Books, Authors, and Characters from 2024
Patricia Parrington ~ January 11, 2025
Hi, folks! Patricia Parrington here—book character interviewer and tea-drinker extraordinaire. I hope the holidays were pleasant and you're ready to dive into the new year!
[Patricia takes a sip of her tea then sets it down on the coffee table in front of her orange suede couch.]
And speaking of diving into the new year . . . anyone looking for a good read to launch into 2025?
[Patricia picks up a heavy box of books and lifts it with a grunt onto the coffee table, nearly knocking over her tea.]
Take a look!
Books & Interviews from 2024
Aran from Silver & Salt by Mark
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Aran is a mute kelpie who loves to spend his days in or near the water and has no interest in money or riches. His author, Mark, writes horror and urban fantasy and dystopian. Really, he just throws them into a cyber blender and leaves the lid off to see what splatters the walls. Silver & Salt can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Aran
If you were to suddenly get very rich, what would you do with all the wealth?
[Aran shoots her a disillusioned look.]
Before or after my twice-cursed adoptive “father” takes it? I’ve no interest in money, he usually demanded I dive wrecks for treasure, but the man is Welsh and a dragon at heart.
[He adds dryly,]
I’m pretty sure that Steffon would demand his share. It’s for him that I end up diving Mediterranean wrecks for their treasure. I’ve no interest in money and the apartment in Seattle is just for the pretense.
Well I suppose that saves you from the traps and temptations of wealth!
What are you most proud of?
Best not let Tristan hear it, but it’s . . . him. Leaving wasn’t quite my first choice but I couldn’t stay, not if it meant my life. He still thinks I abandoned him, but it wasn’t that way.
Sounds like it was a complicated situation. I’m sure you made the right call.
[Patricia cocks her head.]
So you’ve mentioned Tristan. Do you have a best friend?
I did . . . once. Marriage was as simple as bedding her, but we were fond of each other. I’d—this is hard to talk about, to be honest. She died a long time ago by your standards. I killed her, makes no difference that Poseidon and my daughter were mixed up in the scheme.
Silmavalien from The DragonRiders trilogy by Raina Nightingale
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Silmavalien is a sweet woman who loves dragons and singing and wants to become the kind of person who is good no matter what. Her author, Raina Nightingale, has been writing slice-of-life and epic stories about dragons (and other fantasy creatures) since she learned how to read. She calls her fantasy dawndark and enjoys magic that might have a personality of its own. The DragonRiders trilogy can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Silmavalien
So where are you from?
[Silmavalien pulls a wave of thick dark hair over her shoulder and then wraps an arm over the shoulder of the mint-eyed white dragon lying next to her.]
I'm from the southern side of the mountains. I used to live in a village in the foothills, before Minth hatched and I had to run away. It's a lot hotter there because the mountains don't block the sun, which I like, but this is better for the albino dragons.
[The dragon turns his head towards her and chirrups a little.]
[Patricia’s eyes light up upon seeing the dragon.]
He’s so adorable! Sounds like you really care for dragons. How come you had to run away?
[Silmavalien smiles, and half-chuckles as she answers.]
Of course I care for them! When you bond, when your souls come together . . .
All the stories people believe tell them that dragons are evil, that they are demons who will devour our souls. They’re supposed to be burned alive, and their riders burned too, if they don’t give them up. Which I would never!
[Fierce vehemence coats her voice. The dragon nudges her hand with his nose.]
Jolene Bronwyn from Monster Ridge by Marie Sinadjan and Meri Benson
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Jolene is a decisive girl who leads an adventurous life and loves strawberries. Her authors, Marie Sinadjan and Meri Benson, collaborated on The Prophecies of Ragnarok trilogy which Monster Ridge is book 2 of. Marie is a Filipino fantasy author, singer-songwriter, and musical theatre actress currently based in the UK. She’s also a book reviewer and host of #MarieReadsThings📚. Meri is an author and crafter from Chicago, USA. Monster Ridge can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Jolene
What’s the strangest way you met one of your friends?
He ambushed us and demanded that we help him because he stole something from his dad.
That’s far from the strangest thing about him, though. But we’re cool now. Everything has been smooth hailing. At first he was extremely frostrating, but I couldn’t really blame him, he’s been so ice . . . solated.
[She is trying very, very hard not to laugh.]
[Patricia grins.]
I’m liking the icy puns. I take it there’s an inside joke behind that?
[Jolene leans in conspiratorially.]
You must’ve seen or heard about Frozen, right? The Disney animated film with the queen who throws a fit and freezes her kingdom in the process?
