Original Title: Tools of Prophecy
Series: Heirs of Prophecy #2
Author: Michael E. Rothman
Publisher: M & S Publishing
Release Date: August 1st 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
The TOOLS OF PROPHECY is the second volume in an epic saga which describes a prophecy that has placed the Riverton brothers in the lead roles of a struggle to save their world from being overrun by unspeakable horrors. This destiny requires that they face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago.
In the first book, the population of wizards had been practically eradicated by the former tyrant. The Rivertons are now charged with creating an Academy of Magic, recruiting qualified students, and furthering their own training with secrets that have long been held by the reclusive elves.
Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny.
The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord’s minion who holds a personal grudge and intends to witness the young boys’ deaths.
1. Tell us something about your book that is not part of the book description (blurb)..
In this book, we introduce a much wider cast of characters than in the first book of the series. Preliminary readers were sometimes delighted with the introduction of additional personalities and I fully expect there will be debate amongst readers with regards to who is their “favorite dwarf” “funniest character” “most irksome personality”
Lots of book #1 had elements of the “fish out of water” scenario (similar to Alice in Wonderland) and in this book, we continue the saga, and it leaves much more room for added interactions with personalities on a much more personal level. I hope everyone enjoys.
2. Who is your book cover designer and what do YOU think about the cover?
Believe it or not, I designed the book cover with the artist. I had scenes in my mind from what I had written that I thought would be good representations. In this case, the scene for TOOLS OF PROPHECY’s cover is from a latter portion of the book, and I saying much more about who is represented would give too much away. Nonetheless, I expect people, once they’ve read the book, to recognize the scene.
And of course, since I had a direct input on the design – I am a bit biased and would say that I love it. ;-)
3. What are your current literary works? Any sneak peaks?
A prequel novel to this series is in editing right now.
Below is some description text that should whet the appetites for some folks.
Arabelle, the daughter of a merchant king in the land of Trimoria finds her normally simple life interrupted by events far beyond her control. Her life of leisure is shattered.
Arabelle must learn to resist the monstrous foes that threaten her people and the ones she loves.
She must do this while keeping a dark secret that only she can bear.
4. What movie and/or book are you looking forward to this year?
The Hobbit (the movie) at the end of 2012 of course.
5. If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose?
I will stick to people that I couldn’t otherwise arrange. Some authors I have the ability to reach out and make such arrangements, so I’ll skip those.
Albert Einstein – clearly he’s dead – however love to hear much from him especially since my background is steeped in the sciences
Terry Goodkind – am sure he has some interesting tales from his most recent life events
My grandfather – man I’ve always looked up to
Moses – historical / religious figure – have some questions for him. I’ve practiced my Aramaic for the off-chance it occurs.
Robin Williams – I think he’s hilarious
6. What's the craziest writing idea you've had?
The idea that this engineer would go ahead and write an Epic fantasy. See? Sometimes crazy ideas aren’t necessary bad ones.
7. Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.
If you are looking for an engaging book with lots of action, many epic fantasy elements, has many elements of mystery, yet provides a wholesome family experience which might occasionally be educational, then this would be your type of book.
8. Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.
Having the readers tell me about their experiences and thoughts about the books and characters. For instance, I am finding that many people seem to gravitate to an otherwise unsuspecting character who happens to be an ogre. It should be interesting to see how things evolve in TOOLS to see if the “favorites” are maintained or evolve.
9. What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?
Persistence. Most would-be authors fail, because they never finish what they started. You too might have a great book or series of books in your head, but 99+% never finish what they start. It takes a special kind of masochism to be an author. Obviously, you do need some basic elements such as grammar, language skills, and imagination. If you have those, you have the makings of an author. Most people lack the wherewithal to complete the task.
10. If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world, which would it be?
Who says I haven’t jumped into Trimoria before? Actually, Trimoria is in a bit of chaos at the moment, maybe the dust should settle before a mass exodus from our world. I think the real estate in Mordor is probably very cheap now that its main occupant has been defeated. What do you think?
11. If someone wrote a book about your life, what would the title be?
“What was he thinking?!”
12. What is your favorite scene in the book and why do you love it?
There is a very touching scene between Ryan and his fiancée. It is a scene which when my son was reading it, I asked him a question and he waved me away and shushed me with impatience as he was in the midst of that riveting scene. I suspect most people will know exactly what I am talking about when they read the book.
13. What TV show/movie/book do you watch/read that you'd be embarrassed to admit?
I absolutely love some 70’s TV shows like All in the Family and the Jeffersons. Our society in the US is too politically correct and sensitive. Those shows take stereotypes that upset people today or that people are sensitive about nowadays and simply poke fun and make humor from it.
14. What is one book everyone should read (apart from yours)?
The Hobbit – it started the genre.
15. What is your favorite way to spend a rainy day?
Sleeping!
