About the Book
Author: Morgan Sheppard
Title: Water Weaver Series: Wraidd Elfennol, #1 Pages: 644 Genre: Fantasy Date published: October 31, 2015 Synopsis: The young maiden, Marella, was born to the island of Wraidd Elfennol, a place balanced by the four elements of nature – Earth, Air, Fire and Water. The essence of each element contained in sacred artefacts ensuring the balance of life. Every year, the community from across the island gather for the Summer Solstice. It is at this celebration the Lords and Ladies of Wraidd Elfennol make an astounding announcement. The sacred artefacts are missing. They then proclaim that four individuals, along with their animal Life Partners, will be selected to restore the balance. Marella and her otter, Nixie, are chosen because of their link to the element of Water and along with her, three others – each in-tune with a different element. Together they embark on a quest to either find the missing artefacts or somehow create new ones. As the world around them changes, danger lurks with every challenge the group face. They must hurry as the elements need to be restored before a year and a day have passed. Failure is not an option or the world as they know it will cease to exist. |
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Excerpt
As Marella watched the bonfire, she could feel a sense of anticipation. She could feel something. but just didn’t know what. She must have made some noise, some movement, because Edlin looked down at her. “Marella?” he questioned.
She laid her hand upon his arm and then, in a sudden movement, threw her arms around his waist. “It is time,” she said simply, before turning to Riva and holding her too.
Edlin and Riva watched Marella as she turned back towards the bonfire. They saw her head move so that she could see towards the north. There stood Daren with Ula by his side. Together they stepped forward until they stood in the place that Demi had just vacated.
“We are the Chosen of Lady Daire – called to represent Earth, the senses, and our ability to manifest our desires.”
Daren’s voice boomed out so that he could be clearly heard by everyone in the main square and sounded as deep as the earth itself. Ula let out a spine-tingling howl as she lent her voice to the occasion.
Lani moved forward, showing no sign of the shyness that had been with her earlier. “We are the Chosen of Lord Adaryn – called to represent Air, our thoughts, and our ability to have a sense of self.” Lani’s voice was filled with the power of the winds. With a screech, Shaw circled above her head before landing on the ground next to her.
Then it was Kai’s turn and he stepped up to the bonfire with Kenna at his side. “We are the Chosen of Lord Ethon – called to represent Fire, our passion and ideas, giving us the ability to make decisions.” Kenna gave a bark followed by the fox’s call that is often mistaken for a woman in distress, known as the Vixen’s Scream.
It was time for Marella to complete their circle. She looked at her parents before looking down to see Nixie by her side. “Ready?” she thought to him.
“Always,” he replied.
Together they walked into the light and felt the heat of the bonfire upon their faces. She raised her voice to the sky and said, “We are the Chosen of the Lady Erwyna – called to represent Water and our emotions, giving us the ability to be moved by feelings.” Nixie gave the loud scream that was usually only used by otters when they were threatened. Marella had never heard him make this noise before and she felt it down into her very marrow.
The four humans, acting again as one, all raised their arms in the same manner as the Elders had not so long ago. They stood facing the bonfire and the crowd was silent behind them.
Author Interview
Has to be chocolate chip. I love oatmeal and raisins, but as a cookie? It's sacrilegious!
Do you ever write characters you hate?
Hate is a strong word. They're still my characters, my babies. They "may" be based on real people, or rather attributes are, but no, I don't hate them. They are necessary for the story to move on, so they play their part. I just don't like all of them that much.
What do you enjoy, outside of writing?
I spend a lot of time with my two young daughters (when they let me!) I also read, a lot! Occasionally, if I'm feeling burnt out from writing or reading, I knit or cross stitch. It's a real party life for me!
What is your favorite book?
I can't answer this one, as it's too hard! I have lots of favourites, plus favourite authors. I guess, going back to the very beginning, I would say Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey, simply because this was the first Fantasy book I read. It awoke my love of Fantasy, and the thought that you can have a Partner that isn't human!
Who is your favorite character that you've written?
You're full of tough questions! All of my characters have elements of people I know in them, for good or bad. There is a lot of myself in Marella, my husband in both Kai and Daren from Water Weaver. My daughters play parts as Marella and Lani. So no, I don't really have a favourite as such. I would say that I have a soft spot for Bran right now, as he has had it hard so far, but I'm hopeful for his future.
Do you prefer your books in print or e-book format?
I prefer my books in paperback/hardback, simply because I'm retro like that There is something so satisfying with holding a book in your hands. Mind you, I do love the ease of e-books.
Who is your favorite author?
See [favorite book] lol For books I have read recently though, I love India R. Adams. Her work is absolutely amazing, no matter which genre she writes in. It really draws you in. Love it.
What's something about you that most people don't know?
I don't like the sun as it makes my skin blister! My skin is stupidly sensitive and I'm allergic to most sun creams. So I tend to act like a vampire during the hot months.
What are you currently reading?
I'm re-reading Dreaming The Serpent Spear by Manda Scott.
Humor me, because this is my favorite (mythical) animal: Would you ever consider putting a platypire in one of your books?
Of course I'd put a platypire in one of my books. She would be a Water animal Partner, with a person of Fire. Her name would be Diona, which is old English for "From The Sacred Spring".
About the Author
Favourite quote is “You have to “aim high and reach for your dreams”
Favourite colour is rich purple
Favourite food would be chocolate!
Favourite time of day is nighttime and I love the moon in all her beautiful phases.
Favourite season has always been Autumn/Fall. I love the rain and thunderstorms.
And join in the fun with my Book Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MorgansElementals/
I welcome your company as I walk my path.