I met Elsa. In real life.
A bloke Elsa, anyway. Actually, his wife looks like Elsa, but he’s the one who can’t let it go.
Unna from Turquoise Venom (not released yet)
by Kova Killian
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Unna is an adorable nine-year-old feral Adarna pixie who likes pretty things and wants to be able to dance like her mama. Her author, Kova Killian, is a weaver of dark realms and a mom with too much of an imagination. Turquoise Venom hasn't launched yet, but you can find Kova's other books here.
Feature Snippet - Unna
Welcome to Fable Features! It’s nice to meet you, little one. So where did you grow up?
[Unna twists her burlap-colored skirt with pink tassles in her hands.]
I um . . . I’m from the forestlands. A clan by the, the um . . .
[Unna looks back at the stern woman—Elvi—standing behind her who just nods for her to keep going.]
By the bridge to the . . .
[Elvi gives her a smile.]
The bridge to the council. Relax, young one. Talk to her just like you’re talking to me or Sir or anyone else at the palace.
Right, sorry, Auntie.
[Unna sighs and looks back at Patricia.]
My mama was a pixie and my daddy was an Adarna Bird shifter.
Wow, that’s very cool!
[Patricia smiles encouragingly.]
So what’s “home” for you now?
[Unna smiles.]
A big palace that Mr. Zadkiel made really pretty! When I first saw it, it was gross-looking and the floors were rotten in some of the rooms.
[Elvi chuckles.]
It was abandoned for twenty years.
Anya Chopra from The Way Home by Shalini Mullick
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Anya is an awesome emergency physician who's surrounded by amazing friends and loves wearing denims. Her author, Shalini Mullick, is also a practicing pathologist. An introvert who enjoys meeting people, she loves both the magic of the sunset and the promise of the sunrise. The Way Home can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Anya
What’s your favorite smell?
The smell of paranthas which are layered or stuffed flat breads, cooked by my grandmother whom we lovingly call Beeji. The smell of the oil used to make them crisp reaches me from the kitchen and I can already taste my favorite breakfast!!
[The foodie that Anya is, she is already smacking her lips.]
Mm that does sound good!
What would you say is your best physical feature?
[Anya pushes her frizzy hair back into her high ponytail and replies,]
My height. At five feet seven inches, I am taller than most of my friends. I can carry off all fashion styles and looks because of my height—and I get to wear comfortable shoes without heels!!
Being tall certainly has its perks! You mention fashion styles—is there a certain fashion of clothing you like to wear?
Yes, whenever I am not in my scrubs, I love wearing denims—they are like my second skin. My favorites are the wide leg ones which flare at the ankle. And for the winters, a long trench coat looks fab!!
Brygida Neumann-O'Hare from The Rubicon by Aubrey Taylor
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Brygida is a strong-willed woman who helps out her Opa in his shop. Her author, Aubrey Taylor, is a mother of three who moonlights as an indie author. Her books pull no punches, hailing from a Christian worldview but filled with grit and unbridled honesty. Brygida's book, Separate Ways, is not out yet, but she does get to appear in The Rubicon which can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Brygida
What would you do on a free afternoon in the middle of the week?
A free afternoon in the middle of the week? Yeah, right. That hasn’t happened in years. I have to help Opa in the shop. He’s going deaf, doesn’t get around too easily, and is so backed up on shoe orders that everything else is left to me. Bookkeeping, errands, cleaning . . . When Oma was alive, she was at her best in the afternoons, so sometimes she’d come downstairs and help him out. I’d have an hour or two to sneak off to the countryside and visit my young man.
That’s very sweet of you to help out and sacrifice your valuable free time! But it must be hard not having any free time. How do you cope with that?
Can you keep a secret? For years I’ve kept trashy romance novels stashed away in the apartment. You know, the kind outlawed by the Regime. I tuck one under the counter when I’m “manning” the shop and pull it out when business is slow. They provide a great escape, but honestly, I think they’ve made it harder for over the years, too. It’s easy to blur the line between fiction and reality . . . and unfortunately, things don’t usually work the way they do in books.
Trish Card from The Surface of Water by Cynthia Beach
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Trish is a street-smart young woman with a complicated family and who cares deeply about justice. Her author, Cynthia Beach, is a longtime professor of creative writing and author of Creative Juices for Writers, second edition. She co-founded Scriptoria Workshop with Newbery winner Gary Schmidt. The Surface of Water can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Trish
Do you have any family?
Family? That’s tricky. I do and I don’t.
[Trish looks away.]
