M.Z. Szklanny's Blog
March 9, 2024
The Countdown is On – The Story Arrives Tomorrow
The anticipation hangs thick in the air, doesn't it? For those who have journeyed with us, the wait is nearly over. Tomorrow, March 10th, "The Siege of Hallgeard" will go live onto Kindle Vella for FREE!
What awaits within the story? I won't spoil the thrill of discovery, but gear up for relentless action, unbreakable bonds of friendship, and battles that will shake the very foundations of the Sharr Kingdom.
Remember, appearances can be deceiving. Look beyond the surface, for secrets and hidden truths lie woven within the words.
Mark your calendars! Prepare to step onto the embattled field that forged the Sharr Kingdom. And most importantly, once the dust settles, let me know what echoes linger in your mind!
What awaits within the story? I won't spoil the thrill of discovery, but gear up for relentless action, unbreakable bonds of friendship, and battles that will shake the very foundations of the Sharr Kingdom.
Remember, appearances can be deceiving. Look beyond the surface, for secrets and hidden truths lie woven within the words.
Mark your calendars! Prepare to step onto the embattled field that forged the Sharr Kingdom. And most importantly, once the dust settles, let me know what echoes linger in your mind!
February 28, 2024
The Siege of Hallgeard: A Kindle Vella Exclusive?!?
Fantasy lovers, buckle up! I'm thrilled to announce an upcoming Kindle Vella exclusive – a mini-story delving into one of my world's pivotal events: The Siege of Hallgeard. If you've followed The Shadow Within, you know this siege set in motion the Oleander brothers journey. Now's your chance to witness it all unfold.
I am extremely grateful for all of the support and this is my thank you for an incredibly successful launch.
What's Kindle Vella?
For those new to the scene, Kindle Vella is Amazon's platform for serialized stories. It's like your favorite TV show, but with chapters! You get bite-sized episodes perfect for a quick read, and as an author, I get to share more of my world with you as I continue to build the second novel.
Why the Siege of Hallgeard?
Explore Untold Perspectives: We all know the major players in my larger story, but what about King Richard? How did the brothers escape? Were the citizens caught in the crossfire? This mini-story offers a grittier, intimate look at events leading to and the siege.
The Spark that Changed Everything: This wasn't just a battle; it was a catalyst. The choices made here ripple through history. Understanding this event gives a whole new depth to the world you are coming to know.
A Taste Test for New Readers: Not sure if my larger work is your cup of tea? This mini-story is a perfect way to sample my style, worldbuilding, and the high-stakes drama of it all.
What to Expect:
Action and Grit: This isn't a sanitized war. Expect mud, blood, and the hard decisions of desperate people.
Emotional Fallout: Beyond battles, there are families torn apart, loyalties questioned, and deeper metaphorical meanings.
Release Date and Details>
The Siege of Hallgeard will be available on March 10th. I'll be sharing snippets and updates as we get closer.
MZS
I am extremely grateful for all of the support and this is my thank you for an incredibly successful launch.
What's Kindle Vella?
For those new to the scene, Kindle Vella is Amazon's platform for serialized stories. It's like your favorite TV show, but with chapters! You get bite-sized episodes perfect for a quick read, and as an author, I get to share more of my world with you as I continue to build the second novel.
Why the Siege of Hallgeard?
Explore Untold Perspectives: We all know the major players in my larger story, but what about King Richard? How did the brothers escape? Were the citizens caught in the crossfire? This mini-story offers a grittier, intimate look at events leading to and the siege.
The Spark that Changed Everything: This wasn't just a battle; it was a catalyst. The choices made here ripple through history. Understanding this event gives a whole new depth to the world you are coming to know.
A Taste Test for New Readers: Not sure if my larger work is your cup of tea? This mini-story is a perfect way to sample my style, worldbuilding, and the high-stakes drama of it all.
What to Expect:
Action and Grit: This isn't a sanitized war. Expect mud, blood, and the hard decisions of desperate people.
