Book Details Book Title: God, I Feel Scared Series Title: God, I Feel Publisher: Zonderkidz Back Cover Copy: Kids have big feelings, but none of their feelings are too big for God. Through kid-friendly text and bright illustrations, children can safely explore what it means to feel scared, discover ways to process their emotions, and learn that being afraid is something they can face, especially with the help of God and those around them. Audience: Children ages 4 to 8 Genre: Picture Book Release Date: October 3, 2023 InterviewBrock: What was your inspiration for writing this book or series? Tama: The idea for this series actually originated with Michelle. As a licensed counselor, she saw the ever-deepening need for kids to have a way to process their emotions. While there are secular books about this and faith-based books about this, none combined the two—a practical approach to managing emotions that pointed kids to God as the primary healer. When she approached me to be the co-author on the project, it was an instant “Yes!” Brock: Tell us about the main characters. Who are they, and what makes them unique? Tama: Because this is more of an education book than a storybook, I suppose the main character is actually the child reading the book (or having it read to them). And God has made every child wonderfully unique! In God, I Feel Scared—and its companion book, God, I Feel Sad—the reader learns to explore how they feel and process their emotions in healthy ways. Brock: I love that, the main character being the child reading the book. What is something unique readers experience when reading this book? Tama: I think one of the things that most surprises the grownups reading this book to their child is how much they themselves learn from it. Brock: It is amazing, how often the stories I read with my kids, have moments for me the parent as well. In three sentences what is this book about? Tama: While scared is a feeling that can be hard to face, if we listen to it, we can learn from it. Scared isn’t an emotion kids have to avoid; rather, it is something they can use to better understand themselves and grow closer to God. The included practical tips and techniques help young children learn to process their feelings in healthy ways while turning to God in the process. Brock: Do you outline the entire book before starting, or do you write as you go and let the characters take control of the story? Tama: I’m definitely an outliner! I need to see where the book is going and how I’m going to get there. That doesn’t stop it from taking an unexpected detour now and then, though. Brock: Oh the unexpected detour, a fun way to learn more about your characters, or dive into a moment of inspiration. How do you believe this story relates to the lives of readers? Tama: We all experience fears, regardless of our age. God, I Feel Scared not only offers tools to manage those fears, but it also reminds us (including this writer!) that God is always with us, ready to comfort, strengthen, and carry us through whatever comes our way. Brock: I like how you include, you the author. How often do I write a book that I need myself, or about something I am experiencing with my kids, and the book is my way to work it out. What is your favorite genre to write for? Tama: Whatever I’m writing at the moment! Right now, I’m working on a new genre for me—an early chapter book and completely fictional. After having written so many nonfiction and science-based books, I am loving the chance to let my imagination run wild! Brock: My favorite answer yet! Variety is such a fun way to explore our imaginations, and also be open to where God leads us. Please let me know when your chapter book series gets published! What is the biblical background or basis for the series? Tama: Both Michelle and I firmly believe that everything in life should be rooted in God, including—or perhaps especially—the emotions we feel. When you dive into the Bible, God speaks so often about our emotions. It’s His words that shaped the guidance offered in the book. Brock: Amen. How many books are planned for this series? Tama: Michelle and I do have plans for more books in the series. Some would explore more of the “negative” emotions that kids struggle with, and some would dive into the more joyful and “positive” ones. Brock: I'm glad to hear you will continue to expand this seires. My wife is a school counselor and working on her masters degree right now. Resources like this will go along way to change how we view mental health for kids, and strengthen their foundations and emotional wellness. Any certain research required for the book, or is it all from your imagination? Tama: As a licensed counselor, Michelle is my source for all the information. In an interesting twist, these books began with her relaxing on my couch while I sat in a chair and asked her all sorts of questions and took furious notes. Brock: Are you working on the next book in the series? Tama: I am always working on the next book in the series—even if it’s only in my thoughts. Brock: How do you hope parents will use this book with their kids? Tama: Our goal for the God, I Feel series is that parents and children will sit down together to read and talk through the pages before these big emotions hit their lives. Then, they (both the children and the parents) will have the tools they need to better process those feelings when they do come. Brock: What