Mom died fourteen years ago. I was ten. She never told me who my dad is. But the wonderful Maria & Co took me in. Neighbors, you know. Yeah, I’m super grateful. For them.
I’m sorry to hear about your mom. Your neighbors sound amazing, though! Was it hard adjusting to living with them?
Not really hard because we got to know them as next-door neighbors. When Mom had bad days, Maria would take over—and soon we were living with them. So, yeah, when Mom died, I already felt like I had family.
I did feel a little—oh, I don’t know—shy, maybe with all her sons. Especially Andres.
[Patricia raises an eyebrow and grins.]
Shy, huh? I’m nosy, so I have to ask—why Andres? Why the most shy around him?
He has the most beautiful eyes—well, uh, never mind. We just play tennis sometimes. What’s next?
James Pearson from Innocent Lies by Colin Ward
More on Character, Book, and Author
Pearson is an intelligent young man who hates mayo and gets to work alongside detectives and fight crime. His author, Colin Ward, is an author of crime fiction, poetry, and theatre. He has self-published all his books and offers services to fellow authors on that journey. Innocent Lies can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Pearson
Do you have any hobbies? Or a hobby you wish you had time for?
I still like going out when I have the time and finish early enough. I’m not really into clubbing as much. I prefer going out to eat, or theatre or cinema.
[He leans in and lowers his voice to a conspiratorial whisper.]
Either that, or spending a night in, curled up on the sofa with him at home.
[Pearson taps his nose.]
That’s one hell of a hobby, I can tell you. I also like my self-defense, which I’m really getting into. We learn some at police training, but I decided to carry on.
That sounds like a very fun hobby! I’ve never learned any form of self-defense, but my older sister has!
As for me, I am a huge foodie. You? What’s your favorite type of sandwich?
I’m partial to a bacon or sausage sarnie. Or bacon and sausage. I’m also a fan of chicken if there’s loads of salad going too. Just none of that bloody mayo. God, I hate that stuff. We tend to live on sandwiches at work, always on the move. Sometimes it’s whatever we can get our hands on. But I’d much rather a big fat sub to fast food most days. Besides, the boss gets a bit pissy if you stink out the car. So, eggs are a no-go.
[A mock grimace ripples his youthful face before slipping back into a wide grin. He licks his lips.]
Traedis Atenel from The Sagathas Bard series by Beth Hudson
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Traedis is king and talented bard who loves her people and the color dark forest green. Her author, Beth Hudson, is a novel and short story writer with four novels, a novella, and a short story collection published. She takes her inspiration from art, music, and designer coffee. Book 1 of The Sagathas Bard, Goldsong, can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Traedis
What mode of transportation have you never tried?
I have never ridden dragonback. I cannot imagine asking a dragon for a ride, since they have far better things to do, like keeping the world running. I have met some. But the idea of asking someone who could fill an acre to act like a beast of burden is, firstly, rude and, secondly, ill-advised, though it depends upon the dragon. Still, I love to imagine what it would be like.
It does sound like it would be a wonderful experience! But of course, we wouldn’t want to offend them.
If you stumbled across a sack of gold, what would you do?
I have enough gold. I’d put it in the city treasury so that it could help to maintain our citizens and keep food in their bellies as well as continue to make sure everyone has housing. I must admit, there are few things Tolin has done better than the surrounding country of Telardur, but our ability to care for our own is one of them.
[Traedis smiles briefly.]
The Big, Bad Wolf from Red Riding Hood (not released yet)
by Mark Budman
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The Wolf is a cunning creature who became famous when he ate Red Riding Hood and whose best friend is the Fox. His author, Mark Budman, is a first-generation Moldovan immigrant who learned English as an adult. Counterpoint Press published his novel My Life at First Try. His work features in publications such as Catapult and The Mississippi Review. Although Red Riding Hood hasn't been released yet, you can check out his other book The Armor Thieves here.
Feature Snippet - The Wolf
What would you say you are most proud of?
That I ate the little Red Riding Hood girl. She made me famous. Posthumously.
That’s right! I remember hearing that story.
Is there anyone you absolutely can’t stand?
Bony people. I have to spit too much. And I broke a tooth once. Do you know how much they charge for the dental services in the forest? They are animals.
[Patricia shakes her head.]
I had no idea there were even dental services in the forest! What’s that like?
You wouldn’t believe the paperwork they require. Especially considering there is no paper in the forest, and everything is written on the birch bark with blood, sweat and tears. Yet they request everything in triplicates.
