Category Archives: The process

I, The Sun by Janet Morris

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He conquered more than forty nations and brought fear and war to the very doorstep of Eighteenth Dynasty Egypt, but he could not conquer the one woman he truly loved.

I, The Sun

by Janet Morris

Genre: Ancient Egyptian Hittite Historical Fiction

“I, the Sun is a masterpiece of historical fiction.  It tells a great story while accurately creating the world of the Hittites and their best known emperor,” — Dr. Jerry Pournelle.

Suppiluliumas I and the Amarna pharaohs:

Biographical novel of the greatest Hittite king.

From palace coups in the lost city of Hattusas to treachery in the Egyptian court of Tutankhamun, I, the Sun, the saga of the Hittite King Suppiluliumas, rings with authenticity and the passion of a world that existed fourteen hundred years before the birth of Christ.

They called him Great King, Favorite of the Storm God, the Valiant. He conquered more than forty nations and brought fear and war to the very doorstep of Eighteenth Dynasty Egypt, but he could not conquer the one woman he truly loved.

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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. She contributed short fiction to the shared universe fantasy series Thieves World, in which she created the Sacred Band of Stepsons, a mythical unit of ancient fighters modeled on the Sacred Band of Thebes. She created, orchestrated, and edited the Bangsian fantasy series Heroes in Hell, writing stories for the series as well as co-writing the related novel, The Little Helliad, with Chris Morris. She wrote the bestselling Silistra Quartet in the 1970s, including High Couch of Silistra, The Golden Sword, Wind from the Abyss, and The Carnelian Throne. This quartet had more than four million copies in Bantam print alone, and was translated into German, French, Italian, Russian and other languages. In the 1980s, Baen Books released a second edition of this landmark series. The third edition is the Author’s Cut edition, newly revised by the author for Perseid Press. Most of her fiction work has been in the fantasy and science fiction genres, although she has also written historical and other novels. Morris has written, 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.

Janet said: ‘People often ask what book to read first. I recommend “I, the Sun” if you like ancient history; “The Sacred Band,” a novel, if you like heroic fantasy; “Lawyers in Hell” if you like historical fantasy set in hell; “Outpassage” if you like hard science fiction; “High Couch of Silistra” if you like far-future dystopian or philosophical novels. I am most enthusiastic about the definitive Perseid Press Author’s Cut editions, which I revised and expanded.’

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What is something unique/quirky about you?

Together we breed Morgan horses. We consult with Morgan breeders to help them choose crosses to their stock to achieve a desired result.

We are also musicians; Janet plays bass guitar, Chris sings and plays guitar. We have an album on MCA records. Look for Christopher Crosby Morris on Soundcloud or N1M.com

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, High Couch of Silistrain 1975; a friend sent it to an agent who chose to represent her; she had already written the second book in the Silistra Quartet and her agent told her not to disclose that until they finalized the contract for the first one. When the publisher learned of the others, Bantam Books bought the succeeding three. When the fourth book was published, the series already had four million copies in print. Suddenly Janet was a novelist specializing in environmental, gender, historical and political subjects. In the process, Chris started as her editor and ultimately a co-writer. Since then, she and Chris have co-authored many books.

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?

I, the Sun. Writing is very cinematic for me, very visual, so all my stories seem suited to the screen. The make or break in movies is the screenplay, what to include and more importantly what to leave out, because it’s impossible to fit an entire novel into a 2 ½ hour feature. Screen writers welcome.

What inspired you to write I, the Sun?

Years ago, I took a course in self-hypnosis and one of the exercises was to go to a deeper level and imagine meeting a person who would serve as your helper and guide. At a deep level I watched as a door like that of an elevator slowly opened to reveal someone inside. As he stepped out I couldn’t help but notice a large conical crown he wore and immediately asked him who and what he was. He replied, “I am a Hittite.” Then I asked, “What’s a Hittite?” To which he responded, “You’ll find out.” The rest as they say is history.

Convince us why you feel I, the Sun is a must read.

Only recently have archaeological efforts yielded enough biographical information in the form of writings on tablets, usually transcriptions of treaties between powers. Taking time to read these texts tells a story of an evolving empire which I find irresistible to explore. My job then becomes to share with you what made it so exciting.

Who designed your book covers?

Most of our covers, including I, the Sun, 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 we as writers can’t feel what it’s like being there, our readers can’t either. 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 to you, and from you, to us.

The Keys to the Riad by CD Damitio

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Will the keys to the riad be the key to her happiness? Or will they open up the door to ruin?

