Interview with author Chuck Griffith

  1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

Hi! I’m Chuck Griffith. I’ve worn a lot of creative hats over the years: designer, filmmaker, and now children’s author. I have a master’s degree in education and used to teach in New York City, which
definitely shaped how I think about kids, learning, and storytelling.

These days I live in Austin, Texas, where I still work in creative fields, but Monty Moves to Honeytown Beach is my first time writing for kids.

  1. What is the inspiration behind your book Monty Moves to Honeytown Beach?

It all started with a simple doodle of a yellow jacket named Monty. I started thinking about what it feels like to be different or not immediately accepted, and how even quiet or overlooked kids have something amazing to offer. Monty’s journey reflects that. He’s kind of introverted, not the loudest voice in the room, but he finds his own way to shine and help others.

  1. When did you realize you wanted to be an author?

I’ve always loved stories, whether through film, design, or the classroom. But the moment I started sketching Monty and imagining his world, I realized I wanted to tell stories just for kids. My background in education definitely pushed me in that direction. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful a good story can be for young minds.

  1. Please tell us something about your book Monty Moves to Honeytown Beach.

It’s the story of Monty, a smart and kind yellow jacket who finds a bee colony in trouble. The bees need help saving Flower Field, but they don’t trust Monty because he’s not one of them. Still, Monty steps up and shows that being different doesn’t mean you can’t make a difference. The illustrations are hand-drawn, and the entire book was made without using any AI tools. It’s a story made with heart, for kids who need a reminder that they can be heroes in their own quiet way.

  1. For which age group is your book Monty Moves to Honeytown Beach suitable?

It’s best for kids aged 4 to 8. The language is approachable for early
readers, and the message is great for starting conversations about kindness, inclusion, and believing in yourself.

  1. What is your favorite quote?

I really love the line, “Just because I’m not a bee doesn’t mean I can’t help.” It captures Monty’s whole journey and mindset. He knows who he is, and he still shows up for others.

  1. What do you like the most about your country?

I appreciate the diversity. There are so many stories, backgrounds, and perspectives here. It’s not always perfect, but that mix of voices is what makes things interesting. It’s something I try to reflect in my creative work.

  1. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

Make it part of everyday life, and keep it fun. Let kids pick what excites them, and don’t stress about it being “serious.” Some of the best lessons sneak in through silly stories and bedtime reads.

  1. What does literary success look like to you?

If a child finishes Monty and feels a little braver, a little more seen, or just wants to read another book, that’s success. It’s all about connection and impact.

  1. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

My nieces and nephews have been a huge inspiration. Their energy, questions, and unique little personalities constantly remind me what really matters. They’re the reason I wanted to write something that felt real, kind, and full of heart.

Buy Monty Moves to Honeytown Beach on Amazon

Interview with author Kevin Moonn

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. My name is Kevin Moonn, I’m a first year Creative Writing and English Literature student at the University of East Anglia and I love to write science fiction and fantasy stories. Coming from a Christian background, I aim to apply God’s morals and teachings into every work that I complete. Furthermore, I’m ethnically from India, Kerala, and a lot of The Last Chimaera represents the culture of my community and background.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Last Chimaera”?

A2. Some of the physical difficulties that I faced when creating this book was cover designing and a lack of time. As everyone knows, being a university student doesn’t come cheap, therefore, I had to design the cover myself and ask a friend to edit my book. As someone who just came out of surgery recently, I lacked the time to edit/ write my book and design my cover. The medicine made me drowsy and unmotivated, yet I managed somehow! Learning how to design a cover also proved difficult, since this was not my area of expertise. However, I’m happy with the way it came out and the details that I implemented into it, for example the kalarippayattu shield on the ‘R.’

