It has become a ritual to look back at the year and check in on my achievements.
It doesn’t feel as if much happened in 2024 as I didn’t meet many of the goals for the year that I set rather optimistically in 2023. However, plenty of other things did happen, so it’s important to focus on the positive.
Writing
I published a new short story collection called A Little Christmas Magic on 28th November 2024.
I also made the decision to make a series of Christmas stories – Winter Warmers. This now includes my previous Christmas collection – A Christmas Wish.
Both books had a book tour on Instagram in December which I enjoyed immensely. There’s nothing better than seeing what reviewers think of the heart-warming stories I’ve created. And it was great to be able to share so many review snippets and posts on Instagram throughout the month. Both were run by Love Books Tours and went very smoothly. Highly recommended service if you are wanting a book tour next year.
Aside from writing, I attended several writing events in 2024. There was a weekend event just outside of Stratford Upon Avon hosted by Alison May and Janet Gover. A whole weekend of food, writing workshops and talking writing with fellow writers. Plus some excellent 1-2-1’s that helped me move my ideas forward. I would recommend both Janet and Alison for the services they offer to writers, and they also run the Debut Author Club together.
The Romantic Novelist Association conference was held 10 minutes for my home at The Royal Holloway College, so I couldn’t resist attending the whole weekend event. At times I found it a struggle socially as I didn’t know anyone, but it was a wonderful opportunity to mix with both aspiring and published writers. The workshops were great as well.
I kept up with my monthly writing sessions at my local library, and attended several author events in libraries and Waterstones.
The not so successful side of 2024….
Fantasy genre
I made the decision to park my new fantasy series Starlight Prophecy for a while. I need to go back to the planning stage and really get to know the world and the history before I commit to working on the half completed trilogy.
I also toyed with the idea of writing a collection of short stories in the world of my Silent Sea Chronicles, but I think it’s a hard one to pull off. I want to provide extra content for readers who’ve enjoyed the series and also entice new readers without giving too much of the various storylines away. Maybe I will revisit this idea in 2025.
Romance genre
I’ve made great headway with The Mermaid Hotel Series (news I will share in a New Year’s post). However, 2024 has seen a lot of work editing and re-editing the story, reshaping major points of the character arcs etc. I’m almost happy with the way it is now, so I’ll share more about that very soon.
Reading
I met my Goodreads goal of 24 books. That seems like a sensible amount, though of course I’d love the time to read more. I did not however get around to reviewing many books, which I am not pleased about. I enjoying reviewing books on my blog and see it as a way to score some good karma points! Hopefully people will review my books more in 2025. Fingers crossed!
I would love to put a post together celebrating my favourite reads of 2024, but will have to see if time allows.
Other
I love the little graphic I made to show off my books. It will need to be changed soon because it is very festive, but I will enjoy it for now.
And that is about it for 2024. It’s had its ups and downs, but I’m confident 2025 will be a bigger and better year!
Yesterday I received a 5 star review from a reviewer on Readers’ Favourite, and earned this shiny badge to show off!
It’s been a while since I finished publishing the Silent Sea Chronicles trilogy, so its wonderful to revisit the book and characters and see what reviewers think. Here is the review posted on the Readers’ Favourite website…
Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers’ Favorite
Suzanne Rogerson brings us epic fantasy in the first book of the Silent Sea Chronicles: The Lost Sentinel. In Kalaya, the Assembly aims to eradicate anyone with even a hint of magic. New laws are passed almost weekly. So, when Tei’s father makes them leave their home in Seatown to reach the sanctuary of the Turrak mountains, she knows her life will change. Tei is now an exile. With her special talents, Tei is tasked with finding the next Sentinel, the one person who can save Kalaya from total decay. Danger lurks in every town and even in the Astral Plains, the only place Tei has ever contacted the Sentinel. Will Tei be able to accept the help of her new friends and complete her mission before the Masked Riders find the new Sentinel first?
Author Suzanne Rogerson has created a world with magic at its core. Written in the third-person narrative mostly from the perspective of the protagonist, readers are privy to her inner thoughts, desires, and fears. With epic journeys filled with sensory stimulation, readers are easily transported to a world where good and evil are constantly at war. The fight scenes are honed with precision. The characters are likable and undeniably relatable. With a steady pace and a magnificent plot, readers won’t want to put this book down. The Lost Sentinel is suitable for younger readers as well as avid fans of fantasy. The end of this book leaves ample opportunity to continue the next adventure in the new life of this mystic.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my review copy of this debut by Georgia Summers.