The Keys to the Riad

by C.D. Damitio

Genre: Metaphysical, Magical Realism, Romance

Colette, the quintessential New York ‘it-girl,’ has a life many envy. But as her 40th birthday nears, she feels an undeniable void. Seeking a unique gift, she discovers a set of ancient North African keys—but what she doesn’t know is that the keys come with ownership of an ancient mansion steeped in magic, historical intrigue, and family feuds.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of modern Africa, Colette embarks on an unexpected journey that takes her far from the familiar streets of New York. As she unlocks each door of the riad mansion, she delves deeper into its hidden passages and whispered legends, revealing stories of love, betrayal, and long-buried secrets. Each room holds a puzzle that Colette must piece together, not only to understand the riad’s mysterious past but to find her true self.

The riad is not without its dangers. As Colette unravels the mysteries that lie within, she encounters a tapestry of characters—some seeking to help, others intent on keeping the riad’s secrets hidden at any cost.

Will the keys to the riad be the key to her happiness? Or will they open up the door to ruin?

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Tapping into his eclectic adventures exploring the physical world, mystical philosophy, and other planes of experience, CD Damitio weaves tales spanning the spectrum of life. Like the storytellers of old, his narratives transport readers into diverse landscapes of the imagination.

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Morgan’s Landing by Linda Griffin

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Where is Julie Morgan?

Morgan’s Landing

by Linda Griffin

Genre: Mystery, Police Procedural

In the small Maryland town of Morgan’s Landing, fourteen-year-old Julie Morgan is living in comfort with her wealthy family. She disappears on her way to school after a spat with her twin sister.

Detective Jim Brady, married and the father of two, has been on the Morgan’s Landing police force for twelve years. He identifies a few suspects in the girl’s disappearance—Is it the fired school janitor, a paroled sex offender, Julie’s computer teacher…or his own teenage son? Jim can’t believe his son could be involved, but his wife is convinced the boy is hiding something.

He needs to find Julie before the worst happens—and keep the peace at home.

“Morgan’s Landing is a fast-paced, unpredictable mystery you’ll devour in a single sitting.”

 ~ Indies Today

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I was born and raised in San Diego, California and earned a BA in English from San Diego State University and an MLS from UCLA. I began my career as a reference and collection development librarian in the Art and Music Section of the San Diego Public Library and then transferred to the Literature and Languages Section, where I had the pleasure of managing the Central Library’s Fiction collection. Although I also enjoy reading biography, memoir, and history, fiction remains my first love. In addition to the three R’s—reading, writing, and research—I enjoy Scrabble, movies, and travel.

My earliest ambition was to be a “book maker” and I wrote my first story, “Judy and the Fairies,” with a plot stolen from a comic book, at the age of six. I broke into print in college with a story in the San Diego State University literary journal, The Phoenix, but most of my magazine publications came after I left the library to spend more time on my writing.

My stories have been published in numerous journals, including Eclectica, Thema Literary Journal, Avalon Literary Review, The Nassau Review, and Orbis, and in the anthologies Short Story America, Vol. 2, The Captive and the Dead, Australia Burns, 2023 in a Flash, and Apocalypse.

Member of the Authors Guild and Sisters in Crime

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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.

When Sparks Fly by Libby Kay

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Romance is in the air with this amazing new series by best-selling author Libby Kay. Pinegrove has it all, sexy firemen, town busybodies, and tons of charm! When these sparks fly, a happily ever after is in the cards!

When Sparks Fly
A Pinegrove FD Novel Book 1
by Libby Kay
Genre: Contemporary Small-Town Romance

Two broken hearts, one charming small town, and a few sparks may be the recipe for love…
Whitney Kerr is at a crossroads—literally. After jumping behind the wheel to flee Savannah, and a bad breakup, this Southern Belle is in search of a fresh start. Stopping in a charming smalltown seems like the perfect place to catch her breath and find herself. It’s too bad a certain fireman with a crooked grin and kind eyes could have her plans of self-discovery going up in a puff of smoke.
Trevor Mays is at a crossroads—figuratively. Still grieving the loss of his father, he was unceremoniously dumped by his fiancée, who quickly rebounded with his work rival. Just as he thinks things can’t get worse, he loses the captain’s promotion—to the man who stole his ex. He’s about to give up on ever smiling again when a curly-haired beauty with curves for days stumbles into his hometown.
With some help from the residents of Pinegrove, this pair will discover that much like the perfect fireworks show, love only needs a spark.

Fans of Sherryl Woods’ Sweet Magnolias series and Sarah Adams’s When in Rome series will fall in love with Libby Kay’s sweet fireman romance. Ms. Kay’s engaging stories fill your heart and head with possibilities and will quickly become your new favorite!

