.
  • Book formatter. Throwing together a printable pdf doesn’t work anymore.
  • Ads. Holy Odin, if there is Hell, it’s surely populated with ads and people creating ads that nobody ever clicks.
  • SEO whisperer. Backlinks, keywords, optimisation. When was the last time you searched for anything on Google? What did you find? Did you read past the AI bot at the top of the page? It’s high time we do AIO (AI optimisation).

Join my mailing list for more self-publishing stories. I’m honest and don’t pretend self-publishing is not shit. It is, until maybe book forty-two. Why do I do it? Because some books are too niche for trad pub and I do hope to be able – one day – to pay for a family dinner with the money I make from my books.

Stop Procrastinating and Start Writing Your Novel

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You’ve been thinking about it for months — maybe even years.
That story idea that keeps tugging at your imagination. The characters who live in the back of your mind. The plot twist you dream about late at night. But for one reason or another, you keep putting it off.

Sound familiar?

If so, it’s time to stop procrastinating and finally start writing your novel.

Why Do We Procrastinate?

Let’s be honest — procrastination isn’t about laziness. It’s about fear.

Fear of failure. Fear of not being good enough. Fear of starting something you might not finish. It’s easier to plan to write a book than to actually sit down and face a blank page.

But here’s the thing: every writer — from bestselling authors to first-time novelists — feels that fear. What separates those who finish a novel from those who don’t is the decision to write anyway.

The Myth of the “Perfect Time”

If you’re waiting for the stars to align, for a long weekend of uninterrupted silence, or for inspiration to strike like lightning — you’ll be waiting forever.

Life will always be busy. The dishes won’t wash themselves. Emails won’t stop. There’s no perfect moment to start writing.

But there’s always this moment.

And if you can commit to showing up for your story now, even for just ten minutes a day, you’ll be amazed at how quickly those words stack up.

5 Simple Ways to Start Writing Today

Ready to finally get those words out of your head and onto the page? Here are five easy, actionable tips to kickstart your writing habit:

1️⃣ Set a Tiny, Achievable Goal

Forget about writing an entire chapter. Start with 250 words. That’s one page. One scene. One conversation. Small goals build momentum.

2️⃣ Schedule It Like an Appointment

Carve out a specific time each day to write — even if it’s just ten minutes. Put it on your calendar. Treat it like a commitment you can’t break.

3️⃣ Silence Your Inner Critic

Your first draft isn’t supposed to be perfect. It’s supposed to exist. Let yourself write badly. The magic happens in the revision process.

4️⃣ Create a Distraction-Free Zone

Find a quiet space, silence your phone, and let those around you know you’re off-limits for a short while. Even brief, focused sessions make a difference.

5️⃣ Find Your Writing Tribe

Join a local writing group, an online community, or find a friend who loves books as much as you do. Accountability and encouragement matter.

Your Story Matters

Someone, somewhere, is waiting for the story you have to tell. Whether it’s a reader looking for escape, connection, or inspiration, they won’t find it if you never write it.

Stop waiting for the perfect time. Start writing today.
Your future self (and your future readers) will thank you.

📖 Need a little guidance on outlining or planning your novel? I’ve written two indie author guides to help you along the way.

Check them out below and get started on your writing journey today!

Buck, Wild and the Preacher by Tamara Rashelle

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One pastor. Two women. When hearts collide and secrets rise, only God can decide who truly belongs.

Buck, Wild and the Preacher

Buck, Wild and the Preacher Book 1

by Tamara Rashelle

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

A pastor has been left for dead and the suspected shooter is found at the scene with the blood stained weapon clinched in her trembling hand.
Trina Buckhouse and Robin Wilder left the devil’s playground for holy and righteous church living. Friends since childhood, their bond could never be broken until they discovered a lustful appetite for the same man.
Preacher James Dixon affectionately known as PJ has replaced Pastor Duncan and become the new pastor of New Way Missionary Baptist Church. The tall extremely handsome Ex-NFL star has a way with the word and these two women. Who will win his affection?

