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.
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.
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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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.
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.
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.
When PJ and his team of Paranormal Pursuers unearth the sinister secrets of the Scottish village of Pittenweem’s witch-hunting past, they must confront the malevolent spirit of a young boy to save the villagers from chaos and terror.
The Phantoms of Pittenweem PJ and the Paranormal Pursuers Book 2 by Jacqui Dempster Genre: YA, Teen Paranormal Adventure
After moving from New York to Edinburgh to live with his aunt, PJ very quickly discovered the parallel worlds of the living and the dead when he was forced to battle the evil Mackenzie Poltergeist at Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Now, PJ and his fellow ghost-hunting friends are invited to stay in the picturesque fishing village of Pittenweem in Fife, a place which, unbeknown to them, has haunting echoes of its witch-hunting past.
However, their holiday promises to be anything but peaceful, as witchcraft and superstition threatens to bring terror and chaos to the villagers and the Paranormal Pursuers must face off with the malevolent spirit of a young boy, Patrick Morton. Can they find a way to prevent him from reviving the dark and sinister past of Pittenweem before it’s too late?
After his mom dies, PJ reluctantly leaves his New York home and everyone he loves, to live with his Aunt Katie in Edinburgh. A series of strange events begin when his aunt’s elderly neighbour and her cat Azrael convince him that his mom, weirdly, is still very much with him. At a bereavement counselling group, PJ makes a new group of friends, all of whom have lost loved ones. Drawn together by their shared experiences, they soon discover they have something else in common; an interest in the supernatural. Freya is the daughter of a white witch, Sunny has a scientific and enquiring mind and Shuggie, a superfan of ghost hunting programmes. Led by PJ, they try to prove that there is life after death and that their loved ones are still with them. The team receives strange messages leading them to investigate Greyfriars Kirkyard where they experience terrifying paranormal activity and PJ is drawn into the clutches of the evil Mackenzie Poltergeist after reciting a famous rhyme that invites the restless spirit to draw back the bolt of his scary mausoleum to allow him entry. There, he finds himself in a fight of good against evil with the ghost of Sir George Mackenzie.
“If you are, or know someone who is a teenager with a newfound interest in the supernatural and paranormal, this is the book for you.” The Courier and Advertiser (Fife Edition)
“PJ and his friends make a great group of characters, and there’s lots of laughter to be had as well as scares, while ‘auld reekie’ provides the perfect backdrop for these ghostly goings-on.” LoveReading4Kids & LoveReading4Schools
“This is a terrific story for teen readers to devour on a spooky autumn evening.” The School Librarian (TSL)
Jacqui Dempster qualified as a solicitor in 1999 but now works as a malpractice investigator for an education and qualifications organisation. She lives in Dunfermline, Fife, with partner, Andrew, and various ‘borrowed’ doggies who visit regularly. Jacqui loves dogs, especially Jack Russell Terriers and thinks if they ruled the world, it would be a better place! The doggy motifs on the cover of her books represent Dug and Buddy who belong to the characters, Shuggie and PJ. Dug is based on Jacqui’s own beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Smudge, and her grandpup, Gus, both of whom have sadly passed over the Rainbow Bridge. Jacqui loves theatre and ran performing arts schools for young people in Fife. She produced and directed various shows at the Edinburgh Fringe. When not either working or writing, she loves to paint and crochet, and of course, read books. Her first children’s book in this series, PJ and the Paranormal Pursuers– The Mackenzie Poltergeist, was published by The Book Guild in 2021. Jacqui explains: “The supernatural has featured in my life since I was young, with a grandfather who saw ghosts regularly and other members of the family, on my Welsh side, having strange experiences and even dabbling in magic! I studied on the Edinburgh University Koestler Parapsychology course to learn about the science of the Paranormal. I have also been on a few ghost investigations with mixed results. I live in Fife nowadays and often visit the beautiful towns and villages within the county. Fife was one of the famous areas where ‘witches’ were persecuted, and the story of the Pitteweem Witches is particularly well known. In my book, the story is told for a younger reader involving a contemporary allegory about one of the young characters, Freya, who is a Wiccan. The subject of Scotland’s witches came up in 2022, when an apology was issued by the then First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon to those persecuted, tortured and executed, and MSPs were invited to consider legislation to pardon them. I enjoy writing about various places we’ve visited, and especially about any with spooky stories attached on my Medium Daily Digest blog.” Jacqui loves history and enjoys embracing fact with fiction in her books which she hopes encourages not only a love of reading in young people but also the desire to learn about events of the past which often influence the present and the future.
