A recent interview shared on the Introverted Indies blog and on Instagram via fellow authors Lucy Mclaren & Lydia Baker.
Many thanks Lucy & Lydia, links below:
https://linktr.ee/introvertedindies
Introverted Indies Interview
Author: Marje @ Kyrosmagica
Hi.
Welcome to my blog: M J Mallon - Kyrosmagica Publishing. A blog about magic, books, writing, laughter, and much more! I'm a YA fantasy author, poet and reviewer. My first YA fantasy novel The Curse of Time - Book 1 - Bloodstone is set in Cambridge and Book 2 - Golden Healer is now out too. As well as this, I have contributed to several anthologies, created my own with some amazing international writers, bloggers and creatives during the pandemic: This Is Lockdown and written two poetry collections: Lockdown Innit Poems About Absurdity & Mr. Sagittarius Poetry and Prose. I write book reviews on my blog and on Goodreads, book bub and on my bookstagram. I have a penchant for travel and have relatives in far flung places, Australia, Malaysia, and Singapore, (my birthplace.) I grew up in in Bonnie Scotland, in Edinburgh, and now live in Cambridge. I love sunny, hot places, particularly Rome, Venice, Portugal, Barcelona, and I forgot to mention the sun drenched beaches of the Caribbean, how could I? I am lucky to have been blessed with two lovely daughters and a husband who I fondly refer to in this blog as my black sheep. Family joke! With my passion for travel, culture, beautiful beaches, good food, books, theatre, writing, and humour, I hope to keep you entertained. I'm loving every minute of this creative journey, please join me.
Shh Purely Poetry Award Nominee #longlist #indievisibleawards
My poetry collection Shh Purely Poetry is in the longlist in The Indie Visible Awards! Pop over to vote for your favourite Indie books @indie_visible_services link in their bio.
You’ll find Shh Purely Poetry in the Romance Poetry Category.
Voting will be open from the 1st of April to the 1st of May!
To vote go to Hayley’s linktree:
https://linktr.ee/indievisibleevents
Best of luck to all the nominees in the various categories. #indievisibleawards #romance #longlist #indiepoets #indiepoetry
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Book Review Mystical Greenwood Andrew McDowell #bookreview #fantasy
I absolutely loved Andrew McDowell’s Mystical Greenwood.
There is environmental heart in abundance in this book.
Expect a tale of brothers, family relationships, forest creatures, fantasy elements, magic, battles to overcome, a villian, sorcerers, unicorns, dragons, dogs & gryphons.
Wow, what’s not to love!
Everyone who feels at one with nature, and the creatures of the natural and the magical world will thoroughly enjoy this book.
Highly recommended.
Beautifully written descriptive passages, engaging dialogue/characters and exciting scenes. Book one ends with extraordinary discoveries, and an enticing cliffhanger with the promise of more adventures and battles to come between the forces of good and evil.
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Book Reviews: Letters From Mozambique Stephen Powell #travel #bookreview #Mozambique #Africa
Stephen Powell’s latest book, Letters From Mozambique, is a gem, showcasing the ‘beauty, pain and new connections,’ he’s made in his travels. And what diverse connections they are.
What a fascinating insight into Mozambique and its people.
As he says, ‘Travel can spark new thinking and bring back old memories.’
Expect a knowledgeable, amusing and thought provoking account, as you would expect – this is his ‘8th time on the African continent.’
He shares his thoughts on climate change, conservation, endangered species, drought and mining pollution, the ‘blood-stained history,’ and troubles in the region.
He fondly mentions the extraordinary kindness of Mozambicans. Most people in the country are poor, but that is no impediment to generosity. He is struck by the beautiful Mozambique shoreline: ‘it captures peoples’ souls.’
He journeys and explores in all sorts of ways including, a chapa, travelling on moto taxis, back of lorries, hiking and biking, a Dhow craft, ‘the glorious craft that sails these seas all the way up to the Gulf.’ Even taking an refresher course in scuba diving to see the underwater world.
How adventurous!
There are a few ‘hairy,’ moments, which you must discover by reading the book yourself!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about authors such as Doris Lessing, African writers, Paulina Chiziane, Mia Couto and others who are inspired to write about the region.
And undoubtedly the positive investment in the spiritual Gorongosa park, the chapters about Malawi’s Mulanje Massif, and Ilha de Moçambique, both, UNESCO world heritage sites. A fantastic book.
Highly recommended. 5 stars
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Book Review: Sunflower Tanka #anthology #tanka #poetry #bookreview
Book overview
Sunflower Tanka, edited by Robbie Cheadle and Colleen M. Chesebro, is an annual anthology showcasing contemporary tanka, tanka prose, and experimental tanka. Each volume brings together a vibrant tapestry of voices—both emerging and established—from across the globe.