Amazon * Author’s Site * Bookbub * Goodreads

Preacher’s Heart

Buck, Wild and the Preacher Book 2

Brokenhearted, angry, and having constant panic attacks at every turn, because his killer is still on the loose, is where we find Pastor Preacher James Dixon. Watching the woman he thought would be his wife walk away from him left questions that only Trina could answer, but she all but disappeared. PJ Dixon finds himself navigating his life with no answers as to “why”. PJ was a ticking time bomb and with their first face-to-face meeting in almost a year’s time, it was explosive!
With the emergence of another man, Detective Rollins, in Trina’s life, PJ finds himself engulfed with a new emotion…jealousy! Detective Rollins is a thorn in PJ’s side for a myriad of reasons, but one of those reasons will cause him to question every significant relationship in his life. PJ’s partnership with jealousy and anger will cause out of control behavior that leads him into several altercations. How does he handle all that is going on in his personal life and continue to pastor a thriving church?
Everyone seems to have a motive or a secret, coming from every direction. Will PJ get his woman back, or will he become a casualty of love?

Amazon * Author’s Site * Bookbub * Goodreads

A four-time published author, Tamara Rashelle discovered her love for storytelling in grade school, crafting imaginary books, characters, and even author names instead of turning in assigned book reports. That early spark grew into a lifelong passion, leading to the release of her debut Christian fiction novel, Buck, Wild and the Preacher, followed by its drama-filled sequel, Preacher’s Heart. She later shared her own powerful testimony through two more books, offering readers a transparent look at healing, faith, and freedom.

In addition to writing, Tamara Rashelle is the founder of Everybody’s Favorite Auntie, LLC, a faith-centered brand offering plant-based meal prep, spiritual coaching, and counseling. Her coaching extends to ghostwriting and mentoring aspiring authors, guiding them through the process of bringing their own stories to life. Whether through fiction, personal testimony, or helping others find their voice, her mission is to lead others toward purpose, healing, and hope—one story at a time.

Website * Facebook * X * Instagram * Amazon * Goodreads

Would you like a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

Stilettos and Outlaws by Gail Koger

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Fast-paced, funny and full of wild twists. Gemma is a force of nature in this quirky, action-packed ride through Arizona’s weirdest crimes.

Stilettos and Outlaws

Deputy Gemma Stone Book 4

by Gail Koger

Genre: Action, Romantic Comedy

My name is Gemma Stone and I’ve been a Maricopa County Sheriff’s Deputy for five years and nothing has prepared me for the return of the wild, wild West. A bloodthirsty outlaw gang straight out of the 1850’s is rustling cattle, robbing trains and killing people. These two-legged varmints are also linked to a dangerous enemy from my parents’ past who is determined to destroy our family.

My personal life got even more complicated. Off duty, I’m a ballroom dancer and my dad has always been supportive of my dancing, but to discover the reason why was jaw dropping. What other secrets was he hiding?

Dealing with hyperactive chickens blowing things up, an overprotective Brahma bull and Grandpa Reynolds suddenly parking his RV in our pasture makes me think Armageddon is coming to Arizona.

Law enforcement isn’t for the fainthearted. Are you crazy enough to enter my world?

Author’s note: I was a 9-1-1 dispatcher for way too many years and this novella contains some of the wilder incidents that occurred.

Amazon * Smashwords * Bookbub * Goodreads

**Don’t miss the other books in the series!**

Find them on Amazon!

Howdy. My name is Gail Koger and once upon a time I was a 9-1-1 dispatcher. Too many years of wild requests, screwy questions, bizarre behavior and outrageous demands have left me with a permanent twitch and an uncontrollable craving for chocolate. I took up writing science fiction romance to keep from killing people. So far, it has worked.

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Bluesky * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

Would you like a chance to win a $20 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

Reckless With The Cowboy by Elsa Winckler

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Becket Weston meets his match when he tries his bad boy skills on the wrong woman.

Reckless With the Cowboy

The Westons of Montana Book 2

by Elsa Winckler

Genre: Contemporary Small-Town Romance

Cowboy Becket Weston likes women, plural, and has a reputation for breaking hearts. His bad-boy behavior masks a deeper need to atone for past mistakes. His side-hustle—using a pseudonym and posting comic drawings of ranch life on social media—lets him explore life, love, and grief without being exposed. He even has a following! But no amount of introspection can explain his fascination with Eleanor Campbell—Main Street, Marietta’s newest shopkeeper. She’s definitely not his type, so why does she keep turning up in his drawings?

