Improbable Press Blog — J.O. Phael

By J.O. Phael In my experience, second books, especially second books in a series, are some of the most difficult books to write – though there are comforts, too. A first book, while sometimes difficult to plot, is a triumph. There’s enthusiasm and energy around building a new world, new characters, and deciding where the story is going to take them. When you get to the second book, though, there is a whole new set of worries. The characters are established and you have to make sure you stick to who they are, as well as the elements and feel...

Brodie stopped to catch his breath at the road, looking to see if there was any traffic. The night was quiet though, no headlights on the road, or signs of human presence anywhere.After a moment, Brodie straightened up, his breathing starting to ease. He glanced back toward the lodge, starting to feel a bit like an idiot. Then, he heard something ahead of him, and whipped back around. In front of him was the creature he'd been chasing, as if it had waited for him.It held its black head high, long antlers gleaming in the lights of the aurora. Something...

ATLIN MERRICK: Do you believe in the stag god?J.O. PHAEL: Belief is a tough thing for me. I’m one of those people that very much wants to believe, but I find it difficult. I love pagan beliefs and world views, but have never been able to really connect in a meaningful way. I definitely believe that there’s something out there beyond what we know and understand, and I’d like to think Cernunnos is among that mysterious world we can’t quite see.ATLIN: Which goddesses and gods fascinate you most?J.O.: I’m a big fan of the entire Norse pantheon as well as...