May 17, 2025 | Editorial reviews, Fantasy, Sci-fi, YA
Zephyr’s Flight by Ray Strong is perfect for readers who love a fantasy series that masterfully weaves together themes of sacrifice, defiance, and survival. With richly drawn characters and high-stakes conflict, it explores the harrowing choices made in the face of destiny—where even love becomes a perilous gamble. A gripping saga that promises both emotional depth and thrilling adventure.
Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
Astria realizes that Fynn cares for no one but himself, and certainly not her, when she says “ Was it too hard to visit me when you knew I was struggling to survive?”
General Summary for Context:
Embark on a journey into a magical land that is both fraught with perils at every turn, yet flourishing with status and power.
Astria longs to become a Rider, the highest order of the Council. She can then continue in the search for her father, who disappeared years ago, never to be seen again. She feels strongly (and perhaps irrationally) that he is alive and well out there, but she needs a dragon to ride on and accompany her on the search. Enter Zephyr, an adorable, loyal and devoted dragon who stays by Astria’s side through thick and thin. However, there is one major problem with the cute little dragon. He is unable to fly, and without possessing that particular skill, Astria cannot use him to become a Rider. She also requires permission from the Council, which she has not yet obtained (and may never, as they consider her to be a Rogue).
In plain English, she is a problem to them, and they don’t want to afford her any privileges or advantages that may make her more valuable and important to others. But she is persistent, strong, and clever, and she works on a concoction to give her dragon that will enable him to grow strong and fly. She embarks on her voyage to protect her land from their enemies, and ends up falling in love with Lance, a gentleman of the highest order. He reciprocates her feelings but tells her he has to join the battle to do his duty, and she, although fearful for his safety, understands his responsibility to serve.
Concise Review:
It’s a real page turner. What’s enticing is, weaved into the fantasy of dragons and villains and supernatural powers, the sweet and enduring romance that blossoms between Astria and Lance. Like a love from a gothic novel, he protects her from the clutches of someone evil, and she falls hard for him (as he does for her). So you have, in the midst of all the gore and fighting and unendurable actions within the environment, a love that is pure and true. The lovers’ fate as well as the bond between dragon and Rider shapes this novel well.
General Thoughts on the Novel:
Combining both fantasyland, evil, and romance, the novel takes off and never stops. You will chuckle at Zephyr’s antics but also be astounded at his strength and bravery as he protects his mistress. You will feel anger and frustration at the unfairness with which Astria is judged, and sigh when she meets her true love. It’s a compelling story that merges all the above elements into one comprehensive novel, and if you are one who enjoys plots that go off in a myriad of different directions that add greatly to the original storyline, then this is a book you will not want to miss out on.
READ RAY’S BOOK ON AMAZON
May 15, 2025 | Interviews, Fantasy
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
My playlist consists of some non-manly music, *cough, Taylor Swift, *cough.
Why do you write?
I write to create—to craft stories that will be enjoyed long after I’m gone, to transform the fruits of my daydreams into something tangible on the page.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
The inspiration to write “Kevin Martinez and the Crimson Knights” struck in the summer of 2018. The catalyst was witnessing my sons’ newfound love for reading. I aimed to create a story that blended various genres they enjoyed, hoping to captivate their imaginations and touch their hearts.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
What I love about the Middle Grade genre is how it captures kids on the brink of discovery—standing at the threshold of finding themselves, exploring their strengths and confronting their weaknesses as they take their first steps along life’s path, encountering both its wonders and challenges. I cherish the innocence of youthful love and infatuation, and the thrilling excitement these feelings evoke.
How would you describe your writing process?
I would describe my writing process as a sputtering Ferrari. I don’t put pen to paper until I’ve gathered enough ideas, and those ideas emerge only after prolonged periods of brainstorming. Sometimes these periods stretch into months, other times just days—but once I find the next story arc that truly excites me, my fingers fly across the keyboard at a furious pace. Eventually, I hit another uncertain section, and the cycle begins anew.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
I believe authors greatly benefit from social media because it allows them to form personal connections with their readers. They can engage directly with their audience, share behind-the-scenes insights into their writing processes, and gain personalized feedback about their work. This fosters a deeper relationship between authors and their readers and can transform casual readers into lifelong fans, which is every writer’s goal.