The Blurb
Curses are made to be broken.
‘ENTHRALLING TO THE LAST PAGE’ SHELLEY PARKER-CHAN
Filled with magic, stardust, and a shockingly dark heart, this is a stunning standalone fantasy perfect for fans of The Ten Thousand Doors of January, The Starless Sea and The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue.
For centuries, Everlys have seen their brightest and best disappear, taken as punishment for a crime no one remembers, for a purpose no one understands. Their tormentor is a woman named Penelope, who never ages, never grows sick – and never forgives a debt.
Ten years ago, Violet Everly’s mother left to break the curse, and never returned. Now Violet must find her mother, or she will be taken in her place.
Her hunt leads her into a seductive magical underworld of power-hungry scholars, fickle gods, and monsters bent on revenge. And into the path of Penelope’s quiet assistant, Aleksander, who she knows cannot be trusted – and yet to whom she finds herself undeniably drawn.
Tied to a very literal deadline, Violet will travel to the edges of the world to find her mother and the key to the city of stardust, where the Everly story began . . .
My Review
This was a very enjoyable read from a debut author. The blurb drew my interest straight away and I really liked the simplistic beauty of the cover, which fits the story perfectly.
From the first page, I knew I would like the story and it didn’t disappoint. There’s plenty of intrigue at the beginning when you have to keep reading to uncover the mystery along with Violet. As she grows up and the story develops secrets are revealed, trust is broken and Violet must face up to her fate or do all in her power to change it. Her journey of discovery drags you along and the final confrontation is satisfying.
There is a certain strangeness to the world Georgia Summers has created which reminds me of Neil Gaiman.
I’m looking forward to more books by this author.
I’m especially looking forward to meeting her at my local Waterstones later this month! I’ll have to try and think of some questions for the Q&A and will hopefully post more about the night here.
You can pick up a copy of The City of Stardust on Amazon and add to your Goodreads shelf.
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Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy, heart-warming romance and short stories
I love to read reviews and it seems to be much harder to get reviews on audiobooks. These reviews on Audible made my day.
Book 1 – The Lost Sentinel
‘Everything about it was awesome. From the narrator to the sound effects. The storyline was very intriguing. I would definitely recommend this book’
Book 2 – The Sentinel’s Reign
‘What did I like? I liked everything about this book. Yes, there is some hardships, and friends lost. There is also strong ties as well. Trust me when I say. These books make you want to see them on a big screen’
The idea of seeing my books on the big scene has always been a dream of mine. I’m film obsessed and in more recent years I’ve fallen in love with binge watching series on Netflix and Prime, in particular fantasy. There just aren’t enough fantasy programmes made.
These are comments from audiobook reviewer Tess, who received a reviewer’s copy of each book and choose to share her honest review. I’m hoping the last book in the trilogy is as well received.
Perhaps these reviews have inspired you to check out the books for yourself.
For a look at all my book offerings here the link to my Amazon author page
Blurb
Tei has magic in a world where people like her are persecuted and forced into exile. Whilst fleeing their home, her father is attacked and his deathbed confession reveals a dangerous secret that will change Tei’s life forever.
Tei’s homeland, the magical island of Kalaya, is dying and without a Sentinel to restore the magic, it’s only a matter of time before all life is wiped out.
She must join the exiles in the search for the lost Sentinel, but they are not the only ones after the missing guardian. Sinister Masked Riders are on their trail and time is running out.
Tei must risk everything she loves to save Kalaya, but is she ready to make that sacrifice?
1396 pages of magic, adventure and intrigue.
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Whether you prefer reading or listening, I hope you enjoy the trilogy.
August bank holiday is the perfect time to sit back, relax and pick up a few bargain reads. That’s why many of my fellow fantasy, sci-fi and horror authors have got together to offer a sale of their books. This time there are 300 books on offer!
For a change, I’ve decided to offer both The Lost Sentinel and The Sentinel’s Reign at the discounted price of 99p each.
‘A story in which the authors world building is exceptional, I was immersed in Tei’s story from beginning to end and the characters were fantastically developed.’ Vine Voice Reviewer
‘THE SENTINEL’S REIGN breathes life into an island of magic as well as enemies thirsting for its power. Adventurous and unique this fantasy only gets more captivating with every turn.’ Amazon reviewer
There are loads of bargain books on offer for the next 3 days. Please head over to the Narratess Indie Salewebsite for all the details and links to the individual sales page. There are filters on the page to make searching for your perfect read easier, and so many attention grabbing covers. What a treat.