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Libby Kay lives in the city in the heart of the Midwest with her husband. When she’s not writing, Libby loves reading romance novels of any kind. Stories of people falling in love nourish her soul. Contemporary or Regency, sweet or hot, as long as there is a happily ever after—she’s in love!

When not surrounded by books, Libby can be found baking in her kitchen, binging true crime shows, or on the road with her husband, traveling as far as their bank account will allow.

Libby cohosts the Romance Roundup podcast with Liz Donatelli where they recommend romance books and interview authors, influencers, and publishers. Check it out for your weekly dose of romance!

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The Role of Antiheroes in Urban Fantasy

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Urban fantasy is a genre that thrives on complexity, blending the supernatural with the everyday, and often featuring protagonists who are anything but conventional heroes. The protagonists of urban fantasy are often morally gray, flawed, and reluctant to step into the role of the “traditional” hero. This is where the antihero trope comes in—protagonists who might possess some heroic traits but whose actions, motivations, and moral compass diverge from what we’d traditionally expect from a classic hero. They’re not pure knights in shining armor; they’re messy, complex individuals, often caught between personal desires, complicated moral dilemmas, and the pressures of a world that isn’t all black and white.

But why do these antiheroes resonate so deeply with readers, and why do they dominate the urban fantasy genre? Let’s explore their appeal, their complexities, and how they shape the narratives of modern fantasy.

1. The Antihero’s Complexity: Flawed But Relatable

At the heart of every antihero is complexity. Unlike traditional heroes who might be painted in broad strokes of good versus evil, antiheroes are far more nuanced. They are often deeply flawed individuals who struggle with their own personal demons, making them more human (even if they aren’t) and relatable. They might engage in morally questionable actions, but their inner conflict makes them compelling rather than repulsive.

Relatability and Imperfection: Readers are drawn to antiheroes because they reflect the realities of the human experience. No one is perfect, and everyone has their own moral struggles. An antihero’s flaws—whether it’s a quick temper, a tortured past, or a reluctance to accept their destiny—make them feel real. They grapple with emotions like guilt, fear, or self-doubt, just like any reader might. Their imperfections make their victories more meaningful because we can see that they are earned through struggle and growth, not just the result of innate goodness or righteousness.

Take Harry Dresden from The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher, for example. As a wizard and detective in modern-day Chicago, Harry is tough, resourceful, and brave—but he’s also impulsive, sarcastic, and often makes decisions that lead to unintended consequences. His constant struggle between doing the right thing and bending the rules for the sake of expediency makes him deeply relatable to readers. He isn’t perfect, but that’s what makes him a hero in his own right.

2. Challenging Traditional Heroism

Urban fantasy thrives on subverting traditional notions of heroism. In these stories, the world is often a darker, more complicated place, and the lines between good and evil are not always clear. The antihero trope allows urban fantasy to explore themes of power, justice, and morality in a way that is more aligned with real-world experiences.

Gray Morality: In urban fantasy, there is often no simple distinction between right and wrong. The protagonists frequently operate in a world where both sides—the “good guys” and the “bad guys”—are morally compromised. Antiheroes are more likely to make tough, pragmatic choices that skirt the edges of morality, sometimes opting for what is expedient over what is strictly right. These characters aren’t bound by traditional heroic ideals; they are often shaped by circumstance, experience, and survival instincts.

This is particularly appealing in a world where readers often feel disconnected from idealized notions of good versus evil. Anita Blake, from Laurell K. Hamilton’s series, is a perfect example. As a necromancer, she walks a fine line between the human world and the supernatural world, struggling with both her personal desires and the expectations placed on her by society and supernatural creatures alike. Her decisions are often morally ambiguous, and this complexity makes her a fascinating, multi-dimensional character.

3. The Reluctant Hero: Relating to the Everyman

Another defining feature of many urban fantasy antiheroes is their reluctance to embrace the hero’s role. These characters often find themselves thrown into extraordinary situations that demand action, but they aren’t always eager to take on the mantle of heroism. This reluctance makes the character’s journey more compelling, as they must overcome their own hesitation, doubt, or reluctance to do what needs to be done.

The Reluctant Nature: The reluctant antihero often represents the everyman (or everywoman) who is thrust into a world of magic, danger, and moral ambiguity. They don’t choose to be heroes—they are often forced into situations where they must act in order to survive or protect those they care about. Readers find this relatable because, in our everyday lives, most people aren’t actively seeking out challenges or grand heroic deeds. Instead, they are responding to external pressures or trying to survive in a world that can often feel out of their control.