What advice would you have for other writers?
My best and only advice for writers is this: Write your story. Write even if you think your words aren’t good enough. Keep writing, and don’t stop until you’ve reached the end. You’ll find that as you push forward, new ideas will bloom, and soon you’ll have created a complete story—something uniquely yours, which no one can ever take away. You can always revisit your work to polish and perfect it later, but by writing it down, you’ve given your ideas life in the world.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I try to pinpoint the central arc of the book and highlight it clearly in the title. Similarly, I identify the key event or defining moment of the story and strive to capture its essence through the cover design, which has been executed flawlessly by the talented Swedish artist Isabel Westling.
What’s your next step?
I plan to complete the Kevin Martinez story within the next two novels, hopefully over the next three to five years. After that, I intend to return to working on Cravenlore, my vampire graphic novel.
What book do you wish you’d written?
A Game of Thrones; the detail, the mystery, the foreshadowing and subversion of expectations! I’m still yearning for The Winds of Winter. Hopefully sometime this century…
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
At the sight of a new review, my heart leaps, and adrenaline courses through my veins as I eagerly begin to read. Positive comments bring a smile, while negative ones chip a piece off my heart—but I’ve accepted that this simply comes with the territory. Luckily, negative feedback has been minimal so far, and I’ll use it as constructive criticism.
FIND M. A.’S BOOK ON AMAZON
Mar 20, 2025 | Editorial reviews, Fantasy, International Review of Books, YA
Norbu’s Secret by Dana Klisanin is perfect for adventurous young readers and nostalgic adults who enjoy imaginative storytelling with a blend of excitement, innovation, and relatable challenges.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
You may live far from the rainforest, like the orchid bee is far from the flowers, but you are vital to the rainforest’s survival. Everyone has a role to play.
General Summary for Context:
A thrilling eco-adventure through the Amazon, brimming with mystery and danger.
Lexa, Jack, Sage, and Will embark on a perilous journey into the heart of the Amazon, determined to unravel the hidden connections between EverSave, an environmental protection agency; Thistleton Academy, an innovative eco-school; and Chronnite, a shadowy corporation linked to jaguar poaching.
Guided by Norbu, an apprentice at the future G.A.I.A. Headquarters, they follow a trail shaped by a secret use of the quantum actuator—an extraordinary device that enables him to reach out to the organization’s four founders. As the team delves deeper into the jungle, they find an invaluable ally in Remi, whose Achuar family runs a rainforest eco-lodge. With her knowledge of the land and its many perils, she becomes their compass through both the physical and moral challenges that await.
Fast-paced and immersive, this story blends environmental intrigue with high-stakes adventure, making for a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Concise Review:
This is a story I thoroughly enjoyed as an adult and would have absolutely loved as a child. Brimming with adventure, innovative gadgets, and intriguing dream connections, it weaves together excitement and a sense of hope.
What stood out to me was how the challenges of saving the planet weren’t just about confronting corporations or environmental threats but also included relatable struggles—like convincing their parents to let them go. This added a refreshing layer of realism to the narrative, making the story both engaging and authentic.
General Thoughts on the Novel:
I truly appreciated the story’s emphasis on interconnectedness. As climate change becomes an increasingly urgent issue, eco-anxiety is something I believe will affect more people over time. However, this book offers a refreshing and hopeful perspective, reminding us that even young people can play a vital role in protecting the planet.
Through its engaging narrative, it not only raises awareness but also inspires action, making it a meaningful and empowering read.
Find the book here on Amazon!
Aug 28, 2024 | Action & Adventure, Editorial reviews, Fantasy, International Review of Books
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
In the context of analyzing the reasons why so many employees feel undervalued, under-appreciated and not really belonging to the “family” ie the company), it is clear that They (managers) rarely examine how they might be contributing to low employee satisfaction, engagement or retention.