For 2025, our theme “Dreams” invites poets to explore the symbolic language of dreaming, where metaphors blur the line between reality and imagination. Dreams often serve as gateways to layered meaning, offering fertile ground for syllabic poetry.
This year’s contributors journeyed deep into their dreamscapes, opening portals to boundless creativity. Through the timeless form of syllabic verse, they captured visions that transcend waking life, weaving poetry that resonates with mystery, wonder, and the infinite possibilities of the human imagination.
REVIEW
Sunflower Tanka 2025 anthology of Tanka, Tanka Prose and Experimental Tanka begins with an introduction and a short explanation of the different forms of poetry included in this collection: Tanka, Tanka Prose, Bussokuseki, (a new form for me to try,) Rensaku, Experimental Tanka, Garland Tanka, Tanka Puente, and Taiga! The topic is dreams. And what dreams they are for poets to indulge their creative juices in! Resulting in such a range of marvellous interpretations. You’ll find poems from a wide variety of international poets to connect with. There are 54 poets in the 2025 anthology! It is lovingly compiled by the contributing editors, Robbie Cheadle and Colleen Chesebro with a short analysis of their favourite poems at the end.It’s a delightful collection and a great introduction to new poets to enjoy as well as old favourites to return to again. I bought a paperback copy. What a treat.
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Book Review Richard Dee – Ripples #book #review
Book Review
What an engrossing tale from Richard Dee!
There’s mystery, intrigue, and murder, all set against a backdrop of well written sci-fi.
Carlos Dayne from Balash is down on his luck.
He discovers a body in a dumpster and, seeing an opportunity to reinvent himself, he takes over the identity of the wealthy deceased Playboy Dominik Lind.
He has to get to grips with a lot!
Including pretending to be the boyfriend of Dominik’s fiery girlfriend, Ms Tyleah Nash.
On the planet Jallico – known for its chauvinistic, outdated attitudes, – he becomes the ‘new,’ Dominik.
Soon it becomes apparent that there is much more to Dominik & the other players in this well-crafted and plotted sci-fi tale with its extraordinary flights into imaginative orbit.
Who has murderous intentions?
Can Carlos become Dominik and survive to walk away? And what dangers will he be vulnerable to by doing so?
Lots of twists and revelations along the way, up until the final unexpected scene.
Highly recommended.
Rating 5 stars
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ripples-Everythings-Connected-Richard-Dee/dp/B0FTZGF662
Richard Dee
Richard Dee is from Brixham in Devon. Leaving school at 16 he briefly worked in a supermarket, then he went to sea and travelled the world in the Merchant Navy, qualifying as a Master Mariner in 1986.
He has also worked as an Insurance Surveyor, Lockmaster, Harbourmaster and Ship’s Pilot, taking over 3,500 vessels up and down the Thames, passing through the estuary, the Thames Barrier and Tower Bridge.
Since the publication of his first Science Fiction novel, Freefall, in 2013, Richard has written another twenty-seven novels, a textbook and a selection of short stories. He has been featured in several anthologies, including 1066 Turned Upside Down, Connections, Light and Tales from Deepest Darkest Devon.
In addition to his psychological thrillers, he writes Science Fiction and Steampunk adventures. He also chronicles the exploits of reluctant amateur detective Andorra Pett.
Richard is married with three adult children and five grandchildren.
He can be found at https://richarddeescifi.co.uk
and contacted at richarddeescifi@gmail.com
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Smashwords End of Year Sale : Golden Healer #offer #ya #fantasy #series #smashwords #EOYsale25
My YA Fantasy Golden Healer, Book 2 in the Curse of Time series is on OFFER in the Smashwords Sale!
Only .99c!
And Book 1, Bloodstone is free too in most stores, including Smashwords.
A wonderful opportunity to read book 1 & 2. I’m currently working on book 3!
Golden Healer is on limited time offer at Smashwords until January 1st.
BLURB
I didn’t think my life could get any weirder, until the dreaded rollercoaster…
Amelina Scott’s destiny is to be a Krystallos: a magician of light, chosen to learn the ways of crystal magic on her 16th birthday. Located on a river pathway in a mysterious part of Cambridge, the Crystal Cottage is guarded by mythical beings.
Unfortunately, there are those who seek to harm this haven of light. Learning of Ryder – a Shadow Sorcerer with hypnotic powers – Amelina discovers that her own magic is now threatened, and that the Curse of Time might be unleashed again.
As secrets abound and the creatures of the Chronophage come alive, can Amelina become the true magician she needs to be?
