Read Clean YA with CJ

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

The Nightmare Virus (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3zwJDoZ 

Nadine’s Instagram: @Nadinebrandes

Nadine Brandes’s Website: https://nadinebrandes.com

CJ’s Upcoming Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cjmilacci/enemy-of-talionis-a-young-adult-sci-fi-dystopian-novel 

Welcome to Read Clean YA with CJ, the podcast for teens and young adults who want to explore exciting worlds, deep themes, and epic stories without the objectionable content. In today's episode, award-winning young adult author CJ Milacci welcomes back her friend and fellow young adult author, Nadine Brandes, to discuss her latest novel, "The Nightmare Virus".

Nadine Brandes’ new novel, "The Nightmare Virus", delves into the harrowing concept of a virus that targets the mind, creating a parallel universe within dreams. The protagonist, Cain, embarks on a quest to find a cure for this nightmarish affliction.

"When people fall asleep, they enter an alternate universe of sorts in their mind called the nightmare virus. And so everyone who falls asleep wakes up in there and it's a different world."

At its core, "The Nightmare Virus" is a profound exploration of spiritual themes, drawing a parallel between our earthly existence and the eternal kingdom. This concept is deeply rooted in Nadine’s personal experiences and her faith.

"The parallel world aspect is what really got me excited about this story. Looking at, you know, from a spiritual standpoint, that this world is not our home and we're meant for a kingdom above."

CJ and Nadine reflect on the transient nature of our world and the eternal desires that point us towards a higher purpose. This theme resonates with one of C.S. Lewis’s famous quotes:

"If I find in myself desires nothing in this world can satisfy, I can only conclude that I was not made for this world."

Nadine shares how her own struggles with nightmares during college influenced the story. These personal battles provided a unique perspective on the spiritual warfare that occurs within our minds.

"I had horrible, horrible nightmares all the time, multiple times a night. I tried all of the things to get rid of them... and just, I tried so much to make them stop and they wouldn't stop."

This theme of overcoming internal darkness through faith and trust in God’s purpose is central to the narrative.

The novel also explores the idea of finding purpose in a seemingly chaotic world. As Cain navigates the nightmare universe, he grapples with the reality of his existence and the ultimate fulfillment of his desires.

"The deepest longings in our heart are all connected to our creator, right? And so we can't have them completely fulfilled until we have perfect union with him in heaven one day."

Nadine’s character development is closely tied to the themes of the story. Cain’s journey reflects the struggle of remembering our higher purpose amid life's distractions and challenges.

"Cain really felt like he took on a personality of his own as I was writing him... He was very snarky. And he definitely had his own voice."

One of the most powerful aspects of "The Nightmare Virus" is its message of hope and redemption. Nadine emphasizes how God can transform our darkest moments into opportunities for growth and revelation. CJ comments:

"Isn't it fascinating how sometimes God takes the darkest things in our life and He's like, 'I'm going to actually use that to show my light and my truth in a new way.'"

"The Nightmare Virus" is a compelling narrative that intertwines adventure with deep spiritual insights. Nadine Brandes masterfully uses her personal experiences and faith to create a story that not only entertains but also inspires readers to reflect on their own spiritual journey and purpose.

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

I absolutely loved having Nadine on the podcast again, and I hope you enjoyed this episode. It always does my heart so much good to talk about Jesus, Creating with the Creator, and the importance of remembering that this world is not our home.

And I am thrilled that we were able to share with you about The Nightmare Virus! This book was such a great read, and I was honored to be able to read an early copy for an endorsement, and I wanted to share that endorsement with you today:

A sci-fi story with an incredible and unique twist, The Nightmare Virus immediately draws you in and won’t let you go until you finish the last page. 

Enter a world that delves into the eternal struggle between good and evil, illuminates the strength found in truth and hope, and where faith shines even in the darkest of shadows. A world where what you create—and how you create it—has a far deeper meaning than you first realized. 

Brandes skillfully weaves a tale that spikes your adrenaline with nightbeasts, captures your imagination with twists and turns in a dream world that feels real, and asks questions that echo in your heart as you join Cain in search of answers. 

This pulse-pounding adventure will touch your heart and speak to your soul. 

I highly encourage you to grab a copy of this book!

