From Samurai Bounty Hunter to Egyptian Goddess - creating new stories and characters for the Azura Universe - by Vijaya Schartz

 

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The Azura Universe is vast and varied. I have been writing stories in it for several years now, over different series. From the Azura Chronicles set on the angel planet, to the Byzantium series set on a space station, and now the Blue Phantom series, featuring the crew of an angel ship. I truly enjoy writing this universe. It’s filled with Humans, alien races, powerful angels, AIs, Cyborg, formidable crime lords, evil sects, power-hungry rulers, bounty hunters, demons, demi-gods, and often big cats with mind-reading abilities.

In all of these novels, you will find strong heroines, brave heroes, and lots of action and adventure, with a little romance for good measure. I write to entertain, and you can trust me to give my stories a happy conclusion no matter what kind of hell my characters have to go through to find their happily ever after.

All my science fiction novels in each series can stand alone, and I like to give each of them a different flair. I sometimes find inspiration in various legends and mythologies of ancient cultures throughout the world, from India to Japan, to the middle east. In Angel Guardian, the latest release, my villainess is Azfet, the Egyptian Goddess of chaos, who has crossed over from another universe.

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But now is the time to plot ANGEL REVENGE, Book 3 in the Blue Phantom series. And this time, my heroine is the one coming from a semi-familiar mythology. A strong warrior woman, a green-eyed beauty, flying over the battlefield on the wings of a genetically enhanced tiger. That’s all I will say. You’ll have to wait until next fall to read her story.

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In the meantime, you can read the previous books in this universe, some of which won literary awards, and all of which gathered rave reviews. Happy reading!

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Vijaya Schartz, award-winning author

Strong Heroines, Brave Heroes, cats

http://www.vijayaschartz.com

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ANGEL GUARDIAN, Book 2 of the Blue Phantom series - by Vijaya Schartz

 

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on my BWL page, here.

Are Alien Angels watching?

There is a rumor that the forces of good are constantly protecting us from unspeakable evil, demon hordes, tyrannical galactic leaders, and unseen entities threatening to ravage unsuspecting planets.

Most believe these powerful angels are the stuff of legends… until they meet one.

ANGEL GUARDIAN, Book 2 in the Blue Phantom series, is the story of one such angel, who doesn’t remember who or what he is, or what he is supposed to accomplish. Deep inside, he believes he must carry on an important mission, but what is it?

The heroine is also an angel, but regrets her decision of becoming one. She enlisted to save her people, but she is not adapting well to the disciplined military lifestyle required of the crew of the angel ship Blue Phantom. She misses her family.

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In the Azura universe, the angels are luminous beings, humanoids or AIs, with retractable wings. They have powers of telepathy, teleportation, invisibility, and superhuman strength. They wield angel weapons driven by blue crystal technology. They report only to the “Formless One” and are tasked with keeping the balance of good and evil in the universe. These benevolent angels also do their best to protect the innocent from terrible calamities. 

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ANGEL GUARDIAN starts on the frozen world of Laxxar, a forced labor planet using slaves to mine salt. It was mentioned in the previous books mainly as a swearing expression “By the Frozen hells of Laxxar!”

This novel also introduces the Pandemonium Space Station, a moving den of iniquity harboring the scum of the universe, and ruled by a cyborg crime lord. Genetically enhanced big cats are trained to kill in the arena for the games, and publicly execute those condemned to death. The animals are kept in terrible conditions in cages. They can only feed on their victims. Two of these telepathic felines play an important role in this story as well.

As for the villainess of this novel, her name is Azfet, the ancient Egyptian goddess of chaos, the only survivor of her race, and she is determined to enslave this galaxy to reign supreme and be worshiped like the gods of old.

ANGEL GUARDIAN can stand alone, like all the other novels set in the Azura universe, (Azura Chronicles series, Byzantium Space Station series, Blue Phantom series). But if you are like me, you’ll want to read all the other books in these series as well:

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Happy Reading!