Emotional Fallout: Beyond battles, there are families torn apart, loyalties questioned, and deeper metaphorical meanings.
Release Date and Details>
The Siege of Hallgeard will be available on March 10th. I'll be sharing snippets and updates as we get closer.
MZS
February 25, 2024
Launch Day Gratitude: Overwhelmed and Humbled
I'm struggling to find the right words to describe how I feel right now. The launch of The Shadow Within has been an absolute whirlwind of emotions, and the number one thing overwhelming me is a profound sense of gratitude.
When I started writing this book, it was a deeply personal project. I had no idea if anyone would resonate with my story or the message I wanted to share, or if I wanted to share the novel at all! To see this outpouring of support is astonishing. Over 5,000 people have entered the giveaway for a chance to win a signed copy, and that number keeps growing!
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who has ordered the book, shared their excitement on social media, or simply sent a few kind words of encouragement.
This experience has taught me the incredible power of community. I could never have reached this point without the support of friends, family, mentors, and this incredible network of like-minded individuals who have cheered me on.
Launching this book is the start of its journey, not the end. I'm excited to see where this path leads and to continue the conversations that this book inspires. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
MZS
When I started writing this book, it was a deeply personal project. I had no idea if anyone would resonate with my story or the message I wanted to share, or if I wanted to share the novel at all! To see this outpouring of support is astonishing. Over 5,000 people have entered the giveaway for a chance to win a signed copy, and that number keeps growing!
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who has ordered the book, shared their excitement on social media, or simply sent a few kind words of encouragement.
This experience has taught me the incredible power of community. I could never have reached this point without the support of friends, family, mentors, and this incredible network of like-minded individuals who have cheered me on.
Launching this book is the start of its journey, not the end. I'm excited to see where this path leads and to continue the conversations that this book inspires. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
MZS
February 22, 2024
Qiveste: An Echo of Ancient Wonders
Why Egypt and Babylon?
I've always harbored a strange, almost mystical pull towards the civilizations of the past; ancient Egypt and Babylon hold a particular allure for me. The power etched into their hieroglyphs, the grand scale of their architecture—these cultures possess a magic that transcends time. Even now, I wear a testament to this fascination: an Eye of Ra tattooed on my forearm. In my creative world, Egypt and Babylon are the cornerstones that prop up Qiveste.
To me, these cultures represent a captivating blend of the enigmatic and the awe-inspiring. Ancient Egyptians were pioneers in areas ranging from medicine to monumental construction. Their reverence for the afterlife, elaborate funerary practices, and intricate mythology still ignite the imagination. It's a world steeped in symbolism and a profound belief in powers beyond the ordinary.
Babylon, too, is a source of endless wonder. They excelled in mathematics and astronomy, laying the groundwork for later scientific breakthroughs. Their towering ziggurats and the fabled Hanging Gardens are feats of architecture. Babylonian society possessed a complexity and sophistication that mirrors our own aspirations.
Where Past and Imagination Collide
Qiveste is not a simple imitation of those ancient wonders. Instead, it is a crucible where their echoes coalesce with my imagination. Imagine towering obelisks inscribed with scripts both familiar and strange, reminiscent of Egyptian hieroglyphs. Yet, those symbols tell a unique story.
Perhaps, like many Babylonian structures, the great buildings of Qiveste possess stepped designs, reaching towards the heavens as if in conversation with the stars. But, these are not merely imitations—they carry the spirit of the old gods, adapted and imbued with a fantastical essence that exists only in Qiveste.
Within the city walls, the influence of these cultures shapes society. The value placed on knowledge and a thirst for the unknown could be a hallmark inspired by Babylonian intellect. Qiveste even grapples with grand questions about life, death, and the cosmos—a trait reflective of Egyptian spiritual traditions.
