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One man against the world
The Quest for Freedom
The Conquest Trilogy Book 1
by Matthew Devitt
Genre: Dark Epic Fantasy, Action, Adventure
Affer was once a peaceful planet, until a war broke out between its six inhabiting species. The humans, who were once the mightiest force on Affer, were massacred in droves, and the ones who survived the onslaught were reduced to mere slaves. The five other species divided the humans amongst themselves and returned to their respective kingdoms. The years passed, turning into decades and centuries, without any change. Eventually, the humans had accepted their fate as slaves. All except one. Four hundred and seventy-three years later, Fletcher Rush starts his journey to free his kind…and conquer the planet.
I’ve always had a love for fantasy, and to this day LOTR and The Inheritance Cycle remain some of my favorite books. There are limitless possibilities when you’re writing, but with fantasy, it’s different. You don’t have to adhere to rules or logic; you can create whatever type of world you want. Characters can live in a dystopian society, a grand futuristic city, a picture-perfect world, or a medieval wasteland. Time, technology, and magic are all there for the taking, and as a writer, you get to choose what defines your story.
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What can we expect from you in the future?
Currently, I’m working on the second book in the trilogy, then I’ll move on to the last book in the series. After that, you’ll have to wait and see!
Do you have any “side stories” about the characters?
Not at the moment, but I have thought about it, and I do intend to add side stories/bonus stories once I finish the series.
Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in The Quest For Freedom?
I’ll be honest: there are too many characters to cover them all while also giving them the descriptions they deserve. But I’ll give a description of my two favorite characters. Fletcher Rush is the main character of Conquest and the leader of the rebellion. Like all humans, he starts as a slave. However, unlike others, he doesn’t plan to stay one. From the moment he was put to work, Fletcher vowed to change Affer forever. Training his body and mind, he prepares to escape enslavement until the day finally comes. After he becomes free, he quickly proves that he is a natural-born leader. He rallies his men behind him and strikes fear into all who face him. Even when the odds seem insurmountable, Fletcher still
charges headfirst into them. No battle is too large for him, and nothing will hold him back from freeing mankind.
Ji is Fletcher’s first ally and his right hand. Having helped Fletcher escape from Titanan, he has been aiding him since the beginning. Ji might not be as strong as Tor, as smart as Crystal, or as capable a leader as Fletcher, but he learns quickly and is
always the undisputed voice of reason. As they conquer city after city, Ji becomes more resilient and a better leader, worthy of standing by Fletcher’s side. He still has a lot to learn, but he plays a crucial part in the human army.
Where did you come up with the names in the story?
Many of the names for the characters just came to me, but for some, I looked through a list of names and picked out one I liked. The names for the cities, creatures, and the unique names were harder. The way I did it was to pick a letter that I wanted it to start with and play around until I found something I liked.
Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?
Every time I write, I learn. I always strive to give everything my best, and with writing, I tend to get better and better with each story I finish.
Anything specific you want to tell your readers?
If you enjoy fantasy, I can guarantee you’ll love The Quest For Freedom.
What is your favorite part of this book and why?
I can’t say too much, otherwise I’ll spoil it. But, the fourth battle of the book is undoubtedly my favorite. It’s a massive part I build up to, and it came out even better than I had hoped for.
Convince us why you feel your book is a must read.
Now here’s a question I really like! Conquest was made to go against the grain. It encapsulates the brutality of war, which I feel is often overlooked in fantasy. The world and characters are both meant to feel as real and lifelike as possible, while still keeping that fantasy spark. From the Yoxtoll Forest with pale white trees towering into the sky, to the scorching Argon Desert, it feels like a place you could visit, and the characters are no different. Each person and each species has something unique about them, while also keeping to the traits of their species.
Conquest redefines what fantasy is capable of by going where others won’t.
What did you edit out of this book?
More than I even remember. I do have the unedited version saved, but I haven’t looked at it in ages. Some parts sounded great when I wrote them, but coming back with the final edit and reading over everything made me see them in a different light. The beginning had the most changes, but every part of the book was touched after I had “finished” it.
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Storm, born of an esteemed lineage, avoids the violent politics of his species until the power struggle comes to him. After being attacked while traveling home, he overcame his assailant. Wounded and vulnerable, Storm retreats into a cave to heal, only to be woken from a healing sleep by a band of cutthroats intent on taking his hide.
Selah has been kidnapped. The thugs wanted an elven mindhealer, but she is only an apprentice. Now her captors are insisting she slay a dragon for them by addling its mind. To refuse means death for her, but to comply would be death of a different kind.
Captive Dragon is a noblebright fantasy romance novel about a relationship between a dragon shifter and a warrior elf. It features an alpha/cinnamon roll of a reluctant hero and his feisty heroine being forced into close proximity on a road trip to figure out both their pasts and futures.
A reader of fairytales and folklore, Elisa Rae loves a happy ending. Noblebright characters, dastardly villains, and chemistry between characters delight her. When she isn’t writing, she loves to watch superhero movies and literary dramas.
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Driven by vengeance and the mystery of her bloodline, a morally gray woman wielding powerful magic becomes the newest target of the feared Shadow People.
Shadows thirst for the living. She starves for the truth.
Descending from a long line of witches, Daire Delacroix has been practicing magick since she was a witchling, and with the gift to see all magick, her gifts are unparalleled. But when Daire’s mother suddenly falls ill only to perish without a valid diagnosis, Daire grows vengeful and bitter for answers.
Half a year after her death, Daire reintroduces herself into the witch community to celebrate her first Wiccan holiday without her mother. When the Shadow People make an appearance and attack at one of the most renowned Wiccan sabbats, Daire’s world starts to fall apart once again.
Now with the Shadows growing violent and haunting Daire, she is determined to destroy them and protect what remains of her family. The deeper she searches the more secrets come to the surface, along with the truth about her mother’s death and her lineage.
Nothing will stop her from unveiling the truth—even when it means walking the line of right and wrong.
A. R. Stern is an indie author from Minnesota, blending dark fantasy, horror, and new adult elements in her writing. Her current series, Age of Shadows, showcases her unique style and she plans to explore different genres in upcoming novels.
Stern is an emerging author who began writing in elementary school. With several novels in her past, she now focuses on developing new ideas and refining her craft, eager to share her unique stories with readers.
In her spare time she is an avid reader of all genres, cruises on a Harley with her husband, and spends time with her pets. She also takes pleasure in cooking and the art of sourdough baking.
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If you could spend time with a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day?
Definitely Daire as I love her badass attitude and near overwhelming power she exudes. We would go to a sabbat and celebrate with all her fellow witches. No sabbat in particular, as long as there are no surprise Shadow encounters!
Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the
story?
I like to think I have most of the control in the story, but when they hijack the story I let them do their thing. It usually adds to the depth and even surprises me with how the plot gets enhanced. The best thing, in my experience, is to allow the characters to hijack the story. It’s their world to begin with afterall.
