Standing up for magíq means the world stands against you.
Call Forth the Moonlight:
A Magíqon’s Guide to Gryphon Liberation
by Z.M. Celestaire
Genre: LGBTQ Ecopunk Fantasy Romance
Deubrise is a land blessed by the breath of the slumbering gods. Magíq lives within nature, powerful and beautiful. Few else can harness it besides the gryphons that reside in the mountains near Nico De Falco’s home, and the rare magíqon like Nico’s little sister. But magíqon are shunned and feared by modern society.
To protect himself from such treatment, Dr. Ackerleigh Sebring keeps his magíq a secret. Yet his “radical” teachings of magíqal history gets him fired from Ravensbourne University. Desperate, he finds a gamekeeper job caring for an imprisoned gryphon. Finally, he can be his whole self.
That is, until Nico follows a misguided impulse and frees the gryphon, injuring Ackerleigh accidentally.
Their fates—and feelings—become entangled in their determination to protect the sacred magíq of the gryphon. Ackerleigh and Nico will stop at nothing for the sake of liberation.
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Z.M. (they/them) is a writer, artist, and therapist. Writing and art have been a hobby for some twenty years now since they were a goofy little middle schooler.
Z.M. grew up devouring urban fantasy authors like Charles De Lint, Holly Black, and Patricia C. Wrede.
Z.M. lives in Saint Paul with their spouse, human child, and fur children.
Brady Moore was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. He began writing stories and drawing his own comic books at the age of ten and never looked back.
After graduating high school he attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. In December of 2010, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Media Studies.
Heavily influenced by film and television, his writing includes elements from multiple genres and multimedia styles. He currently resides in Charlotte, NC where he enjoys writing everything from poetry to movie scripts. His ultimate goal is to see one of his works adapted for the screen.
If you would’ve told ten-your-old me that I’d be an author, I’d probably have laughed in your face. Reading novels never felt like something I enjoyed when I was younger.
But the older I became, and the more I started reading books that I chose rather than just the ones handed to me by teachers, I started to realize just how much I loved reading. Here are just a few of the stories that inspired me to become an author and helped shape the Clairvoyants series.
Hatchet by Gary Paulsen:
This novel, about a boy stranded alone in the wilderness after a plane crash, is the first chapter book I remember reading. This book was so gripping and filled with tension. Before I read it, I’d never felt like books could be so captivating. I still have the series to this day.
Bridge To Terabithia by Katherine Patterson
I always enjoyed books about kids with huge imaginations because I was one of them. I used to spend my days daydreaming and picturing magical worlds around me. This novel not only captured that same sense of wonder, it also had a profound message about death and how children are affected by it.
Haroun and the Sea of Stories by Salmun Rushdie
I read this in high school and never understood how controversial it was until I got older. Its allegory was both beautiful and poignant. But what I loved most was that it felt like something I could only experience on the pages of a book. It was brilliantly imaginative and heartfelt and the story of a father and son gave me all the feels.
Choose Your Own Adventure
One of the first book series’ I was introduced to as a child. Allowing the reader to decide the narrative is still brilliant to me. The concept was one of the inspirations for how the powers of Prophets are explained in my Clairvoyants series.
Goosebumps Series by R.L. Stein
Who doesn’t love Goosebumps? I did one of my first book reports on “Night of The Living Dummy”. I used to speed through these books and couldn’t wait for the next school book fair so I could get another. It’s safe to say my love for slasher movies started here.
Animorphs Series by K.A. Applegate
This book series might’ve had the greatest influence on The Clairvoyants Series. It was unique, suspenseful, eerie, and the cover art was always incredible. Tobias getting stuck as a falcon was the inspiration for Lyra in the Clairvoyants books.
The Hunger Games series by Suzanna Collins
I was working at the movie theater when I first saw the trailer for the Hunger Games movie. I was intrigued and immediately bought the book. I instantly became a superfan. My favorite character was always Haymitch Abernathy, which is why I was ecstatic when Collins announced “Sunrise on the Reaping”.