Ellie Campbell isn’t one for staying long in any one place, but when she inherits money from her grandmother and decides to open a yarn store in small-town Marietta, it feels like she’s putting down roots. She’s not looking for a relationship after one too many hard knocks, literally, but Becket Weston gets under her skin like no other, igniting passion that’s impossible to ignore.

He’s a bad boy playboy and everyone knows it, but there’s something about him that just doesn’t add up. Does Ellie have the courage to stick around and find a way into his heart?

Amazon * Apple * B&N * Google * Kobo * Bookbub * Goodreads

A Family With the Cowboy

The Westons of Montana Book 1

Widowed rancher Hayden Weston knows what it means to be responsible for his siblings, his eight-year-old son, and the running of the huge family cattle ranch. Some even call him a stern and grumpy taskmaster and they’re not exactly wrong. So when Hayden discovers his son reading a storybook instead of doing chores, he calls on Luke’s teacher to talk about priorities.

School teacher Laura Anderson is new to Marietta, Montana, and has never—until now—been reprimanded for encouraging a child to read. It doesn’t help that sweet Luke’s father is the handsome cowboy with the amber eyes that she met in Grey’s Saloon, or that she’s wildly attracted to him.

Sparks keep flying as their paths keep crossing, but Hayden is determined not to give in to his incomprehensible need to have, hold, and protect Laura from any type of harm. He’s the one who’ll hurt her if he lets her stray too close. He’s not ready to admit his feelings or commit to sharing his life with her.

Even if love comes tumbling in.

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I have been reading love stories for as long as I can remember and when I ‘met’ the classic authors like Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell, Henry James The Brontë sisters, etc. during my Honours studies, I was hooked for life. I married my college boyfriend and soul mate and after 47 years, 3 interesting and wonderful children and 4 beautiful grandchildren, he still makes me weak in the knees. We are fortunate to live in the picturesque little seaside village of Betty’s Bay, South Africa with the ocean a block away and a beautiful mountain right behind us. And although life so far has not always been an easy ride, it has always been an exciting and interesting one! I like the heroines in my stories to be beautiful, feisty, independent and headstrong. And the heroes must be strong but possess a generous amount of sensitivity. They are of course, also gorgeous! My stories typically incorporate the family background of the characters to better understand where they come from and who they are when we meet them in the story.

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Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?

I did a teaching diploma after school, stayed at home for ten years while our kids were small before going back to work. While I was working as an administrator in the English Department of a nearby university, I was inspired to study again. I was forty. I got an Honors degree in English and also did a MPhil in Document Analyses and Design, thinking that it was something I could do when I retire. But then I entered a magazine competition looking for romance authors way back in 2008 and was fortunate enough to be the winner. The prize was the publication of my first book – I was hooked. Growing up, my mother was an avid romance reader and there were always stacks of love stories in the house, particularly stacks of Mills & Boons. I literally read thousands of them.

I met Jane Porter from Tule Publishing when she visited ROSA (The Romance Writers Organization of South Africa) in 2016. Afterwards I sent her a manuscript, she liked it and since then I’ve published seven books with Tule – an extraordinary team of women. I count myself extremely fortunate to be able work with them.

I’m married to my college boyfriend who is also my best friend and my soulmate. We have three grown-up kids who have long since left the house and are each doing their bit to make this world a better place. We are so proud of them and are blessed with four grandkids who are just growing up way too fast.

I mostly write in Afrikaans and have around seventy books published by various publishers in South Africa. I have also written two children’s stories.

What is something unique/quirky about you?

I’m an introvert, something I’ve only discovered when I was much older. I like people and I’m blessed with a a circle of close friends, but I need to be alone to re-charge. I can’t do late nights, for instance, by ten my battery is flat!

I’m no chef but I love to cook for the people I love and nothing gives me more pleasure than to have our whole family around a table.

Where were you born/grew up at?

I was born in a small town called Upington in South Africa. As kids we swam in the Orange River and went camping in the Kalahari Desert.