do you hope kids take away from this book or series? Tama: More than anything we want kids to know that “God’s love and protection are everywhere and all around you . . . even when you’re feeling scared” or sad or lonely. Brock: That's such a powerful takeaway for kids. Switching gears a bit, let's talk about you as a writer. Where do you like to write? Tama: I have an office in my home that is my favorite place to write. It’s lined with wall-to-wall bookshelves and has a window looking out at the trees. It’s very peaceful—except when the mailman comes by and my puppy loses his mind. Brock: Sounds wonderful, the space, the setting, maybe not the puppy. Ha ha. Are you a full-time or part-time author/writer? Tama: I am a full-time writer, though much of my writing is collaborating with or ghostwriting for others. I consider that my day job, while projects such as the God, I Feel series are my fun writing. Brock: How long does it usually take you to write a single book? Tama: That depends on the genre—and the publisher’s deadline! Picture books usually take about a month as I edit, edit, edit about 3,123 times. My longer books for both children and adults usually take about three months. Brock: Edit, edit, edit! When do you know you are finished with the book? Tama: When the words sing and reading them makes me smile. Brock: When did you realize you wanted to become a writer? Tama: When I was about eight years old, I read Little Women for the first time and discovered Jo March, and a whole new world of possibilities was opened for me. I had always loved reading books, but until that moment, I don’t think I realized that there were people who actually wrote them—and that perhaps I could be one of them! I even went to far as to set up my own little cardboard writing desk in my childhood bedroom closet, imagining that I was just like Jo tucked away in her attic writing retreat. Brock: What are your hopes for your future as an author? Tama: One of my “bucket list” items as an author is to have a hardcover, jacketed picture book on the shelves of bookstores and libraries. One with my picture on the jacket flap—not because I’m terribly vain, but because that is one of the hallmarks of a “real writer” for me. LOL. And it looks like that hope might be coming true as I’ve just signed a contract with Zonderkidz for just such a book! Brock: Congrats Tamara! That is awesome. I understand the milestone that is and the meaning behind it! In what ways does your faith impact how you approach writing? Tama: Everything begins and ends with God. Everything. Every word is prayed over, every book is prayed over, my readers are prayed over. Lord, fill my mind, my mouth, my fingers with Your words. And send these books where You would have them to go. Brock: Lighting round and a bit silly! Coke or Pepsi? Tama: Coke (but actually Dr. Pepper) Brock: Soft shell or Hard Shell tacos? Tama: Soft shell. I have not acquired the adulting skills necessary to eat a hard-shell taco without wearing it. Brock: Favorite place to vacation? Tama: Anywhere with my family. (Most anywhere. Let’s not get crazy.) Brock: Favorite season? Tama: Spring Brock: Do you have a particular drink or food you consume when you write? Like hot chocolate, raspberry tea, cheese balls, animal crackers, etc? Tama: Usually just water with lemon. But if I’m desperately chasing a deadline and struggling to stay awake, then I pull out the Dr. Pepper and Cheetos. Brock: Do you have a favorite Bible verse? Tama: Psalm 18:19 — He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me. (NIV) Brock: Do you listen to music while you write? If so what are some examples? Tama: I need music to write, but only instrumental will do. It can’t have words, or even be an instrumental version of a “worded” song—or I’ll find myself typing out the lyrics instead of my story! Apple music has a Relaxing Piano playlist that is my fav. Brock: What's the most surprising thing you learned while writing your books? Tama: Perhaps this sounds a bit silly, but even after all the books I’ve written, it still is the most wonderful little shock and surprise to realize that people actually want to read these words I write. I’m not sure I’ll ever get over that—and perhaps it’s best for me and my writing if I don’t. So, dear readers, thank you!!! Brock: I love that! Thanks Tamara! Author Details Author Names: Tama Fortner & Michelle Nietert, illustrator Nomar Perez
Author Website: www.TamaFortner.com & YourMentalHealthCoach.com Author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TamaFortnerBooks/ https://www.facebook.com/mrs2003 Author Twitter: https://x.com/tamafortner Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamafortnerbooks/ https://www.instagram.com/michellenietert/ Author Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tamafortnerbooks/
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The HowlSage rose deep in the mine tunnels and taunts Taylor with every battle. Time is running out, and as Halloween approaches, a new threat is on the horizon. A threat not seen in a hundred years. Still reeling from the loss of his father and his mother before that, Taylor must find the strength to wear the mantle of a demon hunter and banish the HowlSage before it brings havoc to Ashley Meadows. But two mysterious Cloaks are haunting the countryside and spoiling Taylor's every attempt and hiding the greater danger rising within the mines.