A great example is Mercy Thompson from Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series. Mercy, a mechanic and shapeshifter, finds herself entangled in the supernatural world despite her desire to lead a simple life. She is reluctant to take on the role of protector or leader, but her loyalty to her friends and family forces her to take action. The reader follows her as she struggles with balancing her personal desires and responsibilities, which adds layers of depth to her character.

4. Antiheroes and the Exploration of Personal Morality

Urban fantasy is often more than just an escape from reality—it’s a place where readers can explore the complexities of moral decision-making. Antiheroes serve as ideal vehicles for this exploration because their moral compass is often unclear, shifting between choices that seem right and those that seem wrong. Through them, readers can experience the consequences of these decisions and ask themselves what they would do in similar situations.

Personal Morality and Growth: In urban fantasy, the stakes are high, and antiheroes are often forced to confront their own values and ethical boundaries. This can create a powerful narrative arc, where the protagonist learns to accept their flaws, embrace their role in the larger world, and perhaps even find redemption. The internal struggle of reconciling one’s personal morality with external expectations is a core theme in many urban fantasy novels, making the journey of the antihero one of personal growth and transformation.

In The Iron Druid Chronicles by Kevin Hearne, the protagonist, Atticus O’Sullivan, is a 2,000-year-old druid who initially appears to be morally ambiguous, making decisions that benefit him while also causing harm to others. Over time, Atticus is forced to grapple with the consequences of his actions, leading to growth and self-awareness. His antihero journey challenges readers to reflect on their own values and the consequences of their choices.

5. The Appeal of the Outsider

Many urban fantasy antiheroes are also outsiders—whether they are outcasts from society, marginalized supernatural beings, or individuals who have been abandoned or betrayed. This outsider status gives these characters a unique perspective on the world around them, and often a deep sense of alienation or loneliness. Readers are drawn to these characters because they feel disconnected or out of place in the world, much like many of us do.

Alienation and Belonging: Antiheroes in urban fantasy are often characters who must carve out their own sense of belonging in a world that doesn’t fully accept them. Whether it’s a vampire trying to resist their bloodthirsty instincts, a werewolf struggling to fit into human society, or a human with magical abilities feeling disconnected from both worlds, these characters deal with issues of identity, isolation, and acceptance. Readers, too, often feel like outsiders in their own lives, making these characters relatable and inspiring.

Dresden Files’ Harry Dresden is a great example of this outsider trope. As a wizard in a world where magic is both feared and misunderstood, Harry faces discrimination, loneliness, and isolation. But it’s through these struggles that he grows, becoming not just a hero but a figure that embodies resilience and determination against the odds.

My guess is that the antihero trope resonates so deeply within urban fantasy because it reflects the complexity of human nature. These characters embody flaws, contradictions, and struggles that make them relatable to readers. They walk the line between good and evil, often reluctant to embrace their role as heroes, yet still driven to act in moments of need. Their morally gray actions provide a rich backdrop for exploring themes of power, justice, personal growth, and morality, allowing readers to question their own values and decisions.

In a world that often feels uncertain and complex, urban fantasy antiheroes offer readers a chance to explore the messiness of life, and the human desire for redemption, power, and belonging. Their stories remind us that heroism isn’t always about being perfect—it’s about finding the strength to act in the face of overwhelming odds, and accepting that our imperfections make us all the more real.

The Dog Roses Series by David H. Millar

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Sisters squabble. Queens go to war.

Resolution

The Dog Roses Book 2

by David H. Millar

Genre: Historical Fantasy

Sisters squabble. Queens go to war.

Ten summers ago, victory brought peace and prosperity to Southern Ériu. Danu and Brighid were celebrated as heroes and saviours. The queens scaled the heights, and there was only one way to go.

One twin became overbearing, the other resentful. Pride dug a pit filled with blackthorns between them. They became tyrants, and the kingdom was sundered. The people were left bitter, divided and afraid, and the lush farmlands fell barren. Stripped of their powers, the Dog Roses were no more. Each blamed the other, and neither took responsibility.

Angry parents gave the twins’ brothers an army and tasked them to bring law to the kingdom. An embittered veteran and a beautiful assassin accompany them. Whose gold is in the assassin’s pouch, and what are her orders?

In the Halls of the Aes Sídhe, Draighean is chastised and commanded to return to her wards. “Guide them, support them, or kill them. Just finish what you started.”

An evil philosophy grows, and another army gathers. Can the sisters be reconciled? The people need the Dog Roses, but can they forgive them? Yet, do Danu and Brighid want the responsibility? Do they want their powers returned? Being normal is very tempting.


