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Stuck at the very end of time.
If you love gritty dark fantasy, epic mythical battles, and ancient gods interfering with mortals, you need to check out City at the Edge of Time by Janet and Chris Morris!
“An exciting and brilliantly colored sortie . . .” – David Drake
Join Tempus and Niko on the triple shores of land, sea, and eternity . . . Where a young girl trembles between love and sorcerous obsession . . . Where a prince’s refusal to admit his flaws makes him a pawn of hell . . . Where a city of immortals learn that Death has not forgotten it . . . In the catacombs beneath a warlock’s citadel, swords and courage face the jaws of demons — with a girl’s life and a god’s vengeance resting on the outcome.
The Sacred Band of Stepsons series is Homeric and heroic fiction following the exploits of an ancient cavalry unit modeled on the Sacred Band of Thebes. Deftly mixing history, myth, and fantasy, Morris’ Sacred Band of Stepsons live and die in a world where gods are real and magic works — sometimes.
Morris’ accursed cavalry commander, Tempus, first appeared Sacred Band first appeared in the million-selling Thieves’ world shared-universe in 1981. Subsequently, Janet Morris, first alone and subsequently with her husband Chris Morris, take the Sacred Band into their own series of novels, set in the fourth century BCE. Passionate, gritty, lyrical prose and unforgettable characters make this series. Perseid Press Sacred Band novels includes the “Author’s Cut” of the Beyond Sanctuary Trilogy and Tempus, as well as the epic novel The Sacred Band, and The Fish the Fighters and the Song-girl.
Best selling author Janet Morris began writing in 1976 and published more than 30 novels, many co-authored with her husband Chris Morris or others. Most of her fiction work was in the fantasy and science fiction genres, although she also wrote historical and other novels. Morris either wrote, contributed to, or edited several book-length works of non-fiction, as well as papers and articles on nonlethal weapons, developmental military technology and other defense and national security topics.
Christopher Crosby Morris (born 1946) is an American author of fiction and non-fiction, as well as a lyricist, musical composer, and singer-songwriter. He is married to author Janet Morris. He is a defense policy and strategy analyst and a principal in M2 Technologies, Inc. He writes primarily as Chris Morris, but occasionally uses pseudonyms.
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What is something unique/quirky about you?
We are songwriters; You can hear our MCA album Christopher Morris Band on Soundcloud.com/Christopher-Morris and Chris’ more recent work on N1M.com/ChristopherCrosbyMorris.
Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?
Janet wrote her first novel in 1975 and Chris was the first one to read and comment on it. Their marriage survived. A routine emerged where Chris would read aloud all the new drafts and make edits on the spot. After a few books Chris’ ideas became frequent enough that we agreed he should have credit for writing, whereas before we had kept separate Janet’s storytelling and Chris’ songwriting. The rest, as they say is history.
Who is your hero and why?
Heraclitus of Ephesus, a pre-socratic philosopher, whose Cosmic Fragments foreshadow our knowledge of reality and how to perceive it. Among his precepts is the statement that change alone is unchanging. We’ve worked Heraclitus’ fragments in here and there throughout our books.
Which of your novels can you imagine being made into a movie?
All of them. We write cinematically, our books are vivid adventures written without knowing how they end, perfect for suspenseful films. I, the Sun, The Sacred Band, Outpassage and M.E.D.U.S.A.are particularly suited for cinema. The Threshold Series is a feast of opportunities for today’s special effects creators.
We love horses, history and philosophy, so why not an ancient cavalry unit made up of paired fighters led by a centuries-old warrior sage with a god in his head? Tempus and his Sacred Band of Stepsons are cast in a moment stretching across all of recorded history.
Who designed your book covers?
Most of our covers, including City at the Edge of Time are realized by Roy Mauritsen, a gifted graphic artist.
Advice to writers?
As for advice to writers, here is all we know: write the story you want to read. Start at the beginning, go to the end, and stop. Seriously. From start to finish you must inhabit the construct in a manner that makes the reader choose to continue. If you, as the writer, can’t feel what it’s like being there, your readers won’t either. So close your eyes, look at your feet where they are standing on the story’s ground; tell us what you see. Tell us what you hear. Ask at the end of each paragraph, ‘what happens next?’. If you lose touch with it, wait until you’re back inside it. Tell the story that comes only to you, and from you, to us.
Every writer starts somewhere. Whether you’re working on your first novel, drafting short stories, or dreaming of seeing your name on a book cover, the journey from aspiring writer to published author is filled with lessons. Some hard… some easy. The good news? Many of the challenges new writers face are common—and avoidable.
If you’re just beginning your writing journey, here are ten mistakes many new writers make (been there, done that) and some practical ways to steer clear of them.
1. Waiting for Inspiration to Strike
Many new writers believe they must feel inspired before they can write. Unfortunately, inspiration is unpredictable and uncontrollable.
How to avoid it: Develop a writing habit. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to write, even when you don’t feel particularly creative. Inspiration often arrives after you’ve begun. So, put it on your calendar and make the time, just as if it were an important appointment you wouldn’t want to miss.
2. Trying to Make the First Draft Perfect
Perfectionism is one of the biggest obstacles writers often face. Spending hours polishing the first chapter while the rest of the story remains unwritten can bring progress to a dead halt.
How to avoid it: Give yourself permission to write badly. First drafts are supposed to be messy. Focus on finishing the story first. Editing comes later… much later.
3. Overloading the Story with Information
New writers sometimes feel compelled to explain everything immediately—character histories, world-building details, and backstory.
How to avoid it: Trust your readers. Reveal information gradually and naturally. Allow readers to discover the world and characters as the story unfolds within the pages of your book.
4. Neglecting Character Development
Readers connect with characters more than plots. Even the most exciting storyline can fall flat if the characters feel shallow or unrealistic.
Finishing a first draft is a major accomplishment, but it’s only the beginning. Your first draft is never the finished product.
How to avoid it: Accept that rewriting is part of the process. Most books go through multiple rounds of beta readers and editors. Great writing often finds its way to the page during revisions.