I am an Army brat and the first person in my family to be born in the United States. This heavily influenced my youth by instilling a love of reading and a burning curiosity about the world and all of the things within it. As an adult, my love of travel allowed me to explore many unimaginable locations. I participated in many adventures and documented them in what will be a series of books, the first of which you have just read.
Michael will be awarding a $50 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour.
To enter this awesome giveaway, all you have to do is comment in this post WITH YOUR E-MAIL ID. Anonymous and Name/URL comments without email IDs will not be considered for giveaway. So, please leave your e-mail ID in the comment.
Open INTERNATIONALLY! Giveaway ends August 17th!
Series: Heirs of Prophecy #2
Author: Michael E. Rothman
Publisher: M & S Publishing
Release Date: August 1st 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
The TOOLS OF PROPHECY is the second volume in an epic saga which describes a prophecy that has placed the Riverton brothers in the lead roles of a struggle to save their world from being overrun by unspeakable horrors. This destiny requires that they face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago.
In the first book, the population of wizards had been practically eradicated by the former tyrant. The Rivertons are now charged with creating an Academy of Magic, recruiting qualified students, and furthering their own training with secrets that have long been held by the reclusive elves.
Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny.
The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord’s minion who holds a personal grudge and intends to witness the young boys’ deaths.
INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL ROTHMAN
1. Tell us something about your book that is not part of the book description (blurb)..
In this book, we introduce a much wider cast of characters than in the first book of the series. Preliminary readers were sometimes delighted with the introduction of additional personalities and I fully expect there will be debate amongst readers with regards to who is their “favorite dwarf” “funniest character” “most irksome personality”
Lots of book #1 had elements of the “fish out of water” scenario (similar to Alice in Wonderland) and in this book, we continue the saga, and it leaves much more room for added interactions with personalities on a much more personal level. I hope everyone enjoys.
2. Who is your book cover designer and what do YOU think about the cover?
Believe it or not, I designed the book cover with the artist. I had scenes in my mind from what I had written that I thought would be good representations. In this case, the scene for TOOLS OF PROPHECY’s cover is from a latter portion of the book, and I saying much more about who is represented would give too much away. Nonetheless, I expect people, once they’ve read the book, to recognize the scene.
And of course, since I had a direct input on the design – I am a bit biased and would say that I love it. ;-)
3. What are your current literary works? Any sneak peaks?
A prequel novel to this series is in editing right now.
Below is some description text that should whet the appetites for some folks.
Arabelle, the daughter of a merchant king in the land of Trimoria finds her normally simple life interrupted by events far beyond her control. Her life of leisure is shattered.
Arabelle must learn to resist the monstrous foes that threaten her people and the ones she loves.
She must do this while keeping a dark secret that only she can bear.
4. What movie and/or book are you looking forward to this year?
The Hobbit (the movie) at the end of 2012 of course.
5. If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose?
I will stick to people that I couldn’t otherwise arrange. Some authors I have the ability to reach out and make such arrangements, so I’ll skip those.
Albert Einstein – clearly he’s dead – however love to hear much from him especially since my background is steeped in the sciences
Terry Goodkind – am sure he has some interesting tales from his most recent life events
My grandfather – man I’ve always looked up to
Moses – historical / religious figure – have some questions for him. I’ve practiced my Aramaic for the off-chance it occurs.
Robin Williams – I think he’s hilarious
6. What's the craziest writing idea you've had?
The idea that this engineer would go ahead and write an Epic fantasy. See? Sometimes crazy ideas aren’t necessary bad ones.
7. Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.
If you are looking for an engaging book with lots of action, many epic fantasy elements, has many elements of mystery, yet provides a wholesome family experience which might occasionally be educational, then this would be your type of book.
8. Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.
Having the readers tell me about their experiences and thoughts about the books and characters. For instance, I am finding that many people seem to gravitate to an otherwise unsuspecting character who happens to be an ogre. It should be interesting to see how things evolve in TOOLS to see if the “favorites” are maintained or evolve.
9. What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?
Persistence. Most would-be authors fail, because they never finish what they started. You too might have a great book or series of books in your head, but 99+% never finish what they start. It takes a special kind of masochism to be an author. Obviously, you do need some basic elements such as grammar, language skills, and imagination. If you have those, you have the makings of an author. Most people lack the wherewithal to complete the task.
10. If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world, which would it be?
Who says I haven’t jumped into Trimoria before? Actually, Trimoria is in a bit of chaos at the moment, maybe the dust should settle before a mass exodus from our world. I think the real estate in Mordor is probably very cheap now that its main occupant has been defeated. What do you think?
11. If someone wrote a book about your life, what would the title be?
“What was he thinking?!”