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. Technically, the main ideas weren’t inspired from books exactly but rather anime and manga. Full metal alchemist portrayed the evil that comes from human desire when they try experiment on children and animals. Failed experiments in that anime inspired the creation of chimaeras. However, many books that have inspired my book writing journey are the Hunger Games and Percy Jackson, basic but impactful.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. When I travel to India, a place that I love seeing is my great grandfather’s and grandmother’s house and back garden. Unlike places like America and England, her back garden is a forest, her house is practically a shack. Though wild animals, like snakes and mosquitoes, wander the forest, it reminds me of the relentless determination my great grandparents had when raising 8 children while taking care of animals like cows and dogs even at an old age, 98 to be exact. The shack is a reminder of their kindness and love. Therefore, despite its dangerous surroundings nowadays, it is still a beautiful place to see.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Last Chimaera’?

A5. The inspiration for The Last Chimaera came from an old children’s story my father used to tell me a child, about 2 children, a father and a tiger. They were naughty children who did not obey their parents and lived as they liked. One day they disobeyed their father again and ran away. They encountered a tiger and it pounced on them however, before it could, the father rushed in and saved them. At first, I thought this was a stupid children’s story meant to scare me and make my dad look stronger than he is. But I realised later that parents love us so much that they would jump in the face of danger to protect us. Another inspiring quote is from the Bible, John 15:13, “There is no greater love than this—that a man should lay down his life for his friends.”

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Last Chimaera’?

A6. It took me 2 years, not including the writer’s block I had for another 2 years in between. However, it did take a long time because I worked on 2 other books at the same time, a fantasy series that will come out soon – stay tuned.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Amazon and lulu publishing.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Last Chimaera’?

A8. The Last Chimaera was chosen as a title with thought behind it. Like any other book, it foreshadows contents of the story and like any title, plays a huge role for the story. It made sure I made my readers question who the last chimaera is. The book designing was more complicated, however. I always knew I wanted the 2 brothers facing each other, and so I did. But every book cover has meaning integrated into it other than just 2 characters. The corn is meant to symbolise the cycle of life and death. The shield on the ‘R’ in the title is meant to foreshadow the underrepresented martial arts, kalarippayattu, as the main fighting technique.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

A9. Taking inspiration from real life events helped me keep things fresh, as a writer and for my readers. Watching things unfold helps give me new and fresh ideas. Every book is a mixture of interactions and events that have unfolded in the author’s life.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Stay consistent. Whether it’s a few words a day or a whole page, consistency is so important.

Buy The Last Chimaera on Amazon

Interview with author Cathy Warshaw

Q1 What is your favorite line from your book ‘The Obsidian Eye’?

“The truth isn’t just buried in the past—it’s protected by those brave enough to find it.” This line captures the heart of the Sisterhood Sleuths’ journey—uncovering ancient mysteries not for glory, but because truth matters, even when it’s dangerous. It reflects the themes of courage, legacy, and the powerful idea that young people can be the protectors of truth in a complicated world.

Q2 What would you say is your strength as an author?

My greatest strength as an author is my ability to weave empowerment into adventure. I don’t just tell exciting stories—I equip young readers with life lessons through suspense, danger, and mystery. I create diverse, intelligent characters who are brave not because they’re fearless, but because they choose truth, loyalty, and resilience even when the odds are against them. My writing blends entertainment with emotional growth, making my books thrilling and meaningful.

Additionally, my dedication to crafting an entire universe—with songs, apps, games, and merchandise—shows my strength in visionary storytelling. I’m not just writing books. I’m building a world where teens can learn, feel seen, and believe in their power to make a difference. That’s rare—and powerful.

Q3 How do you manage your work schedule?

I want to say I’m a scheduling wizard—but truthfully, I’m not. The entrepreneur in me has taken the wheel for a while, which means my writing has been riding in the back seat. With an eight-book series in progress and currently working on Book Four, I haven’t felt too much pressure.

Q4 How do you handle literary criticism?

I learn from it. I’ve only been writing fiction since 2024 and am always willing to learn.

Q5 What do you like about audiobooks?