6. Comparing Yourself to Other Writers
It’s easy to become discouraged when comparing your work to bestselling authors or writers who seem more successful.
How to avoid it: Remember that every writer has a different journey. Focus on improving your own craft rather than measuring yourself against someone else’s accomplishments.
7. Not Reading Enough
Some writers become so focused on producing their own work that they neglect reading. They don’t understand that reading is part of the process.
How to avoid it: Read widely and often. Explore different genres and writing styles. Reading not only fuels creativity but also teaches valuable lessons about storytelling. It is also a very helpful tool when you do find yourself in a writing slump.
8. Trying to Please Everyone
Writing with the goal of satisfying every reader can dilute your voice and make your work feel generic.
How to avoid it: Write the stories you’re passionate about. Your unique perspective is one of your greatest strengths, and the right readers will connect with it. You have one reader to make proud, yourself. So, write the book you want to read, and other readers will show up.
9. Giving Up Too Soon
Many aspiring authors abandon projects when they encounter setbacks, rejection, or self-doubt.
How to avoid it: Understand that perseverance is part of being a writer. Rejections, disappointing reviews, and moments of frustration happen to every author. Success belongs to those who keep going.
10. Believing You Have to Do It Alone
Writing may be a solitary activity, but the journey doesn’t have to be lonely.
How to avoid it: Find a writing community. Join critique groups, attend conferences, connect with other writers online, and learn from authors who have gone before you. Encouragement and accountability can make all the difference.
Here is the truth of it all…
No writer starts out knowing everything. Mistakes are part of the learning process, and every draft teaches us something new. The key isn’t avoiding every misstep—it’s continuing to grow and improve, and above all else, to keep writing.
Remember, every bestselling author was once a beginner staring at a blank page.
So give yourself grace, embrace the process, and keep putting words on the page. Your story matters, and someone out there is waiting to read it.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Seth thought God was dead…but ideas tend to linger.
“Kent Priore writes like a natural about the supernatural. American fiction has found a terrific new voice.” —Joseph O’Neill, PEN/Faulkner Award-Winning Author of Netherland
Standing amidst the destruction of Magistrum, great sorrow and guilt weighs upon Seth as he keeps the memory of his mistake close—to continue his growth, to remain good. A concern which lingers through the birth of his daughter, Persephone, labeled a True Born God by the personification of the White Abyss. And due to the sudden death of her uncle, Persephone’s abyssal powers emerge in a destructive way, tearing a hole through the fabric of the world. Thus, solidifying Seth’s worries of managing his own struggles while being father to a god who resembles his past far too much.
Feeling Persephone’s powerful aura pulsate through dimensions, both antagonistic forces begin pursuing her, wanting to eliminate a threat, and make her power theirs. Alongside these heavy stressors, Seth must also deal with the inevitability of Sasha dying the same mysterious way as the other Guild members.
The Earth devolves into a wasteland as the gods ravish the globe, devouring every human they can find. All the while Seth, Sasha, their daughter, and others lay in hiding, waiting for the right moment to strike back, to resist the will of the Abyssian gods—but can they without sacrificing everything they worked so hard to achieve? And will Seth, so burdened by his past actions, endure this, or will he devolve into the monster he once was…the monster he fears his daughter will also become?
Fans of “Jerusalem” by Alan Moore, “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath, or “The Master and Margarita” by Mikhail Bulgakovor will enjoy “The Monsters Among Us.”
“Kent Priore writes like a natural about the supernatural, and The Monsters Among Us is a marvelously dark and true novel. American fiction has found a terrific new voice.” —Joseph O’Neill, PEN/Faulkner Award-Winning Author of Netherland
Seth’s life until now has been a product of a diabolical, evil Truman Show, his entire upbringing a façade orchestrated for malevolent purposes. After his beloved dies, he undergoes a demonic metamorphosis, which causes the world’s fictitious walls to crumble.
As he tries to piece a semblance of his life back together and move on, he meets friends who inspire, but even more harsh truths are revealed, perhaps too difficult to cope with.
The very existence of life and reality is exposed as a machination of grotesque gods. And to defeat them, Seth will have to fill his emptiness, for which there’s only two options… Bring the world to ruin, or learn to transmute his pain into strength.
Fans of “Jerusalem” by Alan Moore, “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath, or “The Master and Margarita” by Mikhail Bulgakovor will enjoy “The Monsters Among Us.”
“I was intrigued from the first sentence, determined to spend the night speed-reading so I didn’t have to remain in suspense any longer.” -Ella Dupuie, author of Fractures of the Fallen
“Supernatural storytelling at its best, this vivid cinematic novel takes the reader on an imaginative journey through what could be considered end of days. The Monster’s Among Us is a masterful creation and a must read—even for those who aren’t fans of fantasy/horror.” —Joni Marie Iraci MFA author of Vatican Daughter
Graduated from Bard College with a BA in the Written Arts, Kent Priore is an author of dark literature, genre-blending epics and vignettes, where dark romanticism meets modern psychology for a macabre but hopeful depiction of inner struggle and the human ability to endure, and perhaps even prevail. He has a fascination with humanity and is one of the few to believe that despite our many weaknesses, we are far stronger than we often think. He wishes to show that strength to those darker individuals, burdened by lonesomeness, poor mental health, and other forces perceived to be out of their control, as well as show them that all is not lost.
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An Interview with the Author…
What are you reading right now? Or what do you have on your TBR that you’re dying to read?
I’m currently reading Edenville by Sam Rebelein! It’s fantastic, and fans of the book would also like The Monsters Among Us and its sequels. Rebelein created a rich cosmology in Edenville that weaves around the entire story, and I did the same for The Abyss Borne Gods books.
Favorite social media site?
None of them! I exist on social media merely because being an author demands I do. Honestly, I’m not a fan of how the internet has evolved, and the heavy role social media has in our lives. There’s a piece of humanity missing from us now—a certain liveliness, personability, wholeness. This is a topic too large for this space, but I prefer to just speak to another human being, face to face.
Favorite Superhero or Villain?