“What Frank Peretti did for my generation, Eastman is doing for the younger generation.” -Jeannie Reid, Eighth-grade teacher Book Details
Book Title: Of Fire and Ash (Bk 1) & Of Sea and Smoke (Bk 2) Series Title: The Fireborn Epic Publisher: Enclave Escape Back Cover Copy: Of Fire and Ash (Book 1) She rides a fireborn, a steed of fire and ash, trained for destruction. Ceridwen tal Desmond dreams of ruling like her father over the nation of Soldonia, where warriors ride to battle on magical steeds—soaring on storm winds, vanishing in shadow, quaking the earth, and summoning the sea. After a tragic accident claims her twin brother, she is exiled and sworn to atonement by spending her life—or death—for her people. But when invaders spill onto Soldonia’s shores and traitors seize upon the chaos to murder her father, Ceridwen claims the crown to keep the nation from splintering. Combatting overwhelming odds and looming civil war, she begins to wonder if the greatest threat to the kingdom may, in fact, be her. With fire before her and ash in her wake, how can she hope to unite instead of destroy? Flames rage and oceans rise in this explosive first installment of The Fireborn Epic as the exiled heir, a novice priest, and a reluctant rebel wage war against a hidden power that threatens to shake the world. Of Sea and Smoke (Book 2) He rides a seablood, a steed of salt and spray, born to challenge the tides. Six years ago, the wrong brother survived, and nothing will ever convince Rafi Tetrani otherwise. But he is done running from his past, and from the truth. As civil war threatens Ceridwen’s tenuous rule in Soldonia, Rafi vows to fight the usurper sitting on the imperial throne of Nadaar, even if it means shouldering his brother’s responsibilities as the empire’s lost heir. The stolen shipload of magical warhorses offers just the edge he needs. But the steeds have been demanded in ransom by the emperor’s ruthless assassin, and if Rafi hopes to raise a band of riders, he must first outwit his brother’s murderer. Yet when his best efforts end in disaster, and an audacious raid sparks an empire-wide manhunt, even forging an unexpected alliance might not be enough to help Rafi turn the tides, let alone outrace the wave of destruction intent on sweeping them all away. Seas boil and jungles burn in this tempestuous second installment of The Fireborn Epic as the outcast queen, captive missionary, and royal rebel strive to unearth the mysterious power that hungers for their world. One Endorsement: “Wow. If you’re looking for the epic fantasy of your dreams, this. is. it. Simply put, Of Fire and Ash is a masterpiece.” --Nadine Brandes, award-winning author of Romanov, Fawkes, and the Out of Time Series Audience: YA Genre: Epic Fantasy Release Date: Of Fire and Ash - Dec 7 2021 Of Sea and Smoke - November 21, 2023 InterviewBrock: How did you come up with the idea for The Fireborn Epic? or What was your inspiration for writing this series? Gillian: I came up with the idea for a world with magical breeds of warhorses—horses who can breathe fire, vanish into shadows, ride the stormwinds, etc.—years ago while managing the horse program at a summer camp. Back then, my job meant that I spent every day in the saddle, teaching kids how to ride. The idea of creating a fantasy world that reflected my world of creaking saddles, long days on horseback, and the unique bond you can build with your horse just lit up my imagination. It took me a while to find the right story to weave into that world, but when I finally did, it was one that brought together so many of the things I love: epic fantasy, fantastic creatures, vivid settings, intense battle sequences, and fierce warriors who just don’t give up. Now we’re two books into the series--Of Fire and Ash and Of Sea and Smoke are both out—and I love the world just as much as when I first had the idea! Brock: I love the inspiration behind how you came to create the world. Tell us about the main characters. Who are they, and what makes them unique? Gillian: The Fireborn Epic has three main characters, and it alternates between all of their storylines: Ceridwen, Rafi, and Jakim. Ceridwen is the female character I wanted to read about as a teen. She’s a warrior, raised alongside her twin brother as a potential heir to her father’s kingdom, and she rides a firebreathing horse. When the story begins, she’s been exiled by her father after a tragic accident and she’s now serving the kingdom by patrolling the borders, when she stumbles across an enemy invasion and is the only one who can carry the warning home. But returning means breaking her exile, a crime punishable by death. She is fierce, stubborn, and has to wrestle sometimes with what’s really driving her as she seeks to protect the kingdom that has seemingly turned its back on her. Rafi is one of my favorite characters. When we meet him, he’s been on the run for a couple years from the secrets in his past and is hiding under a different identity with a fishing tribe. He’s got this fantastically quirky sense of humor—definitely a deflection method—and when he’s not cracking jokes, he’s busy trying to convince himself that he doesn’t actually care wholeheartedly about the people around him. Because caring means you have something to lose. Jakim enters the story as a novice priest in an order that’s dedicated to preserving the holy writ (their form of Scripture) by inking it onto their skin. Every decade, they send a mission to the ruins of their ancient City to try and recover missing sections, and Jakim is determined to earn a spot on that mission. Even if it means lying to get it. I’d really been struggling with figuring out what Jakim’s story was going to be until I stumbled across that core paradox—this novice priest telling a blatant lie—and once I discovered that, it opened up a really cool story of personal growth for him. Without giving too many spoilers, I can say that the lie doesn’t turn out quite as he hoped. Brock: Characters can be tricky, but the development process creates depths and familiarity that can drive the story