I’m a huge fan of anything audio! Honestly, I fall asleep most nights with an earbud in, listening to crime stories—yes, I know it’s a bit unusual, but I love it. There’s just something powerful about hearing a story unfold through voice.

That’s why I’m especially excited to announce that The Obsidian Eye and The Land of Promise are both being turned into audiobooks. And these won’t be your average narrations— It’ll feel like stepping into the story itself.

Q6 What inspired you to start writing?

I love telling this story. One morning, I woke up with a full story in my head—it just wouldn’t let go. I had never written fiction before, but something told me I had to get it down. So I locked myself in a room for three days, told everyone (including the dogs!) to leave me alone, and started writing. That’s how The Obsidian Eye was born.

Q7 What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?

For me, good writing starts with the heart. If the writer doesn’t feel something, the reader won’t either. But beyond that, I believe the most important elements are:

Authentic characters – Readers connect with people, not just plots. Characters should feel real, flawed, and growing.

Emotional truth – Whether it’s a mystery, fantasy, or real-life drama, the emotions have to ring true.

A strong voice – The tone and rhythm of the writing should feel distinct and natural, like the author is sitting across from you, telling the story just for you.

Pacing and purpose – Every scene should move the story forward or deepen the reader’s connection.

Mystery and wonder – No matter the genre, I believe stories should spark curiosity and give readers something to unravel.

In my case, I always write with teens and young adults in mind. So I also try to include life lessons, moments of courage, and a sense that they matter—that their voice, their choices, and their future are powerful.

Q8 What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

I follow the energy of the story, and when inspiration hits, I go all in. That might mean shutting the door, telling everyone (even the dogs) to give me space, and disappearing into my fictional world until a chapter is done.

Balancing my work’s creative and business sides can be tricky, but the story always comes first when I’m writing.

Q9 What is the significance of the title ‘The Land of Promise, The Seven Seals’?

The title carries both spiritual and symbolic weight.

“The Land of Promise” refers to Israel, a place deeply rooted in history, prophecy, and hope. It represents more than a geographic location—it symbolizes a journey toward purpose, identity, and truth. For the Sisterhood Sleuths, it’s a land full of ancient secrets, spiritual echoes, and modern danger. Their adventure there is about uncovering what’s been hidden and what’s worth fighting for.

“The Seven Seals” draws inspiration from biblical prophecy, where the seals represent revelation, judgment, and unveiling of hidden truths. In the story, the Seven Seals become a powerful metaphor for unlocking knowledge that The Society has buried for centuries. Each seal the team uncovers peels back another layer of deception, revealing not just conspiracies, but truths about humanity, belief, and destiny.

Together, the title speaks to the book’s core themes: faith, mystery, legacy, and the courage it takes to uncover what others want to stay hidden.

Q10 What did you want to be when you grew up?

Honestly, I didn’t have a clear vision back then. I was a struggling student—concentration was hard, and life wasn’t easy. My teenage years were difficult, being an introvert and terribly shy, without guidance or support, I couldn’t see what the possibilities were. It felt like a lot of trial and error for a long time.

But looking back, I’ve lived an extraordinary life. I’ve lived in Israel, helped open a Hilton Hotel, owned a restaurant in West Hollywood, launched one of the first online dental management programs, and had several nonprofits. At 62, I went back to school and became a certified Life Coach for teens. And now, at 73, I’m an author and songwriter, still learning and creating.

I often say it’s a miracle I even graduated from high school. But what I’ve learned is that you don’t need a traditional path to create a meaningful life. I took every opportunity I could to grow, build, and give back—college or not.

“You don’t need a perfect past to build a powerful future. You just need to say yes to the next step.” – Cathy Warshaw

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MacKenzie’s Last Run

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: MacKenzie’s Last Run 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Gayle Rosengren ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“MacKenzie’s Last Run” by Gayle Rosengren is a compelling and emotionally charged read. The story follows thirteen-year-old MacKenzie Lawrence and his twin sister, Tessa, as they navigate life after losing their father in a tragic mass shooting over a year ago.