Kai Travaldi from The Faumen War Chronicles trilogy
by L. Cyrus Whelchel
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Kai is a kind-hearted Norzen healer who loves spicy food. His author, L. Cyrus Whelchel, is a children’s librarian from Texas who has always been fascinated by tales of nobility and the fantastical. Oaths of Life and Death can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Kai
Do you have any nicknames?
[Kai pulls a small object from the pocket of his red apothecary robe: a brass watch with a crystalline cover.]
There’s a story to that, actually. I earned the nickname Gravebane—though in Livoria we call it a Brand—during an incident that happened after I turned seventeen. During my Trial of Ascension to become a certified member of the Hunter Corps, me and the other participants ran across a savage beast called a nettleboar. Think of a wild hog and imagine it six feet tall and four and a half wide from shoulder to shoulder with venomous quills and two tusks as thick as my wrist. Angry bugger, too. Well, I somehow managed to fight it off and got lucky in killing it. Because of how dangerous they are, I was Branded as a member of the Exarch Knights and given both this watch as a symbol of my membership and the epithet Gravebane, since everyone says my uncanny ability to somehow not die makes me the bane of the death goddess, Cacovis.
[Patricia’s green eyes widen, impressed.]
Wow, what a story! And it’s such a cool name, too.
Where did you learn most of your skills and other abilities?
[Kai lifts his arm and smiles as he rubs the fur trim of his sleeve between his fingers.]
Most of my skills as a Hunter I picked up from my adoptive parents, though I’m much happier being an apothecary. I learned most of the basics of medicine from an old Aerivolk my Da knew named Grasol. But because he couldn’t officially take any apprentices, he got me set up with a friend of his named Geraldo, who taught me everything there is to know about being a healer. I owe both of them a lot.
Lilith, Queen of Hell, from The Salt of Angels Series by Connor Irving
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Lilith is a very powerful, dangerous woman and the queen of Hell. Her author, Connor Irving, is a fantasy author from the UK who works as a carer, but his true passion lies with writing and telling the stories of characters deemed “evil.” Connor is a mythology obsessive and lover of all things fantasy. Pillars of Cloud can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Lilith
Was this title—Queen of Hell—something you inherited?
Not inherited, more taken.
I was welcomed into Hell by the Princes in return for having their children, the Demons that populate Hell—like I hadn’t been abused enough! But I agreed because I knew the power Hell would give me.
Shortly after the birth of the legions of Hell, I realized that my children listened to me and me alone. I waged war on Hell knowing none of the Princes would harm their children. After only a few days of attacks, each Prince signed over his part of the realm to me. Lucifer was the last and most bitter. As the others swore fealty to me as their new Queen, he went into hiding, swearing revenge.
Wow, that’s intense. You must be very courageous and powerful to attempt a takeover like that!
Speaking of power, what are your thoughts on magic?
I couldn’t live without it! From my first day in Eden I had . . . abilities. I could communicate with the animals, I was able to increase the rate at which the crops would grow, and the wind and water bent to my every whim. But it wasn’t until I fled that I unlocked my true power: raw, practically untouched energies from an unseen world that gave me the strength to make it on my own. To survive in the land outside of Eden before the Princes of Hell found me and I ascended the throne.
I have used magic every day—and by that I mean every day that the world has been in existence. It is a part of me, and I am a part of it.
Sofia Luana from Skylight by Patchree Jones
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Sofia is the Jao Ying of Tropos, is learning how to control her magic, and doesn't like standing out. Her author, Patchree Jones, is a Thai-American author who currently lives in Southern California with her husband, two children, and one lazy dog. Skylight can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Sofia
If you got the opportunity to go back and change one thing in your past, would you do it? What would that be?
I think about this a lot. The easy answer is that I would want to have grown up in Tropos. Then I’d be more prepared to be the Jao Ying. I’d probably have my wings and horns and be better at handling my Palang. All that sounds really cool, so you’d think I’d jump at the chance to go back in time and start there.
[Sofia takes Cara’s hand and looks back at the Sawaan brothers.]
But, honestly, I wouldn’t change anything I’ve been through. If I grew up in Tropos, I would never have met Cara and that’s not something I’d give up so easily.
That’s true. And sounds like Cara is a valuable friend to have around.
Let’s go back to the “Jao Ying.” What is that exactly? I’ve never heard the term before!
Duh, of course! Sorry. Jao Ying is Mehk for Crown Princess. The language is new for me too, but I think my Palang activated or something when I first came here. My affinity translates Mehk for me and I’ve been lucky to understand what everyone says since day one. I still think in English and gotta translate my thoughts into Mehk, though, before I say them.
