Book Review: Ethan of Athos by Lois McMaster Bujold
“Ethan of Athos” by Bujold is a Vorkosigan series sci-fi novel exploring gender dynamics on a male-only planet through protagonist Ethan. Review by Markus McDowell.
Sneak Peek Paris: Mortals As They Walk
Here is a scene from the speculative fiction novel by Markus McDowell, Mortals As They Walk. The benefits and evils of genetic engineering…
SNEAK PEEK – Opening Scene: Desert Steve Novel (draft)
Here is a sneak peek of the first scene in the historical fiction novel about Desert Steve Ragsdale, the founder of Desert Center, California.
The Toil and Joy of Creation: first draft of my historical fiction novel
I completed the first draft of a historical fiction novel featuring “desert Steve” Ragsdale, founder of Desert Center. The second draft will refine themes, plot, and character authenticity, evaluating the necessity of chronological events. This creative process involves deciding which material enhances Steve’s life story, balancing factual accuracy with engaging storytelling. Now begins the intricate crafting of these scenes into a compelling narrative.
Book Review: Middle-Earth Lore (Tolkien) by Jeb Smith
A review of “Middle Earth Lore” by Jeb Smith, a comprehensive view of Tolkien’s world in Lord of the Rings trilogy and beyond. Review by Dr. Markus McDowell.
Sneak Peak: Thomas “Pegleg” Smith (1801-1866) in a new historical fiction novel
Pegleg Smith was a historical character known mostly for his legendary lost mine in the California desert. Read this brief introduction to the man, as a character in Markus McDowell’s forthcoming historical fiction novel about Desert Steve Ragsdale, the founder of Desert center, California, in 1921.
REVIEW: Turtle Soup is Enough — College Essays from a Writer Suffering Grief and Loss
A review of a book of essays by Margaret O’Connor on life, suffering, loss, and faith. Review by Dr. Markus McDowell.
Behind the Scenes: the difficulties (and joys) of writing a historical fiction novel
Markus McDowell reveals some of the behind-the-scenes work and difficulties in writing this historical fiction novel about Desert Steve Ragsdale and the history of Desert Center, California.
Book Review: Babel, a literary and etymological masterpiece
Book review of Babel, by R.F. Kuang, an alternative history filled with language, etymologies, and magic, set in 19th century Oxford. Review by Dr. Markus McDowell.
Sneak Peak: a scene from Mortals As They Walk – delerium
An excerpt from the speculative fiction book about a man, woman, and child caught up in a genetic engineering project. Mortals As They Walk by Markus McDowell.