During an Easter family dinner, their mother reveals that she’s planning to marry a man named Simon. Unable to accept this news, MacKenzie delivers an ultimatum: she can choose either Simon or him. His family dismisses his words, but Mac is serious. Determined to make his mother understand how he feels, he hatches a plan to run away from home. At dawn, he sneaks away and takes refuge in a secluded lake house.

What happens next? Does Mac’s plan go the way he imagined, or does something unexpected—and possibly dangerous occur?

This story is gripping from start to finish. The pacing is brisk, with never a dull moment. The cover art is eye-catching, and the book is sure to resonate with fans of children’s fiction. I especially loved Mac’s character—he’s relatable, brave, and full of heart. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

The Last Chimaera

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Last Chimaera 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Kevin Moonn ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Last Chimaera” by Kevin Moonn is a captivating read that pulls you in from the very first page. The story revolves around two brothers, Renji and Abner, who live with their mother after their father abandoned the family. Despite their mother’s warning not to go outside—due to a string of recent child abductions—Renji and Abner sneak out to play.

Tragically, Renji is kidnapped by members of the mysterious Rika organization. Abner is consumed by guilt, blaming himself for not listening to their mother. Since the incident, their mother has grown distant from him. Meanwhile, Renji and other abducted children are subjected to experiments. Renji is mutated after choosing a tiger, and he begins to lose control of his own body. The fierce instincts of the tiger take over, turning him into something monstrous.

Will the brothers reunite? What becomes of Renji as the tiger blood courses through his veins?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The plot is refreshingly original, and the author’s world-building—especially the concept of the Rika organization and human-animal mutation—adds a thrilling layer to the narrative. Don’t hesitate to pick this one up!

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

Love Lost and then Found in the Civil War

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Love Lost and then Found in the Civil War 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: William Tirre ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Love Lost and then Found in the Civil War” by William Tirre is a compelling and emotionally rich novel. The story follows twenty-four-year-old Simon Albrecht, who is engaged to Emily, the daughter of a wealthy planter. When Simon refuses to enlist in the Army of Northern Virginia, Emily’s father, Henry Lee, forces her to break off their engagement.

Overhearing this, Josiah—a slave and the illegitimate son of Henry Lee—asks Simon to take him to Canada in pursuit of freedom. Disguised as Simon’s manservant, Josiah travels north with him. Though his papers appear legitimate when they’re stopped by slave hunters, suspicions linger. Eventually, Josiah is abducted—but later, he is reunited with Simon.

Along the way, Simon meets Gabrielle, a woman who has escaped from sexual slavery. The two fall in love. As the story unfolds, readers are left wondering: What becomes of Josiah? Will he gain his freedom? Will he find love?

Tirre’s writing is powerful and evocative. Simon’s courage and moral conviction are truly inspiring, showing us the strength it takes to stand firm in one’s beliefs. This gripping tale weaves together themes of slavery, abduction, love, and resistance—making it a truly unforgettable read.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

The Ascension

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Ascension 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: J.M. Shaw ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The Ascension by J.M. Shaw is the gripping first installment in the Callum Walker Series. The story centers around Callum, a humble maintenance worker who lives a quiet life—until rumors surface of a monstrous, wolf-like creature with glowing red eyes attacking people. Instead of returning home one night, Callum sets out to track this terrifying beast.

Endowed with the rare gift of psychic perception, Callum uses his abilities to battle evil. He eventually defeats the creature, Amarok, and learns of a greater threat: Amarok’s master, Kincaid, whose dark plans are already unfolding. Despite his victory, Callum decides to keep his powers hidden, hoping for a chance at a peaceful life.

However, trouble brews at work. A new colleague, Liam, is determined to uncover proof that Callum is using magic. This suspicion arises from a vision seen in a “sight stone” belonging to Quinn, a high-ranking governor within an organization known as The Order. Quinn is eager to expose Callum, believing his powers could be instrumental in fighting an oncoming darkness.