The Dog Roses: Resolution contains scenes of sex, violence, and language appropriate to the historical period (400 B.C.) and locations in which the story is set. It is not recommended for those under 14 without parental consent.

5-Star Editorial Review (Literary Titan)

The Dog Roses: Resolution is a bold, blood-soaked dive into a myth-soaked world of ancient Ériu, dripping with power struggles, family betrayals, and queens who rule with both sword and seduction. It’s the second book in Millar’s Dog Roses series, and it doesn’t pull any punches. At the heart of it are two sisters, Brighid and Danu, daughters of legendary rulers who were meant to lead with wisdom but fell into tyranny and chaos. When their father sends their brothers to clean up the mess, all hell breaks loose. You’ve got ancient gods, cunning assassins, ruthless politics, and enough battle scenes to make a Roman general blush.

If you’re into Celtic fantasy that doesn’t tiptoe around darkness, The Dog Roses: Resolution will grip you and not let go. I’d recommend it to fans of Bernard Cornwell, lovers of Irish mythology, or anyone craving epic family drama with bite.
— Literary Titan

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Na Feirdhriseacha

The Dog Roses Book 1

You have no weapons, striapach.”
“I am the weapon, tuilí.”

It is 400 B.C. The mist clears, and three triremes glide into the calm waters of the bay in Southern Ériu. On a grass-topped dune, a young girl dances gleefully at the Goddess’s gift.
The warrior princesses, Brighid and Danu, leap over the vessels’ sides into the cold waters and look north towards their ancestral home—the fort of Ráth Na Conall. The clash of weapons is not a good omen.


From his throne in Caher Conri, the depraved Uallachán rages at the sight of the red shield embellished with a swooping black raven and the memories it provokes. He swears vengeance on the daughters of his old adversary.


Draighean, a demi-goddess of the mystical Aes Sídhe, stands alone on the mountain peak. She bites full maroon lips, unhappy at her mission. Yet, does she have a choice? Evil must be confronted and defeated.


Uallachán’s idea of peace is to crush all dissent, but is he no more than a puppet of the powerful kings of the Connachta?


The twins know they must defeat the invasion and stop the enslavement of their people. Still, even with the help of Draighean, the odds are daunting.


The Dog Roses contains scenes of sex and violence and uses language appropriate to the period it is set in, i.e., 400 B.C. It is not recommended for those under 14 without parental consent.

5- Star Editorial Review & Gold Book Award (Literary Titan)

David H. Millar’s The Dog Roses: Na Feirdhriseacha is an exhilarating historical fantasy that plunges the reader into a world of ancient Gaelic warfare, mysticism, and political intrigue. The novel follows the twin sisters, Brighid and Danu, as they navigate their birthright, destiny, and the brutal conflicts that define their world. From the stormy shores of Ériu to the blood-soaked battlegrounds of their homeland, the sisters must harness their strength, wit, and the mystical bond of the feirdhriseacha—the dog roses—imprinted on their chests. Their journey is one of leadership, betrayal, and resilience, all set against the backdrop of Celtic mythology and the harsh realities of Iron Age survival.

The Dog Roses: Na Feirdhriseacha is a gripping read that will appeal to fans of historical fantasy, especially those with an interest in Celtic mythology and ancient warrior cultures. The depth of world-building, the complexity of the characters, and the sheer intensity of the storytelling make this a novel worth savoring. If you enjoy books like The Mists of Avalon or The Last Kingdom, this one should be on your list.
— Literary Titan

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Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, internationally published and award-winning author David H. Millar is the founder, owner, and author-in-residence of A Wee Publishing Company—a business formed to promote Celtic authors and literature.

David is the author of the five-volume, ancient Celtic-based Conall series and the spin-offs The Dog Roses, The Dog Roses: Resolution, The Blood Queen and Brianag: A Blood Queen Novel.

David resides in Houston, Texas, with his family and two recent family members, tuxedos Beau and Stiletto.

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Meet some of the Main Characters:

Brighid (28)

Hot-headed and impulsive, Brighid (BREED) is twenty-eight years old and is the fire to Danu’s (DAH-noo) ice. Disenchanted by her sister’s continual disregard for her counsel, Brighid left their stronghold for a stone headland fort. Like a younger version of her mother, Brighid has a dark streak and a talent for terror. Thus, while Danu chose to rule by bedroom intrigue, Brighid chose conquest, an iron fist and fear.

The twins’ chosen path leads the demi-goddess and custodian, Draighean (DRYNE), to strip them of their powers. For the first time, the Dog Roses are truly alone.