Have you written any other books that are not published?
I have written 4 novels, not all of them finished, when I was first learning how to plot a story, create characters, and discover my writing style. When I was 15-16 I self-published two novels, both which are no longer available. Since then I’ve learned a lot and am fine tuning my craft with every chapter I write.
Is there a writer whose brain you would love to pick for advice? Who would that be and why?
My top two would have to be Sarah J Maas and Marie Lu. I fell in love with the Throne of Glass series and was so emotionally destroyed and enraptured by the characters. Marie Lu’s The Young Elites stuck with me because of how she wrote the FMC into the villain despite rooting for her the entire time. There are so many more brilliant authors I’d love to talk with, but those two have inspired me to write intricate plots, deep characters, and stylistic phrasing.
Do you see writing as a career?
Most definitely! The dream would be to make enough money off my books so I can write full-time. I would also make an effort to keep connected with my readers because without them my dreams would stay fiction.
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 I have fleshed out before I begin to write. Secondary and tertiary characters vary if I plan them ahead of time, though sometimes they show up as the story progresses and I flesh them out as I go. I find that easier so I get to know their personality through the story versus forcing them into a personality that might not fit. However I am working on two more main characters for my Age of Shadows series that I did not have planned originally. As I wrote, I realized these characters would make great additions to the story and add to characters arcs already happening. They won’t make an appearance until book 3.
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What would you do if you woke up a different age and gender?
A global phenomenon is rewriting the laws of biology, causing men over fifty-five and women between eighteen and forty to suddenly and inexplicably switch their ages and genders. No one understands it, and no one can stop it.
Maxine thinks she can stay on the sidelines, supporting her brilliant boyfriend-turned-girlfriend Jo—an audacious biotech pioneer, who’s breaking new ground with brain-to-brain communication. But when the transformation strikes Maxine, her reality is flipped upside down.
Now facing an unexpected future, Max must grapple with their identity, struggling to align who they were with who they have become. Can they reclaim control over a life that’s no longer theirs, or will they be swept away by the changes they never asked for?
Angela Lam writes across all genres, from romance (The Women of the Crush series) to memoir (Red Eggs and Good Luck) to thrillers (No Amends) and science fiction (Switched). Sometimes, she writes under a pen name to keep things interesting (The Heroic Adventures of Madame X). The rest of the time, she is busy exploring mixed-media art and teaching others what she knows.
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What inspired you to write this book?
A few things coalesced around the same time: I read The Last White Man by Mohsim Hamid and admired his ability to transcend racism through magical realism. I finally read The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood and was haunted by the dystopian world where women lost all rights. I was still recovering from the pandemic and could not write directly about it since no one wanted to publish anything to do with it. And, finally, my own experience within my immediate circle of influence regarding the challenges posed by transgenderism, bisexuality, and ageism surfaced. All of these factors, both read and experienced, inspired Switched.
I like how Publisher’s Weekly Booklife Prize describes the novel: “Ultimately, the work’s greatest strength lies in its examination of age, gender, and sexuality–and how these characteristics inform identity and relationships with others.” That’s what I was aiming for, and I’m thankful the reviewers at Publisher’s Weekly recognized that accomplishment.
What can we expect from you in the future?
I don’t know. As I said before, I’m still recovering from my concussion and haven’t been writing. But I am leaving all doors open, all things possible, so you’ll have to sign up for my newsletter or visit my social media sites periodically to see what transpires.
Where did you come up with the names in the story?
I needed names that could be both genders, so that’s how I came up with Joe/Jo and Maxine/Max.
How did you come up with name of this book?
Ugh. I hate titles. I wish the publishers would name all of my books, but they don’t. I tried out several titles with beta readers and selected the one with the most positive votes. That’s how I ended up with Switched.
What did you edit out of this book? I edited out an entire point of view. Originally, Switched toggled back and forth between Maxine’s story and Joe’s story. But when I was in developmental edits, my editor said she was confused. The story was too complicated. Did I want to focus on corporate espionage and gender discrimination in the workplace, or did I want a more intimate story about how gender impacts daily life? I chose the latter and scrapped Joe’s chapters. Some readers will sense the ghost of this absence. But the things I don’t show from Joe’s point of view are covered by Maxine’s point of view as the romantic partner who knows Joe better than anyone else. So, there is a shadow of that other story lingering in this novel.
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Dangerous games. Kill or be killed. Can she survive a king’s ruthless arena?
Clarissa craves an escape. An orphan forced into criminal acts with other kids by their caretaker, she longs to break free and become a healer. But when an archenemy provokes a deadly confrontation, the seventeen-year-old awakens hidden powers in an explosive and fiery defense.
Seized by soldiers and taken to the capital along with her only friend, Clarissa trains alongside other slaves to fight in the royal army. But surrounded by mysterious strangers and running low on trust, the desperate captive fears graduation day will be her last.
Is Clarissa destined to die in chains?
Rising Ember is the thrilling first book in the Forbidden Chronicles YA dystopian fantasy series. If you like strong-willed heroines, nail-biting drama, and clean slow-burn romance, then you’ll love Sara Wright’s action-packed adventure.
Buy Rising Ember to ignite destiny today!
**Get signed & special editions with maps, bookmarks & sprayed edges at Sara’s Store!**
Sara Wright is the author of The Progenitor Chronicles and Forbidden Chronicles, a YA dystopian fantasy series packed with rebellion, elemental powers, and clean slow-burn romance.
She currently lives on Earth, her favorite vacation planet, with her husband and their very opinionated fur baby. But most days, she’s off exploring shattered kingdoms, star-spanning civilizations, and the occasional multiverse with her lifelong companions: Imagination and Creativity.
Raised on bedtime stories and fueled by a steady diet of fantasy, sci-fi, and a sweet topping of romance, Sara now writes tales for readers who crave action, heart, and hope. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her cycling, hiking, or singing dramatically to songs she swears are soundtracks to her books.
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From a Headache to a Dystopian Universe: The Surprising Origins of Rising Ember
Discover how a single sentence from my husband during a migraine spiraled into a clean dystopian fantasy series full of elemental powers, rebellion, and love.
One day I had a massive headache. The world was on pause while I lay there with my eyes closed until the meds kicked in. My lovely husband held me in his arms and caressed my hair. The problem was I was wide awake and needed to get a million things done. So, I did what any storyteller or bookworm would do—I asked him to tell me a story. And he did.
This is what he came up with:
“There was a world with people, and they have fire eyes. They wield fire. Like they can turn it on and off like a switch.”
That was it, the entire story. It only took that to get me piecing everything together in my head. Soon I had a short story rough draft written in the world (read Altered Rain). To get inside the characters’ heads, I would listen to a particular song (“Lacrymosa” by Evanescence, if you’re curious). This ultimately inspired me to pen a novella, offering a peek into a world overtaken by the primary antagonist (read Ruined Ashes). That one line led to a short story, a novella, and a full six-book series.