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
While I enjoyed the entire series, the first book in the series will always be one of my favorites, if not my favorite book of all time. It still holds the record for the fastest book I’ve ever read. I literally couldn’t put it down. It was captivating from start to finish and one of the few books whose twists I couldn’t see coming.
In this world, there are four strains of clairvoyants: Kinetics who can move objects with their minds, Prophets who have involuntary visions of the future, Readers who can delve into the innermost thoughts of others in an instant, and Aural who can transfer their consciousness to control the bodies of others.
At just 17 years old, Rion Grean is a Kinetic with no knowledge that he is not alone in his abilities. His protective mother had kept them constantly moving, even going as far as refusing to tell Rion about his father whom he never met.
However, when an accident separates them, Rion finds himself being pursued by a covert militaristic force that sees his kind as dangerous anomalies in society. Suddenly thrust into a world filled with different factions of Clairvoyants, Rion must navigate through alliances and betrayals to determine who he can trust.
Despite his natural talents and intelligence, Rion has always struggled to make friends and find purpose in life due to his sheltered upbringing. But as he faces challenges outside of his comfort zone, he learns the true meaning of friendship and family.
This is not a typical story of good versus evil; it is a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and the struggle to coexist in a society that fears what it cannot understand.
Brady Moore was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. He began writing stories and drawing his own comic books at the age of ten and never looked back.
After graduating high school he attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. In December of 2010, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Media Studies. Heavily influenced by film and television, his writing includes elements from multiple genres and multimedia styles.
He currently resides in Charlotte, NC where he enjoys writing everything from poetry to movie scripts. His ultimate goal is to see one of his works adapted for the screen.
Once again, we will lift our voices (and our vibrant signs) in protest against the cruel and hurtful policies MAGA has enacted against United States citizens, lawful immigrants, and our closest allies.
Since Trump’s reelection, I’ve done a lot of soul searching and dug deep, really, really deep, to combat the bitterness, the resentment, the rage, and the hatred festering away at my mind, body, and soul.
Guess what I learned? All that negative energy exhausted me. From now on, I’ll appreciate each day for what it’s worth rather then dwell on all the bad mojo that Trump’s policies will bring. Seriously, why prolong the torture?
I’m baffled that anyone would vote for a convicted felon, admitted sexual predator, and insurrectionist to be President again. But I no longer care to know why. I’ll leave that to the historians.
Don’t spend time brooding over what occurred on November 5, 2024. We can’t afford to dwell on negativity; the stakes are too high. To heal our democracy, we need to work together.
We owe it to those who suffered and died for this nation to continue their good work. It’s our turn to overcome adversity, to be the heroes we’ve always wanted to be.
As an American, I will march for many reasons on Saturday. I’m adding my story to the evergrowing narrative of Americans effected by Project 2025.
This isn’t politics as usual, it’s an attack against hard working everyday people.
Here is a short list of why I’m marching:
1. It’s all for my children and the children of tomorrow.
2. My mother, like many Americans, spent her working life contributing to Social Security. Her home is at risk if they cut this program.
3. For nearly 26 years, my husband has been contributing to his 401K. Trump’s tariffs wiped out a huge chunk of those earnings! The look of despair on my husband’s face after a few days of massive losses was heartbreaking.
I can’t bring myself to check my 403B. It’s probably wiped out! There wasn’t a lot in there to begin with.
4. Family members of mine who are disabled receive SNAP, Medicaid, and Social Security. As it is, they’re finding it difficult to get by.
What will happen to them without the financial programs and vital medications they rely on? One of them takes Humira for Rheumatoid and Psoriatic arthritis. Humira’s price is around $8,000 a month when not covered by insurance.
5. Additional family members are part of the queer community. Seeing someone you care about grapple with their sexuality is painful.
No matter how much love and support you give, they still feel ostracized by society and grapple with self worth. The Trump administration’s recent anti-LGBTQ policies give strength to hateful, bigoted views and dehumanizes people I love.
A not-always-sentimental vacation to the ’50s, ’60s, ‘and ’70s. Bring your swimsuit.