Venom! I enjoy that he is neither a hero nor a villain, and has a host of troubles, mostly psychological. As an author who writes literature centered around dark, morally grey philosophy, Venom’s blend of good and evil speaks to me.
Sweet or Salty?
I’m going to cheat a little here: Sweet AND Salty. Because much like how that combination brings out the best of both its parts, I think this answer encapsulates who I am as a person and author quite well; someone who sees the value in both positive and negative emotions, in not just being one thing while damning the other. To be truly whole as a complex human being, one must invite both sides of the spectrum into oneself.
Any Phobias?
I suppose being alone. Not a very interesting answer, I know. No one likes being alone. But it’s the impetus for how I came up with Seth’s plight and core modus operandi. He cannot stand being alone and he desperately wants to feel whole.
Do you play video games? If so what are some of your favorites?
Yes, I do! This is one hobby I still make some time for. I’ve been playing video games for the last thirty years, and my favorite would have to be the Xenoblade Chronicles series. Though I’m currently absorbed in Pokemon Pokopia.
The Future of Books: How Digital Publishing Is Driving Change
by George Buttleron behalf of Expert Market Research
In recent years, the publishing industry has completely transformed from one dominated by physical bookshops, printing presses and traditional distribution channels into an interconnected digital marketplace that produces new author/reader relationships globally. This new digital age has changed how books are produced, delivered, marketed and read and therefore, created opportunities for existing traditional publishers as well as self-publishing and indie writers alike.
Printed books will always remain important; however, the advent of digital book formats has allowed greater access to both literature and educational resources than ever before! eBooks, audiobooks, online retailers, and self-publishing platforms have vastly altered both the publishing world and readers’ interaction with books.
The Shift from Traditional to Digital Publishing
In the past, it was not only expensive and hard to publish a book; making sure your book reached people was often impossible, due to long wait times and barriers that existed before an author could have their book read.
With digital publishing, there is now a whole new way for authors to publish and distribute their works directly to readers across the globe. Readers can now instantly purchase or have access to books on digital devices, thus eliminating many of the obstacles that traditional publishing had previously created for authors.
Now that authors around the world can publish and distribute their books, the new world of digital publishing has allowed great quality content to reach an audience, regardless of their location or prior publishing experience.
Greater Accessibility for Readers
Accessibility is one of the most significant benefits of digital publishing as readers can access new books without ever having to step foot in a physical store or wait for something to arrive by mail. Books can now be downloaded from virtually anywhere with nothing more than the use of a smartphone, tablet, laptop or e-book reader.
This has resulted in millions of additional people being able to read, thereby providing new reading access to many, because digital libraries, online subscription services and bookstores contain an abundance of books on every conceivable topic. As such, digital publishing has enabled access to more educational material than ever before for students, businesses and lifelong learners.
E-Books Continue to Expand Their Reach
Digital books (e-books) are ongoing as a big change in how we publish. Readers who want different ways to read have turned to digital books because they are cheaper than printed books as well as being easier to carry around.
Now readers can adjust font sizes for their comfort, mark their favourite parts of the book to come back to later, find things within the book if they don’t remember where it is or to write notes using the e-book reader program; all of which have made reading more enjoyable and bringing in people who may not have read before.
Publishing companies also save money from printing, storing and delivering printed books, and thus can use this savings to put more into developing the content of the book and doing marketing to sell more copies.
Audiobooks Are Redefining Reading Habits
A significant factor affecting the publishing industry is the increase in the number of consumers purchasing audiobooks. Many today’s consumers are looking for ways to consume their content while fitting it into their busy lifestyles. Audiobooks allow them to do this.
Many consumers can listen to a book while they are driving to and from work, exercising at home, traveling, or doing daily household chores. The benefit of flexibility has opened a whole new market for audiobooks to reach people who do not typically read books in print.
Publishers are realizing that they need to produce high-quality audiobooks because of the increased demand for audiobooks as a spoken word medium. The use of professional narration, celebrities to read audiobooks, and enhanced production quality have made audiobooks one of the largest segments of the publishing world’s revenues.
Digital Publishing Supports Global Market Growth
Digital Publishing Technology and the Book Industry continues to contribute to the ongoing expansion of the global book publishing sector. Global consumer access to digital reading platforms will be increased as mobile devices become more popular and as internet access improves.
Expert Market Research recently released a report indicating that the worldwide book market size was approximately USD 138.08 billion in value in 2025, and that growth of the book market is likely to continue steadily in the future driven by innovation (in digital formats), the rise in audiobook adoption, and changing consumer reading preferences and behaviours.
The advances in technology are providing opportunities for publishers to reach larger audiences and providing an additional way for publishers to earn revenue and distribute content.
Self-Publishing Has Created New Opportunities
With the advent of digital publishing, many obstacles that formerly made it difficult for an author to publish their work are no longer present. Through recent advancements in technology, writers can have more of a connection to their readers and have access to self-publishing platforms that allow them to maintain creative control over what they produce.
Additionally, authors now can publish their books when they choose to do so, try new types of literature, and interact more directly with those who read their books. Many authors have been able to create successful careers through self-publishing, as they have demonstrated that an author’s ability to produce good material can also be accomplished outside of traditional publishing avenues. The ability to publish digitally has expanded the marketplace and allowed readers to access more unusual forms or types of writing than would otherwise be available to them.
The Role of Data and Reader Insights
Technology has provided publishers with valuable insights into reader behaviour. Digital platforms can help track reading patterns, consumer preferences, and purchasing trends, allowing publishers to make more informed decisions.
These insights enable publishers to:
Better understand audience interests
Improve content recommendations
Develop targeted marketing campaigns
Enhance reader engagement
Identify emerging trends within specific genres
As data analytics becomes increasingly sophisticated, publishers will be able to deliver more personalized experiences to readers while improving the effectiveness of their publishing strategies.
Social Media Is Changing Book Marketing
Books today are discovered online via influencers, book reviews, and reader/author interactions within social media. Many platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Goodreads assist with promoting books through social media.