General Summary for Context:
Why do my employees seem to dislike me? Why do they rush out the door at five o’clock sharp? Why do they take extended lunch breaks when there’s so much unfinished work? It couldn’t possibly be ME, right? I’m a nice person—I rarely raise my voice, and I approve of their raises each year when they’re due. So why do they quit, complain, or take so many days off?
Managers and employers worldwide know just how costly employee attrition can be—or worse, the impact of employees who stick around just until something “better” comes along. So, what’s the solution? Is there even a solution?
According to this author, the answer is a resounding yes. There are strategies managers can implement to show their employees that they are truly appreciated and valued. These include providing support when needed, keeping promises, and upholding the implied contract between employer and employee. In other words, maintaining fairness, respect, and balance in the workplace is key.
Concise Review:
Would you rather have a raise or a heartfelt compliment? According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, once our basic needs—such as food, shelter, and safety—are met, we begin to seek fulfillment of higher-level psychological needs, including esteem and self-actualization. At this stage, individuals require more than just financial compensation; they seek recognition, respect, and a sense of belonging.
Surprisingly, the affirmation of self-worth in the workplace often comes not from monetary rewards, but from being treated with fairness, respect, and dignity. When employees feel that their contributions are acknowledged and valued, it can have a profound impact on their motivation, satisfaction, and overall engagement.
Managers play a crucial role in fostering this environment. Meeting reasonable expectations, addressing disappointments through open communication, and demonstrating strong, empathetic leadership are essential tools that signal to employees that they are genuinely valued. When employees feel supported and appreciated, they are more likely to be committed, productive, and loyal to the organization.
In essence, while a raise might temporarily boost morale, it’s the consistent, everyday acts of recognition and fairness that create a lasting sense of value and belonging within the company. This, in turn, not only enhances individual well-being but also strengthens the overall culture and success of the organization.
General thoughts on the Novel:
This book takes a hard look at how and why individuals in positions of power within organizations, whether large corporations or small businesses, can unconsciously demean or disrespect their employees. Such behavior can lead to significant consequences, including low productivity, internal dissension, and widespread cultural dissatisfaction. Often, these issues stem from managerial practices that may seem benign but, in reality, erode employee morale and engagement over time.
Managers must critically examine their supervisory practices and strategies, recognizing that even subtle actions or attitudes can contribute to a serious decline in employee satisfaction within their department. While it can be challenging to scrutinize and critique one’s own behavior, it is an essential step for those who aspire to lead a motivated and highly productive workforce. Employees who feel respected, valued, and supported are far more likely to be engaged in their work and contribute positively to the organization.
This book offers the crucial conversations we need to have with ourselves as leaders if our goal is to foster a thriving workplace. It encourages introspection and provides practical guidance on how to make meaningful changes that can transform a struggling team into a cohesive, satisfied, and high-performing unit. By addressing these potential cracks in our leadership approach, we can build a stronger, more resilient organizational culture that benefits everyone involved.
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Jul 11, 2024 | Editors' Blog, Fantasy, Interviews, YA
Today, we’re talking with TF Burke about her book,
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I have been fencing sword and dagger for over a decade in both tournaments and in melees (done in a safe manner) with up to several hundred fencers on a side.
Why do you write?
I’ve lived in worlds of story since I was very young and I find that writing nourishes my soul, along with helping me to understand myself and the world around me better.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
I find the “what-if” games takes me to some incredible places. In my current book I asked a lot of what-if’s when it comes to mythology, some new-age beliefs with chakras, a bit of astrology, faery lore, ancient history, and stories similar to Lord of the Rings and then mixed it with a message for young people that no matter what, they are always enough.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
My genre is YA Fantasy and I’d have to say the wonder beats of Fantasy mixed with the ability to explore topics with an idealistic lens is rather beguiling.
How would you describe your writing process?