After recording this episode, Nadine and I decided to have it air before the book officially releases. So if you are listening to this before July 16th, the book is not officially out yet. But if you preorder the book, you can still snag some awesome preorder goodies, so be sure to order your copy today.

Note for Sensitive Readers

This book does have life and death situations, some scary creatures, and deals with some heavy moments, so if you have a young or sensitive reader, I recommend that a trusted parent or guardian read the story first.

A Quick Personal Note

I wanted to let you, my amazing listeners, know that I will be launching the Kickstarter for the third book in my award-winning Talionis Series, Enemy of Talionis, this Friday, July 12th. If you want to get your hands on a copy of this book before it officially releases in December, then this is the way to do it! Plus, I have some fun and exciting extras in store for this campaign that you don’t want to miss. I’ll include a link to the Kickstarter in the show notes so you can check it out—but this campaign will only run for two weeks, so I would recommend checking it out sooner than later.  

Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.  

Episode Show Notes Can be Found Here: https://cjmilacci.com/read-clean-ya-with-cj-podcast/ 

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

Protector (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/4ez7F2N 

Purchase Protector from White Crown Publishing  

Purchase a Signed Copy of Protector 

Megan Schaulis’s Website: https://meganschaulis.com  

Welcome to the Read Clean YA with CJ podcast! In this episode, we dive into an exciting interview with young adult author Megan Schaulis, whose debut novel Protector is a YA dystopian retelling of Esther. Join us as we explore her inspirations, the unique twists in her story, and the deeper themes she weaves into her narrative.

After a year of traveling the country in a 100 square foot camper, Megan Schaulis returned home and wrote her first novel. With a BA in journalism from Arizona State University and experience as a special education teacher, Megan has always been passionate about helping young people fall in love with reading and writing. Now, she channels her creativity into her branding agency and her writing.

Her debut novel Protector released in April 2024 with White Crown Publishing. It’s a fresh take on the biblical story of Esther, set in a near-future dystopian world.

Megan Schaulis' Protector takes the historical account of Esther from the Old Testament and reinvents it in a near-future dystopian society driven by solar technology, nanotechnology, and genetic engineering.

"I completely reinvented a world, real world. It's not a magical story. It's not a fantasy, but it's so it's in a near future dystopian world that's a little bit broken and a little bit off." - Megan Schaulis

This unique setting allows for a fresh exploration of the themes and questions that arise from Esther's story, particularly the intriguing aspect that the biblical book of Esther does not mention God.

Like many authors, Megan’s debut novel is not the first book she ever wrote. She shared how the idea for Protector came from a random note she jotted down in her phone: "Esther Ninja Warrior".

"Basically something along the lines of like, what if the competition sort of old world beauty pageant to be queen, what if it was a physical competition to become the king's bodyguard?" - Megan Schaulis

This idea sparked the creation of a story where the protagonist, Novalise (or Astra), competes in a physical competition against genetically enhanced rivals to become the king’s bodyguard.

Novalise, the protagonist of Protector, is an athletic yet normal human competing against opponents enhanced with nanotechnology. This dynamic creates an intense narrative where Novalise must constantly prove herself.

"She's in a situation where she's the only one who has a standard body and she can't let anyone know that." - Megan Schaulis

Her journey is not just physical but also deeply emotional and mental, challenging her to push beyond her limits.

One of the major themes in Protector is the power of a relationship with God. Despite the futuristic and dystopian setting, the story emphasizes that this relationship is the greatest advantage one can have.

"A relationship with God is the greatest advantage that you will ever have or ever need." - Megan Schaulis

Novalise's hidden conversations with a higher power, referred to as Alpha, add a profound layer to the narrative, highlighting the internal struggle of maintaining faith in a challenging environment.

Megan Schaulis’ Protector has drawn comparisons to other popular YA dystopian series. She pitched her book as "The Selection meets American Ninja Warrior". Other comparable works include:

These comparisons give readers an idea of the exciting and intense world they can expect in Protector.

Megan Schaulis' Protector promises to be a thrilling addition to the YA dystopian genre. With its unique take on the story of Esther, set in a richly imagined near-future world, it’s a book that fans of dystopian adventures won’t want to miss.

Don’t forget to check out Megan Schaulis' debut novel when it releases in April 2024. Stay tuned for more exciting author interviews and book recommendations on the Read Clean YA with CJ podcast!