Prince Marley from The Ship, the Keep, and the Kingdom
by BelaJane Crilly
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Marley is a prince who loves ships and adventure and has a penchant for stumbling into mortal peril. His author, BelaJane Crilly, is an overtired college student/jack of all trades, currently studying for two degrees, and is trying desperately to market two books. The Ship, the Keep, and the Kingdom can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Marley
What would you do on a free afternoon in the middle of the week?
Well, before all of my adventures, I would have spent it on a dock somewhere, drawing or watching the ships come and go. I still love to do that any time we’re near a port, but now that I have friends, I’m more likely to get roped into an afternoon of horseback riding.
That sounds relaxing! What do you like to draw?
Ships on the river, landscapes, still lifes, that kind of thing. Calm, peaceful things. I usually wind up doing flowers for my sisters. I tried painting at one point, but it was too messy and not so portable. Charcoal is my favorite. I always keep a few sticks of it and some paper wherever I go.
I love that!
What’s your favorite memory?
[Marley blushes furiously]
Definitely when Katjia—I’m sort of betrothed to her, by the way—kissed me that time in the Keep. I mean, she’d kill me if I said anything different, wouldn’t she? Well, I guess you don’t know her, but I assure you, she would.
Kailyn Moran from Darkness Calls the Tiger by Janyre Tromp
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Kailyn is a fierce girl who is half tiger according to the legends and was also our 2024 VIP guest. Her author, Janyre Tromp, is an award-winning, best-selling author who writes heart-wrenching, hope-filled historical novels with a healthy dose of suspense. But she’s also a mom, award-winning editor, and wrangler of all things. Darkness Calls the Tiger can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Kailyn
What’s a favorite piece of clothing you own?
Your assumption is that I have options. I have a longyi (which is basically a tube of material we fold into a skirt), bits and pieces of a US military uniform that I’ve borrowed from my compatriots, some wool leggings that were my mother’s before she died, and a tiger pelt. I suppose the tiger pelt is what I’m most known for.
The tiger pelt is what gives me the most protection. I earned it as a child. It’s what confirmed me as an outcast . . . not that the daughter of a missionary needs much help being shunned. Still, only tigers can kill tigers. And if the mountain people and the Japanese soldiers wish to believe I am one of the legendary tiger-people come to life, then so be it. Perhaps the one I hunt will cower in fear knowing that I am coming for him.
[Patricia leans forward a bit as she admires the pelt Kailyn clings to.]
Tigers truly do inspire awe and fear, don’t they? Tell me more about these tiger-people. Are they real? Have you met them?
All the mountain people tell the story, or maybe a legend, that speaks of a time so dark, the sun will turn his back on the mountains and swallow the moon. It is then that the sharaw, the tiger-people, would come to exact revenge on the darkness. Some people say that a tiger becomes a person or that a person becomes a tiger.
Whether the legend is true or not, it’s useful to me now.
When I was a girl, the jaiwa, the storyteller I guess you’d say, told me I would become the sharaw. My parents insisted he was just poking at the foreigners, but most of the village never looked at me the same again. Now, the name Sharaw strikes fear into the enemy and makes my allies just wary enough not to look too closely at me.
Melodia from A (Not So) Simple Quest by Christina Wallace
More on Character, Book, and Author
Melodia is a sweet half orc girl and sorcery apprentice who would love to learn to cook. Her author, Christina Wallace, is a fantasy writer who enjoys writing stories that sweep you up in excitement and make you smile. A (Not So) Simple Quest can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Melodia
What incredibly strong opinion do you have that is completely unimportant in the grand scheme of things?
Hmm . . .
[Melodia places a finger on her chin, gazing toward the ceiling as she thinks.]
No one cares to know my opinions on anything, but I suppose I think we should do all spells and enchantments outside. The effects are the same when you perform them inside, but it just seems to me that if you’re trying to affect nature, you should be among nature.
I can agree on that! I love being outside in nature. Sounds like it would be a relaxing way as well to perform magic.
[Patricia adjusts the pillow next to her then smooths out the skirt of her dress.]
Do you have any close friends? What are they like?
Dur’Han and Benson are my closest friends. Dur’Han is an orc. Not very many people like him, but I’ve known him practically my entire life. I don’t remember a time before him, and I’m part orc, so that’s probably why he’s nicer to me than most others. Benson is just a human, and it took him a little while to warm up to me, being an abomination and all, but after I healed him a few times, he got used to me, and then he got partnered up with Dur’Han and we grew closer. They are both Catrin’s guards, and they often go out on patrols and work shifts in the dungeon with me.