Vijaya Schartz, award-winning author
Strong Heroines, Brave Heroes, cats
http://www.vijayaschartz.com
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Now Available--THE KILLING KISS, Minx Tobin Murder Mystery Series: Number Seven

 

New! The seventh case in the Minx Tobin Mystery Romance Series is now available electronically at Amazon.com and Smashwords.com. And in soon in print.

Who is Minx Tobin, you ask? Minx is a fitness instructor newly relocated to Los Angeles, California, who has a knack for solving puzzles--puzzles concerning dead bodies. For fun, romance, and... unexpected corpses, follow her adventures in the Minx Tobin Murder Mystery Series!

Minx worries that Los Angeles’ newest serial killer is after her husband, Gabe. But maybe it’s Minx that the killer wants to “kiss!”

KISSES TO DIE BY

As Minx Tobin Harris juggles her new life as wife, mother, and exercise instructor, she’s drawn into LAPD’s latest case: a serial kisser who targets L.A.’s Homicide Division. The perpetrator’s “random” kisses are turning out to be not so random... and then they become fatal. While Minx worries that hubby Gabe is on the Kissing Killer’s list, Gabe worries that maybe the killer is really after Minx.

Homicide Lieutenant Gabe Harris not only has his hands full with his new wife and new baby, he also has a perplexing new case to worry about. Someone has infiltrated LAPD’s hall of records and has compromised police security. After Gabe receives some provocative photos featuring Minx, he orders extra protection for his wife, but will that be enough to stop the murderer’s Killing Kiss?

Reviews:5 Stars! Minx Tobin says it best: It’s old home week--with Number Seven in the Minx Tobin Murder Mystery series. I’ve been a fan of Ms. Minx since THE BLOODSTAINED BISTRO so naturally I scooped up THE KILLING KISS. How lovely to get reacquainted with all these wonderful characters! I thoroughly enjoyed reading how Minx handles or juggles life as a new mother along with her fitness career. This book can be read as a standalone, however my advice is to go back and read books One through Six, too. Seeing how Minx and Gabe evolve in their relationship is immensely satisfying. Don’t miss this!--Mystery Maven’s Reviews

There’s a Kissing Bandit running around LA, knocking out folks and leaving a decal of red lips on their foreheads... and sometimes elsewhere. When these kisses turn deadly, fitness instructor Minx Tobin Harris has to solve this mystery puzzle because she believes her new hubby, Gabe, is being targeted by the killer. THE KILLING KISS is a delightful and inventive tale reuniting all the major players in the Minx Tobin universe. I enjoyed reading how each character “grew”... or not... in the year and a half since Book Number Six. If you enjoy well-written and satisfying whodunits, give the Minx Tobin Murder Mysteries a try. You won’t be disappointed! Two thumbs up!--On The Edge Reviews

THE EMBEZZLED ENVELOPE is available for purchase electronically at Amazon.com and Smashwords.com. And in soon in print.

Minx Tobin Murder Mystery Novels by Susanne Marie Knight include:

THE BLOODSTAINED BISTRO--Case 1

THE ILL-GOTTEN INSURANCE--Case 2

THE DUPLICITOUS DIVORCE--Case 3

THE VIRTUAL VALENTINE--Case 4

THE YULETIDE YORKSHIRE--Case 5

THE EMBEZZLED ENVELOPE--Case 6

THE KILLING KISS--Case 7

 

Hope you enjoy! Thanks!

 

Susanne Marie Knight

http://www.susanneknight.com

Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing With A Twist!

Welcome, Author Linda Weaver Clarke

 

    Are Courageous Women in Stories More Interesting?

 

Courageous women in stories seem to draw readers’ attention and grab their interest. The bravery and strength of character easily draws them into the story. It takes courage to stick up for one’s rights and defend one’s beliefs. During the 1840s, there were many brave women who fought against injustice and inequality. Many wanted to have a better education. These women made a difference and influenced others to make a better life for themselves.