A book can gain more visibility and sales when it goes viral even if the traditional marketing strategies. It is possible for authors to connect directly with their readers through social media which allows them to engage with their readers, provide them with news about future releases, and provide opportunities to develop more effective relationships with their readers.
Challenges Facing Digital Publishing
Digital publishing offers numerous benefits; however, it does have some drawbacks. Increased competition makes it harder for writers and publishers to get readers interested in their work. Digital piracy continues to be a threat to revenue generation and protecting an individual’s intellectual property rights.
The enormous volume of published materials presents another challenge for both writers and publishers. Therefore, for them to stand out from all the other books and authors that are competing against yours, your book or eBook will need to be marketed properly and have good search engine visibility along with audience participation and high-quality content.
It will be necessary to achieve a balance between continually providing new innovative forms of media while maintaining the highest possible quality in the products you produce.
The Future of Publishing
The future of books and periodicals will be impacted mainly by ongoing technological advancement. Ongoing advancement of artificial intelligence, new recommendation systems, interactive content, and personalization are all likely to have a more significant impact on the publishing industry.
Publishers will probably continue to see growth in subscription services that provide readers with access to a wider variety of content as well as create continuous revenue for publishers.
However, the purpose of books has not changed; readers will always be looking for stories that inspire, educate, entertain and inform. While technologies will change the way we deliver stories, the value of high-quality content will continue to be a key component of the success of the publishing industry and authors.
Author Bio
George Buttler is a business and market research content writer specializing in emerging technologies, digital transformation, and global industry trends. He creates informative and research-focused content related to artificial intelligence, technology markets, and business innovation.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Thirty days. Seven rules. One undeniable attraction.
After her fiancé skips out on her wedding, Murphy Clarke buries herself in her life-coaching career and develops seven rules to protect her heart. Number one? Never take vacations.
Oops. We find her on a month-long vacation in North Carolina, where she’s alarmed by the sparks flying between her and an arrogant yoga instructor. She’s confident, though, that she’ll be able to keep her other six rules… until she isn’t so sure. Of anything.
Noah Andrews’s name was once synonymous with the San Francisco tech industry, but his heart broke – both physically and emotionally. After a heart attack sidelined his career, his long-time girlfriend dumped him. Why is he now so attracted to this woman who seems to embody the life he left behind?
Witty and full of heart, MURPHY’S LAWS is a story of second chances, small-town charm, and the beautiful chaos that comes when you stop following your own rules… and start following love instead.
Fueled by coffee, peanut butter, and popcorn, she writes stories set in fictional towns in northeast Ohio. Terry loves to place her characters in improbably situations, then allows them to take over…uhm…guide the story.
She lives in a small apartment with overflowing bookshelves, her muse, Moose, and all her characters, in North Lima, a real town in northeast Ohio. And, yes, it does get crowded at times.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Shade of Wings is a speculative young adult novel about a family of New York City crows struggling to survive the outbreak of West Nile virus during the sizzling summer of 1999.
For fans of Laline Paull, a speculative young adult novel about a family of New York City crows struggling to survive the outbreak of West Nile virus during the sizzling summer of 1999.
Four-year-old Duncan needs to hurry up and find a mate—at least, according to his sister, Cloud. But she doesn’t know about the mistake that’s preventing him from leaving their family to start another.
Though he’s the eldest, Duncan doesn’t see himself as a father. Yet that’s what he must become when both his parents die of the mysterious illness that’s killing crows across New York City. He devotes himself to caring for his siblings, including three fledglings—but he soon discovers he can’t protect them from the “blind death.”
Meanwhile, a zoo pathologist’s worst fears are realized. It starts with dead flamingos. Then critically ill New Yorkers start showing up in hospital emergency rooms.
Some blame the crows.
A profound story of loved ones sticking together in the face of tragedy and hardship.” – Kirkus Reviews
An amazing and heartfelt read. McGaffin confirms what so many of us already know, that humans should learn from the smart ones around us, even if they’re crows.” – Lori Matsukawa, TV News Anchor and author of Brave Mrs. Sato
“Utterly original! I’m in awe of Pam McGaffin’s deft storytelling—she makes a family of crows both fascinating and deeply relatable. I love a book that leaves me seeing the world with fresh eyes, and Pam accomplishes that in spades.” – Andrea Ezerins, author of When the Forest Dreams
Pam McGaffin always knew she would write books when she grew up.
So, at age 51, after a long career in journalism and public-relations, she quit her day job and went to work. After seven years, countless rewrites, and a seat-of-her-pants course in modern publishing, she released her debut novel, The Leaving Year, with SparkPress Aug. 14, 2018.
Set in the beautiful Pacific Northwest where she grew up, The Leaving Year, is a coming-of-age story about love and loyalty, family and friendship, and the stories we tell ourselves in our search for meaning.
For her second novel, Shade of Wings, she looked to New York City to tell the story of the West Nile virus outbreak from the point-of-view of the first US victims – American crows. She hopes readers fall in love her hapless hero, Duncan, and his plucky crow family. She certainly loved giving them life.
Before tackling novels, Pam wrote short stories and articles. Her short fiction has appeared in the online literary journals, Eclectica and Amarillo Bay, and her articles have been published in many Puget Sound-area publications and websites, including The Daily Herald (in Everett, WA), Bicycle Paper, the MS Connection newsletter, and Seattle Children’s Story Project.
She has a BA degree in Communications Journalism from the University of Washington and certificates in fiction writing and advanced literary fiction from UW Extension.
When she isn’t writing or thinking about writing, she likes to read, walk the dog, swim, bike, garden, and watch birds.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Witness the vile acts of a monstrous heart.
Feel the vicious clash of duality in conflict.
Know the light of protection through valiant courage.
-Winner: 2026 Literary Titan Gold Book Awards: Fiction -2nd Place: 2026 BookFest Awards – Fiction- Dark Fantasy -Book Nerdection “Must Read” -Readers’ Favorite: 5 Stars
Von is cast into the pages of Ananael, the Order’s tome of secret knowledge. However, his venture into the past takes an unexpected turn as he awakens within a cosmic void in the presence of the eternal being, who grants him perspective through others woven through his existence. Yet before he may commence his time-altering quest, a trial of discovery, revelation, and horror surrounding his origin awaits him.