At first, I didn’t know if the stories were pure fantasy or pure dystopian. Some scenes that played in my mind leaned very fantasy with horses and medieval style weaponry. But then one day, a scene of the protagonist heading to the upper levels on a lift formed, and I saw the realm more clearly.
This world was set within the ruins of the past. While they have futuristic technology, it doesn’t work everywhere. Sometimes using a horse or an old-world weapon is necessary. Your access to technology is determined by your societal status.
It kind of reminded me of The Shannara Chronicles, a post-apocalyptic world with elves, dwarfs, and other fantasy creatures. Except, instead of elves and dwarves, humans developed elemental powers. Rising Ember is a blend of the old with the new, which is something I really love to explore in all my books. An urban setting with hovercars and force fields, but also rural communities that feel more old-world fantasy.
While I love to write what I want to read, I knew that wasn’t enough to publish this book. I needed to meet the reader’s expectations, too. At this point, I wasn’t sure what genre I was going to steer the story toward. So, I dived into the top young adult dystopian and fantasy books, both traditional and indie published to find out what readers wanted within these two similar yet distinct genres. It was a bummer reading all those books (just kidding).
You can’t really read through the YA dystopian genre without considering one of the most popular books in our modern era—The Hunger Games. One thing I love most about this franchise is how many layersSuzanne Collins weaves into the narrative. From the simple act of Katniss feeling uncomfortable in her clothes, to the cinnamon roll love interest, Peeta, there are so many interesting arcs and tropes throughout the story.
But I believe the most iconic part of the books is the arena. While I included this aspect in the story, there were other influences that altered how I presented it. A little American Ninja Warrior anyone? Maybe combined with your worst nightmares?
But what about the fantasy aspects I wanted to include? How could I incorporate fire wielders in the middle of a dystopian world?
Well, I found several books that incorporated some type of superpowers—one being Red Queen. The thing I loved about this series is that Mare isn’t entirely ignorant of the world the way Katniss was. Mare became a pawn, but she knew it and immediately fought back. But maybe the aspect I admired most was Cal’s fire and the betrayal twists throughout the narrative. The bond between the two main characters was also electrifying (pun intended).
Then I came across two interesting indie series by the same author—Recruitment and The Crue Chronicles. Storylines occur in the same world, and superpowers come into play. While they’re a little more tech manipulation than in my story, the power struggles between the elite and those emerging into the world ignite the right kind of rebellion that I am trying to balance in my story.
I read Shadow and Bone—a fantasy set in a broken czar styled world with characters who could manipulate powers. And the blend of old-world and new-world technology was fascinating to me. The interplay of darkness and light, along with the chosen one trope, really had me hooked.
The only thing I really wasn’t fond of was the heat levels of the romances in Red Queen. Because my romance writing style is a lot more like The Selection or The Princess Trials (without the 30 something girls competing to win over the guy). I’d rather see the intensity of the main characters holding hands for the first time. Or finally confessing their feelings in the middle of a battle rather than having a fade-to-black scene.
When I came up for air, I realized I wasn’t writing pure fantasy or pure dystopian—I was writing dystopian fantasy. Which is perfect for me because I love to blend sci-fi and fantasy elements.
From these inspirations, I created a futuristic kingdom discriminating against and imprisoning fire wielding humans—descendants of an ancient accident—because they are viewed as “other”. Since it’s a long-standing real-world problem, its inclusion in the story felt organic. The protagonist’s orphan status, a result of past genocide, is consistent with the dystopian setting.
Pure sci-fi element stories aren’t really my thing. You see, I’ve always been drawn to blending sci-fi and fantasy where futuristic tech and elemental powers coexist. One of my readers said that she was a fantasy reader that fancied herself a sci-fi queen. And that’s something I hear from a lot of fantasy readers. They’ll watch sci-fi, but they won’t read it.
Maybe it’s because I grew up on Disney princess movies and Star Trek. Maybe it’s because I was obsessed with Lord of the Rings but also devoured TheHandmaid’s Tale. My obsession with combing sci-fi and fantasy with romance subplots has firmly taken root in my stories. Elements from all my favorite stories usually weave their way into my worlds—especially the beautiful dresses for those swoony dance scenes.
I say all of this because the inspiration of a story can be complicatedly woven with a multitude of decisions. I suppose everything from an author’s life makes its way into a book they create. Even though it started with a single sentence from my husband mentioned while having a headache, it was a lifetime of reading, writing, and dreaming that brought Rising Ember, the first book in the Forbidden Chronicles universe, to life.
Want to explore this world of clean, romantic sci-fi fairytales? The spark of this alliance starts right here.
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Tales of adventure, friendship, self-confidence and teamwork for all ages.
Sharky and the Jewel The Deliverers Book 1 by Gregory S. Slomba Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy Adventure
WINNER of the Golden Wizard Children’s Book Award 2024! NOMINATED for The Book of the Year Award 2024 in the Ages 8+ Category.
A world is in trouble, who can save it?
Certainly not Eric Scott, a 12 year old boy coming to grips with his own personal tragedy. But that’s exactly what Stig, an owl from another world, asks him to do. Together, they are sent to deliver Calendria, a small fishing village, from Sharky, an immortal pirate captain that has enslaved them. But defeating Sharky and his band of bloodthirsty pirates will be no easy task.
When they arrive, Eric and Stig meet Kate Endria, who is convinced that they are the Deliverers—heroes of an ancient prophecy who are destined to defeat Sharky and his crew. Eric devises a plan that he hopes will work. Eric’s confidence rises when they rescue Hallo Tosis, an outcast dwarf who gives them the key to a powerful weapon. But it’s only after things start to go horribly wrong that Eric and Stig discover the true object of their mission.
THE GOLDEN WIZARD BOOK PRIZE REVIEW 2024:
This book is truly a masterpiece, showcasing the author’s incredible talent on every single page. Slomba’s writing style…blurs the boundaries between fiction and reality, immersing readers completely in the story.
The protagonist, Eric, is exceptionally well-crafted. As the plot unfolds, we witness his remarkable journey of self-discovery, gradually uncovering his inner strength and determination. This evolution of the character adds depth and relatability to the narrative, allowing readers to form a personal connection…and reminding us of our own untapped potential.
What else sets this astounding literary piece apart is its ability to resonate with a wide range of readers. It surpasses age boundaries, entrancing not only younger readers but also adults who will find themselves completely absorbed in its pages. The allure of this book is undeniable, and personally, I found it to be an absolute delight to read. I am eagerly looking forward to the next installment in the series, excited to continue the journey.