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

I hope you enjoyed this conversation with Megan Schaulis. It was so fun getting to talk to Megan and hear her heart behind her story. And I always love a great dystopian adventure!

If you’re looking for a story that combines Nanotechnology and royal romance with a heartfelt quest to make in difference, then you’ll love this dystopian reimagining of the book of Esther.

Note for Sensitive Readers

There are some elements that might be too much for young or sensitive readers. Older teens/20 somethings are put in a situation where they think they have to compromise themselves to survive. It's clear to the reader this is a lie/test, but characters consider what they'll do in that situation. There’s also romance in this story, and the girl’s in the book experience some scary moments with things that happen with their families. Those are just some things to be made aware of if you have a younger reader.

Next Time on Read Clean YA with CJ

Next time on Read Clean YA with CJ, I’ll be talking with Nadine Brandes about her newest novel, The Nightmare Virus. This is Nadine’s second time on the podcast, and we had a truly wonderful conversation. And this book is one not to be missed! Be sure to tune in so you can hear all about it.

Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.  

Episode Show Notes Can be Found Here: https://cjmilacci.com/read-clean-ya-with-cj-podcast/ 

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

Wolf Soldier (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3RIQKkL 

Bear Knight (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3RkDClj

Lion Warrior (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/4cbrCuD 

The Lightraiders Website: https://lightraiders.com 

James R. Hannibal’s Website: https://jamesrhannibal.com

Exploring Deeper Themes in the Light Raider Academy Series with Author James R. Hannibal

Welcome to Read Clean YA with CJ, the podcast dedicated to teens and young adults eager to explore thrilling worlds, profound themes, and epic stories—minus the objectionable content. I'm your host, award-winning young adult author CJ Milacci. In this episode, we dive into an enlightening interview with James R. Hannibal, a former stealth pilot turned multi-award-winning author of suspense and fantasy novels for both adults and children.

Meet James R. Hannibal

James R. Hannibal has a remarkable background. He's been shot at, locked up with missiles, and even pursued by an armed terrorist on a winding German road. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped his gripping storytelling. Today, he's the esteemed author behind the Light Raider Academy series, which is perfect for teen boys looking for adventurous and meaningful reads.

"James writes books for teen boys and really has a heart to see them get lost in great stories, but also have incredible content that they're discovering through those as well."

The Light Raider Academy Series: A Journey of Faith and Adventure

The Light Raider Academy series is not just a collection of books; it's a mission to equip the next generation with profound lessons and biblical truths. The series currently has three books, with the latest one just released. The stories are deeply interconnected with a game, providing an interactive layer to the reading experience.

The Inspiration and Legacy

Hannibal shared the fascinating backstory of the Light Raider Academy series:

"This world was created for a youth discipleship program in the 1980s by a man named Dick Wolf, a navigator's author and Christian counselor. This world had a big effect on me as a teenager."

The series evolved from an old boxed set of a game called Dragon Raid, which Hannibal experienced firsthand. When his own children reached their teen years, Hannibal was inspired to revive and expand this world into a full-fledged literary series and game.

Unveiling the Deeper Themes

The Light Raider Academy trilogy is about young cadets rekindling the fires of Light Raider Academy to combat the encroaching evil from the Dragon Lands. Each book in the series carries a significant theme:

"Each book in the series also has a theme. The theme in Wolf Soldier is loyalty to the mission. The theme in Bear Knight is both physical and moral courage. And the theme in Lion Warrior that just came out today is faithfulness."

Loyalty to the Mission

In Wolf Soldier, readers are introduced to the concept of loyalty, particularly to the mission of the "Rescuer," a Christ-like figure in the series. This theme underscores the importance of prioritizing the Rescuer's mission over personal desires.

Physical and Moral Courage

Bear Knight delves into the essence of courage. Hannibal explores both physical courage and moral fortitude, encouraging readers to stand up for their beliefs and act bravely in the face of challenges.

Faithfulness

The latest release, Lion Warrior, emphasizes the virtue of faithfulness. This theme highlights the significance of remaining steadfast and loyal to one's beliefs and commitments, even when faced with adversity.