Benson’s monstrous heart sews the seeds of a vile past brimming with betrayal and hate. Through unimaginable deceptions and buried secrets, familial bonds once forged from love, honor, and acceptance are upended and broken forever. The souls of integral births, sprouting from pillaged and neglected foundations, unfurl a path towards disarray.
Distorted memory fragments challenge Von’s grip on reality, and the reveal of a horrid truth ignites a vicious fury of vengeance. Though his quest for answers falters along the way, he finds help from an unexpected ally. Meanwhile, a mysterious power awakens within Navaryn, putting her at odds with both her friends and herself. And as the motivations of Celestine’s leader become questionable, her suspicions involving her role within the Halryn continue to grow.
As the disparate worlds of Celestine and Daeva teeter on the brink of war, Von and Navaryn are drawn together by unseen forces. Two destinies, once parallel, now collide. But where bloodshed beckons, a valiant act of courage challenges the course of their fates.
-Winner: 2025 International Impact Book Awards – Fantasy -2nd Place: 2025 BookFest Awards – Fiction- Dark Fantasy -Winner: 2024 Indies Today Awards – Best Urban Fantasy -Winner: 2024 Literary Titan Gold Book Awards: Fiction -Finalist: 2024 Literary Global Fiction/Debut & Dark Fantasy Sci-fi -Book Nerdection “Excellent Read”
For Rayshell and her best friend Trish, senior year of high school is going to hell in a handbasket. The feud between Celestine and Daeva is bleeding into their world. When a mysterious visitor infiltrates her dreams, Rayshell is thrust into a realm of profound, otherworldly secrets. Together, Rayshell and Trish uncover the unbelievable—they are the living vessels for two banished Celestine guardians.
Amidst mystical recollections and a wondrous magic system that shatters the veneer of their everyday lives, the two friends embark on a journey against time to connect with the Celestine guardians’ allies in hopes of freeing them from their imprisonment. Simultaneously, the shadows cast by Daeva darken. The notorious outlaw, Merisek, has positioned himself to claim dominion over the Order of Existence—a trio of powerful artifacts capable of reshaping reality. Armed with two of these relics, Merisek races against the emergence of the Celestine guardians to claim the third. The stage is set for a showdown that will determine the fate of existence itself.
Rayshell and Trish are all that stand between Merisek and his unhinged desire to twist the fabric of reality into his making. As the threads of destiny unravel, the question looms: who will be the author of existence, and what profound truths will be unveiled in the final, decisive act?Clay Urn Publishing * Amazon * Apple * B&N * Bookbub * Goodreads
Husband & Wife author duo Shannon Vierra & Edward Ayllon write under the pen name S & E Black. Together, they craft the award-winning series, The Chimera Snare. They share a deep appreciation for music and credit a great number of bands and artists for inspiring their writing journey. Currently, they live in the greater Chicago area amidst a rich and diverse culture with their clowder of rescue cats.
Shannon is an urban gardener and an avid seed collector. In the makeup community, she goes by the moniker zoomzoommacaron and hosts an international, zombie-themed makeup collab called the #zombabescollab. She also enjoys anime, horror movies, craft beer & kombucha, cooking (and eating), sunbathing, photography, and singing badly. Music fuels Shannon’s many passions, especially writing and creating art. She credits music with saving her life on multiple occasions in her teenage and young adult years.
Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Edward first discovered the joys of creative writing through his early high school studies, and has spent many years exploring and developing a deep appreciation for the arts. Since first collaborating with his wife, Shannon, he has sprouted a passion and true affinity for storytelling and crafting literature. In addition to refining his skill in creating written works, his other interests include playing bass guitar, listening to music, and dabbling in photography.
Limited-edition hardcover set copies of the books, $20 Amazon/Paypal – 1 winner each! Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHORS
What book do you think everyone should read?
Shannon: Be Water, My Friend, by Shannon Lee.
Edward: Animal Farm by George Orwell.
Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?
Shannon: They come to me as we storyboard and flesh out more of the universe. And each one takes time to develop, so it’s a bit of a process. Even if they’re more minor characters, we still do our best to dial in their vibe, attitude and appearance before we start to insert them into the story. I personally need to see them first, so each character has a complete (or nearly complete) profile.
Edward: It’s a little of both. We make it a point to iron out the framework of what we’re working on, but from time to time there comes a need that a new character can facilitate. That happened a few times while writing “Reflections.” It’s that organic element of writing that can truly bring a sense of spontaneity and liveliness to a story.
Do you prefer to write in silence or with noise? Why?
Shannon: Music all the time. I can’t especially find my zone in silence. Music helps pull my focus and take me out of my head and into the scene I’m working on, making it easier for my mind to find freedom.
Edward: I need music 100% of the time. It helps bring me into the mood or atmosphere of what I’m trying to write. It’s been highly inspirational for the both of us. In fact, we include a page in our books with dedications to the various bands and artists whose music has influenced our writing.
Do you write one book at a time or do you have several going at a time?
Shannon: I will always work on the framework for the coming installments, but for sitting down and writing proper, I work on one at a time.
Edward: I’ve been entertaining the thought of writing multiple books at once. If I can discipline myself enough, I might be able to do it. We shall see.
If you could have been the author of any book ever written, which book would you choose?
Shannon: I’ve never considered this question until now. Perhaps I’d choose Harry Potter so the author wouldn’t be a transphobic twatwaffle who ruined their series for thousands of fans. Trans Rights are human rights. No one should dictate who someone else wants to identify as. Life has no place for this kind of hate. Let people be themselves.
Edward: I couldn’t agree more. There’s no sense in being hateful on account of people simply wanting to freely be who they want to be.
Pen or type writer or computer?
Shannon: Pen and paper for early notes and basic framework, especially on the road. Then I move to the computer to further refine things. I’ve never been great at a typewriter because it’s too rigid for my chaotic approach. I make too many mistakes while typing in general, and sometimes need to start my thoughts over.
