Falmora: A Novella and Six Stories

by Debra Litton

In the forest Falmora lives an ancient race. Their small size brings peril from even smaller animals; yet the greater threat is distrust and prejudice among kinsmen. Will they hold by the old ways of the Great One or the false laws of Havar? When Fendun breaks taboo by calling out Andreno’s full name and is banished, passions flare. For Andreno, fearing to break an even graver taboo, will not grant forgiveness. Meanwhile, Fendun struggles to survive, shadowed by the forest girl, Allialónae, adept at weapons and living with nature. Overall looms a mysterious watcher, Angara, shaped by dire acts and enduring hate—is he friend or foe? Finally, Tanéha, a young woman of rare insight, hears the great night bird’s cry and urges the Falmorans to cease their quarrels and unite. Will they heed her warning and triumph over the evil one, Havar?

Following the dramatic climax of Falmora, turn to Debra Litton’s Six Stories—variously humorous, fanciful and poignant—aimed to engage readers young and old.

*****

“Litton crafts her tales with a fine edge of literary and cross-cultural reflection as the characters grow and change...keeps the relationships believable…the stories replete with secrets and quests…” – D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

“Debra Litton's stories are disarmingly clever balancing acts. Things aren't quite as they seem; what's cozily familiar is apt to turn eerily strange, even fantastic. Somehow these stories manage to be both forthright and sly, a charming combination.” – Cassandra Phillips (The Passion Trap and Plastic Ocean)

“Falmora is a delightful exercise in world-making, in which tiny humans live, love, and make war. The plot follows the overturning of a harsh religion and revenge for a lost generation by young people whose marginalization has made them uniquely capable of leadership. The six stories are each little jewels, featuring animals, humans, and part-humans…characters and plot twists that left me laughing or stunned with surprise…” – Barbara A Kerr, Distinguished Professor, Kansas University (Smart Girls; Smart Boys; and Psychology of Freedom)

159 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 6, 2024

Reviews

[AMR CAMI · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this book!

Captivating, engaging, insightful, flawless, interesting and more are the many words that I would use to describe this book. The author made an incredible job when writing this immersive journey through fantastical realms and deeply introspective narratives.
One of the main things that made this book stand out was its fluid and evocative writing style. Also, I really loved the use of fantasy elements on the narrative that healed to create an immersive experience that felt tangible and emotionally resonant. On another hand, I loved how this book ended up being thought provoking about larger life questions, addressing themes such as morality, self acceptance, and purpose that added depth to our reading experience.
Overall, I recommend this book for anyone interested in fantasy, literary fiction, and also on thoughtful reflective storytelling.

[Chico's Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

The world-building in this book is full of details and the deep culture of the Irelmen. The author creates a whole new society with its traditions regarding names and the solemnity of celebrations. The characters Neenah and Bandun stole the show with their warm, understated relationship and quiet strength. The tension between everyday life and the deeper, unspoken emotions tightens the disequilibrium in their interactions. The pacing is consistent: thoughtful character development without a rush to plot. The author's writing style immerses you into this world of Falmora, making it mythical but real. You will feel the underlying themes of loss, tradition, and community give emotional poignancy and resonate all throughout the story.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading "Falmora: A Novella and Six Stories" by Debra Litton and I can say that I was immersed in a fascinating world full of intrigue and emotional dilemmas. It is one of those books that grabs you from the first page and makes you want to move quickly through the reading to find out what will happen next. The main story revolves around an ancient race that lives in the forest, and it is here that an exciting story full of fantasy is born, with very well narrated characters, who develop among old traditions and new laws. This book definitely combines humor and emotional depth very well. Without a doubt, I recommend this book.

[S Tyty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Debra Litton’s “Falmora” is a gem of a book about love and drama. Its setting is just perfect, a forest which is also reflected in the cover that invites us to get into it and explore the adventures that happen there.
All the characters add something to the tale, they have been strategically chosen. All of them are strong, but the one who is the strongest for me and who I like the most is Andreno.
Overall, the storyline is a thriller that attracts thanks to the mysteries surrounding the main events that occur. Litton has struck a satisfying blend of things rendered by characters, well-crafted events, and great issues. Loved it!

[Alan Wynzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falmora, by Debra Litton, is a marvelous, imaginative tale of love, betrayal and vengeance amongst a lost race of tiny human folk. A novella packing the punch of a full-blown novel. It was a great read that hooked me right away and reeled me in. Following Falmora are six short stories that range of whimsical to disturbing, and each one ending with a surprise. Highly recommended!

[Melvin Litton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falmora depicts a mythic tribe that dwell in a hidden forest glade. Although they are of primitive means and small stature, we see ourselves reflected in their loves, customs, beliefs and conflicts that finally lead to war -- at once fanciful and gritty, as are Debra Litton's six stories, set to savor like wild sand-plums.