“The Deliverers: Order of the Crystal Lion proved to be even better than the first book in the series (which I loved) and left me wanting the next book right away! The action was non-stop and the creative elements made the story come alive. The story was full of surprises and is an adventure you don’t want to miss!”~Stephanie Robinson, co-author of The Secret DMS Files of Fairday Morrow
“The writing in this book is so descriptive…Every page is a fabulous adventure filled with action. Just when you think the conflict is over and you can finally breathe a sigh of relief – wham! – a new unexpected twist appears.”~Karen Pokras Toz, author of the award-winning Nate Rocks series.
Who will fight–for the Order, for freedom? For centuries, the Vynistri have been splicing lion DNA to the genes of their servants, the Chazum, using a device called the Machine. Now an army of Chazum and sympathetic Vynistri are waging a bloody civil war to overthrow the Vynistri’s evil ruler, Chancellor Trelango. In their latest Assignment, the Deliverers–Eric Scott, Stig the owl, Kate Endria and Hallo Tosis the dwarf–are charged with putting an end to the fighting and restoring balance to the world. Aided by a secret society called the Order of the Crystal Lion, Eric and the rest of the Deliverers must overcome tragedy and loss to fight for freedom and equality. Spurring them on is the Order’s belief that the long awaited Crystal Lion has arrived to deliver the world. Is it true, or will Trelango destroy them all?
“From the mouth thou shalt hear The wisdom of far off lands. The way to truth is clear Head, then heart, then hands. Lastly, tail will point the way To the world’s end. Then gold shall have its say And foretell the doom of men.”
With his dying breath, so spoke the last Dragon’s Voice. Now, with no successor to impart the wisdom of the mythical Golden Dragon of Ang and children between the ages of 12 and 15 mysteriously disappearing, the Dragon Islands have been turned upside down. It is up to the Deliverers—Eric Scott, Stig the owl, Kate Endria and Hallo Tosis the dwarf—to unravel the clues they hope will lead to the missing children and the new Dragon’s Voice. Meanwhile, the Fang, leader of the renegade Denchi Assassins, has harnessed the unearthly powers of the sparkling mist and is attempting to tip the balance of power in the Islands, and perhaps shred the very fabric of the universe itself. Will the new Dragon’s Voice be revealed, or has the Golden Dragon of Ang abandoned the Islands to the Fang and the sparkling mist?
That’s what Eric Scott always thought. But that was back before he learned about the Hallway of Worlds and the sparkling mist. Now, after three Assignments to save other worlds, he’s not so sure. When the Gatekeeper tells him someone might be using the mist—matter from failed worlds—to change the past on Eric’s world, possibility becomes probability.
In their fourth and final Assignment, the Deliverers—Eric Scott, Stig the owl, Kate Endria, and Hallo Tosis the dwarf—face a challenge like no other. They must prevent the worlds they have helped on their previous Assignments from being wiped out. They are sent back in time to the American Revolution to stop an unknown foe from using the sparkling mist to change history. Worlds, the Hallway and the universe as we know it, hang in the balance. Will the Deliverers be able to contain the sparkling mist once and for all, or will everything they have achieved so far be annihilated?
Gregory S. Slomba is an instructional designer, former editor, and the author of the award-winning Deliverers Series. He studied English at the University of Dayton, then worked as a banker for 20 years. He also spent four years as an editor and writer for a national trade magazine, giving him an opportunity to sharpen his writing and editing skills. Along the way, he was able to visit some fun places such as Bermuda, Spain, China, and over 60% of the U.S. states. He currently designs, writes, and delivers training courses for bankers. Reading fantasy and science fiction has always sparked his imagination. Inspiring the imaginations of young readers through his writing is what drives him. Greg lives in Connecticut with his wife, Stephanie and his two grown children, a golden retriever, and four cats.
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Deliverers Character Interviews: Captain Burt Sharky
Our Deliverers Character Interview Series continues with an interview with Captain Burt Sharky, the meanest, toughest, nastiest pirate to sail the high seas. This should be interesting. I hope he doesn’t pillage and burn the place!
Greg: Well, thank you for taking the time to sit down and chat with us, Captain Sharky.
Sharky: Argh! Aint no trouble at all matey. Every once in a while it’s good t’ get outta the water inta drydock an’ scrape the barnacles off m’ keel.
Greg: I can see how that would be necessary from time to time. Tell us a little bit about yourself, if you don’t mind.
Sharky: Well, I been at sea most o’ m’ life.
Greg: Oh, that’s marvelous. Did you start as a cabin boy?
Sharky: No, nothin’ like that. See, m’ old man were a pirate. When he spotted a ship he wanted to pillage, he and the rest o’ the crew’d get belowdecks and leave me on deck by m’self. I were only about 7 or 8, and I’d set to hollerin’ and whinin’ and carryin’ on. The target ship’d always come see what the fuss were about. They’d see me alone on deck, and I’d shout that everyone were washed overboard in a storm. They’d come over to rescue me, and m’ dad’s crew would overpower ‘em and board their ship. We took a lot of fat prizes that way.
Greg: Oh, how, umm, cute.
Sharky: Them were the days. ‘Bout the only happy times I can remember, ‘cept o’ course when I found m’ ring. Things started lookin’ up after that.
Greg: Your ring?
Sharky: Aye. I took it from a lubber one time when I was ashore. I’d lost m’ ship and I wanted the ring to finance a new one. I ran the dog through, an’ took the ring, but I couldn’t bring m’ self to sell it. Instead, I kept it and stole a merchant vessel.
I recruited a new crew, found a good island hideout, and set about plunderin’ vessels. I grew to be successful an’ set up a piratin’ empire. I was known throughout the world as the meanest, dirtiest, most rotten scoundrel to sail the high seas.
Greg: So I understand. What happened with Cal Endria and his group?
Sharky: Endria and his lilly livered dogs were nothin’ but cowardly sheep. They lost their stomach for fighten’ an’ wanted to settle down. I should of keel hauled the lot of ‘em. Instead, though, I decided that they could be useful in their own way.
I set up the Tariff where they had to give me half of everything they produced for a hunnert years. Then after the hunnert years had gone by, I double crossed ‘em. I came sailin’ in with a new weapon and kept chargin’ the Tariff twice a year for another two hunnert, until that kid an’ his bird came.
Greg: Hold on. Just how long have you been alive?
Sharky: I were born over 350 years ago. It were the ring, ya see. It give me long life and’great power. No one ever thought to double cross ol’ Sharky, because I beat Death hisself. Then along came that Eric brat an’ his bird. Arghhh, I can’t talk ‘bout it no more! Read the cursed book.
Greg: What do you like to do in your spare time?
Sharky: Oh, I don’t know. Terrorizin’ children an’ small animals, bullyin’, belittlin’, swearin’, carryin’ on, hangin’ swabs from the yardarm, the usual things, I s’pose.
Greg: Have you ever come across Captain Jack Sparrow?