MZS
I've always harbored a strange, almost mystical pull towards the civilizations of the past; ancient Egypt and Babylon hold a particular allure for me. The power etched into their hieroglyphs, the grand scale of their architecture—these cultures possess a magic that transcends time. Even now, I wear a testament to this fascination: an Eye of Ra tattooed on my forearm. In my creative world, Egypt and Babylon are the cornerstones that prop up Qiveste.
To me, these cultures represent a captivating blend of the enigmatic and the awe-inspiring. Ancient Egyptians were pioneers in areas ranging from medicine to monumental construction. Their reverence for the afterlife, elaborate funerary practices, and intricate mythology still ignite the imagination. It's a world steeped in symbolism and a profound belief in powers beyond the ordinary.
Babylon, too, is a source of endless wonder. They excelled in mathematics and astronomy, laying the groundwork for later scientific breakthroughs. Their towering ziggurats and the fabled Hanging Gardens are feats of architecture. Babylonian society possessed a complexity and sophistication that mirrors our own aspirations.
Where Past and Imagination Collide
Qiveste is not a simple imitation of those ancient wonders. Instead, it is a crucible where their echoes coalesce with my imagination. Imagine towering obelisks inscribed with scripts both familiar and strange, reminiscent of Egyptian hieroglyphs. Yet, those symbols tell a unique story.
Perhaps, like many Babylonian structures, the great buildings of Qiveste possess stepped designs, reaching towards the heavens as if in conversation with the stars. But, these are not merely imitations—they carry the spirit of the old gods, adapted and imbued with a fantastical essence that exists only in Qiveste.
Within the city walls, the influence of these cultures shapes society. The value placed on knowledge and a thirst for the unknown could be a hallmark inspired by Babylonian intellect. Qiveste even grapples with grand questions about life, death, and the cosmos—a trait reflective of Egyptian spiritual traditions.
MZS
February 19, 2024
Oliver Oleander: Reluctant Hero or Doomed Prince?
In the rich world of The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath, one character stands out with a unique mix of light and darkness - Oliver Oleander. True prince of the Sharr Kingdom, and the son of King Richard, Oliver grapples with his role as a hero forced upon him by circumstance. Yet, there's something about him that sparks not just admiration, but also an undercurrent of doubt.
At his core, Oliver possesses undeniably honorable qualities. His unwavering loyalty to friends and family shines brightly, especially when danger arises. His compassion, at times, even seems an Achilles heel, clouding his judgment in crucial moments. But can Oliver's kindness truly be a weakness when wielded alongside his innate sense of justice?
The true conflict within Oliver lies not in his morals, but in his destiny. Born a prince, expectations have burdened him since childhood. His people whisper of him as a savior, a legend-in-the-making who will defeat the encroaching shadows. This burden of prophesied heroism sits uncomfortably on a young man still coming to terms with his own abilities.
Can Oliver escape the shadow of his lineage? Is it fair that leadership is thrust upon him when his own heart may wish for a simpler life? As readers, we're compelled to ask: What sacrifices must Oliver make for the sake of a kingdom that sees a hero in him, even if he struggles to see it within himself?
There's an undeniable tragic arc lingering over Oliver, like a haunting melody. We suspect there may be battles his inner goodness cannot entirely defeat. This doesn't mean Oliver is destined for darkness. Rather, his complexity stems from the battleground within – where noble motives wrestle with crushing self-doubt and the fear of inadequacy.
Is Oliver Oleander the prince of legend, or is the truth of his heroism more tangled than any prophecy foretold? That is the captivating question The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath forces us to grapple with, inviting us to empathize with a reluctant hero's quest even as we wonder if he might also be painting his own path to doom.
At his core, Oliver possesses undeniably honorable qualities. His unwavering loyalty to friends and family shines brightly, especially when danger arises. His compassion, at times, even seems an Achilles heel, clouding his judgment in crucial moments. But can Oliver's kindness truly be a weakness when wielded alongside his innate sense of justice?