I’m looking forward to adding a few new reads to my collection. I hope you enjoy the sale. Let me know what you get. And don’t forget to share on social media. #NarratessIndieSale
I realise I haven’t posted anything for quite a while as I’ve been busy with a new job and working out how to fit writing and life around this big change. I’ve also had teens going through GCSE’s and A levels, which is a difficult time all round. Now the summer holidays have hit, things are settling down and I’m hoping for a peaceful summer.
I plan to review my goals for 2023 in another post very soon, this is just a quick update to let you know I’m still here!
I wanted to share this recent review of my audiobook, Visions of Zarua, because it reminded me why I should keep finding time to write. Sometimes it’s easy not to bother, but I know I’m a happier person when I’m writing. I’m even happier when I get reviews like this.
‘A thrilling story guaranteed to leave you wanting more and more until the story reaches its conclusion. . Memorable Characters, magic, sadness, happiness, and twists and turns make up this epic novel. Beautifully narrated by the narrator. He brings the characters alive in a superb way. Give it a read, you will not regret a second, I promise.’
Here’s the link to the book page on audible. Thanks to the reviewer, Greg, for sharing his thoughts.
Guy Barnes did an amazing job narrating Visions of Zarua and I would love his work to get more recognition. I still have some free codes available if you would like a listen. Let us know what you think.
I’ll leave you with a taster of Guy at work. I love how he gets into character!
During the #IndieApril book sale I could not resist picking up some new books. I haven’t read any of these authors before so I’m looking forward to checking them out. Here is a taste of what attracted me to these books…
The Traitors We Are – In a world where writing disappears when the author dies, 22-year-old Cael Oberlan watches the last gasping breaths of his best friend. He pulls a scrap of paper out of his pocket as his friend’s signature fades. Cael only wants vengeance for his friend and to create a reality where he no longer has to bow before any man. However, the nagging suspicion that his father, who started this war, hasn’t given him the whole story about his role in this conflict threatens to unravel everything he ever thought he knew about himself and the people he is fighting to free.
As nephew of the King, 24-year-old Emil Trestinsen should be a hero. He should already hear his name echoing in celebration in the streets of the capital. In a young life already full of disappointment, a lack of recognition for ridding the kingdom of “Ruinous” Lorcen Oberlan may prove to be the final push he needs to seize his destiny. He will prove his worth to his family and his nation. He will end this rebellion and take his rightful place as the next governor of the rebels.
When 18-year-old Merily Oberlan receives letters from the frontlines, and the top one is blank, she is devastated to realize one of her loved ones has died in battle. She is determined to help bring an end to this bloody war and be strong for her people, a cultural and religious minority in the kingdom of Harfal.
What started as a simple rebellion transforms into a complicated web of lies, betrayal, and difficult decisions no one should have to make. It is a race against time and death as handwriting continues to disappear, erasing the contracts and historical records necessary for peaceful negotiations.
Winds of Destruction – Ancient pacts have been broken and powers greater than anything is about to be released and threatens to swallow the world. Life wants vengeance and the Wind freedom. The Spirits will fight for their justice and only the thunderous Storm can lead them to victory.But the war her ancestors have started is too much for her to handle alone. To break the Lord of Life’s dynasty and set the Spirits free she needs help from her uncle; a long-lost war hero now wasting the remnants of his broken life in ale. Once he was the Lord of Winds, but the Wind, people whisper, cannot be killed.
Broken Sky – Dorian Valmont is the sorriest excuse for an aeronaut the crew of skyship Phoenix has ever seen.
Forced to flee his home to protect his magical inheritance from the machinations of his ambitious stepfather, awkward misfit Dorian finds himself poorly suited to the rigors of life in the sky. But when an exiled dragon finds him, injured and desperate for help, Dorian learns it’s not enough merely to run away. Dorian must learn to fight back.
Caught between forces that seek to use or destroy him, Dorian must train and adapt if he wants to survive. But if he can, he might just hold the key to restoring the world’s faltering magic — or destroying it once and for all.