If you knew you’d die tomorrow, how would you spend your last day?

With my husband, our children and grandchildren, of course. Around a table, eating and telling stories.

What kind of world ruler would you be?

I’ll put women in charge of education, hospitals and the police. Start from the ground up, teach children respect before anything else and let kids play. A lot.

What do you do to unwind and relax?

I read, go for long walks, knit or crochet. I’m fortunate enough to have a very special group of women I can call friends. Visiting them always makes my heart sing. We’ve known each other for such a long time. We have a Whatsapp group and during tough times, we rely on each other to help us carry whatever burden we have. During Covid, especially, it was a kind of lifeline. We shared recipes for bread, for food, books we’ve read and sometimes just something silly that has happened. It was a wonderful way to keep our spirits up,

Describe yourself in 5 words or less!

Disciplined, dedicated, passionate, impatient, a sucker for a story or movie with a happy ending.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

After about twenty books J

Do you have a favorite movie?

Pretty woman

Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?

A family with the cowboy! Liam Hemsworth would make a very sexy Hayden Weston and Brie Larson would make a lovely Laura.

As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?

A leopard. They are solitary animals and like to walk alone. As hopeless introvert, I can relate.

To Desire the Stars by Venus Campbell

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Exiled alien prince Jarren Graf has never encountered a scent like Lissa Reyes.

To Desire the Stars

by Venus Campbell

Genre: SciFi Romance

Exiled alien prince Jarren Graf has never encountered a scent like Lissa Reyes’.

Abducted from Earth by Jarren, high-achiever Lissa Reyes discovered something hunted her scent. Both their scents, that is. As the key to reclaiming his throne and ending generations of galactic subjugation, Lissa knew Jarren could not let her go. But as a prince from a world built on olfactory power, Jarren’s passions flared with her close. Every whiff grew their desire. Every touch increased their hunger for each other. By fate or chance, their love would change his civilization.

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Venus Campbell is the Principal of the Book of Venus publishing and the Winner of the Kroger Award for Excellence in Creative Writing.  She has finaled in various writing contests such as the Central Ohio Ignite the Flame and the New England Chapter- RWA First Kiss.  Campbell is a member of the Romance Writers of America (RWA) and the Authors Guild.  Campbell has written professionally since 2006 and has completed five single title manuscripts.  To Desire the Stars is her second publication. Campbell focuses on interweaving paranormal elements into romance stories, creating unique worlds which challenge people’s perceptions of self and preconceived notions of human love and relationships. 

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What are your top 10 favorite books/authors? Right now- N.K Jemison, Octavia Butler, Sheryl Kaleo, Jon Scalzi, Christopher Pike, Louise Penny, Anne McCaffrey, Arkady Martine, Stephen King, Virginia Henley

What book do you think everyone should read? For Science Fiction, A Desolation Called Peace. For Romance, Moondust and Madness.

How long have you been writing? I have been writing for more than forty years.

Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write? The main characters are in my head from inception. As I write, other characters pop up.

What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book? I do a lot of location research before I write. I look at pictures of places or of worlds. The beauty of writing science fiction is that I can make up worlds based on what I understand is common assumptions of the fantastical. The rest of my research pops up when something in the story happens and I don’t know enough about it to write it. I have bookshelves of reference books. Mostly on fantasy creatures like fairies or dragons but a few on trees in North America or dictionaries on flora growth. Even books on clothing in different centuries.

Do you see writing as a career? Yes. It is my career. I may not always or regularly make a lot of money at it, but I am blessed to be able to write full time for the moment. IF I need to work for cash, I will still continue to write books for publication. Career or not, writers write. It’s what we do.

What do you think about the current publishing market? The current publishing market is like the record store and music industry market of the early I pod era. And possibly as painful. I have been traditionally and self-published. Trad publishers built companies around a service that could produce high-quality emotional stories. This is their bread and butter. They make profit from that business model. But if an individual has enough talent and resources, they can produce their own phenomenal book without giving a cut to the trad publishers. It is more work and higher costs, but you retain creative power and you keep your profit. It isn’t easy, but it is freeing to be able to create something readers will enjoy without trad publishers trying to reshape and constrain it as they see fit. Self-published succeed or fail on their own recognizance.