Edward: This may be old-school, but I’ve become very fond of using a whiteboard. We got one not too long ago specifically to map out our next book. It’s on wheels, too, so we wheel it into the living room and spitball back and forth over drinks and snacks. I write pretty chaotically as well, so a computer is really the only way to go for me.
Tell us about one of your favorite characters.
Shannon: I tend to favor writing the villains. Joro is a character that we don’t know terribly much about in Fragments, but he is one of my favorites. Not only because he’s a shapeshifter and one of the powers I wish I could have. In Reflections you will get a glimpse into his past to help understand a little about what turned his heart so cold.
Edward: My favorite character to write has to be Merisek, who is Joro’s mentor. He’s presented in “Fragments” as a cold-hearted villain, but you come to find that there’s much more to him beyond the superficial by the end of the book. Then as you dive into “Reflections,” you come to learn more about his origin, his motivations, the life-changing revelation he faces, and how he tries so earnestly to honorably navigate the path that he was unwillingly set on. Put simply, he was a lot of fun to write.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Keeping secrets keeps you alive. Sienna would know.
A hundred different ways to break your heart, a hundred different ways to take your last breath. Sienna and Finn are exploring their strange attraction to each other until strange becomes something sinister. The clock is ticking as they fight to unravel the mystery of what draws them together on fateful Friday, the 13th.
What readers are saying:
A Hundred Black Sunrises is a haunting and emotionally charged horror short that blends reincarnation, cursed love, and inevitable tragedy. The story follows Sienna and Finn, two souls drawn together across lifetimes, only to face the same dark fate again and again. What begins as an intriguing connection quickly spirals into something far more sinister, as the truth behind their bond unravels. Though short, the narrative delivers a powerful mix of supernatural horror and tragic romance. – Alicia Dean, Goodreads Reviewer
Tamela Miles is a California State University San Bernardino graduate student with a Bachelor of Science degree in Child Development and a former flight attendant. She grew up in Altadena, California in that tumultuous time known as the 1980s. She now resides with her family in the Inland Empire, CA. She’s a horror/paranormal romance writer mainly because it feels so good having her characters do bad things and, later, pondering what makes them so bad and why they can never seem to change their wicked ways.
She enjoys emails from people who like her work. In fact, she loves emails. She can be contacted at tamelamiles@yahoo.com or her Facebook page, Tamela Miles Books. She also welcomes reader reviews and enjoys the feedback from people who love to read as much as she does.
A cozy home office/library… prime for writing time!
When people think about successful authors, they often picture inspiration striking like lightning — a writer sitting in a cozy room effortlessly crafting bestselling novels. In reality, most successful authors rely less on sudden inspiration and more on consistent daily habits.
Writing a book doesn’t happen overnight. It happens sentence by sentence, page by page, and day by day.
While every writer’s process looks different, many successful authors share similar routines that help them stay creative, productive, and focused. Whether you’re an aspiring novelist or a seasoned writer working on your next project, adopting a few intentional habits can make a tremendous difference in your writing journey.
Here are some of the most common daily habits of successful authors.
1. They Write Consistently
One of the biggest differences between writers who finish books and writers who don’t is consistency.
Successful authors understand that waiting for motivation isn’t reliable. Instead, they build a regular writing routine — even on days when creativity feels low.
Some write for hours every morning. Others squeeze in 30 minutes before work or late at night. The key isn’t necessarily how long they write, but how consistently they show up.
Progress adds up over time.
2. They Read Every Day
Great writers are almost always great readers.
Reading exposes authors to different writing styles, storytelling techniques, dialogue structures, pacing, and character development. It also helps refill the creative well.
Many successful authors read both inside and outside their genre to broaden their perspective and sharpen their craft.
Remember, reading isn’t a distraction from writing — it’s part of the process.
3. They Protect Their Creative Time
Successful writers treat writing like a priority, not an afterthought.
They create boundaries around their writing time by limiting distractions, turning off notifications, or setting dedicated work hours. Some wake up early before the rest of the world is awake, while others write during their most productive hours of the day.
Protecting creative energy is often just as important as finding it.
4. They Accept Imperfect First Drafts
Many new writers get stuck trying to make every sentence perfect the first time around.
Successful authors know better. They understand that first drafts are supposed to be messy. The goal is progress, not perfection. Editing comes later.
Giving yourself permission to write imperfectly can remove a tremendous amount of pressure and help creativity flow more freely.
5. They Stay Curious
Writers draw inspiration from the world around them.
Successful authors observe conversations, study people, ask questions, and pay attention to everyday details. Curiosity fuels storytelling.
Sometimes the smallest moment — a stranger’s comment, a childhood memory, or a random news headline — can spark an entirely new story idea.
6. They Keep Notes and Ideas Nearby
Ideas rarely arrive at convenient times.
Many authors keep notebooks, voice memos, or notes apps nearby to capture dialogue snippets, story concepts, character ideas, or sudden inspiration before it disappears.
A small idea today could become the foundation for a future novel or even a series.
7. They Embrace Discipline Over Motivation
Motivation comes and goes. Discipline is what keeps books moving forward.
Successful authors understand that not every writing session will feel magical. Some days are difficult, frustrating, or uninspired. But they continue anyway.
The habit of showing up consistently often matters more than fleeting bursts of inspiration.
8. They Take Care of Their Mental and Physical Health
Writing requires mental clarity, creativity, and emotional energy.
Many successful authors prioritize habits that support their overall well-being, such as exercise, sleep, healthy routines, and time away from screens.
Burnout can quickly drain creativity. Rest and balance are essential parts of a sustainable writing life.
Let me speak honestly here… This is my problem. I often take on way too much, and my mental and physical health suffer for it. When that happens, my writing is often the first commitment that gets set to the side. For example, I am a wife, a mom, a full-time Realtor, I am a co-owner of a local lounge bar and wine/bourbon retail shop (The Vine And Oak), I am the owner/founder of a new local theatre troupe (Front Row Theatre Troupe) that does dinner theatre at a local restaurant (Main Street Cafe), and I am an author. That is a lot of hats to wear, and I often find very little time to just focus on myself. White space on my calendar doesn’t exist, so exercise time, meditation time, etc., tend to get forgotten. When that happens, my creativity goes down the drain, and my writing time suffers.