forward. Give us one fact about each main character that no one else knows. Gillian: One fact that even readers wouldn’t know? Hmm. That’s tough. I can tell you facts about how each character changed during the brainstorming process. Ceridwen was originally named Gwen and the very first version of her story (from a long time ago) was set in a fantasy Scotland without any magical warhorses. Rafi was originally named Ronan and completely lacked his characteristic sense of humor. It’s hard to imagine that original version of his character! Jakim replaced a side character who was a middle aged warrior priest, and the original inspiration for his story came while I was creating a drama script on the life of Joseph from the Old Testament. Brock: In three sentences what is this series about? Gillian: Magical warhorses. Defying the odds. Discovering we don’t have to face the battle alone. Going more in-depth, it’s a YA epic fantasy where warriors bond magical warhorses and an outcast queen, royal rebel, and captive priest lead a desperate resistance against an empire bent on conquest and its power-mad assassin. Brock: Three sentences is never really enough to capture the story of an epic novel or series. Do you outline the entire book before starting, or do you write as you go and let the characters take control of the story? Gillian: My writing process is usually a bit of a mix of the two, though interestingly enough, it’s been a bit different for each book in the series so far. I outlined the first book fairly extensively, then wound up having to discovery write my way throughout the entire second book, and now the third book seems to be a pretty even mix of the two, weighted slightly more heavily towards outlining. Generally, I want to have a broad view of where the story is headed and where the character’s growth journeys are taking them, and then I tend to discovery write my way from plot point to plot point, letting the characters’ emotions guide their steps forward. Brock: How do you believe this story relates to the lives of readers? Gillian: I think people can tend to view epic fantasy as purely escapist or as being so far out there that it doesn’t relate to real life. Most of us will never have to face down an enemy army on our firebreathing warhorse. But I think the thing that helps ground epic fantasy is when the personal or emotional struggles the characters are facing are ones that readers know. Real human struggles set in a magical world. We may not know what it feels like to ride a firebreathing warhorse into battle, but we can understand feeling like our worth is totally tied up with our achievements. Or like we have to be strong enough to face everything on our own and it’s weak to ask for help. Or like we just can’t measure up and maybe it would be better if we just suppress the things we don’t like about ourselves and try to become someone else. I especially love writing with multiple POV characters because it gives me the chance to explore similar themes and struggles from a variety of angles and perspectives. Brock: Yes, the multi POV can really allow you to explore your world and even your characters from different angles and perspectives. What is your favorite genre to write for? Gillian: I have been an epic fantasy fan for as long as I can remember, so when I started writing, epic fantasy stories were the ones I found myself drawn to tell. I love that epic fantasy lets me build big worlds, explore unique cultures, and write stories that draw upon the entire spectrum of human emotions as my characters battle the odds and keep pressing on to the end. Brock: Yes, to big worlds and unique cultures! Any certain research required for the book, or is it all from your imagination? Gillian: Only the best sort of research: the super fun, geeky kind! My Google search history runs the gamut from “do tigers purr” to “how to stage a successful revolution” and “what does warfare look like in the jungle?” Seriously though, I do love geeking out about history and had so much fun digging into a wide variety of research topics for this series. Reading up on ancient Greek treatises on horsemanship, researching Mongolian archery, or paging through Byzantine manuals for warfare just gets me excited, and there’s nothing quite so fun as researching historical battles for inspiration and then putting a fantasy spin on it. Because magical warhorses offer capabilities you wouldn’t have in a medieval context, I was able to look a little farther afield and even draw upon some WWII era tactics for inspiration. I love that fantasy lets you think outside the box, even when it comes to research! Brock: How do you strike the right balance in your book? Gillian: The epic fantasy genre is known for being a bit dense. Giant books with tons of worldbuilding and description and a million characters that you have to keep up with. None of those are bad things, but when I decided to write epic fantasy for a YA audience, I knew that I was going to have to balance that deep, richly layered storytelling that’s a hallmark of epic fantasy with the action-oriented, fast-paced style of YA fiction. For this series, that looked like trimming down my descriptions to make each word shine, intentionally pacing the plot’s intensity to keep the pages turning, and even paying special attention to the opening and ending of every chapter to ensure the story continually pulls you along. The biggest compliment I’ve received from readers of Of Sea and Smoke (the latest book in the series) is that once they hit a certain point in the book, they just couldn’t put it down! And I’ve had several let me know that they were up until all hours of the night racing to get to the end. Brock: That really is one of the best compliments we can ever receive as an author. Why did you choose to focus on both male and female protagonists? Gillian: I love writing both male and female protagonists because the stories I’m drawn to tell work really well for a crossover section of both male and female readers. Readers who want intense, action-oriented stories with deep themes and