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Who are the Dogs on the Cover of PJ and The Paranormal Pursuers – The Phantoms of Pittenweem?
Well, the small white dog, who appeared on the cover of my first PJ book, The Mackenzie Poltergeist, was designed from a photograph of my beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Smudge. Sadly, at the time the first book went to print, Smudge, who was almost 17 had been terribly ill for a while. The book has a dedication to him but he went to the Rainbow Bridge before publication and I wanted his memory to live on. He does so as ‘Dug,’ Shuggie’s JRT in the book and as the motif on the covers. The other dog, added for the Phantoms of Pittenweem is modelled on Gus, another family dog. He was a Schnauzer who was also a lovely soul. When he wasn’t freshly groomed, he was a shaggy dog on whom I modelled Buddy, PJ’s dog. Gus had also travelled the Rainbow Bridge by the time the new book was published and he joins Smudge on the cover of my second book.
As many people will understand, the grief of losing a pet, who is very much a family member, friend and companion is hard – often just as hard as losing a human. I was devastated at the loss of Smudge and resolved never to have another dog of my own because the pain and trauma was too great. I know that many people say that you should offer another dog a happy home and believe me, I have been tempted – until that wave of grief crashes over me and reminds me of what we went through. I have written about Smudge extensively on my blog; one part (For the Love of Smudge) telling his story and the second part (I’m only talking to my dog today) which explains the strange events after his death which convinced me he was still around and sending messages to say he was OK. These can be found here: Jacqueline Dempster – Medium. I hope that the articles help those of you who find themselves grief stricken after the loss of a beloved pet.
My days of doggy love are not over, however. Although we don’t have any of our own, we did join an organisation called ‘Borrow my Doggy,’ which offers just what it says on the tin! For a small annual fee, you can offer to borrow other people’s doggies when they need company during the week or a place to stay when their people want to go on holiday. It’s worked out brilliantly for us and we’ve had the joy of looking after Winnie, a Jack Russell Terrier (who looks remarkably like Smudge) and Arlo who is a very cheeky little JRT/Shih Tzu cross. We also look after our grandpups, Willow (guess what – a JRT whose arrival as a pup was accurately predicted by one of the animal psychics I consulted after we lost Smudge) and Pepper, a Poodle/Bichon Frise cross. We have a new boy, Joe, (JRT) coming to visit and stay for holidays very soon! I am certain that Smudge knows that we’ll never replace him but has a hand in bringing all these perfect friends into our lives. It is very strange how all of the borrowed doggies who’ve arrived on our doorstep have been JRTs and I am certain our boy has a hand in it. To be honest, I love each one of them dearly and while they are not our dogs, the grief of losing any of them will be hard. I can console myself, however, knowing that we’ve been able to give them a welcome and the comfort of a loving home from home whenever their mums and dads need a holiday, or just to stop them getting lonely while their people are working. They return the love in spades and I wouldn’t be without them. They’ve also been very willing to read my books as you might gather from the photographs!
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New Age Crime Thriller That Will Leave You Breathless From Shock And Excitement! ‘Sci-fi and mystery readers shouldn’t miss this one!’
“The settings and the unusual killings make for compelling, often unexpected material…A detailed, futuristic detective story that is anything but typical.” – Kirkus Reviews
“A scrumptious mix of suspense, mystery, and intrigue makes Persephone’s Pool a delightful treat that sci-fi and crime lovers will relish.” – Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite
Seven meets Lucy in this New Age Crime Thriller that takes investigators to different crime scenes on multiple planets on a dangerous, mythological game of cat and mouse!
A hundred years from now people can visit any planet in the solar system and take a vacation. Despite all of the technological advancements, a new craving emerges: spirituality. With the Age of Aquarius on the threshold, intergalactic murders involving mythology begin. And it’s up to two investigators to find out why. But the further they get into their investigation, the more dangerous the game becomes.