9. They Learn Continuously
The writing journey never truly ends.
Successful authors continue improving their craft through workshops, podcasts, books, classes, critique groups, and feedback from other writers. No matter how experienced they become, they remain open to growth.
10. They Finish What They Start
Starting a story is exciting. Finishing one requires commitment.
Many successful authors develop the habit of pushing through the middle sections, difficult scenes, and moments of doubt instead of abandoning projects too soon.
Finished manuscripts create opportunities. Unfinished ideas stay stuck in notebooks.
There’s no single formula for becoming a successful author. Every writer has different routines, creative rhythms, and processes. However, consistent habits often separate those who dream about writing from those who actually complete books.
Success in writing rarely comes from one perfect day of inspiration. More often, it’s built through small daily actions repeated over time.
Write regularly. Read often. Stay curious. Keep learning. And most importantly, keep showing up for your stories.
Those small habits may eventually lead to something extraordinary.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
One visible spirit. Two phantom thieves. Three courageous friends.
June Brookes has haunted the library at Pinedale High for decades, without attention. Until one day, new sophomore, May Blakely, notices. Could this be June’s chance to cross over to the hereafter? If only she knew what needed to be finished from her old life.
Angsty May prefers solitude. Her deadbeat dad may have ditched her in this small town, but she has no interest befriending this strange girl, or the cute boy across the street.
June’s hereafter hustle goes haywire when two phantom soldiers plot to hijack her passage to peace, at the expense of hurting fellow students. June saves May’s life, igniting their joint efforts to protect the school. Can May help June to her happily ever afterlife?
Don’t miss the rest of the Haunting of Pinedale High books!Find them on Amazon
Celaine Charles lives in the enchanted Pacific Northwest, teaching elementary school by day and writing by the stars at night. She’s an award-winning, multi-genre author who balances her dual life creating poetry, fantasy, and contemporary romance shorts, while blogging about her journey on Steps in Between. In addition, she’s embarking on the world of children’s picture books.
She’s published collections of poetry through Egret Lake Books and Palmetto Publishing Group, and fiction through The Wild Rose Press and Eliza Storm Books.
Celaine is a member of the Pacific Northwest Writers Association, Storyteller Academy, Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and reads poetry regularly with the Museum of Northwest Art, Writing’s on the Wall series.
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Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?
After watching the Netflix movie, Girl Haunts Boy and the Netflix series, School Spirits, I literally wrote my new young adult paranormal fantasy, When June Haunts May, as if it were on the screen!
I pictured my blue-haired angsty sophomore, May, meeting the spirit, June, in her new high school. June pesters her for a friendship in which she has no interest, not to mention she’s dressed like she’s headed to a fifties sock hop. But this girl…ghost…desperately needs to connect with May. She’s the first person to see her in decades, so she must be the key to help her crossover to the other side. In the midst of meeting, they both stumble upon the local high school lacrosse star, Reid, crying by himself in the…rumored to be haunted…woods behind the school.
Hiding behind my writing desk, each main character was in constant motion as this story came to life. And they’re all three going through real emotions the big screen could vividly portray. May prefers loneliness as her safe haven. June’s been alone for so long, she’s a jumbled mess when someone finally sees her. Reid fears the loneliness he predicts is soon to come for reasons they all find out later. This book, without being sad, shines a little light on three different perspectives of loneliness.
The story is set at the start of fall, the colors all golden-green and marigold-yellow at a North Carolinian school, Pinedale High. On campus there’s a wooded area and pond behind the school, with an old neighborhood sprawling out beyond, complete with crumbling sidewalks and overgrown shade trees. The autumn season creates the perfect ambience for this small-town story and would make for a spookily cozy movie any time of year.
May, June, and Reid become unlikely friends, meeting some curiously amazing side characters along the way. They will truly have you smiling and possibly wincing at the same time. And as if figuring out her past isn’t enough for June to deal with in her seemingly small window to cross over, two Confederate soldiers decide to hijack her freedom, putting the whole school in danger.
When June Haunts May has just enough spook, risk, and vulnerability woven in with tender moments that build relationships, including friendship and young love, to make this cozy ghost story the perfect feel-good movie!
I also wrote a novella, Stained Glass Secrets and Star Wishes, back in 2022. It’s a mash-up of Hallmark meets Fantasy, and I’ve always imagined it as a holiday movie on the Hallmark Channel.
A stressed-out, single accountant skips out on life to spend Christmas alone at her family’s snowy, lake cabin. A freshwater fairy, who looks handsomely human out of water, comes to the surface to face his own fears and grief, yet unexpectedly spies her crying through a window. Together with a wish on a star, a snowy ice castle, some Christmas cookie mishaps, and Ollie, the springer spaniel, they fall in maybe-one-day-possibly love.
The whole story makes me gush!
And finally, I’ve been told by many readers of my young adult Keeper Series (Seam Keepers and Dream Keepers), that it should be made into a movie. I guess with my own ADHD, I always try to write my books with strong pacing. It’s a tough one for me because I can get wordy. But hopefully with the art of revision and rereading my stories again and again through that revision process, I smooth the pacing for the most reluctant reader to want to read. And good pacing does make for a great movie!
What a fun question to answer!
Advice they would give new authors?
I would tell a new author to keep writing no matter what. And equal to that, keep reading and learning how to improve your craft. That’s it. New (and seasoned) writers need to continually remind themselves to ignore the noise and negative reviews (unless there’s truly something that will help them improve their writing) and just continue to create and grow in their craft.
Going to writer’s conferences is also a GREAT way to learn the craft and business of writing. There are support systems out there, but writers need to reach out to find them. A writing conference and/or writing class in your community are great ways to get started.
I met my writing critique group through a writing class. Then we all attended a writing conference together. I learned so much while at the same time, increasing my support system. Writing is an isolating experience because we’re generally alone for long periods of time. Critique groups and writing classes can help ease the isolation and provide resources.