emotionally resonant journeys. I also tend to focus more on relationships than romance—which is not to say that there’s no romance in my books, only that there’s just as much of a spotlight given to friendships, mentorships, sibling relationships, etc. So I love being able to offer readers strong male and female protagonists who are complex and nuanced. Who have their own strengths, skills, and weaknesses. Who respect one another and work alongside one another. Who lift each other up even when they challenge each other on differences in opinion. I think it is important for both male and female readers to see main characters of both genders who have qualities they can look up to and admire. Brock: Are you working on the next book in the series? Gillian: I’m currently in the middle of writing the third and final book in The Fireborn Epic. Bringing this story that’s so close to my heart to its conclusion feels a bit bittersweet. I’m not entirely ready to leave these characters or this world behind. But at the same time I’m so thrilled with where each of the main characters’ journeys left off in Book 2, Of Sea and Smoke, and there’s a lot of exciting story still to explore in this final book. Readers can look forward to more cinematic action sequences, more death-defying stunts, and even more breathtaking twists as the story races toward a truly epic climax. Brock: Always a challenge to bring to a conclusion, or put any sort of bow on it. Though I tend to leave my bows a bit loose. Where do you like to write? Gillian: I tend to write in a variety of places, everywhere from my desk (set up in a map and book-filled corner) to my bed (so my pup can keep me company) to outdoors (yes, even in the heat of Texas summer). There is something special about writing outdoors that seems to unlock my imagination and make it easy to set aside the distractions of the mile-long to-do list so I can sink deep into the story and just write. My dream would be to live in the mountains some day so I could hike out with my laptop (and my dog) and set up somewhere to write for hours at a time. Brock: What do you hope readers take away from the series? Gillian: One of the themes that works its way through the book is the concept that falling isn’t failing, so long as you “rise and ride again.” Over the past few years, both as a result of my own experiences and conversations I’ve had with friends, I’ve become increasingly aware of the fact that there is a deeply rooted fear of failing in our success-driven culture. We often equate failing at something with being a failure. We make it into a statement about who we are, overlooking the fact that failing is a part of the multi-step process of learning and growth. So while this is not a book about failure—because that would be depressing and this is an epic adventure story—it does explore this theme of “rising and riding again.” I hope readers are encouraged by that, and I hope they walk away knowing that they don’t have to do it on their own. Brock: What are some of the strongest influences on your writing? Gillian: Undoubtedly The Lord of the Rings. My dad raised me on Tolkien’s work starting with read-alouds when I was five years old. I love the tone and flavor of Tolkien’s work—the way he builds a beautiful world that you can’t help but want to visit and creates such fantastic relationships between the members of the Fellowship, and yet, he doesn’t shy back from hardship, darkness, or pain. More so than emulating Tolkien’s writing style, I think it’s the tone of his stories that inspire me, and I hope to write books that make people feel the way The Lord of the Rings made me feel. I’ve also been inspired by the way Brandon Sanderson weaves together his stories so that the combination of worldbuilding, plot, and character growth all comes together to have the greatest possible emotional impact. It’s really powerful. Brock: In what ways does your faith impact how you approach writing? Gillian: As a Christian, I know that the hope I have is not a shiny, shallow hope. It’s a hope that is flame-forged and fire-tested and can exist at the bottom of the darkest place because Jesus has been there too. So because of my faith, I don’t shy away from telling stories that venture into those deep, aching places, where the questions sometimes linger and the answers don’t always show up with the next dawn. I think those stories resonate with us because they reflect our experience in these shadowlands (to borrow the term from C.S. Lewis). At the same time, I don’t shy away from telling stories that reflect the beauty of hope that does not fail, the breathless wonder of love that endures, and the joy that comes when the light breaks through. Brock: Soft shell or Hard Shell tacos? Gillian: Soft tacos. I love hard shell tacos but they end up being so messy to eat, I tend to opt for soft tacos instead. Brock: Good point on the messiness! Favorite place to vacation? Gillian: Places with rugged mountains, sweeping stretches of desert (there’s nothing quite so still and quiet as hiking in the desert), and tons of really cool rock formations. Brock: Sweeping desert, I've never quite heard it mentioned this way. Favorite season? Gillian: Spring heading into summer. Each day stretches longer than the last and I want to spend every minute of it outdoors! Brock: Do you have a favorite Bible verse? Gillian: I’ve always loved Isaiah 43:19 “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” I love that God is the One who makes a way when there is none, and He causes streams to rise out of the most unlikely places. Nothing is too difficult for Him. No place to broken for Him to restore. No path too twisted for Him to make straight. Brock: What else do you want readers to know about your books, that I did not cover? Gillian: Honestly, you asked great questions! I don’t think there was anything else I really felt like I needed to say. Thanks so much! Author Details Author Name: Gillian Bronte Adams