Sharky: Arghhhhh! Don’t mention that name! The slippery eel still owes me his ship, the Black Pearl. I won it fair an’ square in a poker game, but he give me the slip when I were tryin’ to take possession. If he ever comes across me bow again, he’ll get a long, painful death, or my name ain’t Captain Burt Sharky!
Greg: How has the release of the book impacted your life?
Sharky: Are ya daft?! How has it affected m’ life? It’s ruined it ya lubber, that’s what it’s done! I can’t show m’self at any pirate meets. I get so mad, I could run someone through!
Greg: Well, on that note, I think it’s time to wrap this up. Thank you so much for taking some time to talk with us.
Sharky: How do I get out of this pigsty? I’ve got to get back to m’ ship. I’m thinkin’ of startin’ a ghost pirate crew. Mortals can’t stand ghosts!
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His mountain solitude shattered. Her lab prison escaped. Together they’ll find refuge or die trying.
Shadowed Skies by Haley Cavanagh Genre: YA Clean Dystopian SciFi Fantasy Romance
Hunted for their blood. Fighting for their future.
River He’s the last of his kind, a winged warrior hidden in the mountains. River Shaw has lost everything: his sanctuary, the only shield from a world that fears and hunts him. When Delene, another of his kind, crash-lands into his life, wounded and on the run, his solitude is shattered.
Delene She’s a fugitive with a secret, escaping the clutches of dark forces that took everything from her. Delene Fairborne’s flight to freedom leads her to River and the spark of a bond neither can deny.
In a landscape scarred by betrayal and danger, River and Delene must navigate their growing feelings and the sinister scientist who will stop at nothing to harness their power. Shadowed Skies is where love takes wing, hope soars, and destiny entwines. Dive into a world where every heartbeat is a rebellion, every glance a promise, and every flight a taste of freedom.
Haley Cavanagh is a military veteran, wife, and mother. She was awarded the League of Utah Writers 2020 Silver Quill Award for Retaliation, the second novel in her Oceanstone Initiative series. Haley is an alumna of Columbia College, a musical theater nut, and she loves to dive into any book that crosses her path. Haley resides with her family in the United States and enjoys spending time with her husband and children when she’s not writing. She loves to hear from her readers and encourages you to contact her via her website and social media.
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Behind the Scenes: The Inspiration for Shadowed Skies Every story has an origin, and Shadowed Skies was no exception. This novel was born out of a mix of inspiration, personal experience, and a love for dystopian adventure with a touch of the fantastical. Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes to explore how this story came to life—from its first spark of an idea to the fully realized world of the Evol-humans.
The Spark of an Idea The first whispers of Shadowed Skies emerged during NaNoWriMo 2019. At the time, life was a whirlwind of responsibilities, and most of my writing sessions took place in the carpool lane while waiting for my kids. It was during those stolen moments that River and Delene’s world began to take shape. I wanted to write a story that blended high-stakes survival with the emotional depth of identity, freedom, and resistance.
Wings, Science, and the Ethics of Experimentation I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of science and ethics, particularly the unintended consequences of genetic experimentation. What if human beings were engineered for a purpose—only to be discarded when that purpose no longer suited their creators? This question became the foundation of Shadowed Skies and the plight of the Evol-humans. Designed as super-soldiers with avian DNA, they were meant to be resilient, capable of thriving in extreme environments. But as history often repeats, humanity fears what it does not understand. The same people who created the Evol-humans turned on them, leading to their persecution, imprisonment, and fight for survival.
A World Shaped by Dystopian Influences I’ve always been drawn to dystopian fiction, from classics like 1984 and Brave New World to modern YA series like The Hunger Games and The Darkest Minds. These stories highlight resilience in the face of oppression, a theme that resonated deeply with me. However, I wanted to add a unique twist—rather than a purely tech-driven future, Shadowed Skies introduces an evolutionary shift, where biology itself becomes both a weapon and a weakness.
Survival in the Wild Much of Shadowed Skies is set in rugged, mountainous landscapes, inspired by the breathtaking wilderness of Utah. I wanted to capture the raw beauty and danger of the wild—how nature can be both a sanctuary and a merciless force. River, one of the main characters, has learned to live off the land, a skill that not only defines his character but also plays a crucial role in the survival of those like him.
Characters with Heart and Struggle At its core, this story is about two people who refuse to be caged—literally and figuratively. River, haunted by loss and determined to stay hidden, must confront his past and decide if he will fight for more than just his own survival. Delene, who has suffered unimaginable losses, refuses to let fear break her spirit. Their journey is one of trust, resilience, and ultimately, hope.
The Journey from Draft to Publication Like any novel, Shadowed Skies went through multiple drafts, revisions, and deep dives into worldbuilding. Thanks to an incredible editorial team and supportive readers, the story transformed into what it is today—a thrilling blend of action, suspense, and heart.
Final Thoughts Writing Shadowed Skies was an adventure, one that challenged me in ways I never expected. I hope readers find themselves lost in this world, rooting for River and Delene as they navigate a future shaped by both humanity’s cruelty and its potential for redemption. Thank you for joining me on this behind-the-scenes look at Shadowed Skies! I’d love to hear from you—what are your favorite dystopian worlds, and what elements make them unforgettable to you?
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An elf afraid of opening his heart, and a human who is heir to an awesome power: Only by embracing their shared destiny can they save Iceland…and each other.
FalconSaga by Robert Winter Genre: Epic Fantasy
In modern-day Iceland, a place of glaciers, volcanoes, and legends, the Norns have foretold a sorcerous invasion that could destroy everything.
Magnús, an elf of the huldufólk, is driven by the murder of his human lover a century ago to save those humans he can, and to figure out what is behind recent troll attacks on tourists. But the Norns have spoken. He must protect Altair, a young human from Boston, who is bringing a dangerous magical force to Iceland. If Magnús fails to keep Altair safe, the country will fall to a sorcerer called the Black Priest. Yet if Altair lives, Magnús will meet his doom.
For his part, Altair is a graduate student bullied to visit Iceland by mentors who seem to have their own agenda. He knows nothing of elves, sorcerers or prophecies. Suddenly, the handsome, mysterious Magnús is guiding Altair around Reykjavik and into danger. A witch, a berserker, and more elves are along for the quest across Iceland’s forbidding landscape. And why does everyone keeps calling Altair “the Falcon”? An elf and a human with a shared destiny. Will they solve the mystery linking their fates before it is too late for all Iceland?
“Ah, the traitor pays a visit,” a voice sneered from behind Magnús, drawing him to an abrupt stop. “Killed any more of our native creatures? Are you here to find victims to persecute in your humans-first campaign?”
Magnús’s jaw tightened as he turned to face the speaker. “Lars Berkisson. You must be desperate if you’re grubbing for supporters here.”