Downeyoshun
by Art Young
Genre: Recent Historical Family Fiction
Sally Osterhoff is a genius. When she grows up, she wants to be a mathematician, a teacher, and a carpenter; and she plans to swim in the 1968 and 1972 Olympics.
Her mother has other ideas, and will emotionally and physically abuse Sally to fit them. After all, she only wants what is best for her child. But between her father trying his best, the family next door who practically adopts her, and her Aunt & Uncle down in Ocean City where she spends her summers, Sally just might have the support and love she needs to make all of her dreams come true.
Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights struggles, the Vietnam War, and the early Feminist movement, the story explores the power of found family, and how unconditional love can come from the least expected places. Downeyoshun is a not-always-sentimental vacation to the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. Bring your swimsuit.
Praise about the book:
“Arthur Young will introduce you to a special world, East Baltimore, and its vacation spot, Ocean City, with his warm Downeyoshun. Not that life is perfect – not all mothers are kind, and the VietNam war casts a shadow. But you’ll feel as if you’ve met new friends as you follow his characters through the challenges of growing up. In his skillful telling, the fabric of a family and a neighborhood comes to life. You may even find yourself becoming a Baltimore Hon!”
–Pamela Zerba, Contributor Atheists in America, Writer, Creative York Contest Winner
“Be prepared to fall in love with one of the most endearing literary characters of the century thus far. Ultimately, this is a book about family, the one you’re stuck with and the one you make. By the end, Sally will feel like part of yours. You will thoroughly enjoy your trip Downeyoshun.”
The morning after school ended, I sat on the porch and waited for Aunt Sally to get there. Mother had a mean smile on her face. When Aunt Sally drove up and parked in front of our house, Mother said “I’ve changed my mind. She’s staying here. We’ll come down in August.”
I started to cry, and Mother said “Sally. Inside.”
But Aunt Sally went right up to Mother and said “Forget it, Susan. She’s going to be mine every summer. Sally Hon, get in the car with Billy.”
She pushed Mother back into the house. I could hear Mother hiss at Aunt Sally, and Aunt Sally growl back at her. Miss Carmella came out onto her porch. “I like your aunt, kid. Introduce us when she comes out.”
Aunt Sally came out of our house grinning and skipped down our steps with my suitcase. Mother slammed the door. Marie and I hugged and kissed, and I said the words “I love you” for the first time in my life. Miss Carmella grinned and stuck out her hand and Aunt Sally shook it and laughed. They agreed to play “pen-pal” for Marie and I through the summer. Marie and I hugged one more time and said goodbye. Billy stuck his head out the window and said he had to pee. Aunt Sally told him to hang onto it for a few more minutes until she got gas. Miss Carmella pointed to her home and said “You wanna?”, but Aunt Sally said thanks, but she wanted to get out of here. Miss Carmella laughed, said she got it, kissed my cheek, and said, “Have fun, kid.”
And off we went.
On the trip down to Ocean City, I told Aunt Sally all about my friend Marie, Kindergarten, and all the things I learned this year and what I would learn next year, all the different kinds of food that Marie’s family ate and how good it all tasted, and how happy they were, and that I wished we could be that way too, but now I was going Downeyoshun where I would be happy, and –
Billy started laughing. “She talks a lot, now!” Aunt Sally snorted. “She’s been saving it up for six years, it’s about time it all came out.” She looked at me in the rear-view mirror. “Talk all you want to, Hon, I’m glad to hear it.”
I found out I knew a lot more arithmetic than Billy, but that he knew a lot more about reading. He read all the billboard signs all the way down, and Aunt Sally only corrected him twice. I wanted to learn this, too, so I asked him to teach me. “Sure”, he said. “It’s easy. I’ve even got my own books.”
The trip down seemed to go much faster this time, and the smell of the ocean suddenly filled my nose. I didn’t say so out loud, but THIS was home.