Author Website: https://gillianbronteadams.com/ Author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gillianbronteadams/ Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillianbronteadams Facebook Readers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1518284355170102 Book Details
Book Titles: Book 1: Calor Book 2: Lumen Series Title: The Nightingale Trilogy Publisher: Enclave Publishing Back Cover Copy for Calor: What if you could edit memories with a single touch? The world-that-was is gone, lost to everything except living memory . . . but remembering comes at a terrible price. Sixty-two years after the apocalypse, a new society has emerged from the ashes of the old world where highly valued memories are traded and nostalgia is worth dying--and even killing--for. Enslaved by a cruel master, Sephone Winter is forced to use her rare ability to manipulate memories to numb the darkest secrets of the ruling aristocracy. Then Lord Adamo appears, speaking of a powerful relic capable of permanently erasing memories and recovering Sephone's own lost childhood. But not everything about the young lord is as it seems, and soon Sephone must choose between helping Lord Adamo forget his past or journeying deep into the land of Lethe, where the truth about who she really is might finally be revealed . . . and a long desired future restored. The Nightingale Trilogy is a fantasy transformation of Hans Christian Andersen's beloved 1843 tale The Nightingale, with echoes of the myths of Hades and Persephone. One Endorsement: "A fascinating magic system and a captivating dystopian backdrop." —Publishers Weekly Audience: Adults Genre: Post-apocalyptic romantic fantasy Release Date: 6th December, 2022 InterviewBrock: What was your inspiration for writing this series? J.J.: This series was inspired by my work as a clinically-trained psychologist, and also my own experiences of suffering. Between us, over the past ten years, my husband and I have gone through acute illness, chronic illness, cancer, infertility, and more. So I’ve experienced a lot of trauma, both vicariously through my professional work and my own health journey. I found myself wrestling with the question: “If you could erase memories with a touch of your finger, and the pain that goes with them, would you do it, and what might it cost you?” And so Sephone Winter, my heroine, was born. Brock: Wow, that is a powerful drive for writing this story, and crafting a character from your own experiences.Tell us about the main characters. Who are they, and what makes them unique? J.J.: As mentioned, there’s Sephone Winter, who’s a magically gifted being called a mem. She can selectively edit and extract memories, though only temporarily. She’s a slave, used by a cruel master for her gift, but she longs for love and family. Then there’s a young nobleman, Dorian Ashwood or Lord Adamo, who comes to Sephone because he’s heard of a relic that can help mems to permanently delete memories, and he wants to forget the brutal deaths of his wife and child that he witnessed firsthand. They’re joined in their quest by a whole gang of people, including Dorian’s twin bodyguards, a magically touched wolf named Jewel, and a person called a lumen who’s basically a walking lie detector. Brock: That's quite the cast you have assembled. Give us one fact about each main character that no one else knows. J.J.:
Brock: How frequently our characters become real for good of bad, and we begin to like them more as they develop. I had a similar situation with a character of mine named Drex. In three sentences what is this book about? J.J.: The lengths people will go to to forget (or remember) their past. The way that suffering molds us into deeper, wiser people. And the importance of hope and forgiveness. Brock: Do you outline the entire book before starting, or do you write as you go and let the characters take control of the story? J.J.: A little of both, really. I always have an outline before I start, but I like to keep it as loose as possible, to leave room for the characters to yell “Surprise!” when I least expect it. We have a lot more fun that way. Brock: Indeed, and sometimes a lot more added wordcount. How do you believe this story relates to the lives of readers? J.J.: We’ve all dealt with pain and suffering, to some degree. It’s part of living in this fallen world. And we each have memories and experiences we wish we could forget. But I want to encourage readers that while suffering often takes a lot from us, and it might even shift our identities quite radically (I, for one, had to give up my work as a psychologist), God works in the wreckage to bring about the creation of something quite new and amazing…and it’s always to our good. That’s such a profound comfort, especially this side of Heaven. Brock: Good words. He opens doors, and sometimes I find myself hesitating to walk through, yet He's never once failed to bring me into a better new season. What is your favorite genre to write for? J.J.: Always, always, fantasy! I love romantic fantasy, historical fantasy, any kind of fantasy. Brock: Any certain research required for the book, or is it all from your imagination? J.J.: It’s mostly from my imagination, though I did a fair bit of research to give each country in the world of Caldera a particular feel. Memosine, for example, is modeled off the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. So I watched a LOT of docos on the Isle of Skye to get a feel for the rugged landscape…#noregrets. Brock: Magnificent! Is it difficult to be accurate to a biblical perspective or biblical facts when writing fantasy fiction? J.J.: Oh, absolutely. There’s a fine line between replicating the Bible’s wisdom or events exactly, and being so loose with your themes that the story doesn’t have much spiritual impact at all. I always try to put new spins on things, but to capture the underlying theme or essence of a Biblical concept (e.g., forgiveness). I can’t say I’ve mastered this yet, but with every book I write, I feel like I get stronger in this area. Brock: Writing a story, like anything, is a muscle we continue to strengthen and grwo. Where do you like to write? J.J.: There was a time when I would write