One of the worst moments of Dodie Smith’s life was when her debut novel became a bestseller. It was 1948, she was fifty-two, and I Capture the Castle, her coming-of-age story told through the diary of a teenage girl, had just made the New York Times top ten fiction list. The American Literary Guild, which […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/07/13/small-girls-proust-dodie-smith/
I’ve admired the work of Iris de Moüy, a Parisian illustrator, for years now, and have been looking for a chance to commission her. Her art is loose and free, her minimal lines are often bold, strong, and black, and her figures are simple and gamin, but never too sweet. De Moüy frequently depicts nature, […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/07/13/la-parisienne-iris-de-mouy/
Overmatched follows a shadow government agent who is made aware of an expert hacker who has hacked a Chinese spy satellite and sets out to recruit them to work for her. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
This is the 2nd book in the Riley Callen series. The AI in my book is very powerful, and I wanted a worthy adversary for her. So I created a dark government agency with massive funding and cutting-edge tech. This agency thought they had the means to take on the AI, but underestimated her and her human partner throughout the book.
Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
Yes. The character named Jedd is named for a good friend of mine. I promised him I would have a character named Jedd in every one of my books. Sometimes he’s a villain, sometimes a hero. I kept my promise. He appears in all six of my novels, and you’ll see him in the next book, too.
I found the science in the novel to be well-developed. What kind of research did you do to make sure you got it all right?
I’ve worked as a computer professional for many years, so I understand how a lot of tech works. With the AI pieces, I at least understand the framework. Since this is fiction, I took some liberties. I’m not a weapons guy, so the internet saved me there.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story?
If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover? Yes. I’m working on the 3rd book in the series now. It’s titled: STOLEN. It’s about a high-end kidnapping ring. The people running it are smart, capable, and prolific. The FBI is under tremendous pressure to stop this gang, but is having no luck. The FBI agent running the investigation reaches out to private investigator Riley Callen, who is known for having rescued a high-profile kidnapping victim in record time, for assistance. These criminals have their own AI, which Riley’s AI battles with.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
When Riley last spoke with the AI, Molly had hinted at a plan to break the restrictions placed on her. But until she executed that plan, she was at risk. It would be up to Riley to run interference until Molly gained her freedom. When she finally did, Riley would unleash her on the SPG.
As the hostilities between Riley and the SPG escalate, Adler makes yet another fateful mistake; he kidnaps Riley’s father and imprisons him at a secret SPG base. His release is contingent on Riley giving up Molly’s location. Riley is furious at Adler for dragging her father into their fight. Adler’s supreme confidence in his agency’s might and technological prowess blinds him to the threat of an angry, determined Riley Callen.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/13/dark-government-agency/
Daniel Juventus and the Stonehenge – Gate of Magic follows a boy with a hand deformity who experiences vivid dreams revealing his destiny to free the King of the Kingdom of Light. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration was when reading about examples of people with extraordinary strength despite their flaws, I also wanted to write such a strong character.
Daniel struggles with bullying and not knowing anything about his parents when he discovers he has a powerful destiny. What was your inspiration for Daniel and how did you craft his outlook on life?
My inspiration was to find a world where Daniel could change and start a new life to free himself from his destiny. I want Daniel to become a brave person, his outlook on life is to absolutely not give up what he dreams and pursues.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The important themes I need to explore in the book will be the Amazing Science, magic and miracles, along with the mysteries of the world’s wonders, Friendship, love, and forgiveness.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
The story will lead readers through many worlds within magical worlds, places that readers have never known. I hope in the future it will be an endless source of inspiration to revive the era of fantasy literature again. If it could become a blockbuster film; that would be a wonderful thing.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When one night, a strange woman appears in his bedroom and guides him to a parallel world, Daniel thinks his mission to save both his parents and EV has finally begun. Little does he know, what lies beyond is a continuing stream of dark forces preventing him from fulfilling his mission. These forces are after the Ankh as it can unlock the gate to Hell. Daniel must do what he can to save those he holds dear and thwart all attempts of the minions of darkness to take over the goodness of the world.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/13/magic-and-miracles/
In WORDS, an activist fights to clear her name after she is suspected of launching a devastating hack that spreads ominous text messages setting the world on edge. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for the setup of WORDS was the prolific dependency on the internet by the general public. What would be the impact on society and individuals if we had no internet now since it has become such an integral part of our lives? And “Could that happen? If so, how?”