 

A fairly new historical romance series was released that has received outstanding reviews on Amazon and Audible Audiobooks. It is called “Women of Courage.” In these novellas, the spunk and courage of these women seem to draw the readers into a world of adventure. 

 

In The Light at the end of the Tunnel, Hannah is a young single mother who has had a few hardships since arriving in America. But the trials in her life only make her stronger. Hannah realizes she can make something of her life by opening a hot chocolate shop. She soon finds that starting her own business isn’t as easy as she thought. But she will not give up. When Thomas learns that she has spirit, he is intrigued with her. 

 

“This romance wrapped around my heart as it took me into the struggles of Hannah, such a brave woman… The characters come to life on the page as Thomas falls for Hannah and adores her child. However, Hannah is caught up in her day-to-day trials and with her independent streak, she only thinks of making a life for her and her daughter. Can Thomas get her attention and change her mind?” ~ Author Gail Pallotta

 

Hannah isn’t the only one who shows her independent nature. Serenity has just as much courage. Chasing thieves off her property and entering a horse race are just a few things that describe this young Welshwoman’s spunk. In A Lady of Refinement, Serenity teaches an evening class for adults and helps them to read and write and have a better education. Reading is Serenity’s favorite pastime, where she can go on one adventure after another. She wonders if anyone can measure up to the heroes in her books. But the adventures soon become real after arriving in America. When Jonathan meets Serenity, a refined woman from Wales, he wonders how he can win her heart. 

 

“How I enjoy finding a book that will not let me put it down until I'm done!  This was the case with A Lady of Refinement.  Linda Weaver Clarke used a true story of her ancestor’s as a base, and it rang familiar to me, as my ancestors also migrated to America during the same time period. The main character, Serenity, is the refined lady and it was such a delight when she bested a few arrogant males.  My favorite character, however, was Jonathan, who was very taken with Serenity.  Time will tell if he is successful at capturing her attention.” ~ Louise Pledge Reviews

 

There is one more independent woman in this series. The third novella is about a young woman who stands before an audience and fights against involuntary servitude and slavery. Frederick Douglass, an abolitionist, wrote: “When the true history of the antislavery cause shall be written, women will occupy a large space in its pages; for the cause of the slave has been peculiarly a woman’s cause.”

 

In A Mississippi Sunset, Laura McBride is a liberated and courageous young lady who is convinced that she can help others in her crusade for equality. She encourages women to fight for their beliefs and be heard. But she soon finds out that women who speak publicly are looked down upon. When Deputy William Davies meets Laura, he admiresher spunk and determination to fight against slavery. 

 

“I really enjoyed this sweet and clean historical fiction and romance. A Mississippi Sunset is part of a series of brave women who were not afraid to take a stand in what they believe needed to be changed and you will see some historical figures that appear in this book!  Loved that. This is a very enjoyable book and it is well worth a read!” ~ Sunnie Reviews

 

Taking true experiences from the author’s ancestors, this series of novellas was created. These young ladies were considered “women of courage.” 

 

About Author: Author Linda Weaver Clarke is the author of 35 books. All her books are family friendly. Linda works at the FamilySearch Center where she helps people find their ancestors. She also teaches a free class at FamilySearch about writing biographies and publishing it.

 

The Light at the End of the Tunnel is available  on Amazon and on Audible narrated by BreAnne Okoren.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/product/B09JHRQYF1

https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Light-at-the-End-of-the-Tunnel-Audiobook/B0B4F65DGY

A Lady of Refinement is available  on Amazon and on Audible narrated by BreAnne Okoren.

https://www.amazon.com/Lady-Refinement-Women-Courage-ebook/dp/B09PHZK76M

https://www.audible.com/pd/A-Lady-of-Refinement-Audiobook/B0BFJW9KJX

A Mississippi Sunset is available  on Amazon and on Audible narrated by Elizabeth Schmidt.