Giveaway
$20 Amazon
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Art Young is a Baltimore-born U.S. Navy / Vietnam / Agent Orange veteran and cancer survivor. He was once a carny in a traveling gadget show, and has worked as a fire-extinguishing-system installer and serviceman, a brewery’s route delivery salesman, flexographic press operator, licensed boiler-plant engineer, and a storyteller. He much prefers the last.
He’s a firefighter haunted by tragedy; she’s a nurse who never stopped loving him. Jon and Katie find themselves drawn back together, bound by shared history and the promise of healing and hope.
Jon Clemmons, a devoted firefighter, carries the heavy burden of guilt from losing his sister in a tragic accident. His pain runs deep, and he’s learned to keep others at a distance, afraid to let anyone see his scars.
Katie Deluca, a compassionate nurse, and Jon’s first love, has her own wounds, but she’s never stopped caring for him. When they’re reunited at a family wedding, old sparks reignite, and with them, old hurts that need mending.
As Jon and Katie draw closer, Jon’s troubled past, family secrets, and a volatile temper threaten to unravel the bond between them. Katie’s unwavering love gives him hope, but fears of reliving their painful past linger.
Will they find strength in each other to break free from the grip of old grief, or will their love slip away once more?
The Future They Deserve (Happily Ever After Teaser)
“This was my grandmother’s ring. She was the love of my grandfather’s life, and today, I place this on your finger as the love of my life.”
Jon had fought battles—both in the flames and in his heart. But standing before Katie, ready to say “I do,” he knew this was the fight that mattered most.
With a kiss that sent sparks through the night and a promise whispered against her lips, their mended hearts finally found home.
Be part of their love story – Preorder Their Mended Hearts today! https://a.co/d/5JP89bq
He’s a firefighter with a broken heart. She is a nurse with a hidden secret and a heart that has been broken. Can love give them the strength to heal?
Will Deluca, a firefighter and ranch owner, hides his pain behind a rugged exterior. After the tragic loss of his wife, his days on the Rockin’ D Ranch are filled with hard work, caring for his two children, and carrying the heavy burden of unfulfilled promises. In the quiet hills of Texas, his world feels as empty as the vast plains.
When Anna Samuels, a compassionate nurse with a heart for healing, arrives in Cardinal Creek, she’s seeking a fresh start. Leaving behind heartbreak, Anna’s journey brings her to the ranch, where Will’s piercing blue eyes and quiet strength draw her in. Together, they find a spark of hope—something neither thought they’d feel again.
As their connection deepens, Will dreams of honoring his late wife’s wish to create a sanctuary for children with autism, blending his cowboy roots with a mission of healing. But his lingering guilt threatens to pull him back into darkness, jeopardizing their fragile bond.
Anna sees Will’s strength and kindness, but her secret—casts doubt over their growing love. Will her secret be the ultimate test of their love?
Set in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Their Shattered Hearts is a heartfelt story of second chances, featuring relatable characters, small-town charm, and the unyielding spirit of love. This western ranch romance will captivate readers who adore cowboy romance books with emotional depth and a loving MMC.
Will they find the courage to confront their demons and embrace the love they both deserve or will the ghosts of their pasts keep their hearts shattered forever?
My journey as a romance author is deeply rooted in my personal experiences of love, loss, and resilience. The profound impact of the losses I have endured, including the passing of my grandparents and my parents, has shaped my perspective on life and love.
My own love story is one of healing and finding joy after heartache, and it mirrors the themes I explore in my novels.
As a survivor of grief and a believer in the power of love, I channel my experiences into crafting stories that resonate with the complexities and triumphs of the human heart. My writing is a testament to the idea that love can emerge from the most unexpected places, offering hope and healing. The one thing that can be learned from grief is that it’s a very personal experience and isn’t the same for every person.