A unique, imaginative mystery full of magic-wielding and dark elements, Bloodstone is a riveting adventure for anyone interested in fantasy, mythology or the world of the paranormal. NOTE: this book contains mention of self-harm, mental health issues and alludes to the potential dangers of sexual attraction, which may trigger younger/sensitive readers.
smashwords #EOYsale25 #youngadult
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1129312
Also available in multiple online stores in ebook, kindle, paperback, hardback and audiobook.<
https://books2read.com/u/mgjY67
My books and selected reviews:
🎅🏻 ❄️☃️Bloodstone, book 1.
https://books2read.com/u/bOyrgW
Free/0.99p some territories, Amazon kindle. FREE ebook Smashwords & various shopfronts.
My YA Fantasy:
Bloodstone Book 1 in The Curse of Time series ‘Bloodstone is anything but a simple narration, but a captivating and imaginative young adult fantasy that seamlessly blends elements of magic, secrets, and coming-of-age in a dysfunctional family.’ Author & Poet Dan Costinas
Golden Healer Book 2 in The Curse of Tine series ‘I am captivated by MJ Mallon’s descriptive writing which dazzles the reader; and she truly develops the potential of her imaginative ideas: chocolates that cast spells; a bossy front doormat; a magic paintbrush that can create illness through a white icy mist over a portrait; the Grasshopper who steals time; a magical environment that can open up your worst nightmares or your most enchanted dreams. Packed with surreal events and powers, this story is often a mind-bending read.’ Author SC Skillman
My poetry & anthologies available at Amazon:
Shh Purely Poetry
‘I really enjoy this author – her books always make me smile and this one is no exception. There is something for everyone here in this quirky and evocative collection of poems!’ Author Chantelle Atkins.
The Hedge Witch & The Magical Poet
‘This beautiful collection of poetry & flash fiction draws the reader back to nature & leaves you feeling satisfied, breathless & strangely calm.’ Author Amanda Griffith Jones.
Mr Sagittarius Poetry & Prose ‘ This is an exquisite collection of poetry, prose and photos reflecting upon the joy, comfort and peace that is to be found in the natural world and in a beautiful garden. Author S C Skillman
Do What You Love ‘ A small and perfectly formed collection about finding your way in life. Do What You Love is simply lovely.’ Linda’s Book Bag.
This Is Lockdown ‘ This Is Lockdown is a compilation unlike any other, documenting the thoughts and feelings of the main author, M J Mallon, and many other contributors, with regards to the Pandemic Lockdown of 2020, that affected the whole world’ Author Ritu Bhathal
Lockdown Innit Poems of Absurdity ‘I loved the poems, they captured the spirit of the times, the vagaries of human behaviour, the poignant signsof a society in change.’ Author Richard Dee
My Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B074CGNK4L/allbooks
Have a lovely festive season and don’t forget to read my Dafydd The Dog short story.
Publication: The story was featured as part of Ari Meghan’s Advent Calendar Story Chain event and shared here: https://mjmallon.com/2025/12/03/advent-calendar-story-chain-dafydd-the-dog-advent-calendar-blog-storychain/
About the story: It’s a personal anecdote about a small, white terrier with black markings that I encountered while walking in Tavira, Portugal. I describe the dog’s journey as it scurried across a road, narrowly avoiding vehicles, leaving a lasting impression on me, allowing my imagination to take a new turn!
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Last Day of The Indie Visible Sale #indievisible #sale
It’s the last day of the sale. My ya fantasy Bloodstone & my poetry books, and some anthologies are still on offer!
https://indievisibleevents.com
Lots of bargains, lots of authors!
The following poetry will be on offer for an extra day until the 9th December.
Do What You Love, Mr Sagittarius Poetry & Prose, & The Hedge Witch and The Musical Poet.
My Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B074CGNK4L/allbooks
My YA fantasy Bloodstone, Book 1 The Curse of Time: (mental health rep, female protagonist, coming of age, dark elements, curse, crystal wielding magic, mystery, ya, fantasy.)https://books2read.com/u/bOyrgW
My YA fantasy Golden Healer Book 2, The Curse of Time. https://books2read.com/u/mgjY67
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Congratulations to Colleen M Chesebro and Robbie Cheadle. #newbook #anthology #newrelease #poetry
Robbie and Colleen are excited to share that the 2025 edition of Sunflower Tanka has published.
I’m delighted to have my poems, My New Friend, (Experimental Tanka Prose,) She Finds A Strength, (Garland Tanka,) and Discovering Loves Truth in Dreams, (Tanka Puente,) in the anthology. There were I believe a record number of contributors!