‘Author Marie Montine repeatedly pulls the rug out from under your feet with a plot featuring multiple twists and turns you never see coming. The reveals are unexpected and shocking. What impressed me is how Montine provides each character with enough urgency and distinct personality traits so that the reader is completely invested in their story arcs. The setting feels believably futuristic, which makes the story very immersive. You don’t know if your favorite characters will make it out alive, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. Sci-fi and mystery readers shouldn’t miss this one!’ – Readers Favorite
Marie Montine’s work includes paranormal horror, supernatural sci-fi, and dark fantasy. But there’s always one major theme in her stories: the power of love. Many readers and reviewers have claimed Marie Montine is an author to watch for. Red River won an award for best romantic suspense with ChickLit Cafe. She recently finished writing Persephone’s Pool, an intergalactic crime thriller released on April 8, 2025.
The author is also a level one student with CAAE and you can find her love of astrology woven into stories like Midnight on Mars and Persephone’s Pool. Marie lives and works in northern Canada with her husband and poet, Alvin J Beck, and their dogs, Luna and Mya. When she is not working or writing, she enjoys gaming and getting cozied up with her husband and dogs watching movies or tv series.
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What inspired you to write this book? I was in a bad place more than a decade ago, very lost, got to the point of self-destruction. There was a stranger who bumped into me one day, and told me things about life, things that clicked with me because these were things I was always interested in but never pursued. Something happened that day, it sparked my mind and my soul. This book I wrote is actually the product of that day, the culmination of my life turning around, finding my true love, and getting back into writing. This book represents what the stranger told me.
What can we expect from you in the future? I would actually love to write more crime thrillers based on astrology like Persephone’s Pool.
How did you come up with the concept and characters for the book? I have been wanting to write this story for a while. I knew I wanted one that had more astrological prevalence, and I wanted to do it in a fun way, to showcase how awesome mythology and astrology can be.
What did you enjoy most about writing this book? I think the whole process was enjoyable because this was actually the easiest story I had ever written because when they say the book wrote itself, well, this one did! And didn’t have to do too much research like I did with Midnight on Mars because I already knew so much astrology.
Tell us about your main characters- what makes them tick? The main characters are Hades and Persephone, (for spoiler reasons, I can not reveal the characters’ names) and while they are in their current incarnation, they act out of their current personalities, needs and wants. But in their soul’s undercurrent swims a need from past incarnations, and careful readers will see this manifest throughout the story until the climax. Will Persephone fall victim once again to Hades’ power and control? Or will she break and free and create her own power?
Anything specific you want to tell your readers? Many of my books have a common theme of Hades and Persephone, of love vs hate, light vs dark. And of sacrificing for love. Two of novels contain astrology in there: Persephone’s Pool, and Midnight on Mars. I hope people don’t mind that and love the characters as much as I do.
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.
Asleep inside a bronze statue, a naked Frenchman wakes a century later to save a half-Fae, museum curator from a demon bent on ruling our present-day world.
Heaven-Sent Warrior Warriors in Bronze Book 1 by Nancy Lee Badger Genre: Paranormal Romance
Henrí Chevalier’s last memory, before stumbling naked into a museum’s moonlit garden, was Auguste Rodin and his dusty Paris studio in 1886. To escape his broken heart, Henrí volunteered to sleep inside a statue until needed. Expecting to die, he discovers he must learn to use the unexpected powers Heaven has given him. Without them he will fail his mission against otherworldly creatures, such as demons and faeries.
Kenzie Mackintosh, a dedicated art museum’s curator, spies a naked man hiding among bronze statues. A quick glance ignites desire within her, but she is too tied-up in work to act on it. Unaware of her fae heritage, their relationship heats up as he disrupts her job. While Henrí tries to process modern buildings, cars, and a broken elevator, a demon attacks and forces Henrí and Kenzie to enlist the aid of her powerful fae relatives. When the demon possesses the body of her ex-lover and threatens to kill him, then use her to take over the world, Henrí and Kenzie must learn to trust each other, even if Kenzie’s death might be the only answer to the world’s salvation.
Nancy Lee Badger grew up in Huntington on New York’s Long Island. After attending Plymouth State, in New Hampshire, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree and met and married her college sweetheart. They raised two handsome sons in Rumney, New Hampshire while she dreamed of being a writer. When the children had left the nest, and shoveling snow became a chore, she retired from her satisfying job as a 911 Emergency Medical Dispatcher and moved to North Carolina, where she writes full-time.
Nancy is a former member of Romance Writers of America and its local chapter, The Heart of Carolina Romance Writers, as well as the Fantasy-Futuristic & Paranormal Romance Writers. She is currently a member of the Triangle Association of Freelancers based in the Raleigh area. She finds story ideas in the most unusual places.