So new writers—read, keep writing, ignore the noise, and reach out to find your people and improve your craft!
Describe your writing style.
Always a hard question for me, but this is my assessment of my writing based on what my critique group and beta readers tell me, as well as how it feels when I’m drafting my stories.
I am a lyrical writer working to edit down my long sentences while still trying to achieve the dance and flow of a full story.
There. I said it. I guess you might say I’m overly wordy, but ultimately don’t want to come across that way, so I have to backtrack over all my writing in the revision and editing stages to cut words. I will never be that writer who needs to add more details for word count. Ha! I am the opposite! My stories always need to be cut and tidied up.
Lyrical writing is just part of my process, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
What makes a good story?
For me a good story is all about the characters. I can read a book with an okay plot, if I love the characters. But it’s difficult for me to read any story, if I can’t relate or connect with the characters working through even the most organized plot lines. I’m definitely a character-driven author and reader, both.
Along with intriguing characters, I appreciate lyrical voice and sensory explosion on the page. I want to see, and hear, and taste, and smell everything the characters do. When a simple sentence sweeps me away, I’m in awe of the author and can’t wait to read more.
What are you currently reading?
This is my year of reading ARCs (advanced reader copies) and researching romance. It’s been rough not reading fantasy and poetry, the two genres I love the most, but 2026 filled up fast with several ARC reads for other authors. I am exploring the idea of writing a full-length contemporary romance.
I’m not sure how this happened, but I may have overcommitted myself with ARC reads. With that said, it’s fine. I love helping other authors this way because I need their help in return, and it feels special getting a sneak peek at a finished book that’s not out there yet. Getting those early readers and honest reviews can surely help set a newly launched book in the right direction. So, I am happy to do that. I just happen to have a lot of ARC’s back-to-back right now.
As for romance, this is a new genre for me. I’m already writing short stories with my author’s collaboration project. With fellow writers, SD Porter and Eliza Storm, we are each writing short rom-com style stories to match each holiday. We’ve written one for Halloween (Midnight Meet-Ups), one for Valentine’s Day (Sweet Chaos), and our new collection for the Fourth of July (Caught a Spark) comes out this summer (2026). I’m having so much fun, I think I might want to write a full-length romance! To research, I’m reading a variety of authors in the romance world right now. Most of these have been audiobooks, since I’m busy reading ARCs.
For now, I’m reading books for other amazing authors and swooning about my own one-day romance.
What is your writing process? For instance, do you create an outline first? Do you write the chapters first?
I always think of characters first, no matter what kind of story I’m writing, be it fantasy, contemporary romance, or children’s. After that, I place my characters in a setting that fits them, then loosely point them in the direction of what they want or need until something internal and external gets in their way. Finally, I make as many things rain on their journey…so that we have some kind of interesting story and growth arc in the end.
Writing chapters and scenes help me when I’m stuck. It’s okay to write out of order, and I’ve done this before with books, but I find that it takes me longer sometimes to stitch them back together. For this reason, I try to write as linearly as possible.
When drafting a new story, I do consider plotting plans like Save the Cat and the Three Act Structure, however they are sketched and not written in ink. I ask myself a lot more questions than I used to when planning a story now. I want to know up front what lie they believe about themselves, what childhood trauma might be holding them back, and then how they might use that very fear to save the day.
I’ve always called myself a recovering pantser. My first book took seven years from first draft to publication. Although it was a long journey, I still learned so much on the way. I wouldn’t trade any of that time, however I don’t want to spend seven years on a book again. At my age (not telling) I don’t have time for that. As much as I love letting my characters explore and choose their own story (which I still do to a degree) I have a few mile posts I need them to get to along the way to keep me focused and grounded….and ultimately to get more books in my reader’s hands.
Do you believe in writer’s block?
I do believe in writer’s block, but I’ve learned a few things about the wall that stops the flow of writing and some tips and tricks too.
We all fall into different categories of life and we’re all facing different obstacles in the way of writing (or having time to write). So, the variables are unmeasurable. With that being said, I remind myself that creating is unique for everyone and can be affected by a vast number of reasons. I can’t name them all here but…family and/or job responsibilities, time restraints for a million reasons, health, life surprises (positive and negative), energy levels, and more. Give yourself a break! It’s okay to step back sometimes. Regroup. Start again when you can.
I’ve read that sometimes we get stuck when we don’t know our story well enough. You can work backwards to the place you felt confident and try to angle it in a slightly different direction. Presto! That sometimes works.
Plan a field trip to research my characters (where might they go if they visited my town?)
Drown my sorrows in chardonnay and allergy-free chocolate
Reread all I’ve written again with fresh eyes
Read another author’s ARC
Read book reviews
Work out (I like Pilates)
Write or read poetry
Write something completely new (maybe an article helping other writers)
Pray (this one seriously works for me)
Find some fresh inspiration for my writing space (a new candle, vase of flowers…)
Plan a weekend or even just a day to NOT think about writing and just be
Spend time with loved ones or friends and just live a little (fill up the life tank)
Find a new flavor of tea or coffee to drink while I write
Try plotting a little—if you’re a pantser. Try pantsing a little—if you’re a plotter. The point? Do something different!
Read a writing craft book
Dress up when I write (or maybe dress in character), but sometimes dressing for the occasion puts me in the right mood.
Burn candles or use aroma therapy to set the mood…I like lavender and vanilla
Create mood boards to go with my stories (Pinterest is great for this)
Take my characters out for lunch…or dinner…or coffee…or dancing (whatever might work for the story). By this, I mean that I write a small scene that might never make it into the book, but maybe something to share with readers later.
Here’s a new one, not on my blog post. Find a music soundtrack that coordinates with your story or story vibe. Background music can put me in the mood.
Another new idea, not on my blog post, which works for me most times…set a timer. I like 25-minute sprints, but even if you only have ten minutes, write for that allotted time. You will feel better. And sometimes that’s all we need to get back in the groove.
Nina Soden 