Like Danu, Brighid has her mother’s deep emerald eyes and her father’s auburn hair and is above-average height. Her body is swathed in swirling indigo-blue designs on her face and arms. Born as the sun rose, Brighid’s long tresses have highlights of summer gold.

Danu (28)

Twenty-eight years old, Danu (DAH-noo) is the twin daughter of Conall (KON-ul) and Mórrígan (Moe-rig-gAHn) and is marginally the eldest. Danu is introverted and keeps her thoughts to herself, but she is also domineering. She is a pragmatic, strategic thinker, aloof, and prone to making decisions without consulting Brighid (BREED). This ultimately causes friction between the sisters, leading to their break-up and a divided kingdom. Danu rules her kingdom as a tyrant, using sex to forge powerful alliances.

The twins’ chosen path leads the demi-goddess and custodian, Draighean (DRYNE), to strip them of their powers. For the first time, the Dog Roses are truly alone.

Danu is above-average height; she has her mother’s deep emerald eyes and her father’s auburn hair. Born before dawn, her long tresses have highlights of silver blue. Danu’s body is swathed in swirling indigo-blue designs on her face and arms, which are energised by the sun and appear in constant motion.

Draighean (Ageless)

Draighean (Blackthorn, DRYNE)) is a powerful demi-goddess of the Aes Sídhe (ASH SH-ee). Her domain is the winter and, with it, snow, hail, ice, northerly winds, and rain. She reluctantly assumes custody of Danu and Brighid. Their descent into despotism appears to justify Draighean’s low opinion of humans. She is furious with their behaviour and removes their Dog Roses’ powers. However, a more powerful Sídhe chastises her for failing her wards and commands her to return.

Draighean is ageless and a startling beauty, even for a demi-goddess. She is taller than most men and women. Pale hands, with nails painted dark red. Long, thick tresses of black rest over pale shoulders. Contrasting thin, auburn braids accent her hair and are perfectly coordinated with maroon lips and fingernails. In the rising sun, Draighean’s skin takes on an attractive, if faint, pink hue; in the moonlight, her skin changes to a faint blue tone. No one can determine her eye colour because it is so deep as to appear obsidian. Dark swirling designs cover her body.

Tisiphone (26)

Tisiphone’s name means “voice of revenge” after one of the Greek Furies. Born in the Mediterranean port of Massalia (Marseille), she is the outcome of the brief liaison of an Etruscan sailor and a Greek whore. As a child, she never knew her father. Likely, if he knew of her existence, he had no ambitions to accept the role. Her mother was inattentive rather than neglectful.

At fifteen summers, Tisiphone is the whore over whom men and women lusted. As an adolescent, she becomes the assassin everyone fears. Yet she remains addicted to the ephemeral desire in men’s eyes and never deserted whoring.

Age increased Tisiphone’s sensual beauty. Brown eyes sit in a field of honey-almond skin. Thick tresses of long, chestnut-brown hair tap her ass cheeks as they rise and fall with the upward roll of her hips. She is taller than average, and her voice holds a seductive huskiness or an edge of steel as sharp as the blades she wielded.

Lonán (50)

Plain-spoken and unimaginative, Lonán (LUH-nawn) is a man of few words who does not suffer fools. Once a trusted, battle-scarred veteran and efficient killing machine who fought at Conall’s (KON-ul) side, he is bitter at being repeatedly passed over for higher office due to his age. Injured at the battle for Rome, he needs a staff to walk. His injury removed his ability to show his anger, making him furious.

Lonán misinterprets, perhaps deliberately, Conall’s orders. He has no love for Danu (DAH-noo) and Brighid (BREED) and is prepared to assume the burden for their deaths.

Physically, Lonán is a mountain of a man whose body is built from granite and scar tissue. His demeanour is that of a disgruntled, resentful man who has seen his plans shatter and is not cunning enough to disguise his anger.

Calman Mor (30)

At thirty summers old, Calman (CAL-man) is a tyrant and the most successful raider among the Mhór Midhe, a tribe he sees himself as its king. His demeanour is almost Druid-like, yet all know his reputation for brutality is well-deserved. He is an animal but like a wolf, not a boar. He is a monster who places no value on human life and fears neither death nor the Goddess.

A ruthless, dishonourable leader fond of violence, Calman is also astute and observant. He delights in violence, and his goals are simple: accumulating power, territory, and wealth. Like many despots, he is cruel and does not take criticism kindly. Of average height and muscular, he sports a scruffy beard. His cold, dark eyes seem devoid of humanity.