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.
She was a servant. He was the Alpha Prince. The bond was never supposed to happen.
Claiming My Mate Wolf Hollow Pack Book 1 by Nicole Howl Genre: Paranormal Romance
Lily has spent the last year as a captive of the Huntington’s, the Wolf Hollow royals. They’ve been away touring their other pack lands, but they’re back now…and have turned her new life upside down.
Jason is the future Alpha and King of Wolf Hollow. He’s just biding his time until he can do whatever he wants without the threat of his father hanging over him – at least, he was until he met his mate.
With every aspect of their lives attempting to keep them apart, can Lily and Jason get a happily ever after?
Nicole is a 32-year-old who still escapes into fictional worlds to avoid her adult responsibilities. It shouldn’t come as a shock then to find out that she will devour just about any book and has since she was a young girl. It doesn’t matter whether the book is dark, twisted, and full of smut or if it’s light, breezy, and sweet, she’s reading it.
Don’t be alarmed that she’d rather read a book than interact with you – it’s not your fault, she just doesn’t know how to people. Talk to her about what she’s currently reading or her favorite book and then you’ll find out she doesn’t know how to stop talking, so be careful what you wish for.
She lives with her husband of 5 years and her adorable dog-child, Ollie. She writes romance – paranormal, dark, contemporary, and more. Keep an eye out for her next book.
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.
Poverty, prejudice, her mother’s addiction…in her quest for an education, 15-year-old Thea tries to navigate them all. But will a secret ultimately undermine her efforts?
Thea by Genevieve Morrissey Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Oklahoma City, 1925
Fifteen-year-old Thea Carter lives in a small garage apartment—Thea’s seventh “home” in four years—provided by her alcoholic mother’s employer, the morose and enigmatic Dr. Hallam.
School is Thea’s refuge and she’s an excellent student, but the parasitic Mrs. Carter’s instability continually threatens her dream of getting a high school diploma. In an effort to keep her mother employed and the two of them housed, Thea secretly takes on much of her mother’s work while at the same time navigating adolescence, friendships, and first love.
Dr. Hallam, impressed by her drive and intelligence, becomes Thea’s unexpected ally, but in addition to wealth and position, the doctor also has a secret that could ruin him, and shatter his bond with Thea.
“Thea is a coming-of-age tale with a lot of heart and charm. Author Genevieve Morrissey has written a moving story about a young girl’s journey of self-discovery…. Morrissey’s characters truly leap off the pages….. It’s a fantastic coming-of-age story for young adults and even older readers!” – Reader’s Favorite Review
Thea is the new historical novel by Genevieve Morrissey, author of the award-winning Marriage & Hanging and the popular Antlands science fiction series. She is an avid student of British and American social history who, through one of those strange little quirks of fate, spends most of her days talking with scientists. In addition to writing, Genevieve enjoys reading obscure books, travel, and solitude.
Would you like a chance to win a$10 Amazon gift care? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
THEA info for Silver Dagger Book Tour Genevieve Morrissey April 2025
Stuff About Me:
First—I’m not young. Luckily for me, writing isn’t something that requires youth, quick wits, or agility.
I always wanted to be a writer, and I always wrote, but for many years I wrote only for myself. I was sure any criticism of my work would absolutely crush me. I hardened up a little in my middle years and started letting a few people close to me read my books, but even then, I wasn’t brave enough to submit any work to the judgment of the public until the pandemic came along. Then, quarantined and bored out of my mind, I finally took the leap with Antlands and discovered the public I’d been afraid of was actually almost universally kind.
Beyond that, I was born in the usual way, raised in a conventional nineteen-sixties household in southern California, and educated in public schools. I majored in Classical Studies at the University of California, San Diego, but afterwards forgot all the Latin and Greek I’d learned so quickly I was forced to conclude I’d never really learned them at all. After graduation my interest turned from ancient to more recent history, and particularly to American and (to a lesser extent) British social history. I’ve been immersed in that subject for more than forty years now, which has resulted in my accumulating hundreds and hundreds of books with faded bindings and a strong odor of mildew. At this point I’m pretty mildewed myself, not to mention something of a museum-piece for having been married to the same man for more than half a century. He’s a biochemist, which means you may trust that any science in my books has been thoroughly vetted.
Are Your Characters Based on Real People…?