Through a mystical encounter with a fairy, Callum hears a chilling prophecy: “A human with natural magic will arise at the darkest hour. This person will end the war and save us all.” But Callum feels unworthy of such a destiny—he knows nothing of any war and doesn’t believe himself to be powerful enough.

The novel features rich world-building, a fast-paced plot, and a cast of intriguing characters. Magic and mystery fill every chapter, leaving no room for dull moments. Callum is a compelling protagonist, and I found myself thoroughly invested in his journey—I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

The Obsidian Eye

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Obsidian Eye 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Cathy Warshaw ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The Obsidian Eye is a Young Adult mystery thriller and the first installment in the Secret Societies and the Sisterhood Sleuths series. The story centers on two sisters, Chloe and Lily Hastings. During a visit to the Upland Public Library, they meet Evelyn Greene, a mysterious librarian.

Chloe shares that she’s been researching Upland, The Society. Together, they solve a cryptic puzzle that leads them to a hidden door. Inside the secret room, Lily discovers a drawing of a black gemstone labeled The Obsidian Eye. Concerned for their safety, the sisters learn of a Safe Haven located outside the city limits.

There, they meet Gil, a man who has been tracking The Society for years. He assures them that if they stand against The Society, he’s on their side. The Society seeks to reshape the world in its own image—one that excludes people like Gil, Chloe, and Lily.

Gil invites them to continue their mission in an underground tunnel known as the Safehouse. As Chloe and Lily dig deeper, they begin to feel like they’re part of something much greater than themselves.

The narrative is easy to follow, and the suspense kept me hooked until the very end. I especially loved the vivid world-building and the author’s imaginative take on this secretive world. Teen readers who enjoy solving mysteries and uncovering secrets will find this book an exciting read. The story is fast paced and there are no dull moments in it.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

Time Fixers

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Time Fixers 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Lee Matthew Goldberg ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Miles Hardy, a teenage detective about to enter tenth grade, is eager for his next big case—especially after recently saving his brother’s life. So when his brother Simon reveals a mission that involves traveling back to the year 1999, Miles jumps at the opportunity.

Although Simon is still running tests on the time machine, Miles can hardly wait. Their mother, a survivor of childhood abuse, relies heavily on medication and often behaves in disturbing ways. Determined to change her fate, Miles and Simon hope time travel will offer a way to rewrite the past and give her a better life.

With help from their grandfather Scoot’s journals, which offer crucial insights, the boys prepare for the journey ahead. I couldn’t put this book down—it’s fast-paced and thrilling, with Miles and Simon making a compelling team. Miles is a brilliantly crafted character, and if you’re a fan of time travel adventures, this one definitely belongs on your TBR list.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

He Saw Me Anyway

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: He Saw Me Anyway 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Mirri Wii ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“He Saw Me Anyway” by Mirri Wii is a captivating story that draws you in from the very first page. The protagonist is a solitary woman who lives deep in the woods, with only the trees for company. Her striking red hair fuels local gossip, casting her as a mysterious figure—perhaps even a witch dabbling in dark magic. Isolated and friendless, she leads a life shrouded in secrecy.

Among the townspeople, she has a hidden lover. Though their moments together are passionate, he always leaves too soon. She believes he’s ashamed to be seen with her, fearful of how it might affect his reputation. Despite this, her feelings for him grow deeper, and she begins to long for more—wondering if she’s naive for hoping he’ll one day want a real relationship.

When she finally opens her heart and questions their future, he reassures her. He speaks of escaping together—starting fresh in a place where they’re not haunted by their past. But will his promises hold true? Or will her trust be shattered?

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The suspense kept me turning the pages, eager to find out what would happen next. The characters are well-drawn, and the vivid setting adds a haunting charm that lingers long after you’ve finished. Mirri Wii’s storytelling pulled me in completely.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5
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