The true conflict within Oliver lies not in his morals, but in his destiny. Born a prince, expectations have burdened him since childhood. His people whisper of him as a savior, a legend-in-the-making who will defeat the encroaching shadows. This burden of prophesied heroism sits uncomfortably on a young man still coming to terms with his own abilities.
Can Oliver escape the shadow of his lineage? Is it fair that leadership is thrust upon him when his own heart may wish for a simpler life? As readers, we're compelled to ask: What sacrifices must Oliver make for the sake of a kingdom that sees a hero in him, even if he struggles to see it within himself?
There's an undeniable tragic arc lingering over Oliver, like a haunting melody. We suspect there may be battles his inner goodness cannot entirely defeat. This doesn't mean Oliver is destined for darkness. Rather, his complexity stems from the battleground within – where noble motives wrestle with crushing self-doubt and the fear of inadequacy.
Is Oliver Oleander the prince of legend, or is the truth of his heroism more tangled than any prophecy foretold? That is the captivating question The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath forces us to grapple with, inviting us to empathize with a reluctant hero's quest even as we wonder if he might also be painting his own path to doom.
February 17, 2024
The Shadow Within: Writing My Way Through PTSD
There are stories we carry—the ones we tell the world, and the ones hidden deep within us. Sometimes, the darkest ones hold the most power, shaping our reality until we find the courage to confront them. "The Shadow Within" is my story, but it's more than that. It's a testament to the transformative power of facing our deepest wounds.
My journey with PTSD began long before I had a name for it. It lurked in the background, a constant undercurrent of unease and nightmares that stole my sense of safety. The world felt dangerous, unpredictable. There were good days, of course, but the shadow always lingered, ready to reclaim me.
Initially, I fought the diagnosis. Shame and a misplaced sense of weakness made me resist the label. But as I began to understand the complex ways that trauma disrupts the mind and body, a profound shift occurred. It wasn't that I was broken, but rather that my mind had adapted in extraordinary ways to survive.
Writing became my refuge. It became my lifeline. There's a rawness in pouring your unfiltered heart and mind onto the page, a vulnerability that's both daunting and exhilarating. When I began to write "The Shadow Within," it wasn't intended to be a novel. It began as a series of fragmented glimpses, memories, and characters grappling with their own unresolved pain.
Slowly, a narrative took shape. It wasn't my story, but it was deeply infused with my emotional truth. In writing about my characters' internal struggles – fear, self-doubt, the desperate hunger for healing– I unearthed my own. Fiction provided a safe space to explore the complexities of PTSD without being overwhelmed by my personal history.
The hardest part was facing the shadow head-on. I spent nights reliving painful moments, painstakingly untangling threads of memory to illuminate my characters' psyches. There were tears, anger, and countless moments when I wanted to turn away. Yet, it was within these darkest places that I found pockets of light – resilience, strength, and an unwavering determination to reclaim my life.
"The Shadow Within" isn't just a novel; it's a symbol of my metamorphosis. It's proof that even our deepest wounds can serve as fuel for creativity and growth. If my story can give a voice to others grappling with their own struggles, or ignite a spark of hope in the darkness, then all the sleepless nights and emotional excavation will have been worth it.
Remember, you are not defined by your past. You are the author of your story, and within each of us lies the power to write a new chapter.
MZS
My journey with PTSD began long before I had a name for it. It lurked in the background, a constant undercurrent of unease and nightmares that stole my sense of safety. The world felt dangerous, unpredictable. There were good days, of course, but the shadow always lingered, ready to reclaim me.
Initially, I fought the diagnosis. Shame and a misplaced sense of weakness made me resist the label. But as I began to understand the complex ways that trauma disrupts the mind and body, a profound shift occurred. It wasn't that I was broken, but rather that my mind had adapted in extraordinary ways to survive.