All my characters are real people I know, or composites of several real people. I don’t have a good enough imagination to create a totally original personality.
In the case of THEA, for example, Thea’s mother, Grace, is based largely on my own mother, except that my mother suffered from mental illness rather than alcohol addiction. Like Thea, my mother was a high school student during the 1920s, graduating on the eve of the Depression, and I based Thea’s high school experiences on Mom’s.
Unlike Thea Carter, my mother’s life unfortunately had no Dr. Hallam in it. I was luckier, and THEA was partly written as a tribute to him. Thea herself was based on a contemporary of mine who I admired, and as with all my books (THEA is the sixth I’ve published) minor characters are all amalgams of friends and acquaintances, some of whom recognize themselves and some of whom don’t. My books’ villains are always old enemies of mine, and in the first five drafts, at least, I make them suffer.
What Did You Edit Out…?
As a child, I read all of Charles Dickens’ works.
What I mean by that is that my mother had a lavishly illustrated boxed set of the works of Charles Dickens and in childhood I pored over the pictures, devoured the dialogue, read most paragraphs of six lines or less—and shamelessly skipped all the rest. Later in school, when I was forced to read every word of David Copperfield, I concluded that my earlier choice had been the correct one.
Bad examples can be as useful as good ones. Based on this early research, I try to edit out anything in my books that doesn’t keep the plot marching smartly along, avoid long descriptive passages, and cap the number of characters at fewer than twenty. Deaths and scenes of death-beds are usually limited to one per book (and I try not to make them pathetic).
In early drafts of THEA, Grace Carter had a backstory; Dr. Hallam had a backstory (a long one); Thea herself had more backstory; and in general, all the characters got up to a whole lot more stuff than made it into the final version of the book. In fact, I probably excised an amount equivalent to double what ultimately remained. This is about usual with me, and I believe every cut made the final story better.
Who designed your book covers?
All of my covers except one are the work of Mark Thomas of Coverness. I love them all, and I think the cover of Thea is his best yet.
The cover of The Complete Raffles, Annotated and Illustrated is the work of Sarah Morrissey, and features an image of Raffles painted by J.C. Leyendecker.
Advice I would give new authors?
I find that people are very free about giving advice to writers. The only piece I ever got that I consciously took is this:
First—write a book (or play, or story, or poem, or whatever your thing is).
Second—revise what you wrote. Revise it again. Revise it again. Revise it until you’re sick of looking at it. Revise it some more. Keep revising it until every sentence is as perfect as you can make it.
Third—open the bottom drawer of your desk and drop your manuscript into it.
Fourth—close the drawer. If you feel like slamming it, go ahead.
Fifth—repeat steps one through four until one day when you open the bottom drawer to drop in your manuscript, you find the drawer full. At this point—and not before—you may proceed to step six, which is to attempt to get your latest work published.
I got this advice (I don’t remember from whom) in a time when people still had desk drawers and manuscripts on paper that could be dropped into them, but as that’s usually no longer the case, a contemporary version of this advice might go:
Step one—measure and calculate the volume of an old-fashioned bottom desk drawer. Measure and calculate the volume of a manuscript printed on 81/2 by 11-inch paper. Calculate how many manuscripts of the calculated volume would be required to reach the maximum capacity of said drawer.
Proceed with old steps one through four until the number of virtual manuscripts you have completed is enough to fill the virtual drawer.
Then continue to step five.
If you are math-avoidant, it may serve as a rough estimate for you to know that my desk drawer—actual, not virtual—was filled by Attempted Book Number Eight. Book Number Nine was Antlands, which sold very well, so I think the drawer-filling technique worked very well in my case.
Do you believe in writer’s block?
Yep. With as much conviction as I believe in gravity. Just keep writing.
Pen, typewriter or computer?
I’m so old I’ve written books with all three. I like my computer best because it makes revisions so easy I have no possible excuse to stint on revising.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
At first, five years. Then three. Then two. To write THEA took only one. As with any skill, practice is everything.
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.
His friends may be IMAGINARY… but the danger is REAL!
Imaginary Heroes by Michael Seidelman Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy Adventure
His friends may be IMAGINARY… but the danger is REAL!
Twelve-year-old Matthew’s life has been incredibly challenging because of his Tourette Syndrome, a disorder which causes uncontrollable movements and sounds. Isolated and tormented by bullies at school, Matthew finds solace in the company of his lifelong imaginary friends, a lovable green monster and a tough-as-nails little girl.