Aodán (26)

voice was quiet, but the iron it held was as good as a punch to the gut chin set in a remarkable semblance of his father reddened and his jaw set blue eyes well-endowed in one particular area uncharacteristic smidgen of anxiety, which did little to quell his younger brother’s rising apprehension. Honest. Beard. smiled disarmingly saw a glint of steel in Aodán’s blue eyes and watched his jaw stiffen. Astute

Barra (24)

cavalry tactician and horseman; better tactician for mounted manoeuvres.young but not stupid a brawler Barra took after his adopted father, Torcán. Hence, he was a brawler Humour Impish Manhood, well-endowed in one particular area Barra had many admirable qualities, but subtlety could never be described as one

The Karma Series by Laura Simmons

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A chilling tale of loss, tragedy, psychic warfare, and eternal love.

Tough Karma: A Race Against Time

The Karma Series Book 1

by Laura Simmons

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy

“Tough Karma – A Race Against Time took my preconceived idea and previous experience of Paranormal Romance, rolled it into a tight little ball and slam dunked it in the bin of old experiences.” The International Review of Books

A chilling tale of loss, tragedy, psychic warfare, and eternal love.

Amber Macklin’s world is cruelly shattered when she loses her baby girl three months after her husband’s sudden death. Her cousin, Bryce, comes to her rescue, moving her into his home for fear she will kill herself from the grief. He provides solace and a shoulder to cry on, and he has loved her as more than a cousin for a long time. Amber and Bryce soon discover they are not blood relatives, which opens the door for romance as he pulls her through her darkest hours. When Mike, a college friend of Bryce’s, stops by to visit, Amber senses a deadly secret behind his nice guy persona. She has a frightening dream that Mike is trying to kill her and recurring sleepwalking episodes where she draws detailed pictures of him torturing her. Deeply troubled, Bryce uses his ability to astral travel to investigate Mike and uncover his terrifying past. Mike has had his eye on Amber for some time, and when he learns that Bryce and Amber have become lovers, he is furious. Mike abducts Amber and takes her to his rural Georgia hideaway, and Bryce must rely on his astral abilities to track her down. But will he be too late?

Tough Karma is a stand alone novel. The astral adventures continue in Dark Karma: Sword of Vengeance.

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Dark Karma: Sword of Vengeance

The Karma Series Book 2

“Dark Karma is a fascinating story that would surely be loved by any fan of fantasy and romance. Simmons proved herself a competent author in writing a tale of angst, magic, and determination.” Reader Views

What would you do if you woke up one morning and your world was inexplicably changed in the worst way imaginable?

Banished by his enemy into a hellish alternate dimension, Luke Decker fights to understand why his world has suddenly changed, and why is he on trial for the murder of his beloved Nina? What he doesn’t know is she’s not dead. Nina watches him vanish into thin air and is completely bereft, struggling to find out how and why he disappeared. Using all of her psychic talents and traversing the astral realm, she frantically searches for him to no avail. She owns a secret item which holds the key to his salvation, but will she figure it out before he’s condemned to live the rest of his life in a realm of darkness?

This remarkable tale of vengeance, time travel, and dark magic is even more enjoyable if you read Tough Karma: A Race Against Time first.

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Karma: The Resolution

The Karma Series Book 3

This story picks up where Dark Karma left off. Enjoy the next thrilling adventure into alternate dimensions!

“From the first time I saw you back in the 14th century to the day I was imprisoned in the dark realm, you have lived in my dreams and my heart,” David said to Maddie. He knows that she is the reincarnation of his beloved Cara. Can he convince her that they shared a past life? Will she still want him once she learns the truth? And what about the evil immortal who wants her dead?

“If I can pull a cat from a dream, I can rescue Mori from where she’s being held prisoner,” thought Noah Colton. Each night Mori comes to him on the astral plane, begging for him to save her and vanishing before he can follow. Terrified that she will soon be killed, he travels to another dimension to rescue her and bring her to his home. But what will happen when her captors track her down?

Two, out-of-this-world romantic fantasy stories unfold as David and Noah battle dark forces to save the women they love. Find out what happens when the unexpected intervenes and changes everything in these interconnected stories.

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Little Bits of Karma

The Karma Series Prequel

A captivating reincarnation romance of redemption and forgiveness.