Lars gave Magnús a tight smile, his steel-gray eyes narrowing. “I came to offer comfort to Vörður, and to tend to his affairs while he rots in the cell where you put him. Tell me, Magnús. How many more of your own people will you try to destroy in your self-hatred?” “Vörður put himself in that cell when he stole a human baby and tried to pass himself off as the infant. He ignored the edict laid down by Queen Hildur, risked violating the First Covenant, and in any event, the act was despicable. Changelings have been forbidden for decades.”
Lars laughed. “Of course, you and Bryndís are too modern to gather servants in the old ways. But we who honor the ancient customs have long known that if we must tolerate non-magical humans on our shores, then they are best taken as babes. Those raised from infancy make for superior attendants and retainers. The queen has been led astray by your misplaced devotion to mortals, but I have confidence she’ll return to tradition.” Magnús clenched his jaw, determined to keep his temper. “A tradition of bigotry and false piety, pretending the gods want us to use humans as pets or chattel.” “Well, isn’t that what Sigurjón was to you? A pet?”
The twist to Lars’s upper lip enraged Magnús. Although Lars had been back from his exile for nearly a fifth of a century, Magnús’s every encounter with him brought them close to battle. With a tremendous effort of will, Magnús refrained from pulling the dagger tucked in his belt.
“Sigurjón was as much a child of the gods as you once were, Lars,” he said through gritted teeth. “The path you follow leads to Hel’s sunless lands, though you lie to your followers and promise them Valhöll.”
Lars shook his head in a way that infuriated Magnús. “Álfheimur is the true home of our people. Those who hear my words long only for a return to the days before men invaded our shores. Before they killed our trees, stole our magic, and built their abominable cities.” “The gods led mortals here to Iceland, Cousin. Your brand of fanaticism sets those who believe you against the will of the Æsir. And I, for one, look forward to a reckoning.” With that, Magnús strode away. He didn’t trust himself to spend one more minute in the presence of the vile creature who had murdered his beloved Sigurjón.
Robert Winter is a recovering lawyer who likes writing about love and adventure much more than drafting a legal brief. Once upon a time, he went to Georgetown University law school. Upon graduation, he moved to New York to work in a large law firm, but later returned to Washington, DC. The legal work was entertaining and Robert spent a lot of time in bankruptcy court, usually representing either groups of creditor or the debtors themselves. But legal work didn’t satisfy the urge Robert felt to tell stories.
When he turned 50, Robert left behind the (allegedly) glamorous world of international law firms and bankruptcy court to pursue his real passion. Now he lives in Montreal with his husband, studying French between trips to exotic locations.
When Robert isn’t writing, he loves to cook Indian food. The aromas of the spice blends excite and challenge him. Although he’s never been to India, the food seems comforting and home-like. Add a trip to the Golden Triangle to the bucket list!
The huldufólk, or Hidden People, are the elves of Iceland. They look much like humans, but they can turn invisible at will. One version of their origin is that they were the children of Adam and Eve. Apparently, God announced He was stopping by for dinner. Eve had a lot of children then, and tidied them up as best she could. But some of the children were playful and naughty, so she didn’t have time to wash them. Suddenly God was approaching. She shoved the playful children in a backroom. God remarked upon how clean and presentable the kids Adam and Eve paraded by Him looked, and asked if there were any other children. The parents said no. But this was the Old Testament God, so He got annoyed at the lie and laid a curse: the children Adam and Eve tried to hide from Him would thereafter be hidden from all people. And that was the beginning the huldufólk.
In Iceland, a surprisingly high number of people will say that they believe the huldufólk or Hidden Folk exist and live among them. In one survey from 2022, 31% of the respondents said they believed in elves. Others scoff at this, of course, including a writer named Alda Sigmundsdottir who wrote a cute book called The Little Book of the Icelanders. But when you go to Reykjavik (the capital city of Iceland), you can easily find elf walking tours, elf guides, and even an elf school. Reportedly, J.R.R. Tolkien was influenced by the Icelandic sagas and legends in creating the elves of Middle Earth.
When I visited Iceland in 2023 to research Falconsaga, I knew I wanted to see landmarks closely associated with elves. Not far south of Reykjavik is the town of Hafnarfjörður, which boasts the largest concentration of elves in Iceland. I picked up a map at the tourists center to scout out the locations. I have to admit that some of the sites certainly felt as if there might be elves lurking just out of sight.
Álfaborg in the northeast of Iceland is where Hildur, queen of the elves, has her city. It didn’t look like much with its dusting of snow under a gloomy sky (the picture was taken in May) but I swear I could feel something odd when I climbed to the top of the mound that marks the entrance to Hildur’s city.
My elves are heavily based upon the legends, though of course I took some liberties. But if you are a fan of Icelandic legend and folktales, you’ll recognize many characters and locations.
I hope you will give Falconsaga a try and find out more about my take on the
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Margaret Izard is an award-winning author of historical fantasy and paranormal romance novels. She spent her early years through college to adulthood dedicated to dance, theater, and performing. Over the years, she developed a love for great storytelling in different mediums. She does not waste a good story, be it movement, the spoken, or the written word. She discovered historical romance novels in middle school, which combined her passion for romance, drama, and fantasy. She writes exciting plot lines, steamy love scenes and always falls for a strong male with a soft heart. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and adult triplets and loves to hear from readers.
He’d fight mystic forces to be with her. She sees her future in his love.
Stone of Hope Stones of Iona Book 4 by Margaret Izard Genre: Time Travel, Paranormal Romance
In a twist of fate, Dominic DeVolt is shown archeologist Moira Joanna White’s beauty through the Eye of Ra. Trying to save his niece and nephew from evil Fae powers, he’s sucked into the past and dumped in the middle of her Egyptian archaeology dig.
Moira fears the attractive man who appears at her dig is partnering with her archnemesis. That is until the bold fighter distracts her with a kiss. His duty as uncle tugs her heart, but is he only after her precious artifacts?
He’d fight mystic forces to be with her. She sees her future in his love.
Previous books in the series, Stone of Love, book 1, Brielle and Colin’s 18th century Scottish story. Stone of Fear, Book 2, Marie and John’s 13th century Scottish story. Stone of Lust, Book 3, Ainslie and Rannick’s Viking tale. Thistle in the Mistletoe featuring a couple in the past from Stone of Love. Next in the series: Stone of Doubt, book 5 coming 2025, Holly and Ivy, a Christmas companion book. Stone of Faith, book 6. Stone of Destiny, book 7. Evergreen Evermore, a Christmas companion book. This series leads into another connected series, Dragons of Tantallon, a dragon-shapeshifter series revolving around the magic Iona Stones.
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Douglas Smith is a five-time award-winning author described by Library Journal as “one of Canada’s most original writers of speculative fiction.”
His latest work is the multi-award-winning YA urban fantasy trilogy, The Dream Rider Saga. Other books include the urban fantasy novel, The Wolf at the End of the World; the collections, Chimerascope and Impossibilia; and the writer’s guide Playing the Short Game. His short fiction has appeared in the top markets in the field, including The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, Amazing Stories, InterZone, Weird Tales, and many others.