12. What is your favorite scene in the book and why do you love it?
There is a very touching scene between Ryan and his fiancée. It is a scene which when my son was reading it, I asked him a question and he waved me away and shushed me with impatience as he was in the midst of that riveting scene. I suspect most people will know exactly what I am talking about when they read the book.
13. What TV show/movie/book do you watch/read that you'd be embarrassed to admit?
I absolutely love some 70’s TV shows like All in the Family and the Jeffersons. Our society in the US is too politically correct and sensitive. Those shows take stereotypes that upset people today or that people are sensitive about nowadays and simply poke fun and make humor from it.
14. What is one book everyone should read (apart from yours)?
The Hobbit – it started the genre.
15. What is your favorite way to spend a rainy day?
Sleeping!
QUICK ANSWERS
Favorite place?
Near a lake, fishing.
Best christmas present?
Truthfully – am drawing a blank. Not sure if I had a favorite or memorable one.
Favorite book?
The Hobbit – of course
Favorite author?
JRR Tolkien
Favorite smell?
Old leather.
Favorite series?
Lord of the Rings
Nickname?
None that I know of – aside from “Mike”
Favorite writing spot?
On my favorite chair, but really almost anywhere. Maybe even in bed.
Favorite movie?
Contest between the Cecil B. Demille’s Ten Commandments, and Peter Jackson’s adaptation of the Lord of the Rings (I know – that’s three.....but so be it)
Favorite dish?
A good lasagna, biryani, or hotpot. (Yes, I have eclectic food tastes)
Favorite color?
Blue
Favorite quote?
“A child without hope, is a child no longer” – Michael A. Rothman
A bunch of small gifts or one big expensive one?
One expensive
Your best trait?
Stubborn
Your worst trait?
Stubborn
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am an Army brat and the first person in my family to be born in the United States. This heavily influenced my youth by instilling a love of reading and a burning curiosity about the world and all of the things within it. As an adult, my love of travel allowed me to explore many unimaginable locations. I participated in many adventures and documented them in what will be a series of books, the first of which you have just read.
Some might put these books in the Fantasy genre, and I never had issues with this label. After all, the adventures were, without any doubt in my mind, fantastic. I simply quibble with the label of “Fiction” that some might put on these tales. These tales should be viewed as historical records, more along the lines of a documentary.
I’ve learned one thing over the years. Magic is real. Keep exploring, and you too will find your magic.
AUTHOR ONLINE: Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook
GIVEAWAY
Michael will be awarding a $50 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour.
To enter this awesome giveaway, all you have to do is comment in this post WITH YOUR E-MAIL ID. Anonymous and Name/URL comments without email IDs will not be considered for giveaway. So, please leave your e-mail ID in the comment.
Open INTERNATIONALLY! Giveaway ends August 17th!
Having so much input into your covers sounds like such a sensible idea to me. They must reflect the story so much better.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to THE HOBBIT also.
marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com
How much do you feel that Tolkien's world effected the creation of the world in your novels? Thanks Carin
ReplyDeletemawmom(at)gmail(dot)com
The book cover is fabulous.
ReplyDeleteKit3247(at)aol(dot)com
Congrats on the new release! Best of luck for the future :)
ReplyDeleteefender1(at)gmail(dot)Com
Sounds intresting... would love to read it
ReplyDeleteanubha56 at gmail dot com
Wow, love the cover! polykathleen@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteGreat interview, y'all!!
ReplyDeleteI am really looking forward to seeing The Hobbit, too :-)
justforswag(AT)yahoo(DOT)com
Great interview and I know I will be adding more to my BTR list along with authors to follow.
ReplyDeleteebwriter2525(AT)yahoo(DOT)com
See a writer that thinks faster than I type I didn't need to be anonymous.
DeleteGreat array of hypothetical dinner guests! The book sounds intriguing.
ReplyDeleteeai(at)stanfordalumni(dot)org
Congrats on the new release and thanks for the review.
ReplyDeletetcarolinep at gmail dot com
Can't wait to read that scene that got your son so enthralled! Congratulations on your new release.
ReplyDeleteminadecaro@hotmail.com
>How much do you feel that Tolkien's world effected the creation of the world in your novels?
ReplyDeleteIn truth, the world of Middle Earth was somewhat pastoral and had some remarkable areas of geography. The world of Trimoria does have similar attributes, but at least in the first couple books, you only get to see a portion of it. I think the most influence you might encounter is the existence of certain characters such as Wizards, Elves, Dwarves. I have definitely taken liberties and adapted things for my own tastes and needs. So you'll find unexpected scenes with dragons that are in no fashion similar to what Tolkien had envisioned, same goes with an Ogre that becomes a big part of the cast of characters.
It was interesting to learn more about the author and his book. :)
ReplyDeleteBecky01x(at)gmail(dot)com
Nice interview!
ReplyDeletemissymyt(at)gmail(dot)com