Mallow from Second Chances at the Little Village Sanctuary by Ella Cook
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Mallow is a smart and decisive Moluccan cockatoo who is very good at painting. Her author, Ella Cook, grew up believing fairies lived at the bottom of her Grandma’s garden and writes uplifting stories with a good sprinkle of magic in them. Second Chances at the Little Village Sanctuary can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Mallow
What are your thoughts on lizards?
Weird bird things that decided not to grow feathers. I mean, scales are useful on feet coz they’re easier to keep clean than feathers and super strong. But why wouldn’t you want feathers? I did pick mine out when I was really sad and stressed, but now that I have more room and better food, they’re growing back and I remembered about flying again. Flying is the best thing ever. Except for maybe getting itches from hoomans. I like when my hooman Rick itches my head. Of course I can do it myself, but it’s important for hoomans to feel like they’re useful.
Oh, quite important.
[Patricia nods in agreement.]
Would you consider yourself decisive or indecisive?
I like what I like, and when I don’t like things I am very decisive in telling my hoomans. The bad ones before Rick-hooman taught me bad words. I save them for things I don’t like to make sure my new hoomans understand.
That’s a good use for them! And I think that’s great that you know what you like. I’m curious—has there ever been an instance when you were indecisive?
Well, at first I wasn’t sure that I liked Angel-rainbow-hooman. So I’m sorry to say I used to bite her. Quite a lot. I try not to do it too much now, but I sometimes forget that she’s not the woman who hurt me and stuffed me in the box. I like her now, though!
Rosa-Fury from Mandorlinfiore and the Dragons of Zonza
by Simon Kellow-Bingham
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Rosa-Fury is a powerful dragon who loves gold and shiny things. Her author, Simon Kellow-Bingham, studied medieval literature at Middlesex and Bristol Universities in the UK and lives with his family in Northwestern France. Mandorlinfiore and the Dragons of Zonza can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Rosa-Fury
What are you most proud of?
I love my little one, Baba-di-Camelo, and am very proud of how quickly she has earned her wings and learned how to stay out of sight in a busy, busy world full of humans!
That’s great! It certainly would be hard to stay out of sight in this world. Speaking of staying out of sight—do the humans not like dragons where you live?
I dare say the humans would be perfectly happy to see me, but people find it terribly hard to leave a dragon alone with her hoard and her family.
[Patricia nods.]
I can see that. Humans have a hard time not being tempted by a great amassment of wealth. Let's go onto our next question!
Do you have a best friend?
As an immortal being, best friends tend to come and go. There was a chap called Mandorlinfiore who read me poetry. He was very pleasant. Made sure I got the best of a catch of mackerel!
I’d like to make friends with a poet. I met one or two a long time ago. There was one chap called Petrarch. An Italian boy, very romantic he was, but he didn’t write any poetry about the majesty of dragons.
There are so many more poets today, I’m sure to meet another one!
Lucian Ciobanu from The Rift: Beginnings by Vaughn Collar
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Lucian is a tough, myth-loving archeologist who loves American cheeseburgers. His author, Vaughn Collar, is a beginning author and long-time fan of sci-fi. The Rift: Beginnings can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Lucian
Has someone ever done a random act of kindness to you?
Yes, maybe the only one. The principal of my high school took me in after my mother passed away. I had to keep my grades and attendance up . . . I didn’t look at that as a barrier, more of a challenge. When I graduated, he and his wife helped me to complete forms for university.
They sound like amazing people! I’m glad you were able to experience some kindness from them.
What’s your comfort food?
Easy. American cheeseburgers! I learned to enjoy them when I attended Georgetown for a master’s.
[Patricia licks her lips.]
I love cheeseburgers too!
What’s something you would have a super hard time turning down if it were offered to you?
Exploring the legends and the mythology of India comes to mind immediately. It is one of the few I haven’t had the chance to look into.
Peter from Along About Midnight by Dorian J. Sinnott
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Peter is a high schooler whose wishes might've landed him in a not-so-great situation. His author, Dorian J. Sinnott, is an author of dark fiction, ranging from drabbles to novels. He lives in New York with his girlfriend and their two cats. Along About Midnight can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Peter
What mythical creature would improve the world most if it existed?
[Peter snorts.]
That’s a better question for my friend, Sam. She believes in all that crazy stuff. But if I have to answer . . . I dunno.
[He shrugs.]
Would like a genie or something count? Something that could just like . . . fix things if I wished?
[He quiets, muttering to himself,]
Though . . . wishing got me where I am . . . so maybe not that . . .
I think a genie would be a great creature! Following the general stories, what would your three wishes be?
[His attention gets drawn back by the question.]