He is a 4-time winner of Canada’s Aurora Award as well as the juried IAP Award. He’s been a finalist for the Astounding Award, CBC’s Bookies Award, Canada’s juried Sunburst Award, the juried Alberta Magazine Award for Fiction, and France’s juried Prix Masterton and Prix Bob Morane.
When Did You Start Writing? / When did you realize you wanted to be a writer? I did a lot of writing in high school, but got away from it for many years. I’d always planned to get serious about fiction “someday.” Then, in 1995, I finally decided to try. I started writing what would become my first professionally published story, “Spirit Dance,” but I really wasn’t making much progress. I’d spent, I think, all of July rewriting the same opening scene. Then, while on vacation, I came across a book called The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. It’s essentially a twelve-step program for recovering your creativity as an adult, the creativity we’re all born with and which is then beaten out of us by society as we’re told to grow up and get a real job. It’s a wonderful book and one I recommend to anyone who wants to be creative (or more creative), whether that be writing, art, music, acting, or whatever. But the real impetus for me to get serious about writing came when I returned from that vacation. and read that one of my all-time favourite writers, Roger Zelazny, had passed away from cancer at the far too young age of 56. That was it. Right then, I decided not to wait for “someday” or retirement or anything to start writing. There’s no guarantee any of us will live long enough to have a “someday.” I started producing stories regularly and sending them out to professional markets. I submitted my first story in January 1996—and got my first rejection that same month. But I kept submitting and received my first acceptance letter for “Spirit Dance” on Dec 31 that year, which was a great way to end a year and start a new one.
How did you discover the joys of speculative fiction? I had two “discovery” periods. When I was eight, a friend introduced me to Robert A. Heinlein’s young-adult SF novels — essentially rocket and ray-gun books. I devoured all of those, but then stopped reading the genre. Then in Grade 11, I had to do a paper in English comparing the works of multiple authors. Amazingly, the teacher included a group consisting of Heinlein, Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, and Ray Bradbury, which, of course, was the group I picked. That assignment got me back into reading SF and fantasy.
What writing has inspired you? / Major Influences? / Favourite Authors? I’d have to say my favourite author and influence on my own writing has been the late Roger Zelazny. His Lord of Light is one of the greatest speculative fiction novels ever written. His stories are often based on mythology, and I’ve always loved myths—Greek, Norse, Egyptian, Native American—so that was one attraction to his work. His prose style is lean but poetic, his stories poignant and mythic and filled with unique characters you want to spend time with. Plus, his work shows the most fantastic range of imagination of any writer I’ve ever encountered. I don’t think I write like him, but I’m sure he’s had an influence. Ray Bradbury’s short fiction was another early influence. He wrote about the fantastical hiding in our everyday lives, whether the hidden mystery is wondrous or frightening. I love his lyrical prose style, the simple humanity of his characters, and his insight into what it means to be human, no matter what our age. I reread “Something Wicked This Way Comes” recently. When I’d read it as a teenager, I remember loving the book and the kid characters, but not really “getting” the father. Reading it now, as an adult and father, I realize that Bradbury really understood both generations and the changes, choices, and regrets that come with age, and that is where the power of the book resides. I came to Hemingway late and after he was out of fashion, but his lean prose style amazed me, the way he could say so much by saying so little, and often communicating as much by what he left out, by what his characters didn’t discuss, as what he put on the page. Other favourite authors include Charles de Lint, Shirley Jackson, Emily St. John Mandel, Amor Towles, Thomas Perry, Thomas King, Ian Hamilton, Neil Gaiman, and Tim Powers. That’s a short list (but a good one). Some favourite books, including a lot on non-speculative fiction, include Station Eleven, The Queen’s Gambit, A Gentleman in Moscow, Memory & Dream, Ready Player One, Weaveworld, We Have Always Lived in the Castle, Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow, Ian Hamilton’s Ava Lee series, and of course, the spec fic classics like Dune, Stranger in a Strange Land, and LOTR. I’ve also written several short stories inspired in some way by the songs of Bruce Springsteen. He’s an astounding storyteller. In a few lines, he tells stories of everyday people struggling with whatever life has thrown at them, but with an attitude of defiance and hope despite the odds against them. And Buffy. Major Buffy fan. It remains one of the most creative shows ever to hit TV and is a writing workshop on character development and arcs and dialog.
Why start with short fiction? I started with short fiction because in spec fic, it’s been traditional to break in writing short stories. But I also think it makes sense to start with the short form before trying to tackle a novel, and I always urge young writers to do the same. Short stories let you learn the craft of fiction much faster than writing a novel. Twenty 5,000-word short stories let you experiment far more with different styles, points of view, genres, story structures, etc. than you could in a single 100,000-word novel. Plus, you’ll be able to find out earlier if your writing is at a publishable level by submitting those stories to short fiction markets. And short fiction will teach you skills you need whether you write short stories or novels—handling point of view, story structure, use of scenes, characterization, plot, pacing, dialog, setting, world building, information flow, voice—not to mention basic sentence structure, paragraphing, punctuation, grammar. I moved to novels once all my “short” stories started becoming very long stories.
What I read as a child I was reading by the time I was four, thanks to my parents reading to me every night at bedtime. It hooked me on books for a lifetime. Reading was a way to have wonderful adventures as a kid and make my world so much bigger than my house and neighborhood and school. My early favourites were animal stories, which probably led me to my love for writing shapeshifter tales. I loved A.E. Milne’s “Winnie the Pooh” books (apparently my favourite bedtime stories as a young child) and Walter Brook’s “Freddie the Pig” series (the first books I remember knowing how to find in a library). Later it was everything by Jack London. About grade 5 or 6, Robert A. Heinlein juveniles got me hooked on SF, which led to fantasy. John Creasey and Dorothy Sayers introduced me to mystery and crime fiction somewhere in there as well. I believe that parents can teach kids to love reading by reading them a bedtime story EVERY night, from the day you bring them home. Make it a fun time, something they look forward to and associate with a wonderful experience. And make books a natural thing to have around. Our kids knew we’d say “no” to games, toys, or candy when out shopping—but they could always buy a new book. And for any wannabe writers, you can’t be a writer if you’re not a voracious reader. Period.
Will Dreycott is a superhero. In his dreams…and in yours.
The Hollow Boys The Dream Rider Saga Book 1 by Douglas Smith Genre: YA Urban Fantasy
WINNER OF THE 2023 AURORA AWARD FOR BEST YA NOVEL WINNER OF THE 2023 JURIED IAP AWARD FOR BEST YA NOVEL
“Thrilling YA fantasy” —BookLife (Editor’s Pick) “A must-read story for YA fantasy fans.” —Blueink Review (Starred review) “Inventive, engaging, and boundless fun.” —The Ottawa Review of Books
Vanishing street kids. An ancient evil. The end of the world. Our only hope? A hero who can’t leave home.