https://www.amazon.com/Mississippi-Sunset-Women-Courage-ebook/dp/B09SRDBHNX

https://www.audible.com/pd/A-Mississippi-Sunset-Audiobook/B0BMDFDVQJ

 

Watch 2 book trailers below to pique your interest. 

https://vimeo.com/828771817

 

https://vimeo.com/754520459

 

Constructing and organizing the series - by Vijaya Schartz

 Creating an entire universe, with its inhabitants, its rules, its technology, is exciting but a lot of work. And as I create a universe for a story, I usually fall in love with it, which makes it difficult to let go of it to write something completely different. So, I tend to write series.

Although I write each book as a standalone, long series sometimes discourage the readers. Who wants to start with Book 8? And buying all the books that came before in one sweep may seem overwhelming.

Other readers want to wait until the series is finished to read all the books in one sweep. I understand that.

The Curse of the Lost Isle series, based on Celtic legends, has eight books. It can be a challenge or some readers.

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The Chronicles of Kassouk science fiction series has six. Still too long for some readers.

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So, I recently decided to limit each series to three or four books. But then, I start another series, set in another part of the same universe.

Sometimes, I fall in love with a secondary character in my story in progress, and I decide he or she deserves their own book. So, I use the secondary character from the current book as the protagonist for the next one. Or I introduce the next protagonist at the end of a story. It provides a link, and the reader feels grounded in the new series.

That way, I can enjoy writing new stories in the same universe I love so much, like the Azura Universe. Azura is the angel planet featured in the Azura Chronicles. 

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But the Byzantium Space Station series is also set in that universe, where Azuran angels cross path with human, alien, cats, and cybernetic characters.

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And the Blue Phantom series also stems from Azura, as the Angel Ship sails alone about the universe, rescuing the worthy and fighting the forces of evil. I'm currently writing the second book, ANGEL GUARDIAN, set for release in October 2023. 

From series to series, the Azura universe evolves. The forces in power at the beginning may be defeated, evil rises, an authoritarian regime falls and lawlessness follows. Evil never misses an opportunity to insert itself into the mix. We discover new corners of the universe, new planets, and special places, like Byzantium, The Land of Many Waters, or the Pandemonium Space Station, ruled by a powerful crime lord.

The advantage is that the universe is consistent for the reader, who, like me, enjoys spending time there. I noticed that, once hooked on one series, my readers will check out the other series in that same universe. All the books in the Azura universe feature cats. It’s evident on the covers for the Byzantium Space Station series. For the Azura Chronicles, and for the Blue Phantom series, all the titles start with Angel. The style of the covers may vary from one series to the next, but the theme remains. Angels, strong heroines, and cats, protecting the universe from evil forces.

Desperate to save her people from the Marauders swarming her space freighter, Kefira prays for a miracle. Blake Volkov, legendary captain of the Blue Phantom hears her plea and deems her and her refugees worthy of his help. Grateful for the rescue, Kefira finds his price shocking. Despite his glowing wings, handsome looks and impressive abilities, Blake admits he is no angel… although Kefira’s feline bodyguard strongly disagrees.

Meanwhile, an old enemy bent on revenge against Blake unleashed an unspeakable evil on the galaxy. Time to face past mistakes… time for innocent blood to flow. Nothing prepared Kefira for the upheaval ahead.

Can Blake find redemption? Can Kefira save her people? Can either of them ever trust again?

"Unique and memorable characters who travel throughout the galaxy battling the forces of evil in a truly epic novel. There are so many unique aspects to this book and not just the world building. The characters are well rounded, the description on point, and the surroundings are awesome. The plot of "Angel Ship" will grip readers from the first page and keep in a talon-like grip until the very last page... Fans of Science Fiction will love this offering and will be drawn to read more books from this talented and capable author." Ind'Tale Magazine

Happy reading!

Vijaya Schartz, award-winning author

Strong Heroines, Brave Heroes, cats

http://www.vijayaschartz.com

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