Connecting Stories and Games

The Light Raider Academy series offers a unique blend of storytelling and interactive gameplay. The books and the game share a cohesive universe, enhancing the reader's immersion and engagement. The game is set before the timeline of the books, providing a rich backstory that players can explore.

"We created a fantasy language in which the sacred scroll verses are spoken in the stories, and then the characters think of them in terms of key word, key concept, which helps with Scripture Memory and understanding."

A Mission to Inspire and Equip

Hannibal's dedication to creating meaningful and adventurous stories for teen boys is palpable. The series aims to equip young readers with biblical truths while engaging them in thrilling adventures.

"We need men who are equipped to really lead their families in the future, lead this generation to follow after God in a different way than it has previously."

Conclusion

The Light Raider Academy series by James R. Hannibal is more than just a collection of books—it's a mission to inspire and equip the next generation of young men with loyalty, courage, and faithfulness. Whether you're a parent, educator, or teen reader, this series promises adventure, deep themes, and a strong moral foundation.

To discover more about James R. Hannibal and his work, visit his official website and check out the Light Raider Academy series today.

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

I hope you enjoyed this conversation with James R. Hannibal. As I said at the end of the interview, I absolutely love James’s heart for his readers and for equipping young men to follow Jesus and be discipled. 

If you’re looking for an epic fantasy adventure OR for a Christian RPG game, I encourage you to check out all of the things James has to offer. His heart for his readers and those who will play the Lightraiders game is so evident and I look forward to seeing all God will do through this ministry.

Next Time on Read Clean YA with CJ

Next time on Read Clean YA with CJ, I’ll be talking with young adult Megan Schaulis about her new young adult book, The Protector. Nanotechnology and royal romance combine with a heartfelt quest to make a difference in this dystopian reimagining of the book of Esther. Megan and I had a great time chatting, so be sure to tune in for the episode.

Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.  

In this episode of the Read Clean YA podcast, host CJ Milacci interviews young adult author Lyndsey Lewellen about her debut dystopian novel, The Chaos Grid. Set in a futuristic Texas wasteland filled with monsters and storms, the story follows a girl who joins a crew of truckers to avoid becoming the savior of the dome city that murdered her parents.

Lyndsey shares that the initial spark for the story came while she was stuck in traffic, wondering "what if all of these cars weren't here?" This led her to imagine a world where people stayed inside their cities, with truckers braving the dangerous wastelands to transport essential supplies. She also cites influences like Mad Max, Dune, Tremors, and Blade Runner.

While discussing the book, Lewellen and Milacci dove into some of the powerful themes woven throughout the story. One of the central themes Lyndsey explores in The Chaos Grid is the far-reaching impact of our choices.

"Sometimes we think we live in a vacuum and that whatever we do is just going to affect us and that's it. And it's not the case," she explains.

The story also wrestles with the challenge of forgiving others, even when it seems unthinkable. As Lewellen explained:

"I think the core theme for this story is what happens to us when we choose our own way over God's way and how does that affect other people around us? Sometimes we think we live in a vacuum and that whatever we do is just going to affect us and that's it. And it's not the case."

She went on to pose the question:

"How can you forgive someone when you have every reason not to? ... What if they kill someone in your family? Like, what are you going to do then if God calls you to forgive that person?"

This is the struggle the protagonist Juniper wrestles with. As Milacci pointed out, forgiveness like this feels beyond human capacity:

"I really don't know how it's possible without God's grace in our own lives. Because I think when we hit those moments, it is like, how do you overcome and forgive and show love to somebody who's harmed you so much and so intentionally, you know, that's, I think that's something that's beyond us as humans on our own, in our own strength and in our own power."

They emphasize the importance of distinguishing forgiveness from trust, and acknowledge that while God calls us to forgive, that doesn't mean allowing harmful people unrestricted access to our lives. There is a place for boundaries. Ultimately, forgiveness is about our own hearts and relationship with God, and harboring bitterness ultimately harms yourself more than the other person.

Lewellen shared how she knew this theme of forgiveness would be central to the story from the very first line she wrote:

"The day Plex City burns to ash will be the best day of my life."

She could see Juniper's character arc and the situations she would need to go through to get past this bitter unforgiveness. While not always an easy or comfortable theme to grapple with, it's one that is deeply resonant, as we all face moments where we must choose whether or not to forgive the seemingly unforgivable. "The Chaos Grid" promises a gripping exploration of this powerful theme through Juniper's journey in a gritty, action-packed dystopian world.