First is the what-if phase and getting a sense of who the characters are. After that I tend to have a broad sense of plot, followed by a messy draft that gives me an idea where the story’s “mile-markers” are. After that, I write. I like having enough wiggle room to be surprised as the story organically reveals itself but have enough of a path that I don’t end up in the weeds.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
Being able to connect with one’s readers is one of the highlights with writing in today’s world. After all, the space between writer and reader… well, that’s where the true magic happens. Also, social media is one of the places where a creator can shine. For example, it’s enjoyable sharing my under 30 second faery lore reels that are based on the research that I do.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Understand that your first draft’s job is not to be pretty nor should it be compared to the finished work of other authors. It’s job is simply to exist. You will find gold within its pages… ideas for how to structure your story. You will find things that don’t work and you will throw away but even those throwaway things will probably lead you to ideas you wouldn’t have had otherwise. Writers write. Celebrate your chaotic messy starts.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
Excellent question! Titles are hard. It took me a long time to come up with the title to Faeries Don’t Lie and it’s actually based on something my protagonist said… plus, I love the little bit of a twist in it…Faeries Don’t Lie…or do they? As for covers, I have a designer in Romania who is absolutely wonderful! I originally found her on 99 Designs. I give her an idea of the “feel” of the book and she sends me her vision of it. So far, she has been spot on!
What’s your next step?
My next step is to continue working on Book 2 in the Heart of the Worlds series, Faeries Don’t Forgive, and have it launch in Feb 2025. And after that, it’s working on Book 3, Faeries Don’t Hide, which comes out November 2025.
What book do you wish you’d written?
I’m actually writing the books that I want.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
It’s exciting to get feedback and I definitely appreciate my readers taking time out to leave a review.
FIND TF’S BOOK ON AMAZON
Jul 9, 2024 | Editors' Blog, Fantasy, Humour, Interviews
Today, we’re talking with Eviatar Avni about his book,
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I am a pretty good cook.
Why do you write?
I was thinking about a variety of reasons (like making people laugh, expressing myself and my views, the feeling when someone tells you how much they enjoyed the book, etc.), but the main reason is far more basic: I genuinely enjoy it.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
As a reader, I can’t say I have a favorable genre, but I do love those rare books that make you laugh out loud, and I also enjoy the occasional fantasy. In my list of favorite books, you would find examples of both, such as LOTR, The Princess Bride, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, and, of course, Winnie the Pooh.
I thought I’d try to write something that combines my love for humor and fantasy. Into the mix, I also threw my views about the world, current social issues, human absurdities, etc., and the result was this book.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
Well, to begin with, I can’t say fantasy is my genre. However, having said that, what I enjoyed the most about it, in this case, was the freedom to go wild with my imagination. I felt there were no restraints on creating characters or weaving the plot. Another thing I enjoyed very much was inserting modern-day issues (such as women’s rights, equality, new-age ideas, etc.) into a fantasy world.
How would you describe your writing process?
I’ll start with something the late writer Amos Oz once said about writers. A writer, he said, is a person who wakes up in the morning, makes himself a cup of coffee, and starts imagining that he is other people.
Unfortunately, I can’t do just that because I need to go to work after preparing the coffee. However, one thing I did take from that sentence is that writing is imagining, and therefore, it can happen at almost any time. It doesn’t have to happen only when I clear time to sit and write. Just don’t do it while driving; it might get you in trouble.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
I guess mostly exposure, although, to be honest, I am no good when it comes to social media. So perhaps, I am not the one to give any advice on it.
What advice would you have for other writers?
To new writers I would say: Be patient. Writing is an ultra-marathon, not a sprint. Don’t rush to try and publish a text before you feel that it is the best version you could write.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I don’t have a good tip in that respect. In my case, the names always came on their own and presented themselves while I was writing the book. It might have been at an early stage or towards the end of the process, but they always showed up. Maybe the secret is to be aware of the need to find a name and be tuned to it while writing. Then, things might pop up – a phrase you used, something a character said, etc.
What’s your next step?
Writing a sequel to ‘Never Trust a Dragon’.
What book do you wish you’d written?
Catch 22
FIND EVIATAR ‘S BOOK ON AMAZON