Even though Holly O’Rourke is having problems with her longtime significant other, James, she has never entertained thoughts of infidelity…that is, until the day she has a chance encounter with Charlie, a handsome coworker. James promises he will change and work on their relationship, but Holly’s feelings for Charlie just won’t go away. Distressed by her mixed emotions, Holly schedules an appointment for a reading with a psychic medium, where she discovers her adulterous past lives and their tragic consequences. Holly learns to do her own past life regression through self-hypnosis and uncovers not only lives that she shared with James and Charlie, but how the other people in her present life have been with her in the past—the threads of their lives interwoven for centuries. Holly is stunned by recurring themes and the issues of karmic justice that need to be addressed. Where will her karmic path ultimately lead? Find out in Little Bits of Karma, an entertaining new book about spiritual cause and effect.

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Laura Simmons grew up in northern Virginia and spent most of her career working for various Department of Defense contractors in the Washington, DC area. She has a fascination with all things metaphysical and mysterious. She enjoys adult coloring books, writing, jigsaw puzzles, arts and crafts, and vacationing at the beach. 

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Rose Island by Zander Hatch

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Uncover the Secrets. Survive the Island.

Rose Island

A Team Novel #1

by Zander Hatch

Genre: Military Action Thriller

Uncover the Secrets. Survive the Island.

In the high-octane realm of military thrillers,Rose Island stands out with its masterful blend of espionage and covert warfare. Set against the backdrop of a forgotten Cold War bastion that harbors earth-shattering secrets, former Marine turned clandestine operator Jake Harper is drawn back into action when a top-secret rescue mission calls him to an island erased from every map—a place steeped in mystery and guarded by deadly forces.

Charged with leading a special operations team amidst the threat of a looming hurricane, Harper and his team, with their unwavering courage and resilience, must navigate the treacherous mysteries of Rose Island. As they unearth hidden bunkers and tangled alliances, each revelation plunges them deeper into a whirlpool of political intrigue and betrayal. The island, a forgotten relic of Cold War experiments, holds secrets that some will kill to protect.
Their mission escalates in complexity when they cross paths with a renegade unit of mercenaries with connections to enigmatic international powers. These well-trained, heavily armed adversaries are resolute in their intent to exploit the island’s secrets for their own sinister ends.

With time running out, their mission evolves from a covert infiltration to a desperate fight for survival. Harper’s resolve is tested as past emotional entanglements with a team member add layers of complexity to his leadership. As the storm bears down, they face the natural elements and a formidable enemy in a climactic showdown that promises to blend their fates with the island’s dark history.

Dive into Rose Island, where survival clashes with the ghosts of history, crafting a narrative so tense and gripping that it will leave readers breathless until the last page is turned.

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Zander Hatch, a US Marine veteran, blends his extensive military experience with a talent for storytelling to create thrilling, authentic narratives. Drawing from global deployments, Hatch’s writing in Rose Island offers an immersive experience in tactical expertise and unyielding suspense. Dive into his books for a gripping journey through the realms of action and adventure, where courage meets the climax of military strategy.

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Nontraditional Plot Structures by Margie Pignataro

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A FREE ebook that introduces neurodiverse writers (and neurotypical) to plot structures beyond the commonly used hero’s Journey. These plots are emotionally accessible, highly creative, and more “traditional” than you’d expect.

Nontraditional Plot Structures for Neurodiverse Writers

by Margie Pignataro

Genre: Nonfiction Literary Theory, Writer’s Guide

Born from a rejected dissertation proposal and reworked over the course of 15 years into a compelling exploration of narrative, Nontraditional Plot Structures for Neurodiverse Writers challenges conventional storytelling norms. This free ebook delves into how nontraditional plot structures resonate with neurodiverse writers, offering creative frameworks that align with their artistic and intellectual strengths—traits often mislabeled as obstacles.

Through engaging diagrams and dozens of links to free resources, this book examines storytelling across diverse mediums, from Oedipus the King to Squid Game, spanning novels, poetry, visual arts, television, film, theater, and even commercials. The Mona Lisa and Little Red Riding Hood provide illustrated and textual examples of each plot structure. Whether you’re a writer seeking fresh approaches or an artist questioning traditional narratives, this guide provides valuable insights into storytelling beyond the expected.

This ebook lays the groundwork for a forthcoming second edition, arriving next year, which will expand upon these ideas with deeper textual analyses, practical exercises, and hands-on guidance to help you craft your own unique narratives.

**Get it completely FREE!!**

at SeizeTheCow.com or HERE

I have been writing with serious intent for thirty years. I’ve been published and produced multiple times. My education has focused on literary theory, theater history and criticism, as well as creative writing. I also sell my collage art in a Redbubble store.

I have been published as a playwright. I had articles about Shakespeare published, as well as blog pieces. I’ve self-published several novels and one book of poetry under the name Lady Ristretto. I have also worked as a freelance erotica writer with individual clients.

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