Unlike many authors who have been writing since childhood, Lyndsey originally aspired to be a comic book illustrator. She struggled with mild dyslexia growing up, which made reading difficult. It wasn't until after having children that Lyndsey began writing. She was inspired by the lack of clean content in young adult fiction and her desire to write the kind of books she wanted her kids to read.

The Chaos Grid is Lyndsey Lewellen's compelling debut novel that transports readers to a gritty future while exploring timeless themes of forgiveness, faith, and the far-reaching consequences of our choices. To hear the full interview and learn more about Lyndsey's work, check out this episode of the Read Clean YA podcast. The Chaos Grid is out now.

I hope you enjoyed this conversation with Lyndsey Lewellen. Lyndsey and I met at a writer’s conference and we were introduced through a mutual friend, and it was so nice to talk to her and get to know her more during this episode.

Since recording this episode, I have had the privilege of diving into the Chaos Grid, and it is so much fun! If you’re looking for an epic dystopian adventure through a Texas wasteland, with monsters, trucks, and tons of action, then you are going to love the Chaos Grid.

For any young or sensitive readers, I did want to mention that there are some potentially scary moments in this story. There are monsters (like I mentioned) and some characters are murdered, though the violence isn’t overly gory. There are also instances of nano-drug induced rage, and nano-drugs are a main plot element used by the antagonist, but they are never seen as good by the main character. There is also one scene where the main character is trapped with a man high on nano-drugs and he threatens to abuse her, but she uses self defense to escape.

Next time on Read Clean YA with CJ, I’ll be talking with young adult James R. Hannibal, author of the Lightraider Academy series. James and I had a fantastic conversation, and his heart for his readers shines through. It was wonderful to talk to him, and if you’re looking for some great books for your boys, you won’t want to miss this episode!

Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too. 

Episode Show Notes Can be Found Here: https://cjmilacci.com/read-clean-ya-with-cj-podcast/ 

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

Blood of the Stars (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3Jj74E4 

Karyne Norton’s Website: https://www.karynenorton.com

Finding Fantasy Reads Podcast: https://www.findingfantasyreads.com

Exploring Themes of Choice and Consequences in Karyne Norton's Epic Fantasy Debut "Blood of the Stars"

In this episode of the Read Clean YA with CJ podcast, host CJ Milacci interviews fellow author Karyne Norton about her debut epic fantasy novel, "Blood of the Stars". The book, which launched on Kickstarter in September 2023 and is now available with retailers as of March 2024, is a story about descendants from stars, reluctant royalty, slow-burn romance, dragons, and unique creatures across over 600 pages.

The Evolution of "Blood of the Stars"

Karyne shares that the idea for "Blood of the Stars" started nearly 20 years ago, evolving significantly over time. She wrote snippets and scenes over the years but didn't have the discipline to write a full novel until about 10 years later. The version she rewrote two years ago differs greatly from her initial concept.

Themes of Choice, Consequences, and Redemption

One of the main themes in "Blood of the Stars" is the idea that we can choose between right and wrong, good and evil. The story explores whether intentions behind actions can change outcomes and if good intentions can still lead to negative consequences. Karyne wanted to present different perspectives on this topic, as she believes it's true to life and encourages valuable discussion.

This theme resonates with Karyne personally, as she tends to put a lot of weight on her choices, sometimes leading to anxiety about decision-making. She believes that everyone struggles with making good choices and dealing with the outcomes of their decisions.

Is "Blood of the Stars" Appropriate for Young Adults?

While marketed as an adult epic fantasy, "Blood of the Stars" features a protagonist who is 17-18 years old, making it relatable to older young adults. Karyne defines "clean" in her book as having no language (G rating), PG-level romance (kissing), and PG-13 fantasy violence that is not gratuitous.

The book does address some darker themes, such as self-harm and abuse, which may require conversations with younger teenagers. However, Karyne and CJ believe it's important for Christian authors to address difficult topics in their stories, as it acknowledges the reality of the world and can lead to powerful redemption arcs.