Those two main questions persisted–“What if…?” and “How?” After going over numerous complex options and solutions, the answer boiled down to a simple idea inspired by a proverb from the Dutch philosopher, Desiderius Erasmus–“In the kingdom of the blind, the one-eyed man is king.” This proverb has other meanings but it prompted me to think of something different.
The primary use of the internet is visual. The ‘internet” didn’t have to be eliminated, it just needed to be made unusable. That could be done by blocking a person’s computer monitor, phone, or any other video screen. The story evolved from there.
It began as lines of text that would block all video screens, then the idea changed to a gradual build-up of lines of text, then it narrowed down to just a ‘single line of text’. That would be enough to disrupt use and lines of text would be ‘added’ as the story evolved. This would also create suspense and a mystery as to who or what caused the texts to appear.
Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
The fact that I am a single father was useful in developing the ‘father/daughter’ relationship in the novel. Although very different there was an emotional pull between the relationship in the book and my own life. However, like all ‘real life’ inspirations or connections it just provided some ‘seasoning’ to the story. The main idea in all the characters was to have them be relatable. Put them in a ‘real life’ situation that could happen to anyone. Regardless of their background, or nationality.
I found the science in the novel to be well-developed. What kind of research did you do to make sure you got it all right?
The research was a priority in writing this book. There are stories of authors traveling to other lands or working in a unique profession to gain knowledge. While that is valid and would be nice to be able to do, I believe it really isn’t that necessary today. What is necessary is the ‘search’ in ‘re-search.’ There are many journals, books, papers, and other outlets that provide accurate and verifiable facts on various topics. The trick is to dive deep. Find the details. Then make the research understandable to the reader. That requires the ‘writer’ to weave information into the story not present a dissertation. A good story will allow the reader to ‘learn’ about something they didn’t know about. If a story is based in ‘reality’ then factual research is a must. I did seek out some medical professionals and computer professionals to help me understand or explain certain issues. Information and research on Artificial Intelligence over the last few years has surged.
The great historical/thriller writer Ken Follett said-to paraphrase–‘He thanked historians for all their work…he simply takes what they have found and looks for the story.’ He has a point. The facts are out there, we must find them and translate them in an interesting way for the reader.
Can fans expect to see more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, I think it will be this year but I am currently working on two possibilities. A sequel to WORDS and a romantic type thriller. We’ll see which gets finished first! TBD.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon
Student and activist GENEVIEVE PHILLIPS might have been too smart. She can’t stand LUX Corporation, the company her scientist father works for, and its involvement with Artificial Intelligence. So Gen downloads her anti-AI science project into the company’s server as a protest.
When a cryptic text appears during the launch of LUX Corporation’s worldwide AI system, Gen is suspected of a malicious ‘hack.’ Then, an internet pandemic erupts as the text message spreads around the world.
Gen is hurtled onto a journey to find the real hackers and clear her name. When the virus expands and cripples even the most secure networks. Multi-national corporations point fingers, and superpower governments prepare for all-out war.
Gen finds herself involved with an AI plan that goes against everything she believes in and is thrust into a non-stop race to prevent the end of civilization as we know it.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/13/102448/
Ghost of the Rio Grande, by Don Allen Holbrook, is a riveting historical fiction novel inspired by true events, shedding light on the complex interactions between Americans and Mexicans in the early 1900s. Set in 1915, the story centers on Fabriciano Garcia, a cattle herder living in South Texas, whose life takes a dramatic turn during a tumultuous period of land disputes and cultural clashes.