At seventeen, Will Dreycott is a superhero…in his dreams. And in yours.
Eight years ago, Will’s parents, shady dealers in ancient artifacts, disappeared on a jungle expedition. Will, the sole survivor, returned home with no memory of what happened, bringing a gift…and a curse.
The gift? Will can walk in our dreams. At night in Dream, Will hunts for criminals—and his parents. During the day, his Dream Rider comic, about a superhero no one knows is real, has made Will rich.
The curse? Severe agoraphobia. Will can’t go outside. So he makes his home a skyscraper with everything he needs in life—everything but the freedom to walk the streets of his city.
Case, an orphan Will’s age, survives on those streets with her younger brother, Fader. Survives because she too has a gift. She hears voices warning her of danger. And Fader? Well, he fades.
When street kids start vanishing, the Dream Rider joins the hunt. Will’s search becomes personal when Case breaks into his tower to escape her own abduction. Fader isn’t so lucky.
As Will and Case search for Fader and the missing kids, an unlikely romance grows between the boy with everything and the girl with nothing except the freedom Will longs for.
But as they push deeper into the mystery, they confront an ancient power feeding on these forgotten kids to restore itself. And once restored, no one in the world will be safe.
To defeat this creature, Will must do the impossible.
Go outside.
Indiana Jones meets Teen Titans in The Dream Rider Saga, a fast-paced urban fantasy trilogy from “one of Canada’s most original writers of speculative fiction” (Library Journal).
Praise for The Hollow Boys: “This arresting series kickoff grips from the start as it introduces its inventive milieu, its flawed but fantastically powered hero, its playful worldbuilding, and a host of tantalizing mysteries. … [A] vigorously imaginative scenario. … Takeaway: Thrilling YA fantasy” —BookLife (Editor’s Pick)
“An assured, confident novel … A must-read story for YA fantasy fans.” —Blueink Review (Starred review)
“Inventive, engaging, and boundless fun.” —The Ottawa Review of Books “A fun supernatural tale with well-developed characters and a touch of romance.” —Kirkus Reviews Praise for Douglas Smith:
“The man is Sturgeon good. Zelazny good. I don’t give those up easy.” —Spider Robinson, Hugo and Nebula Awards winner
“A great storyteller with a gifted and individual voice.” —Charles de Lint, World Fantasy Award winner
“His stories are a treasure trove of riches that will touch your heart while making you think.” —Robert J. Sawyer, Hugo and Nebula Awards winner
Sequel to the AURORA AWARD WINNER and the Juried IAP AWARD WINNER, The Hollow Boys
“Give me the Crystal Key!”
Will Dreycott is the Dream Rider, the agoraphobic teenage superhero who can walk in our dreams but never in the streets of his city. Case is his girlfriend, a survivor of those streets who hears voices that warn her of danger. Fader is her brother, who is very good at disappearing. Together, they defeated a body swapper and a witch to save the world (The Hollow Boys).
Now, Case battles guilt over living sheltered in Will’s tower home while her street friends still struggle. Blaming his affliction for Case’s sadness, Will searches for a way to live a normal life with the girl he loves—a way to go outside.
But his efforts draw the attention of dark forces. Sinister figures hunt Will in Dream. Intruders scour the vast warehouse of antiquities “acquired” by Will’s missing parents. And a masked swordswoman attacks Will, demanding “the Crystal Key” before disappearing into thin air.
Are they all searching for the same thing? Something from Will’s parents’ shady past? For the swordswoman leaves behind a flowery scent, Will’s only memory from the lost expedition eight years ago that gave him powers in Dream but cost him his parents and his freedom.
A trail of dark secrets leads Will, Case, and Fader to a mysterious world. Trapped between warring cults willing to kill for the Crystal Key, the three friends must master strange new powers that grow stronger and wilder the closer they draw to the truth.
This time it’s not just the fate of the world at stake…but the multiverse.
~ ~ ~
Indiana Jones meets Teen Titans in The Dream Rider Saga, a fast-paced urban fantasy trilogy from “one of Canada’s most original writers of speculative fiction” (Library Journal).
Praise for The Crystal Key: “The richly inventive Dream Rider adventure continues in this second appealing entry…with an exciting plot… always enlivened by the Smith hallmarks of crack dialogue, fun sleuthing and puzzle-solving, a strong throughline of emotion, a swift pace…and a principled refusal to settle for the familiar. Takeaway: This thrilling superpowered urban fantasy series continues to grip.” (New readers should start with book one.) —BookLife (Editor’s Pick) “The engrossing second installment of Douglas Smith’s Dream Rider Saga trilogy. … Smith continues to demonstrate an ability to expertly weave multiple complex fantasy elements into a cohesive whole. … This fast-paced story delivers in a big way—and Smith has all his ducks lined up for an explosive conclusion [to the series] that readers won’t want to miss.” —Blueink Review (★ Starred review) Praise for Douglas Smith:
“The man is Sturgeon good. Zelazny good. I don’t give those up easy.” —Spider Robinson, Hugo and Nebula Awards winner
“A great storyteller with a gifted and individual voice.” —Charles de Lint, World Fantasy Award winner
“His stories are a treasure trove of riches that will touch your heart while making you think.” —Robert J. Sawyer, Hugo and Nebula Awards winner
“Stories you can’t forget, even years later.” —Julie Czerneda, multi-award-winning author and editor
The Thrilling Conclusion to the Multi-Award-Winning Trilogy
Will is the Dream Rider, the superhero who walks in our dreams but never in the streets of his own city. Case is his girlfriend, a survivor of those streets who hears voices warning her of danger. Fader, her brother, is very good at disappearing.
In The Hollow Boys, they defeated a body swapper and a witch to save the world. In The Crystal Key, they battled warring cults to protect an ancient artifact tied to Will’s affliction.
The Chakana. The Crystal Key. But the key to what? To finding answers, they hope, to the questions that rule their lives.
What caused their strange powers? And Will’s crippling agoraphobia? Can he be cured? Why did their parents travel to the jungles of Peru eight years ago? Are they still alive?
Behind every question is the Chakana. What is the mysterious relic? Why will people kill to possess it? What hold does it have on Will?
As creatures from Inca myths haunt the three friends, another attack on the Chakana threatens Will’s life. To save him and solve the mystery of the lost expedition, only one choice remains.
Return to Peru. With the Chakana.
There, they find friends and foes, both old and new. And behind it all, an unseen enemy moving them like pieces on a chessboard.
To win this deadly game, Will, Case, and Fader must master new powers to defeat the most dangerous adversary they’ve ever faced—a god.
At stake this time? Every life, every world, every universe. Everything.
Indiana Jones meets Teen Titans in The Dream Rider Saga, a fast-paced urban fantasy trilogy from “one of Canada’s most original writers of speculative fiction” (Library Journal).
Nina Soden 