Conclusion

"Blood of the Stars" offers an immersive epic fantasy experience that explores deep themes of choice, consequences, and redemption. While suitable for older young adults, younger or sensitive readers may benefit from guidance when engaging with the book's darker elements. Karyne Norton's debut novel promises to captivate readers with its rich world-building, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes.

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

I hope you enjoyed this conversation with Karyne Norton. As I mentioned, Karyne is a dear friend, and I loved getting to do a deep dive into her debut novel with her.

If you’re looking for an epic fantasy adventure, with rich world-building, a large cast of characters, slow-burn romance, and deep themes, you’re going to love Blood of the Stars. 

Note for Sensitive Readers

As Karyne and I addressed in this interview, there are some themes in this book that might be difficult for young or sensitive readers, so I recommend having a parent or trusted adult read the story first.

Next Time on Read Clean YA with CJ

Next time on Read Clean YA with CJ, I’ll be talking with young adult author Lyndsey Lewellen about her debut young adult novel, The Chaos Grid. Mad-Max comes to Texas in this futuristic story of a girl who joins a crew of truckers across a monster infested wasteland to keep from becoming the savior of the domed city that murdered her parents. We had a great conversation and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.  

Episode Show Notes Can be Found Here: https://cjmilacci.com/read-clean-ya-with-cj-podcast/ 

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

Blood of the Stars (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3Jj74E4 

Karyne Norton’s Website: https://www.karynenorton.com

Finding Fantasy Reads Podcast: https://www.findingfantasyreads.com

Exploring Themes of Choice and Consequences in Karyne Norton's Epic Fantasy Debut "Blood of the Stars"

In this episode of the Read Clean YA with CJ podcast, host CJ Milacci interviews fellow author Karyne Norton about her debut epic fantasy novel, "Blood of the Stars". The book, which launched on Kickstarter in September 2023 and is now available with retailers as of March 2024, is a story about descendants from stars, reluctant royalty, slow-burn romance, dragons, and unique creatures across over 600 pages.

The Evolution of "Blood of the Stars"

Karyne shares that the idea for "Blood of the Stars" started nearly 20 years ago, evolving significantly over time. She wrote snippets and scenes over the years but didn't have the discipline to write a full novel until about 10 years later. The version she rewrote two years ago differs greatly from her initial concept.

Themes of Choice, Consequences, and Redemption

One of the main themes in "Blood of the Stars" is the idea that we can choose between right and wrong, good and evil. The story explores whether intentions behind actions can change outcomes and if good intentions can still lead to negative consequences. Karyne wanted to present different perspectives on this topic, as she believes it's true to life and encourages valuable discussion.

This theme resonates with Karyne personally, as she tends to put a lot of weight on her choices, sometimes leading to anxiety about decision-making. She believes that everyone struggles with making good choices and dealing with the outcomes of their decisions.

Is "Blood of the Stars" Appropriate for Young Adults?

While marketed as an adult epic fantasy, "Blood of the Stars" features a protagonist who is 17-18 years old, making it relatable to older young adults. Karyne defines "clean" in her book as having no language (G rating), PG-level romance (kissing), and PG-13 fantasy violence that is not gratuitous.

The book does address some darker themes, such as self-harm and abuse, which may require conversations with younger teenagers. However, Karyne and CJ believe it's important for Christian authors to address difficult topics in their stories, as it acknowledges the reality of the world and can lead to powerful redemption arcs.

Conclusion

"Blood of the Stars" offers an immersive epic fantasy experience that explores deep themes of choice, consequences, and redemption. While suitable for older young adults, younger or sensitive readers may benefit from guidance when engaging with the book's darker elements. Karyne Norton's debut novel promises to captivate readers with its rich world-building, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes.

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

I hope you enjoyed this conversation with Karyne Norton. As I mentioned, Karyne is a dear friend, and I loved getting to do a deep dive into her debut novel with her.

If you’re looking for an epic fantasy adventure, with rich world-building, a large cast of characters, slow-burn romance, and deep themes, you’re going to love Blood of the Stars. 

Note for Sensitive Readers

As Karyne and I addressed in this interview, there are some themes in this book that might be difficult for young or sensitive readers, so I recommend having a parent or trusted adult read the story first.