Some publishing companies have gotten on board with self-publishing to continue profiting from their established publishing structures, like IngramSpark. Others traditional publishers are just now trying to shift into that now-crowded market. And even still, there are a few holding tight to the old way of profiting. My only gripe is with organizations that restrict their writing contests to exclude self-published authors. Both my editors also work(ed) for the Big Five. My books benefitted from the same  editorial talent as the Big Five. I just had to pay out of pocket. My books are of the same caliber of writing quality as traditionally published works. Dear contest runners: don’t exclude good stories from your pools. Let the words speak for themselves. I am sure the Big Five, and their resources, can handle the competition.

Do you read yourself and if so what is your favorite genre? Yes. I read mostly self-published fantasy. Right now, I’m reading J.R Geraci’s Creator of the Stones. I have found that self-published authors are willing to take risks with their stories so those stories tend to be more interesting to me. I also read some sci-fi romance (of course- Thanks Veronica Scott) and I love erotic fiction. Try Sadie Waters and her reverse harem erotic fantasy, Chosen By the Princess.

Do you prefer to write in silence or with noise? Why? Silence. I am easily distracted.

Do you write one book at a time or do you have several going at a time? Because I write in several age groups which require different processes for publication, I write up to three books at once. I just finished the second children’s book of a trilogy. It’s with the illustrator. I am finishing up my new YA fantasy- back from the editor. And I am working through the second of an erotic fantasy- it’s slow-going because it is a lower priority as a second book with no publication date as of yet.

If you could have been the author of any book ever written, which book would you choose? My respect for the lived experiences of authors which inform their stories requires me to say I would only want to author my own books. Of my books, I would choose the first of my Guardians series. I traveled to Ethiopia to research the location.

Pen or type writer or computer? Pen or computer. I no longer have a type-writer, although I know what it is.

Tell us about a favorite character from a book. Akasha from Anne Rice’s Queen of the Damned is incredibly multi-dimensional. In romance, I’ve loved Nellie Grayson from Jude Deveraux’s Wishes and Eleanor from Virginia Henley’s The Dragon and the Jewel.

What made you want to become an author and do you feel it was the right decision? The thing that gives me purpose is writing stories that help to shape others as books I’ve read shaped me. It is the right decision because I am doing something I love and doing my very small part in guiding our species to greater understanding and kindness.

A day in the life of the author? I get up around 8 am and get my kid and myself dressed. Downstairs for a quick breakfast and getting lunch ready and we are off to the bus stop. After a chat with the other parents and seeing the kid off, I walk back to my house and begin my writing for the day, my admin for the day or my social posts. I am usually interrupted by something- my mother, my kid’s school, my mother in law. SOMETHING. And so I go off and handle that. When I am done I continue writing or thinking (writing for me is more thought and less typing). On some days, I go to the gym. Gotta keep the mind prime. Exercise helps. Then I clean and cook and throw in a load of laundry downstairs. The alarm goes off and I head back to the bus stop for pick-up. And my writing is done for the day.

My kid gets home and wants to watch TV, so we battle about doing her homework and studying her French spelling words. That done, I send her for a snack as I review her homework. Then we do a spelling test and, if I am working on a kid’s book, I will have her look at the illustrations or promotions. We watch a bit of PBS kids and I cook dinner or the partner comes home and cooks dinner. He actually enjoys cooking. I do not. After dinner, the kid gets music videos and I or my partner put her to bed then we get to watch our adult TV. If he puts the kid to bed, I may do more admin or writing while he’s upstairs. As of this writing, we are finishing up the Residence (exceptional!) and starting on Andor and The Last of Us. Then I pack the kid’s lunch for the next day and we are off to get ready for bed.

Advice they would give new authors? Every person has at least one story to tell. It belongs only to that person. Don’t let any nay-sayer question your right to write your story. Also expect to have to work all the time. A writing career is a ton of work. Most of us can’t be Nora Roberts or Stephen King. We are just doing our best with the reward of doing what we truly love as our career. When the world knocks you down, remember why you are writing, then get back up and keep going.