anywhere and everywhere, on basically anything (including my own hand), but now I have my own study, I usually just sit at my desk and write at my computer. It’s wonderful to have my own space. I know a lot of writers pen books in cafes, but it’s too noisy an environment for me and I get so distracted people-watching! Brock: Yep, me too, I can not do coffee shops, or public spaces. Way to many distractions for me. Are you a full-time or part-time author/writer? J.J.: Just part-time for now, as I work as a freelance editor. I don’t know if I could write full-time—though I’m a fast writer, my creative energy gets depleted pretty quickly and I have to switch projects to stay focused. I’ve found editing is the perfect complement of writing in this way. And I love spending my days reading books! Best job in the world! Brock: How long does it usually take you to write a single book? J.J.: Haha, it varies. Twelve and a half years for my debut book…I was slow back then. My record is five weeks (my eleventh book, which I just finished). It depends on how much research is required, and how much I’m into the story. Brock: Congrats on eleven books! Describe your feelings when you opened the box and saw the first published copies of your book. J.J.: Absolutely magical. Enclave produces the most gorgeous books, and seeing those hardcovers for the first time…just amazing. Brock: Coke or Pepsi? J.J.: Neither, sorry! Due to health issues, I only drink water, coconut water, and herbal tea. LOTS of tea. Brock: Well, I cut sugar, so I'm on to coffee and stevia myself. Soda makes me cranky. Soft shell or Hard Shell tacos? J.J.: Definitely soft shell. Brock: Favorite place to vacation? J.J.: New Zealand. It’s literally Middle Earth! Brock: I so want to go! Favorite season? J.J.: Used to be autumn, but I love spring more and more. Brock: Do you have a particular drink or food you consume when you write? Like hot chocolate, raspberry tea, cheese balls, animal crackers, etc? J.J.: Usually nuts. And tea. So much tea. I have two tea shelves, and a whole tea drawer. That’s how crazy I am. Brock: Favorite color? J.J.: Used to be red, but at the moment I’m in a strange blue-green phase. So aqua? Brock: What’s your favorite holiday memory? J.J.: Recently—seeing lemurs up close at Australia Zoo in Brisbane. I nearly cried, it was so beautiful! Brock: That sounds very fun and I am sure engaging. Do you have a favorite Bible verse? J.J.: "Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me." - Psalm 42:7 I love that the deep in us is a reflection or echo of the depth of God. Despite our suffering, God asks us to reach out to him…even when we’re being smashed by massive waves. Brock: I've never taken the time to really think about the verse. Thank you for that reflection. Favorite pasta dish? J.J.: Pesto! And ravioli…and cannelloni…you have asked the wrong question :D Brock: Ha ha! Do you listen to music while you write? If so what are some examples? J.J.: Not usually…I get super distracted and my emotions get all jumbled. But I might listen to instrumental music to get me in the mood for a scene--Last of the Mohicans, the Shadow and Bone soundtrack, anything by Ludovico Einaudi. I also LOVE Hans Zimmer. Brock: Last of the Mohicans, absolutely! And Hans Zimmer for sure. I will have to give Shadow and Bone a try, I have loved Lord of the Rings, Chronicles of Narnia, The Village, and depending on what I am writing Jurassic Park! What else do you want readers to know about your books, that I did not cover? J.J.: Nothing I can think of. Thanks for having me—this has been fun! Brock: Let's do it again with your other series. Author Details Author Name: J. J. Fischer
Author Website: www.jjfischer.com Author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jjfischerauthor/?ref=py_c Author Twitter: www.twitter.com/jjfischerauthor Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jjfischerauthor/ Author Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/jjfischerauthor/ Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20763565.J_J_Fischer Book Details Book Title: Why the Sparrow Cries Series Title: The Sparrow Duology Publisher: Mountain Brook Fire Back Cover Copy: When Harper meets the Greek Dark Age teen, Homer, in the British Museum, she ushers him to her archeologist Uncle’s apartment to avoid the British authorities. And, to figure out a way to get Homer back to his country, Palikari, before they break the space-time continuum or something she’d seen in an episode of Doctor Who. Closed off to human interaction, due to an incident that happened back in Phoenix, that might have to do with her parent’s divorce right before her dad’s coincidental death, Harper finds herself opening up to her new Dark-Age companion. Will she learn to love again? Or will an ex-archeologist turned loose snag the only person she’s felt safe around in years? Audience: Young Adult Genre: YA Time Travel Release Date: February 15, 2024 InterviewBrock: What was your inspiration for writing this book or series? Hope: Great question! It started when I studied abroad in London. As I saw so many artifacts and history, I began to wonder what it would be like if someone from a very obscure period of time came to our modern-age. I decided to pick the most obscure time period I could think of, where even writing didn’t exist. Brock: Very interesting! Brock: Tell us about the main characters. Who are they, and what makes them unique? Hope: Harper is our POV character. She’s autistic, snarky, and prickly—but has a soft spot she doesn’t know about. It happens because of Homer, our love interest. He’s a sweet teen from the Greek Dark Ages who had the misfortune of being a slave in a temple to the god of death. Brock: Sounds like some great and interesting characters to engage with. Brock: Give us one fact about each main character that no one else knows. Hope: Harper doesn’t have the best hand-eye coordination. Homer has a really weird running form. It’s like a frog. Neither one would be the best to recruit for sports. Brock: Ha ha! So neither for early Greek games. Brock: In three sentences what is this book about? Hope: A neurodivergent girl finds a teen from the Greek Dark Ages. It’s up to her to bar him from a tomb robber. And try not to fall in love in the process. Brock: Do you outline the entire book before starting, or do you write as you go and let the characters take control of the story? Hope: Most of the time I am an outliner. I will say, this was the very first book I ever pantsed. Brock: I love that, I have found myself taking on different styles or writing for different books, based on the need. Sometimes I am so into the characters that I can't help but let them take me on side journeys. Brock: How do you believe this story relates to the lives of readers? Hope: The story is about opening ourselves up to being vulnerable. Harper and Homer have seriously traumatic pasts, but they’re able to find healing through listening to one another. Brock: Being vulnerable, that can be a challenge for anyone. Brock: What is your favorite genre to write for? Hope: I don’t think I can pick one. I do have a really soft spot for middle grade. Brock: My personal favorite zone. Brock: How many books are planned for this series? Hope:There are two books! The second one will take place in Homer’s time period, and it releases in June. Brock: Any certain research required for the book, or is it all from your imagination? Hope: For book two, it took four years of research. I think I would cry if I calculated all the hours. Brock: WOW! That is a labor of love. Brock: Can you give us a hint at the next book in the duology? Hope: Without spoiling much, let’s just say that it pays huge homage to The Iliad and the Odyssey. Brock: Are you a full-time or part-time author? Hope: I so wish this could be full-time, but I’m a write-when-there’s-a-gap-in-the-workday writer. The full-time job pays the bills for now. Brock: I get that, I search for windows of time in the evening and the weekend. Brock: In what ways does your faith impact how you approach writing? Hope: I think it’s a good reminder that God is having me do this for a reason. Publishing is tough, cutthroat, and often thankless. But I know he called me to this for a reason, and that’s why I continue to write. Brock: Coke or Pepsi? Hope: Coke, hands down. Especially with lime. Brock: Nice touch with the lime! Brock: Favorite season? Hope: I’m a fall girlie. Brock: I'd fall into the autumn category as well! Grew up in the midwest with colorful leaves and harvest in the fields! Brock: Favorite color? Hope: It’s somewhere between blue and purple, but I haven’t found it yet. Brock: You had indicated in some of your social media posts that it was quite the journey to get this book contracted, can you tell me more about that? Hope: Great question! It really did. I wrote this book 6 years ago. It was contracted twice, by publishers who ended up going under due to the pandemic. It received almost 40 rejection, one that explicitly said, “It’s perfect. There’s nothing wrong with it. We’re still not contracting it.” I got so much conflicting feedback. But I am so grateful it found a forever home. Brock: That really is challenging, so grateful you found a home for the book! Brock: Anything else we should be watching out for? Hope: I should have my 20th title published later this year. It’s been a wild journey since the first book contract in 2019. A lot of ups and downs, and I’m currently in a down. So I am excited to see my journey go upwards again. Any encouragement from readers takes me a really long way. Brock: Indeed, emails, comments, reviews truly fuel my fire to keep writing! Sometimes we just need a little kindling to get that fire really burning! Author Details
Fizzing Hearts Devotional1 Corinthians 13 1 If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. 3 If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it;[a] but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing. 4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6 It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 8 Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages[b] and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! 9 Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture! 10 But when the time of perfection comes, these partial things will become useless. 11 When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. 12 Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity.[c] All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. 13 Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. Fizzlebop Devotional:What does the Bible say about love? The Bible is the most definitive (which means complete and trusted) book of knowledge, and its definition is the exact way God wants us to understand and practice his magnificent creation of love. In fact, in verse 13, the Bible says love is the greatest of the three things that will last forever. The greatest is love. Guess what? God loved the world he created so much that he gave his Son as a sacrifice so that we could be forgiven of our sins and live with him in heaven eternally (which means forever). It’s the most fizztastic way he could show his love. Love isn’t about a box of chocolates—or fizzy hearts. It’s about caring for those around us unconditionally—without jealousy, forgiving them, having faith and hope, and remaining steadfast through life’s trials. It’s about having patience and kindness for everyone in our lives, whether family members, friends, or strangers we have only just met. So if you’re sending any valentines today, do it with the pure love God gives to you. Prayer Time:Amazing Creator, you designed love, and you showed us just how much you love us when you sent your Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins. May we learn to practice the patience, kindness, and forgiveness that is your love. Amen. Questions:What parts of God’s definition of love do you need to work on?  Dr. Fizzlbop's Fizzy Heart Experiment Faith and Science with Dr. Fizzlebop: 52 Fizztastically Fun Experiments and Devotions for Families |
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