Next Time on Read Clean YA with CJ

Next time on Read Clean YA with CJ, I’ll be talking with young adult author Lyndsey Lewellen about her debut young adult novel, The Chaos Grid. Mad-Max comes to Texas in this futuristic story of a girl who joins a crew of truckers across a monster infested wasteland to keep from becoming the savior of the domed city that murdered her parents. We had a great conversation and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.  

Episode Show Notes Can be Found Here: https://cjmilacci.com/read-clean-ya-with-cj-podcast/ 

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

Get your early copy of Falling Through the Black! Check out Emilie’s Kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eahendryx/falling-through-the-black

Listen to Emilie’s first episode on Read Clean YA with CJ: 

E.A. Hendryx’s Website: eahcreative.com  

Follow Emilie on Instagram: @createexploreread

CJ’s Upcoming Kickstarter Campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cjmilacci/enemy-of-talionis-a-young-adult-sci-fi-dystopian-novel

Confused about Kickstarter and want to know more? Email [email protected] with any questions!

Bonus Podcast Episode! (Which means limited show notes 😉)

In this bonus episode, CJ Milacci interview E.A. Hendryx about her newest YA sci-fi fantasy novel, Falling Through the Black. They have a blast discussing Emilie’s books, the powerful themes of Found Family, Community, and Self-Sacrifice, and they share a way you can get a BEAUTIFUL copy of Falling Through the Black…BEFORE ANYONE ELSE!

Here’s a little about book two in the Xerus Galaxy Saga:

She survived the desert. He's reentered the fight. And the rebellion is rising through it all.

Falling Through the Black, book 2 in the Xerus Galaxy saga, is a no spice, romantic YA Science Fantasy adventure through the galaxy perfect for fans of the Illuminae Files trilogy, The Starbound Trilogy, and The Lunar Chronicles. 

If you like space operas, a little bit of fantasy with your science fiction, a complex cast of endearing characters, and no-spice romance, I think you’re going to love this next installment in the trilogy.

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

Well I had so much fun chatting with Emilie in this bonus episode, and I hope you had just as much fun listening in! She is a gem of a human, and her stories are fantastic. 

I have not yet read Falling Through the Black, but I have backed it on Kickstarter, and I can’t wait to receive my copy. As Emilie and I both mentioned, if you’re curious about Kickstarter but still have some questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one or both of us. We are more than happy to answer your questions!

From experience I can say that whether you back at an ebook level or the highest level of the Kickstarter, it is such an encouragement to the author. So thanks for listening to Emilie and me talk about all the things we love about this crowdfunding platform and considering backing her campaign. 

In Upcoming News

Speaking of Kickstarter, I am also planning to run a Kickstarter for book three in my Talionis Series, Enemy of Talionis, and that will kick off later this Spring. If you’re interested in backing my campaign when the time comes (or if you just want to see how this whole thing works) you can check out my pre-release page and click the button that says “Notify me on launch” to be among the first to hear about the campaign when it launches. I’ll include a link in the show notes. 

Thanks for listening in on this fun bonus episode! If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.  

Episode Show Notes Can be Found Here: https://cjmilacci.com/read-clean-ya-with-cj-podcast/ 

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

Smoking Flax (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/49pazDG 

Jennifer Hallmark’s Website: https://www.jenniferhallmark.com

Summary

In this episode, CJ Milacci interviews author Jennifer Hallmark about her latest young adult novel, Smoking Flax. They discuss the inspiration behind the story, the themes of belonging and racism, and the therapeutic nature of writing. Jennifer shares her writing journey and her love for gardening and spending time with her family. Listeners can find Jennifer's books on Amazon and connect with her on her website and social media platforms.

Takeaways

Chapters

00:00

Introduction

01:19

Getting to Know Jennifer Hallmark

02:18

The Story of Smoking Flax

04:29

Writing as Therapy

08:52

Expressing Emotion in Writing

10:28

Similar Books and Movies

12:19

Themes in Smoking Flax

14:38

Addressing Racism in the Story

24:48

Jennifer's Writing Journey

28:24

Hobbies and Interests

30:41

Where to Find Jennifer Hallmark

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

I hope you enjoyed this conversation with Jennifer Hallmark. Jennifer is so sweet, and it was a joy for me to chat with her about her book and the deeper themes in the story. 