PJ and the Paranormal Pursuers by Jacqui Dempster

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When PJ and his team of Paranormal Pursuers unearth the sinister secrets of the Scottish village of Pittenweem’s witch-hunting past, they must confront the malevolent spirit of a young boy to save the villagers from chaos and terror.

The Phantoms of Pittenweem
PJ and the Paranormal Pursuers Book 2
by Jacqui Dempster
Genre: YA, Teen Paranormal Adventure

After moving from New York to Edinburgh to live with his aunt, PJ very quickly discovered the parallel worlds of the living and the dead when he was forced to battle the evil Mackenzie Poltergeist at Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Now, PJ and his fellow ghost-hunting friends are invited to stay in the picturesque fishing village of Pittenweem in Fife, a place which, unbeknown to them, has haunting echoes of its witch-hunting past.

However, their holiday promises to be anything but peaceful, as witchcraft and superstition threatens to bring terror and chaos to the villagers and the Paranormal Pursuers must face off with the malevolent spirit of a young boy, Patrick Morton. Can they find a way to prevent him from reviving the dark and sinister past of Pittenweem before it’s too late?

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The Mackenzie Poltergeist
PJ and the Paranormal Pursuers Book 1

After his mom dies, PJ reluctantly leaves his New York home and everyone he loves, to live with his Aunt Katie in Edinburgh. A series of strange events begin when his aunt’s elderly neighbour and her cat Azrael convince him that his mom, weirdly, is still very much with him.
At a bereavement counselling group, PJ makes a new group of friends, all of whom have lost loved ones. Drawn together by their shared experiences, they soon discover they have something else in common; an interest in the supernatural. Freya is the daughter of a white witch, Sunny has a scientific and enquiring mind and Shuggie, a superfan of ghost hunting programmes. Led by PJ, they try to prove that there is life after death and that their loved ones are still with them. The team receives strange messages leading them to investigate Greyfriars Kirkyard where they experience terrifying paranormal activity and PJ is drawn into the clutches of the evil Mackenzie Poltergeist after reciting a famous rhyme that invites the restless spirit to draw back the bolt of his scary mausoleum to allow him entry. There, he finds himself in a fight of good against evil with the ghost of Sir George Mackenzie.

“If you are, or know someone who is a teenager with a newfound interest in the supernatural and paranormal, this is the book for you.” The Courier and Advertiser (Fife Edition)

“PJ and his friends make a great group of characters, and there’s lots of laughter to be had as well as scares, while ‘auld reekie’ provides the perfect backdrop for these ghostly goings-on.” LoveReading4Kids & LoveReading4Schools

“This is a terrific story for teen readers to devour on a spooky autumn evening.” The School Librarian (TSL)

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Jacqui Dempster qualified as a solicitor in 1999 but now works as a malpractice investigator for an education and qualifications organisation. She lives in Dunfermline, Fife, with partner, Andrew, and various ‘borrowed’ doggies who visit regularly. Jacqui loves dogs, especially Jack Russell Terriers and thinks if they ruled the world, it would be a better place! The doggy motifs on the cover of her books represent Dug and Buddy who belong to the characters, Shuggie and PJ. Dug is based on Jacqui’s own beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Smudge, and her grandpup, Gus, both of whom have sadly passed over the Rainbow Bridge.
Jacqui loves theatre and ran performing arts schools for young people in Fife. She produced and directed various shows at the Edinburgh Fringe. When not either working or writing, she loves to paint and crochet, and of course, read books.
Her first children’s book in this series, PJ and the Paranormal Pursuers– The Mackenzie Poltergeist, was published by The Book Guild in 2021.
Jacqui explains: “The supernatural has featured in my life since I was young, with a grandfather who saw ghosts regularly and other members of the family, on my Welsh side, having strange experiences and even dabbling in magic! I studied on the Edinburgh University Koestler Parapsychology course to learn about the science of the Paranormal. I have also been on a few ghost investigations with mixed results.
I live in Fife nowadays and often visit the beautiful towns and villages within the county. Fife was one of the famous areas where ‘witches’ were persecuted, and the story of the Pitteweem Witches is particularly well known. In my book, the story is told for a younger reader involving a contemporary allegory about one of the young characters, Freya, who is a Wiccan. The subject of Scotland’s witches came up in 2022, when an apology was issued by the then First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon to those persecuted, tortured and executed, and MSPs were invited to consider legislation to pardon them.
I enjoy writing about various places we’ve visited, and especially about any with spooky stories attached on my Medium Daily Digest blog.”
Jacqui loves history and enjoys embracing fact with fiction in her books which she hopes encourages not only a love of reading in young people but also the desire to learn about events of the past which often influence the present and the future.