Sometimes the road to a fresh start has a few detours
Lines We Shouldn’t Cross
The Innocence Series Book 1
by Harper Reynolds
Genre: Contemporary Romance
When they first meet, sparks fly…but not the romantic kind…
Ella Westhoff is a marketing genius. But romance? Not her strong suit. So, while she’s prepared to return to her small hometown and help her grandmother successfully reopen her B&B, she will not fall for the grumpy landscaper on the job—the one who so thoroughly annoyed her at first sight. That was the plan, anyway…
Cooper Daniels isn’t cut out for love, either. His bitter divorce certainly taught him that. One-night stands are all he’s willing to commit to these days. Which means that even though he enjoys bantering with the brilliant Ella, he knows he can’t be the kind of guy she deserves. No matter how much she makes him wish he could be…
Somewhere between fresh starts and past hurts, business and pleasure, Ella and Cooper might be able to claim a happily ever after. But only if they’re willing to cross some lines along the way…
Lines We Shouldn’t Cross, book 1 in the Innocence series, is a sweet and spicy, emotional contemporary romance. Download today and get ready to fall for Ella and Cooper.
**Releases March 20th!! Get it for On Sale for a limited time!**
This, this… guy! I stalk out of the dining room, fuming.
Of all the people for Pippa to rent the carriage house to, it had to be him. And now he’s living right next door, invading my sanctuary, the space I’ve always considered mine.
Why did he have to ruin my hope of living in the carriage house? There must be plenty of places available for rent in town. I sigh, trying to let my frustration go because bitching and moaning won’t change a thing.
I’d spent countless sleepovers there with my best friend, trading secrets, and dreams. Later, losing myself in romance novels, I’d imagined my own epic love story. Yeah, well, that had been a big naïve fantasy. Most guys turn out to be jerks—like my ex—not some swoon-worthy hero who sets my body ablaze while cherishing my soul. That kind of guy only exists between the pages.
Now, another real-life example of an arrogant jerk stands right there in the dining room, pouring wine as if he owns the place. His broad frame fills the space like a quintessential guy’s guy. His large hands tell a different story. Hands that could build barn walls or something, not pouring wine with unexpected gentleness. Strength and softness, wrapped in those sexy, veiny forearms. If he’d be anyone else, I’d be hopelessly flustered.
Fine, the man’s hot enough to melt steel, but that’s where my appreciation ends. His charm could strip paint of wood, and it’s just about as healthy to be around. He might have fooled Pippa, but not me. And now we’re supposed to work together? Fricking perfect.
In the kitchen, I muster a smile. “Need a hand?” The lasagna’s rich scent fills the room, promising comfort.
Pippa, beaming as though she’s crafted a culinary masterpiece, hands me a tray bearing the night’s first course. In the center, a mason jar filled with her homemade ranch dressing takes the spotlight amid the salad greens and a basket of still-warm bread.
“Could you bring this in?”
Her warm smile tells me she’s missed me and is happy I’m home.
“Of course.” I won’t rain on her parade, so I nod and smile. One quick taste of the creamy dressing first, then the breadbasket joins the greens as I steady myself to face Mr. Arrogance Next Door.
“Thanks, darling.” Pippa smiles. “I’ll be right there.”
Yes, please, I pray silently. I don’t care to be alone for even one minute with that infuriating man. I let out an inaudible sigh, part frustration, part resignation.
“Alright,” I say, forcing a cheery tone. With no excuse to dodge McCocky, I carry the tray out of the kitchen.
Giveaway
$20 Amazon
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
I write the kind of romance novels that blend sweet and spicy into something deliciously real – stories that’ll warm your heart one minute and make you reach for a fan the next. My characters are flawed souls who stumble their way to love with enough emotional baggage to fill a cargo plane, but they’re worth every messy moment.
Life handed me my own romance novel when I fell for an American military man while living in Germany. Now I’m living my happily-ever-after in a cozy Kentucky town, where my European roots tangle perfectly with Southern charm. You’ll find me powered by excessive amounts of coffee, testing ice cream flavors (strictly for research purposes), and soaking up cuddles from my golden retrievers, Dakota and Tucker.
“This was my grandmother’s ring. She was the love of my grandfather’s life, and today, I place this on your finger as the love of my life.”
Be part of their love story – Preorder Their Mended Hearts today! 