If you’re ready to get lost in a rich Southern world, explore deep themes, and discover some fantastic speculative twists, I think you’ll love Jennifer’s novel, Smoking Flax. I mentioned earlier in the interview that I had the privilege of endorsing this book, and I wanted to share that endorsement with you.

A rich and immersive Southern world, with relatable characters, incredible depth, and a great speculative twist, Smoking Flax brings readers on a life-changing journey. Hallmark explores poignant themes with grace and tact, weaving a tale that will stay with you long after the last page. And leave you looking for glowing lights that just may have even deeper meanings. 

Note for Sensitive Readers

As you can tell from the interview, this book addresses some difficult topics, like abuse and racism, so for young or sensitive readers, it might be good to have a parent or trusted adult read the story first.

Next Time on Read Clean YA with CJ

Next time on Read Clean YA with CJ, I’ll be talking with my good friend Karyne Norton about her debut epic fantasy novel, Blood of the Stars. We had a great conversation, and if you’re looking for an epic fantasy to dig into, you’re going to love this episode, so be sure to tune in!

Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.  

Episode Show Notes Can be Found Here: https://cjmilacci.com/read-clean-ya-with-cj-podcast/ 

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

The Mermaid’s Tale (affiliate link):https://amzn.to/3TncC4W 

LE Richmond’s Website: https://laurarichmondwrites.com

LE Richmond on Instagram: @l.e.richmond

Summary

In this episode, CJ Milacci interviews author L.E. Richmond about her book, The Mermaid's Tale. They discuss the background of the author and her love for running. They dive into the details of the book, which is a fairy tale retelling of the Little Mermaid. They explore the themes of identity and value, and how the book addresses these topics. They also discuss the power of stories and how they can impact readers. Finally, they talk about Laura's journey as an author and her other interests and hobbies.

Takeaways

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Background

01:25

Discussion of Laura's Book, The Mermaid's Tale

03:04

Themes in The Mermaid's Tale

08:20

Identity and Value

13:15

The Power of Stories

23:06

Laura's Journey as an Author

27:41

Laura's Interests and Hobbies

30:43

Where to Find Laura and Her Book

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

I hope you enjoyed listening in on this conversation with LE Richmond. It’s always a blast for me to chat with authors about their stories, and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Laura better. 

If you’re a fan of fairytale retellings, high stakes, twists and turns, and loads of adventures, you’re going to love The Mermaid’s Tale. Since recording this episode, I finished the book, and it was so much fun! If you’re a Little Mermaid fan, this book is a must read.

Note for Sensitive Readers

There are some thematic elements and storybook violence throughout the story, and it is hinted that a villain makes unwanted advances to the main character—although that may go over the heads of younger readers. But overall, this is a fantastic and clean read that readers YA fiction will enjoy. 

Next Time on Read Clean YA with CJ

Next time on Read Clean YA with CJ, I’ll be talking with young adult author Jennifer Hallmark, author of Smoking Flax. Jennifer and I met through a virtual writer’s group that we’re both a part of, and it was wonderful talking with her about her latest novel. This book has a rich, southern feel and fun speculative elements that I think you’ll love, so be sure to tun in to hear our interview.

Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.  

Episode Show Notes Can be Found Here: https://cjmilacci.com/read-clean-ya-with-cj-podcast/ 

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

Saints and Monsters(affiliate link): https://amzn.to/4c2H90l 

Ellen McGinty’s Website: https://www.ellenmcginty.com

Ellen McGinty on Instagram: @ ellenmcginty_author

Summary

In this episode, CJ Milacci interviews Ellen McGinty, author of the new young adult fantasy novel Saints and Monsters. They discuss the inspiration behind the story, the incorporation of Japanese history and culture, and the themes of self-worth in the book. Ellen shares her favorite character to write and how she discovered deeper themes while writing. She also provides takeaways for readers and talks about her author journey and hobbies.

Takeaways

Chapters

00:00

Introduction

02:15

Ellen's new book: Saints and Monsters

03:22

Inspiration for the story

05:12

Incorporating Japanese history and culture

06:27

Themes in Saints and Monsters

10:36

Favorite character to write

13:05

Exploring the theme of self-worth

22:47

Takeaways for readers

25:49

Ellen's author journey

28:46

Hobbies and interests

31:09

Where to connect with Ellen