Writing became my refuge. It became my lifeline. There's a rawness in pouring your unfiltered heart and mind onto the page, a vulnerability that's both daunting and exhilarating. When I began to write "The Shadow Within," it wasn't intended to be a novel. It began as a series of fragmented glimpses, memories, and characters grappling with their own unresolved pain.
Slowly, a narrative took shape. It wasn't my story, but it was deeply infused with my emotional truth. In writing about my characters' internal struggles – fear, self-doubt, the desperate hunger for healing– I unearthed my own. Fiction provided a safe space to explore the complexities of PTSD without being overwhelmed by my personal history.
The hardest part was facing the shadow head-on. I spent nights reliving painful moments, painstakingly untangling threads of memory to illuminate my characters' psyches. There were tears, anger, and countless moments when I wanted to turn away. Yet, it was within these darkest places that I found pockets of light – resilience, strength, and an unwavering determination to reclaim my life.
"The Shadow Within" isn't just a novel; it's a symbol of my metamorphosis. It's proof that even our deepest wounds can serve as fuel for creativity and growth. If my story can give a voice to others grappling with their own struggles, or ignite a spark of hope in the darkness, then all the sleepless nights and emotional excavation will have been worth it.
Remember, you are not defined by your past. You are the author of your story, and within each of us lies the power to write a new chapter.
MZS
February 15, 2024
Darkness Rises, Will You Confront Your Inner Demons? "The Shadow Within" Now Available
After countless hours of world-building, battles with my own inner demons, and wrestling with words...my epic fantasy novel The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath is officially out in the world.
What's it about?
The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath delves into a realm where external battles mirror the conflicts raging within. Imagine a world teetering on the brink of an ancient evil, where a monstrous entity threatens to consume all light. Yet, the greatest fight isn't out on the battlefield—it's the struggle against the darkness lurking within each of us.
The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath explores:
The Blurred Lines of Good and Evil: What happens when a hero discovers the shadow within is just as monstrous as the forces he fights?
Inner Demons and True Power: Can confronting our darkness become the source of our ultimate strength?
High-Stakes Fantasy Adventure: Swords clash, magic whispers, and loyalties are tested as the fate of the world hangs in the balance.
If you love...
The sprawling worlds and complex characters of Lord of the Rings
The gritty morality and unpredictable twists of A Song of Ice and Fire
Fantasy that makes you question your own light and shadows
…then The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath is waiting for you.
Where to Get It
Ready to take this journey with me? Grab your copy of The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath on Amazon https://a.co/d/dzwGevH
Thank You!
This book has been a piece of my heart and soul for far too long. Sharing it with the world is both terrifying and incredibly exhilarating. A massive thank you to everyone who has followed along on this journey. I can't wait to hear what you think!
What's it about?
The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath delves into a realm where external battles mirror the conflicts raging within. Imagine a world teetering on the brink of an ancient evil, where a monstrous entity threatens to consume all light. Yet, the greatest fight isn't out on the battlefield—it's the struggle against the darkness lurking within each of us.
The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath explores:
The Blurred Lines of Good and Evil: What happens when a hero discovers the shadow within is just as monstrous as the forces he fights?
Inner Demons and True Power: Can confronting our darkness become the source of our ultimate strength?
High-Stakes Fantasy Adventure: Swords clash, magic whispers, and loyalties are tested as the fate of the world hangs in the balance.
If you love...
The sprawling worlds and complex characters of Lord of the Rings
The gritty morality and unpredictable twists of A Song of Ice and Fire
Fantasy that makes you question your own light and shadows
…then The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath is waiting for you.
Where to Get It
Ready to take this journey with me? Grab your copy of The Shadow Within: Book One of A King's Wrath on Amazon https://a.co/d/dzwGevH
Thank You!
This book has been a piece of my heart and soul for far too long. Sharing it with the world is both terrifying and incredibly exhilarating. A massive thank you to everyone who has followed along on this journey. I can't wait to hear what you think!