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Who are the Dogs on the Cover of PJ and The Paranormal Pursuers – The Phantoms of Pittenweem?

Well, the small white dog, who appeared on the cover of my first PJ book, The Mackenzie Poltergeist, was designed from a photograph of my beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Smudge. Sadly, at the time the first book went to print, Smudge, who was almost 17 had been terribly ill for a while. The book has a dedication to him but he went to the Rainbow Bridge before publication and I wanted his memory to live on. He does so as ‘Dug,’ Shuggie’s JRT in the book and as the motif on the covers. The other dog, added for the Phantoms of Pittenweem is modelled on Gus, another family dog. He was a Schnauzer who was also a lovely soul. When he wasn’t freshly groomed, he was a shaggy dog on whom I modelled Buddy, PJ’s dog. Gus had also travelled the Rainbow Bridge by the time the new book was published and he joins Smudge on the cover of my second book.

As many people will understand, the grief of losing a pet, who is very much a family member, friend and companion is hard – often just as hard as losing a human. I was devastated at the loss of Smudge and resolved never to have another dog of my own because the pain and trauma was too great. I know that many people say that you should offer another dog a happy home and believe me, I have been tempted – until that wave of grief crashes over me and reminds me of what we went through. I have written about Smudge extensively on my blog; one part (For the Love of Smudge) telling his story and the second part (I’m only talking to my dog today) which explains the strange events after his death which convinced me he was still around and sending messages to say he was OK. These can be found here: Jacqueline Dempster – Medium. I hope that the articles help those of you who find themselves grief stricken after the loss of a beloved pet.

My days of doggy love are not over, however. Although we don’t have any of our own, we did join an organisation called ‘Borrow my Doggy,’ which offers just what it says on the tin! For a small annual fee, you can offer to borrow other people’s doggies when they need company during the week or a place to stay when their people want to go on holiday. It’s worked out brilliantly for us and we’ve had the joy of looking after Winnie, a Jack Russell Terrier (who looks remarkably like Smudge) and Arlo who is a very cheeky little JRT/Shih Tzu cross. We also look after our grandpups, Willow (guess what – a JRT whose arrival as a pup was accurately predicted by one of the animal psychics I consulted after we lost Smudge) and Pepper, a Poodle/Bichon Frise cross. We have a new boy, Joe, (JRT) coming to visit and stay for holidays very soon! I am certain that Smudge knows that we’ll never replace him but has a hand in bringing all these perfect friends into our lives. It is very strange how all of the borrowed doggies who’ve arrived on our doorstep have been JRTs and I am certain our boy has a hand in it. To be honest, I love each one of them dearly and while they are not our dogs, the grief of losing any of them will be hard. I can console myself, however, knowing that we’ve been able to give them a welcome and the comfort of a loving home from home whenever their mums and dads need a holiday, or just to stop them getting lonely while their people are working. They return the love in spades and I wouldn’t be without them. They’ve also been very willing to read my books as you might gather from the photographs!

Imaginary Heroes by Michael Seidelman

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His friends may be IMAGINARY… but the danger is REAL!

Imaginary Heroes
by Michael Seidelman
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy Adventure

His friends may be IMAGINARY… but the danger is REAL!

Twelve-year-old Matthew’s life has been incredibly challenging because of his Tourette Syndrome, a disorder which causes uncontrollable movements and sounds. Isolated and tormented by bullies at school, Matthew finds solace in the company of his lifelong imaginary friends, a lovable green monster and a tough-as-nails little girl.

On his way home from school one day, as Matthew is pursued by his relentless tormentors, they all crash into a mysterious underground lair. At first, it seems that being trapped with the bullies who make his life miserable is his biggest problem. That is, until he and the others discover that they are not alone.