Huh? Oh . . . erm. Well, my first wish would be no strings attached. I don’t want any consequences for my wishes. I’ve had enough of that. My second would be maybe for my friends to stay local after graduation and not move away. I’m struggling with that a little bit. And my third wish would be to be happy . . .
Jane Riverdown from Emerald Baptism (not released yet) by Stuart Tudor
More on Character, Book, and Author
Jane is an adventurous nurse who dearly loves her children and had a run-in with the Fae. Her author, Stuart Tudor, Stuart is a South African speculative fiction writer. Emerald Baptism isn't out quite yet, but in the meantime check out his horror series. Book 1, Only My Eyes Move, can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Jane
What is something you thought would be a great idea but was terrible when you actually did it?
When I was young, about my daughter's age, I tried to make contact with Fae. I was a curious girl and wanted to meet a Fairy for myself after hearing so much about them.
I was overly prepared if I would be honest with you, Patricia. I only knew them as thieves and drug dealers as part of church wisdom.
But when I got to the nearest Fae forest.
[She scratches her chin in thought, before snapping her fingers.]
Yes, it was Piperfell, that was the one.
Piperfell?
[Patricia leans forward, curious to hear more.]
Yes, it was Piperfell.
I snuck inside and was soon set upon by a group of five Gnomes and three Fairies.
[She lets out a breath from the memory.]
It was rather scary, Patricia. But I was able to show them that I meant no harm.
I spent the afternoon with them. Honestly Patricia, they were some of the nicest non-humans I have met, I learnt so much about them that I was shocked to my core.
But after I left, I was sent by the Church to be educated.
[She gulps before putting on a smile.]
On the dangers of the Fae, they had planned to steal my firstborn with a Changeling if I had eaten any of the food they served.
[She adds in haste,]
Fortunately I was not hungry. But they were very persuasive.
[Jane sighs.]
I should have known better, I should have been better prepared and should have trusted the Church.
[She looks guilty, as if confessing a major crime in public. The smile returns, and she claps her hands together in a strained attempt to appear happy.]
But that was in the past, no harm was done, just a young person not thinking through all possible risks. I might try to find some Fae when Herbert and I next holiday in Bluewoods.
Bruce the Alpaca from Super Problems by Jason R. Lady
More on Character, Book, and Author
Bruce is a fabulous alpaca who was given the ability to talk when a middle schooler got ahold of a magic pen. His author, Jason R. Lady, is a fantasy and science fiction writer for young readers. Super Problems can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Bruce
In emergency situations, how do you react?
I am an alpaca, and we are known for our level-headed, calm, and decisive behavior when we find ourselves in emergency situations. If you ask Scott and his friends, they will doubtless tell you falsehoods. That in an emergency I am wont to panic and hide behind them. This is simply untrue and a besmirching of my noble character.
Oh certainly. If anything, perhaps they are the ones who panic and hide.
[Patricia chuckles.]
I’d love to hear more about one of these emergency situations. Especially since Scott and his friends became superheroes to protect you. Was there a particularly scary situation?
Oh, indeed there were! The Alpaca Defense Squad mean well, but they are but middle school children and still learning their superhero skills. I have not once, but twice been kidnapped and held prisoner by the sinister Stinky Sock and his sock minions. Luckily, it isn’t too scary for me, since the Stinky Sock needs to treat me well because he needs my magic wool to build his invincible sock-army. Pretty much any food or drink and pillows and a television on which to watch game shows and I am content, regardless of whose company I am in.
Amelia from The Reject Society by Marissa
More on Character, Book, and Author
Amelia is a sweet girl who gets into some fun hospital shenanigans. Her author, Marissa, loves to read and write, and if she’s not doing that, she’s watching YouTube! The Reject Society can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Amelia
I’d love to hear more about this “Reject Society” group. How did that come into being? It sounds like you guys have quite a bit of fun.
Well, the group came to me.
[Amelia giggles.]
I was being wheeled into the current hospital in my bed when Marc, Tyler, and Ethan saw me. After some talking with Nurse Jodi, they came to be and asked if I wanted to be part of The Reject Society. We all have something wrong with us that is forcing us to live in the hospital, and some days we feel like we are rejects in the world. I don’t have many friends, and no one really knows of me unless they are a doctor or a nurse. It is nice to be around a group of people my age who feel the same way and go through the same thoughts. We don’t say our group’s name out loud a lot, the nurses don’t like it, but it is how we feel some days.
I can’t imagine how hard that must be. I’m glad you have this group of people you can relate to—sounds like it helps a lot.