Flames over Frosthelm – An Investigation Gone Awry Sometimes, your case takes a left turn. Or three or four. Marten Mingenstern and Boog Eggstrom are provisional inspectors, fresh out of Inquisitor’s Guild training and eager to prove themselves. Assigned the mundane task of tracking down stolen jewels, they instead uncover a mysterious cult set on destroying the city. After a thief explodes, they earn the enmity of a vicious noble, the Chief Inquisitor gets bought off and goes rogue, they are seized by barbarians, and they are sentenced to death at least a couple of times. In a final, frantic race with prophecy, they face ruthless fanatics, a city turned against them, and terrible forces long buried.Flames Over Frosthelm is the first novel about the Inquisitor’s Guild, the investigative arm of the government of Frosthelm, a medieval city-state where criminals thrive, nobles scheme, and dark secrets lurk. Expect intrigue, mystery, swordplay, adventure, politics, romance, and the strong bonds of friendship. And a little magic along the way. Described as Princess Bride meets CSI, this new novel is a tale of classic adventure with a healthy dose of humor.
Devil’s Deal – When two angels break their deal with the Devil, he comes for the one they’re trying to protect.
16-year-old Eleonora Santos works through the summer break so she can visit her family in Italy when she graduates. With the new school year around the corner, her focus is back on homework and enjoying life with her tight group of friends. But on their first day back, she finds them fawning over two new guys in their class—Ben and Danny.
Not a day goes by before Nora’s life is turned upside down. Her best friend now hates her, and the boys seem eager to get to know her. Despite their charming efforts, she’d rather have her best friend, not a boyfriend.
When Nora discovers Ben and Danny are not who they claim to be, and their nefarious deal goes wrong, Nora is caught in the middle.
To fix their mistakes, she must face the Devil and betray herself—or pay with her life.
Silver Mage – NEW EDITION – The dragons once sacrificed everything to destroy their enemy. They failed. Now the burden of that failure falls on the man they have called to reforge what their war destroyed – the link between the races and the magic that holds the world together.
Touched by elemental Fire, Aarin is driven by his need to return the dragons to Andeira. But the dragons vanished three thousand years ago, taking their magic with them, and their ancient partnership with mankind is now no more than legend. Even the memory of the magic they shared is fading, and Aarin’s obsession has made him an outsider even to his own people.
But when he is confronted by a magic he thought long lost, he suddenly finds himself in conflict with powerful forces intent on preventing the return of the dragons at all costs. And, deadlier still, the machinations of an age-old power that would sacrifice anything to see them returned, even the life of the man they have waited thousands of years to find.
Beset on all sides, Aarin must sort friend from foe and unravel the mysteries of a past long forgotten. Because, to survive, he must first discover the secret of why the dragons left – and what they risked everything to destroy. A classic epic fantasy adventure, Silver Mage is the standalone first novel in the Long Dream sequence.
City of Masks – When a royal conspiracy topples the noble House Falco, Sofia must take up the burden of her father’s mantle and assume guardianship of his Greatmask. Yet the sentient bone mask, powerful enough to Compel those around her, will not speak, and Sofia, the first female Protector in a hundred years, is left defenceless.
Hunted by the king, she is driven from the palace and must fight for survival, alone in the cold streets of Anaskar. There, she crosses paths with Notch, a bitter mercenary with problems of his own. Accused of murder, Notch is trying to clear his name while hunted by the city’s robed assassins, the very people who are now searching for Sofia.
To take back their city and cast down the tyrant on the throne, Sofia and Notch must face the blades of Anaskar’s assassins, the rage of a mighty sea beast, and the mysterious Lupo, a man with a Greatmask of his own, who has masterminded vicious terrorist attacks on the city that spurned him.
Their struggle threatens to tear the city – and the kingdom – into shreds.
No Heart for a Thief – We are the stories we tell ourselves…even the lies.
The Thief, a great spirit, and her descendants have abused their ability to steal magic for centuries. When Kaylo starts to hear the song of other people’s magic, he must learn to hide from his people as well as the invaders. A gift or a curse, Kaylo may be able to save his people from the Gousht Empire that claimed their land with this stolen magic.
Eighteen years later, Kaylo still prays to the spirits, but not out of loyalty or love. He knows better than to rely on those selfish bastards for anything. While hiding in the forest from his foolish acts of rebellion, he encounters a girl, Tayen, being pursued by two soldiers of the empire. Against his better judgment, he risks facing the consequences of his past to intervene.
