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

Buy books on Amazon

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

Eat, Pray, Nomad: Book Two: Singapore

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Eat, Pray, Nomad: Book Two: Singapore 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Ara Tanner ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The author portrays Singapore as a clean and green city. Since everyone spoke English, Tanner faced no language barriers. However, she found the weather to be intensely hot. During her 29-day stay, she managed to visit all the major attractions.

Tanner also shared a touching moment of honoring her daughter Paige on her death anniversary. One of her favorite experiences was the scenic cable car ride from Mt. Faber to Sentosa Island. Her overnight stay at Marina Bay Sands stood out as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Buddhism is the predominant religion in the country.

On her final day in Singapore, the author explored the charming island of Pulau Ubin. Within a month, she had thoroughly explored the country’s key sights and felt ready to move on to her next destination.

The beautiful photos of Singapore included in the book made me want to visit the country myself. Merlion Park and Marina Bay Sands looked especially appealing. I truly enjoyed reading this book—Tanner’s experiences made it a compelling read. I deeply admire her courage and the bold choice to embrace life as a digital nomad. I can’t wait to get my hands on the third book in the series.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

Interview with author Rob Dorgan

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

A1. My name is Rob Dorgan. I have an MA in European History and a huge interest in world spiritualities. I teach meditation, yoga – both weekly classes and yoga teacher training courses, and along with my partner, I host yoga/meditation retreats. I am also a practicing Astrologer —- and a constant student of the Cosmos.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Awakening the Mystic”?

A2. Once the inspiration came through me, it did not stop. I wrote 220K words before finally stopping to put together the manuscript that became the published book- -which is 113K. Editing was a challenge.

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

A3. Actually, my meditation mentor, Sally Kempton, is my biggest influence. She is the author of Meditation for the Love of It and Awakening Shakti. Both are non-fiction but deal with yoga and meditation which are a big part of my novel.

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

A4. Key West. I love the warm weather and the fact that I can get around without a car.

I have been hosting a bi-annual yoga-meditation retreat in Key West for many years, so it is close to my heart.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Awakening the Mystic’?

A5. I was teaching a year long Yoga Teaching Training course. In the morning I was to teach Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras—- I had a flash of inspiration that turned into the whole premise for the book—- Miracles— and Love

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Awakening the Mystic’?

A6. That is difficult to say since I did not just sit to write it but did it while I taught and did readings but if I had to put it together— about 2 years

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. The book and the audio – which I recorded, are available everywhere – Independent Book Sellers, Amazon, Barnes and Noble…

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Awakening the Mystic’?

A8. I had a working title, but the publisher found another book with that title so we did some research – the publisher and me. Awakening the Mystic: A Novel of Cosmic Love and Healing captures the essence of what takes place in the story. This ordinary human, Ren Devlin, is looking to figure out the meaning of his life— through exploring yoga and astrology- both ancient arts and sciences. He activates an opening that is accessible to all of us —- and shows the world that miracles happen through LOVE.
The cover is an extension of the title. The skyline of Cincinnati, OH is there because so much of the story happens there — the chakra symbols represent the stages of our spiritual opening – and the Lotus represents the flower of our hearts that connect us with true reality – our divine inner nature.

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

A9. It stays fresh when you are true to the creativity that wants to be expressed rather than writing for what ‘you think people want.’ At least that is true for me—
Put your vision on paper not someone else’s formula.

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

A10. This is connected to the previous question for me—
TRUST your creativity. Honor it AND validate it for yourself first and foremost.

Everybody will have an opinion on your work, but they base their opinion on their experiences.

You have to trust the creativity that comes through you—- as yours. Those who get it will get it.

That advice has been very valuable as I put Awakening the Mystic out into the world.

Buy Awakening the Mystic on Amazon

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