Why don’t we move on to our next question? What’s your favorite memory?
When I was in my last hospital, my dad found this PT room that was not being used a lot. He would wheel me into the room and have me sit on the floor. I would act like a goalie as he softly kicked balls towards me. It was a lot of fun. I wasn’t able to get up to run around but it did cause me to get winded from time to time.
Poppy Morton from The Poisoned Clergyman by E.L. Johnson
More on Character, Book, and Author
Poppy is an inquisitive, book-loving young lady who was wrongly accused of murder. Her author, E.L. Johnson, is an ex-pat from Boston, now living the dream in the UK. Johnson writes historical mysteries, fantasy, and paranormal tales. The Poisoned Clergyman can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Poppy
What makes you feel safe?
Being at home up in my room where it’s warm and dry during a storm, or sitting before the fire with a good book, reading by candlelight. Or anywhere with Constable Dyngley. If he’s around, I know I’ll be safe.
[Patricia leans forward with interest.]
Constable Dyngley, hm? Is he perhaps around your age?
Yes, I think so. I’m in my late teens, and he’s a bit older, I think. He’s very dashing and smart. I’d guess he’s in his twenties.
Dashing, smart, and makes you feel safe? Better keep him around then.
[Patricia grins.]
What’s the weirdest smell you have ever smelled?
The smell of a dead body. I never want to smell that again, and yet I’ll never forget it. When Constable Dyngley took me on the midnight ride to view the murder victim, we visited a place at the edge of town and the smell was putrid. Never again!
Steven Maxwell from The Roll Models Saga by D.A. Charles
More on Character, Book, and Author
Steven is an ambitious kid who has amazing wheelchair skills and loves science. His author, D. A. Charles, was raised by a disabled parent and grew up among the disability population. She is a neurodivergent author and writes inclusive stories with the aim of furthering acceptance of the disabled community. Shattered can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Steven
What was the best compliment you’ve ever received?
My friend Maddie told me that my wheelchair didn’t change anything, that she had no plans of abandoning our friendship because I have a disability. That might not seem like a compliment to some people, but to me, it’s everything.
Wow, what a great friend! I’m so glad she doesn’t care about you having a disability. How did you meet Maddie?
[Steven grins.]
Maddie is a few years older than me and grew up down the street.
She used to watch me when my parents went out, but we’ve always been friends. When she started driving, we started attending concerts together.
Uncle Logan is a doctor. Maddie helped around my uncle’s practice as a teen, cleaning up and making appointments; after she went to nursing school, he hired her as a nurse in his practice. It seems like I’ve known her forever.
That’s awesome. It’s good to have those long-time friends in our lives. Better keep Maddie around!
[Patricia taps her chin, thinking.]
What’s something you’ve never tried before?
Bungee jumping! I bet it’s so liberating!
Charlie Newberg from Fiancé Finale by Angela Ruth Strong
More on Character, Book, and Author
Charlie is a daring and noble man who cares deeply for others and wants to make things right with the woman he loves. His author, Angela Ruth Strong, works as a flight attendant, teaches yoga, and rides on the back of her husband’s motorcycle. Fiancé Finale can be bought here.
Feature Snippet - Charlie
What would be your choice of weapon?
The camera. I use it to tell stories about the world’s injustices and evoke change.
What an interesting choice! And I love the idea of bringing about change by telling stories with pictures. Is there a particular thing you’d want to change now if you could?
I just found out how many pregnant women and babies are dying in the Philippines due to inadequate maternity healthcare. I’m setting up an agreement with a ministry over there to shed light on their plight.
That is very noble of you. I hope you’re able to bring about change just like you did with the mines in Peru.
[Patricia taps her chin, thinking.]
Where do you go when you’re angry?
Again, I find feelings confusing. If something bothers me, I act. If I can’t figure out what my actions should be, I go hiking to clear my head. However, I recently got the chance to visit Nicole’s favorite thinking spot. It’s a giant statue of a Native American called The Keeper of the Plains located on an island in Wichita, Kansas, and it brought unexpected peace.
Bonus! More Books
Still looking for more books? Click here to see what books were spotlighted in 2023 for Fable Features!
See Ya Next Time
Enjoy the books! See ya soon for more Fable Features.
If you would like to submit a character to be interviewed for a future issue of Fable Features, please send an email to linnae.writer@gmail.com with the subject line: Fable Features.
Please note that erotica and content with excessive vulgar language will not be accepted.
If you have questions you'd like Patricia Parrington to ask in a future interview, please submit them to linnae.writer@gmail.com with the subject line: Interview Questions.
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