Hunted by a menacing presence lurking in the depths, Matthew and the bullies must confront a threat to their very existence. Their desperate mission becomes clear: put their differences aside and work together to find a way to safety before they are all consumed by the darkness.

Although fictional, the book is inspired by the author’s own childhood experiences with bullying, loneliness, and Tourette Syndrome. He set out to craft an engaging story while exploring issues many kids can relate to—told from the perspective of someone who has lived them firsthand.

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When Michael Seidelman was growing up, his passions were reading, watching movies, enjoying nature and creative writing. Not much has changed since then.

Working in Online Marketing for over ten years, Michael felt it was time to pursue his passion and began writing The Garden of Syn trilogy.

His latest Middle Grade book, Imaginary Heroes, is personal for Michael. While fiction, the book is inspired by his own childhood experiences with bullying, loneliness, and Tourette’s Syndrome. He set out to tell an entertaining story while delving into issues many kids can relate to, told by someone who has experienced them firsthand.

Michael was born in Vancouver, BC Canada where he continues to reside.

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Can you tell us what your book is about?
Imaginary Heroes follows twelve-year-old Matthew, who struggles with Tourette Syndrome and relentless bullies. He finds comfort in his imaginary friends—a tough girl named Nabie and a lovable green monster named Garby. But when Matthew and his tormentors become trapped in a mysterious underground lair, they must work together to escape before the darkness consumes them all.

What inspired you to write this story?
I wanted to dedicate my next book to my nephew, who’s an avid reader, so I decided to write something for his age group. I was working on the final book in my young adult Garden of Syn trilogy when I heard a radio segment about the host’s imaginary friends—and that sparked something in me. I began thinking about my own imaginary friends from childhood and the challenges I faced, like bullying and Tourette Syndrome. From there, the story came together naturally.

Are any parts of the story based on your real-life experiences?
Very much so. While the book is fictional with elements of fantasy and adventure, Matthew—the protagonist—is similar to me when I was his age. Like me, he has Tourette Syndrome and is bullied at school. Because of his isolation, he still talks to the same imaginary friends I once had: Nabie & Garby. Although I left my imaginary friends behind in kindergarten, I brought them back for this story. The bullies, especially Declan, are inspired by the real ones I encountered growing up.

What was your favorite scene to write?
While the fantastical parts were a lot of fun, my favorite scene to write was when Matthew finally snaps and tells his main bully, Declan, how the constant bullying has impacted his life. It’s everything I wish I could have said to my bullies but never did. Writing that moment was incredibly cathartic.

Did any other books or authors influence your writing?
Absolutely. Growing up, I loved Roald Dahl and Enid Blyton. Their creativity and heart have definitely influenced my own writing style. I also drew inspiration from a few other authors I’ve read over the years who know how to mix humor, suspense and imagination.

Are there any hidden details or easter eggs in the book that readers should look for?
So many! While most might go unnoticed, I’ve included the names of businesses my great-grandparents owned, a former teacher’s name, and references to historic Vancouver companies—even though the story is set in Washington State. It’s a little way for me to honor my roots.

What was the most challenging part of writing the book?
Writing kids wasn’t too difficult—I was one, after all! But writing kids in a different era than the one I grew up in was definitely a challenge. I had to do quite a bit of research to make sure it felt authentic. My nephew and my sister, who’s a teacher, were incredibly helpful in that process.

Do you plot out your stories in advance or make them up as you go?
I’m definitely a “Plotter.” While some authors are “Pantsers” who write by the seat of their pants, I outline everything in advance. I map out the details for each chapter before I even start writing. Sure, some things change along the way, but the major plot points are always planned out from the beginning.

What do you hope kids take away from your book?
First and foremost, I hope they have fun reading it. Above all, I aim to entertain. But I also hope the story encourages empathy—that kids will come away understanding that people who are different from them deserve kindness and compassion just like anyone else.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I just want to thank everyone for checking out my books—whether it’s Imaginary Heroes or The Garden of Syn trilogy. If you read the book and want to share your thoughts or ask me anything, feel free to reach out on social media or through my website. I’d love to hear from you!