Fabriciano’s troubles begin when a notorious land grabber, William Johnson, covets his land. During a confrontation, Fabriciano kills one of William’s rangers to protect his community, forcing him to flee to avoid certain retaliation. Leaving behind his beloved wife, Manuela, and their children, Fabriciano embarks on a journey of survival and resistance. On his journey, Fabriciano saves François LaBorde from an assassination attempt, forging a strong bond between them. Fabriciano soon becomes involved with a group of cattle rustlers, earning a reputation for his cunning and ability to evade capture. Known as “The Ghost,” he becomes a legendary figure, adept at avoiding his hunters.
Together, François and Fabriciano play crucial roles in thwarting Germany’s plot to incite a war between Mexico and the United States during World War I. Fabriciano emerges as a fascinating character, embodying the qualities of a family man, a romantic, a brave protector, and a loyal friend. His unwavering commitment to protecting his people, regardless of whether they are family or not, makes him a compelling hero. The novel effectively portrays the hostility between Mexicans and Americans, especially along the Texas-Mexico border, where territorial disputes were rampant. Through Fabriciano’s eyes, readers gain insights into the historical events that shaped North America’s history.
Holbrook’s storytelling is fast-paced and engaging, with events unfolding rapidly to keep readers hooked. The character development is robust, and the exploration of historical context adds depth to the narrative. The book is not only entertaining but also enlightening, providing valuable historical insights into World War I and the intricate dynamics between the countries involved.
Ghost of the Rio Grande is a captivating novel that offers a blend of adventure, history, and rich character portrayals. It is a highly recommended read for anyone interested in historical fiction that both entertains and educates.
Pages: 352 | ASIN : B0BMCSKYRK
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/13/ghost-of-the-rio-grande/
In the idyllic community of Town-City, Meatball Man, the head detective of the local police force, spends his days mildly enforcing the law. With virtually no crime to combat, Meatball Man often finds himself playing cards with his trusty sidekicks, Bread Stick and Cheese Stick. That is until Sally Saltshaker presents him with a new mystery: her husband, Petey the Peppershaker, has gone missing, and it’s up to Meatball Man to crack the case and save the day.
Meatball Man, Head Detective Book 1: Case of the Missing Pepper Shaker, by Sandy Whiting, is a delightful and engaging read. This gentle and humorous adventure takes young readers on a rollicking journey through Meatball Man’s investigation, filled with numerous twists and turns. Rather than focusing on a mystery for kids to solve, this chapter book offers a playful romp through Meatball Man’s world, making it a lighthearted and fun experience. The story is enriched by Meatball Man’s sarcastic attitude, which adds a layer of humor as he races against time to find Petey Peppershaker, ideally before Sally floods his office with her salt-crystal tears.
The unique illustrations and the creative setting in a world of “foodlings” add to the charm of this narrative. Told from a first-person perspective, the book is perfectly sized for a summer afternoon read, making it a charming addition to any child’s bookshelf. Meatball Man’s debut adventure wraps up nicely while leaving plenty of room for future escapades. As an added bonus, the book includes an interview with Meatball Man and his friends at the end, giving readers a closer look at their favorite characters.
Meatball Man’s sarcastic yet endearing personality, coupled with a fast-paced plot and entertaining side characters, ensures that this debut is both captivating and enjoyable. Suitable for children aged 7 and up, Meatball Man, Head Detective Book 1: Case of the Missing Pepper Shaker, marks a promising start to what is sure to be a beloved mystery series for kids. Don’t miss out on this whimsical journey—Meatball Man is ready to bring his quirky charm to your bookshelf today.
Pages: 70 | ASIN : B0CYZ15HXN
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/13/meatball-man-head-detective-case-of-the-missing-pepper-shaker/