On his way home from school one day, as Matthew is pursued by his relentless tormentors, they all crash into a mysterious underground lair. At first, it seems that being trapped with the bullies who make his life miserable is his biggest problem. That is, until he and the others discover that they are not alone.
Hunted by a menacing presence lurking in the depths, Matthew and the bullies must confront a threat to their very existence. Their desperate mission becomes clear: put their differences aside and work together to find a way to safety before they are all consumed by the darkness.
Although fictional, the book is inspired by the author’s own childhood experiences with bullying, loneliness, and Tourette Syndrome. He set out to craft an engaging story while exploring issues many kids can relate to—told from the perspective of someone who has lived them firsthand.
When Michael Seidelman was growing up, his passions were reading, watching movies, enjoying nature and creative writing. Not much has changed since then.
Working in Online Marketing for over ten years, Michael felt it was time to pursue his passion and began writing The Garden of Syn trilogy.
His latest Middle Grade book, Imaginary Heroes, is personal for Michael. While fiction, the book is inspired by his own childhood experiences with bullying, loneliness, and Tourette’s Syndrome. He set out to tell an entertaining story while delving into issues many kids can relate to, told by someone who has experienced them firsthand.
Michael was born in Vancouver, BC Canada where he continues to reside.
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Can you tell us what your book is about? Imaginary Heroes follows twelve-year-old Matthew, who struggles with Tourette Syndrome and relentless bullies. He finds comfort in his imaginary friends—a tough girl named Nabie and a lovable green monster named Garby. But when Matthew and his tormentors become trapped in a mysterious underground lair, they must work together to escape before the darkness consumes them all.
What inspired you to write this story? I wanted to dedicate my next book to my nephew, who’s an avid reader, so I decided to write something for his age group. I was working on the final book in my young adult Garden of Syn trilogy when I heard a radio segment about the host’s imaginary friends—and that sparked something in me. I began thinking about my own imaginary friends from childhood and the challenges I faced, like bullying and Tourette Syndrome. From there, the story came together naturally.
Are any parts of the story based on your real-life experiences? Very much so. While the book is fictional with elements of fantasy and adventure, Matthew—the protagonist—is similar to me when I was his age. Like me, he has Tourette Syndrome and is bullied at school. Because of his isolation, he still talks to the same imaginary friends I once had: Nabie & Garby. Although I left my imaginary friends behind in kindergarten, I brought them back for this story. The bullies, especially Declan, are inspired by the real ones I encountered growing up.
What was your favorite scene to write? While the fantastical parts were a lot of fun, my favorite scene to write was when Matthew finally snaps and tells his main bully, Declan, how the constant bullying has impacted his life. It’s everything I wish I could have said to my bullies but never did. Writing that moment was incredibly cathartic.
Did any other books or authors influence your writing? Absolutely. Growing up, I loved Roald Dahl and Enid Blyton. Their creativity and heart have definitely influenced my own writing style. I also drew inspiration from a few other authors I’ve read over the years who know how to mix humor, suspense and imagination.
Are there any hidden details or easter eggs in the book that readers should look for? So many! While most might go unnoticed, I’ve included the names of businesses my great-grandparents owned, a former teacher’s name, and references to historic Vancouver companies—even though the story is set in Washington State. It’s a little way for me to honor my roots.
What was the most challenging part of writing the book? Writing kids wasn’t too difficult—I was one, after all! But writing kids in a different era than the one I grew up in was definitely a challenge. I had to do quite a bit of research to make sure it felt authentic. My nephew and my sister, who’s a teacher, were incredibly helpful in that process.
Do you plot out your stories in advance or make them up as you go? I’m definitely a “Plotter.” While some authors are “Pantsers” who write by the seat of their pants, I outline everything in advance. I map out the details for each chapter before I even start writing. Sure, some things change along the way, but the major plot points are always planned out from the beginning.
What do you hope kids take away from your book? First and foremost, I hope they have fun reading it. Above all, I aim to entertain. But I also hope the story encourages empathy—that kids will come away understanding that people who are different from them deserve kindness and compassion just like anyone else.
Is there anything else you’d like to add? I just want to thank everyone for checking out my books—whether it’s Imaginary Heroes or The Garden of Syn trilogy. If you read the book and want to share your thoughts or ask me anything, feel free to reach out on social media or through my website. I’d love to hear from you!