When Tayen attempts to run off seeking vengeance for her family, he offers to train her to wield her magic and a blade. If he can’t convince her to relinquish her need for vengeance and stave off the demons of his past, he’s going to get them both killed.
Spirit of the Dragon – Every dream comes at a price.
Twins Genshu Masanori and Genshu Hidekazu watched in horror as a woman was kidnapped from the annual Midsummer Festival. Delving into the case, they discover she wasn’t the first victim of the sorcerer who took her, nor will she be the last.
But fighting to rescue the woman will mean breaking ancient clan laws against warfare. By embarking on this rescue mission they will sign their lives away to the prestigious Tsukiko Academy… regardless of the rumours about the dark secrets harboured within the school grounds. Yet embracing their future as warriors is only the beginning.
As the twins unravel the sorcerer’s sinister plan, they come to the horrific revelation that if they can’t find him in time, the game of life and death he whispers about might be the last anyone ever plays…
Jump into the world of Yumihari, a land filled with spirits, dragons, monsters, and characters who wield elemental magic. If you love epic fight scenes, mystery, monsters, and mayhem you will love Spirit of the Dragon!
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I can’t wait to dive into some new fantasy worlds. How about you? Have any of these books caught your eye?
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Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy, heart-warming romance and short stories
For the next 3 days, 1st to 3rd April, 150 indie authors like myself have joined together and organised a huge book sale.
There are fantasy, sci-fi and horror books on offer at various price points, including free, so please take a look at the sales page.
My own books are also included at just 99p each, so if you haven’t read them now is a great time to try. Visions of Zarua and The Lost Sentinel.
I’ve just had a quick browse and already picked up 8 books to add to my TBR. I will try and share some more info on those books and spread a little more love before the sale ends.
Please share this post and help share the love for indie authors. And don’t forget to check out the sales page right here.
Thanks for reading and have a great weekend.
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Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy, heart-warming romance and short stories
It’s been a good reading year for me. I completed my Goodreads challenge of 25 in plenty of time, getting to 28 books in total. It’s not the biggest target, but I’m pleased I made it.
I’ve read a mixture of romance, urban fantasy and fantasy with a couple of thrillers, a how to book and a graphic novel thrown in.
You can check out all the books I read on my goodreads challenge here.
I’ve been transported to some amazing locations and different worlds, I’ve been entertained and kept up too late at night on many occasions!
I try to read as many books as I can by fellow indie authors or those published by small presses, and I’ve discovered new to me authors whose work I will be searching out in the future.
I haven’t reviewed as many books on my blog as I would have liked in 2022, but I try to leave reviews or at least ratings on Goodreads and Amazon because as an author I know how important these are.
Looking back over the list on Goodreads, I find it almost impossible to pick a favourite. But If I had to, I think I would say The Switch by Beth O’Leary. I only picked it up because so many agents rate her work and having read this book I can completely see why. I highly recommend it.
Did you meet any reading challenges you set yourself? Have you got a favourite read you can recommend?
I will be back in the new year with some of the books I plan to read during 2023.
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Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy, heart-warming romance and short stories
Today is the one day blog blitz for my newest release – Love, Loss and Life In Between.
Some great reviews have already come in and I will share the links with you below. First though, I’d just like to thank Rachel for organising another blog blitz for me.
It’s always nerve-wracking publishing something new, but even more so when that is in a new genre. Thankfully Love, Loss and Life In Between has been well received. Take at look at some of the comments below and follow the links to read the full reviews. I’ll share another update later or tomorrow with links to the remaining blogs.
Just Katherine says ‘Love, Loss and Life in Between is an incredibly well-written short story collection. The emotions in each story are so powerful and the writing style is excellent, with each word carefully chosen to give maximum effect and make the reader feel.’
The Strawberry Post says ‘This is a lovely set of short stories, each of them quite different from the others but all of them centering on the subjects of love and loss…’
Jenny Lou’s Book Reviews says ‘This is a lovely collection of short stories, you can have heart-breaking, heart-warming and shocking moments all in one collection.’
Mai’s Musings says ‘…I was surprised at just how much emotion Suzanne managed to inject into each of these small but perfectly formed tales.’
MJ Porter Author Blog says ‘…This really was a delightful collection of short stories. The author has a lovely turn of phrase and manages to evoke strong feelings in her characters which make them believable, so that in only a few words the reader is already rooting for them.’
Suzanne Rogerson Fantasy Author 