Colin Caulfield and the Irish Gods Book 1
The Fifth Cycle
Honorable Mention, Purple Dragonfly Book Award
"This book was such a refreshing read! The setting and characters are easy to fall in love with, and the author seems to have done a great research on Irish mythology. I haven't come across many stories that deal with this theme, and this book certainly didn't disappoint."
Meet a group of kids redefining the word "normal!"
Welcome to Harmony (Growing up Supernatural 1)
Welcome to Harmony (Growing up Supernatural 1)
Welcome to Harmony (Growing up Supernatural 1)
Winner, Teen Category, ONEBOOKAZ writing competition
Self-e Selection, Library Journal
“Loved the book and thought it was way too short!” -- Merlin’s Book Nook
It’s already hard enough being the new kid in town. On top of that, twelve-year-old Dillon Howell is also a werewolf. Dillon was adopted, and neither he nor his human parents have a
Winner, Teen Category, ONEBOOKAZ writing competition
Self-e Selection, Library Journal
“Loved the book and thought it was way too short!” -- Merlin’s Book Nook
It’s already hard enough being the new kid in town. On top of that, twelve-year-old Dillon Howell is also a werewolf. Dillon was adopted, and neither he nor his human parents have any idea how he inherited his “condition.”
After almost being discovered by some neighbors in their old neighborhood, Dillon’s parents move all the way to Harmony, in Northern California, hoping to protect their son and keep his condition a secret, no matter how ashamed it might make Dillon feel.
It turns out Dillon may have caught a break when he learns he’s not the only supernatural being in Harmony. Some readily embrace him, while others view him as a threat.
The greatest danger Dillon has to face though is his parents discovering the truth about Harmony. They are already disappointed in having a werewolf for a son. Learning other supernaturals exist in Harmony could cause them to run again, even though Dillon not only fits in with the folks in Harmony but has been able to flourish there as well.
Gwen Gladstone (Growing up Supernatural 2)
Welcome to Harmony (Growing up Supernatural 1)
Welcome to Harmony (Growing up Supernatural 1)
“Fantastic! Definitely worth your time,” Alex Wright, reviewer
Ready to Believe in Magic?
Since her mother's death, Gwen Gladstone's life has spiraled downwards. She's gone from popular girl to outcast and has been riddled with anxiety and depression. Her life takes a turn when her father marries a woman named Victoria Weatherly, and the t
“Fantastic! Definitely worth your time,” Alex Wright, reviewer
Ready to Believe in Magic?
Since her mother's death, Gwen Gladstone's life has spiraled downwards. She's gone from popular girl to outcast and has been riddled with anxiety and depression. Her life takes a turn when her father marries a woman named Victoria Weatherly, and the three of them move into her home in Harmony, a small town in Northern California.
It doesn't take Gwen long to discover that Victoria is no normal stepmother and the town of Harmony itself is just as mysterious and full of secrets as she is. But if Gwen can hold on, she'll learn that Harmony is a place where she can grow stronger and discover abilities she never knew she had, and she will need all the power she can muster, as she is forced to face an enemy that threatens to corrupt and consume her very soul.
Bloodline (Growing up Supernatural 3)
Welcome to Harmony (Growing up Supernatural 1)
Bloodline (Growing up Supernatural 3)
“This book was creative and incredibly engaging. It has a relatively unique story line, which I appreciated. There's a bit of everything in this book. There's suspense, sadness, and humor. This could be an enjoyable read for people of all ages.” Caitlin, reviewer
You Can’t Choose Your Family
Not many girls Sophie Holden's age would be abl
“This book was creative and incredibly engaging. It has a relatively unique story line, which I appreciated. There's a bit of everything in this book. There's suspense, sadness, and humor. This could be an enjoyable read for people of all ages.” Caitlin, reviewer
You Can’t Choose Your Family
Not many girls Sophie Holden's age would be able to care for a little brother and a dying mother. It's taken just about every bit of strength she possesses. Relief comes in the form of a rich distant relative they didn't even know they had named Nikolas Kesler, who wants to take Sophie and her family to his home in Harmony, a small town in Northern California, where he can care for them.
It seems too good to be true. But what other choice does Sophie and her family have? They can no longer manage on their own. They have no choice but to accept Nikolas' offer.
Once they do, and once they settle in Harmony, Sophie soon discovers Nikolas' secret, along with those of her newfound friends, and the town of Harmony itself. Nikolas also has a powerful enemy who is not above using Sophie and Peter to get at him.
Sophie has had to endure much in her young life. However, with the support of Nikolas and her new friends, she discovers reservoirs of strength she never knew she had, and she will need all of that and more if she wants to protect herself and her brother.
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When I'm Not Writing ...
What I'm reading...
I'm a big comic book fan, have been for ages. Marvel. DC. Independents.
One of my favorite all-time characters for sure is Daredevil. I got hooked on him in the Frank Miller days. I still revere Neil Gaiman's The Sandman and Alan Moore's tenure on Swamp Thing.
Lately, I have gone back to reading Terry Pratchett's Tiffany Aching stories, a series for young readers and readers who are young at heart.
What I'm watching ...
Make mine Marvel! I'm loving the new She-Hulk series on Disney+. I've been a fan of the lead actress, Tatiana Maslany, since first seeing her in a show called Orphan Black a few years ago. I'm inspired to go back and rewatch that show now.
What I'm listening to ...
I'm heavily into a sub-genre known as Irish or Celtic Punk. One of the biggest bands representing that type of music has to be Dropkick Murphys.
I first heard them in the opening credits of The Departed, and it was like a revelation. I've seen them live twice so far, and if you check YouTube you can find two free full-length concerts they recorded and posted since the pandemic. These guys are all about their fans.
If you like them or haven't heard them before, I put together a little Spotify list. Check the link below and enjoy!
I've since updated that list with some favorites from Flogging Molly who recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of their first album Swagger. Finally, there are some tracks from the band that started it all. The Pogues.
Favorite Links
Neil Gaiman
A great site, full of extras like short stories, interviews, and audibles.
Mouse Circus
This site is dedicated to Neil Gaiman's work for younger readers such as Coraline and The Graveyard Book. I can't recommend it enough.
Dropkick Murphys
I've got to keep track of what the boys from Boston are up to -- not to mention check out new merchandise.
Thriftbooks.
Just like the name suggests, this is a great site to purchase used books. They have a great inventory and offer a lot of awesome deals.
Previews World
This is where I get all my comic book news and including new and upcoming releases.
Comixology
I get my comics digitally now, from this site. New releases are Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Back issues are available here too.
Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library
I've saved the best for last. My home away from home in downtown Phoenix, AZ.