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Outlander meets Black Mirror in this sizzling dark time travel romance!
Outlander meets Black Mirror in this sizzling dark time travel romance!
Sophia
I thought I was trapped in history. Turns out, it’s far worse than I imagined. I woke up in 15th-century England, a brutal world where women are silenced, superstition rules, and survival depends on obedience. Trapped far from my husband and son, nothing makes sense. I’m a scientist, not a damsel in distress, so I did what I had to—I disguised myself as a man and trained with Henry, the castle’s master-at-arms, learning to wield a sword to defend myself. But as I carve my place in this world, my forbidden love for Henry shakes everything I believed in. Do I fight to return home—or surrender to a future I never imagined? Yet, I can’t shake the feeling that Henry is hiding something—something that could shatter everything I’ve fought for.
Ethan
What if the woman you’re supposed to observe becomes the one you can’t live without? I never meant to fall for her. She’s fearless, brilliant, captivating. Every lesson, every stolen moment deepens the lie—and my guilt. I’m not the man she thinks I am. That my name is Ethan, not Henry, is the least of the lies I tell her.
If she learns the truth, I’ll lose her forever.
And time is running out.
Warning: strong language, steamy scenes, and graphic violence inside. Mention/Description of, but not limited to, abduction, blood, death, amputation, childbirth, death, sexual assault, suicide, violence against children, rape, and torture. The book is the first in a duology and ends with a cliffhanger.
Eliza Hampstead, a scientist by training, lives with her family in the UK. When she’s not writing, she spends her time as a geek. Playing all sorts of games (board games, video games, RPGs) and being a big fan of medieval history are only a few of the many hobbies she has. Passionate about fantasy, she’s always planning her next adventure.
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What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book?
I adore research. Honestly, I probably do more than I need to—there’s something deeply satisfying about falling down rabbit holes of obscure historical detail. For A Code of Knights and Deception, research was both the foundation and one of the biggest time sinks. Because it’s set in 15th-century England, I needed to know everything from castle architecture to medieval bathing habits to the political climate of the time.
I started with primary and secondary sources: nonfiction books about medieval life, particularly focusing on women’s roles, castle structure, daily life, and warfare. I studied Warwick Castle in depth—it’s the story’s anchor setting, so I needed to understand its geography, its history, and its evolution over time. I looked into the de Beauchamp family, who really lived there, and imagined what it would’ve been like to walk those halls as a stranger out of time.
But research isn’t just about accuracy—it’s about authenticity. I wanted readers to feel Sophia’s discomfort when she’s forced into medieval gowns, to smell the smoke and sweat of a castle’s training ground, to hear the Latin chants in a stone chapel. I even researched medieval beauty standards, toxic cosmetics, and how women dealt with menstruation in an era without modern hygiene. (Spoiler: it’s grim.)
I also read about VR and neurotech, because Sophia’s journey isn’t magical—it’s grounded in science fiction. I wanted her time-travel experience to feel plausible, not fantastical, which meant brushing up on brain-computer interfaces and speculative tech.
And then there’s the emotional research. I ask myself: How would I react if this were me? What would terrify me? What would comfort me? I take those internal experiences and layer them into the prose, especially during pivotal moments where Sophia’s isolation, grief, or yearning is at its most raw.
Research grounds the story—but I’ve learned not to let it take over. At the end of the day, the
goal is emotional truth, not academic perfection. I’m writing historical fiction, not a textbook. Still, I think readers can feel when the world is well lived-in—and that’s always worth the extra time.
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.
The harder you try to escape, the more darkness pulls you under.
The harder you try to escape, the more darkness pulls you under.
Art school dropout Ona Price is forced to clean up after a near-fatal overdose on a Manhattan sidewalk. While in recovery, she lands a job as the assistant to Antoni Azarov, the world-famous sculptor known as The Hands of God. Though he is difficult and brooding, his extraordinary talent reawakens Ona’s passion for art, giving her life the meaning she so desperately craved. An undeniable attraction develops as they work together, but Antoni keeps his physical distance at all costs. When the predatory wife of a wealthy benefactor decides she wants the sculptor for herself, the monstrous secret that fuels Antoni’s art threatens to destroy all.
Oblivion Black is a lush transgressive fairy tale with the Gothic appeal of a Brontë novel. Literary fiction, romance, and thriller fans will appreciate this intense dive into existential confusion, intoxication, eroticism, and the volatile power of beauty.
World-famous sculptor Antoni Azarov, and his muse, Ona Price are ripped apart after a shocking act of violence sends them into their own personal hells.
Trapped in Manhattan, Ona faces her most treacherous enemy, her addiction to heroin, while a dangerous new man claims her desire.
Antoni, an artist defamed, is hellbent on saving Ona before she destroys herself. What he doesn’t know is if she wants to be rescued.
Meanwhile, death haunts them on every corner as a vengeful crime boss called Warlock devours the city, poisoning its addicted population with a flesh-eating drug.
Amid this chaos, Ona and Antoni must struggle against their darkest selves to find a way back to each other—or else give in to the darkness forever.
The propulsive sequel to Oblivion Black, Hierarchy of Needs is an intoxicating exploration of the paradox of love, the chokehold of desire, and the deadly thrills of the underworld. This second book in The Sculptor Series will leave readers fiending for more.
After cheating death in New York, Ona Price’s battle scars run deeper than her disfigured face. Antoni Azarov orchestrates a journey to jolt them out of their artistic dead zone. From the boozy streets of New Orleans to the sultry shores of a Caribbean archipelago, they explore forbidden desires, testing the limits of pleasure and pain.
No matter where their experiences take them, their personal demons hunt them down until their journey ends on a remote lagoon called the Darklands. Will their love survive the dark secrets that threaten to tear them apart, or will the Darklands become the ultimate test of their commitment?
Unveil the dangerous beauty of Darklands, where the human psyche unravels in a sensuous journey that will leave you breathless.
“Darklands is a hair-raising conclusion to The Sculptor trilogy. It reads like a David Lynch erotic fever dream that constantly veers close to the edge of nightmare, ending with a spiritual awakening of biblical proportions. I wept. Adapt this into a movie at once.” —Joseph Sale, author of The Book of Thrice Dead
Christa Wojciechowski is an American dark fiction writer who has lived most her career abroad. She is the author of The Sculptor Series, The SICK Series, and the founder of the Writers Mastermind virtual writing community.
Christa’s novella “Popsicle” (Crystal Lake) was a semi-finalist in Screencraft’s Cinematic Short Story Competition and second rounder in the Launch Pad Prose Competition. Her short stories have appeared in various publications and anthologies, most recently “Blood Sisters” in the Shadow Atlas: Dark Landscapes of the Americas (Hex Publishers), “Observer Dependent Universe” in the Chiral Mad 5 anthology (Written Backwards), and “The Oasis” selected for the Chromophobia anthology (Strangehouse Books).
Christa Wojciechowski is an active member of the Horror Writers Association and editor at Gamut Magazine. She loves to play Chopin (badly) and sip Hendrick’s gin. When she is not reading or writing, she can be found wandering the world, collecting new experiences.
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What are common traps for aspiring writers?
I have experienced many pitfalls as an aspiring writer. In addition to my own mistakes, I run a virtual writing group of aspiring writers at the writersmastermindgroup.com and watch their journeys. I also work as a digital marketer and book promoter for aspiring writers and have seen the same patterns. The traps are many. I will list the top 3 here.
Not writing: Most writers hem and haw, let self-doubt prevent them from writing. Many are not even aware that the reason they are not writing. Why is laundry and social media and checking our bank app suddenly is so important? We allow things in to take up space so we don’t have to fill the empty page.
Not preparing: I wrote a post about First-Time Self-Published Writers’ Syndrome on my blog. I see many writers approaching their writing career with a “lottery mindset.” They scribble out a book, feverishly upload it to Amazon, and wait for overnight success. Sometimes, they don’t even wait for a professional edit or proofread. When they don’t wake up on the bestsellers list, they give up. It’s not because they aren’t good writers. It’s because they didn’t prepare. Book launches are important, and authors must plan months in advance to make them successful. Take your book seriously.
Not promoting: Ongoing promotion is difficult for even the most successful and experienced authors. For introverts, it’s against all our natural instincts to self-promote. For extroverts, is still difficult to maintain the consistency of promotion to regularly sell books. But no one will know you or your book exists if you don’t put yourself out there.
I tell members of the Writers’ Mastermind to think of promoting as offering yourself instead of selling yourself. You worked hard. There are readers are waiting for your words. Speak your truth and they will find you.
Nina Soden 