Well done to everyone who contributed to the anthology and to Robbie and Colleen for their fabulous hard work in bringing this all together.
Here’s the link to Colleen’s blog post. Do visit her blog:
You will find the book available in print, Kindle, and Kindle Unlimited.
They’ve kept their prices the same as last year.
The theme of “dreams,” was perfect for 2025.
They’re looking forward to 2026, and another wonderful year of writing syllabic together.
To purchase the anthology:
Here is the blurb:
Sunflower Tanka, edited by Robbie Cheadle and Colleen M. Chesebro, is an annual anthology showcasing contemporary tanka, tanka prose, and experimental tanka.
Each volume brings together a vibrant tapestry of voices—both emerging and established—from across the globe.
For 2025, our theme “Dreams” invites poets to explore the symbolic language of dreaming, where metaphors blur the line between reality and imagination.
Dreams often serve as gateways to layered meaning, offering fertile ground for syllabic poetry.
This year’s contributors journeyed deep into their dreamscapes, opening portals to boundless creativity.
Through the timeless form of syllabic verse, they captured visions that transcend waking life, weaving poetry that resonates with mystery, wonder, and the infinite possibilities of the human imagination.✨ ✨
✨Robbie and Colleen want to thank each of you for helping us bring the craft of writing syllabic poetry into your hearts.
We’re so proud of all the hard work from our poets and the Tanka Tuesday community. We couldn’t do this without you.
Thank you.
Please share the publication news of this exciting new edition.
Reviews are an author’s dream. We thank you in advance for your reviews. ❤️🎅🏻
Robbie created a video for the 2025 Sunflower Tanka Anthology. She grabbed many magical lines from the submitted poetry, as she shares some of her amazing artwork.
Promo video for Sunflower Tanka Dreams
https://youtu.be/KZF4yFG4D-M?si=hPs3Hxmk1BXr2KnR Colleen M. Chesebro
Robbie & Colleen Contributing Editors, Sunflower Tanka
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Indie Visible Sale #kindle #ebook #sale
The Indie Visible Winter Wonderland Sale. 🎅🏻 ❄️☃️
https://indievisibleevents.com
My books in the sale:
Bloodstone, book 1. Free/0.99p some territories.
Shh Purely Poetry, 0.99p
Please note – The following books are FREE 7th to 9th December as my KDP period didn’t end until 5th Dec!
The Hedge Witch & The Musical Poet , FREE 7th to 9th.)
Mr Sagittarius Poetry & Prose, FREE (7th to 9th.)
Do What You Love, FREE 7th to 9th.)
These are FREE Too!
Lockdown Innit Poems About Absurdity, FREE
This Is Lockdown. FREE.
Here are some review quotes from each of my books on offer, or FREE to download in the sale.
My YA Fantasy: YA Fantasy Bloodstone Book 1 in The Curse of Time series ‘Bloodstone is anything but a simple narration, but a captivating and imaginative young adult fantasy that seamlessly blends elements of magic, secrets, and coming-of-age in a dysfunctional family.’ Author & Poet Dan Costinas
My poetry & anthologies:
Shh Purely Poetry ‘I really enjoy this author – her books always make me smile and this one is no exception. There is something for everyone here in this quirky and evocative collection of poems!’ Author Chantelle Atkins
The Hedge Witch & The Magical Poet ‘This beautiful collection of poetry & flash fiction draws the reader back to nature & leaves you feeling satisfied, breathless & strangely calm.’ Author Amanda Griffith Jones.
Mr Sagittarius Poetry & Prose ‘ This is an exquisite collection of poetry, prose and photos reflecting upon the joy, comfort and peace that is to be found in the natural world and in a beautiful garden. Author S C Skillman
Do What You Love ‘ A small and perfectly formed collection about finding your way in life. Do What You Love is simply lovely.’ Linda’s Book Bag.
This Is Lockdown ‘ This Is Lockdown is a compilation unlike any other, documenting the thoughts and feelings of the main author, M J Mallon, and many other contributors, with regards to the Pandemic Lockdown of 2020, that affected the whole world’ Author Ritu Bhathal
Lockdown Innit Poems of Absurdity ‘I loved the poems, they captured the spirit of the times, the vagaries of human behaviour, the poignant signsof a society in change.’ Author Richard Dee
#kindlesale #Indievisible
My Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B074CGNK4L/allbooks
My YA fantasy Bloodstone, Book 1 The Curse of Time: (mental health rep, female protagonist, coming of age, dark elements, curse, crystal wielding magic, mystery, ya, fantasy.)
https://books2read.com/u/bOyrgW
This one is full price but doesn’t cost more than a coffee!
My YA fantasy Golden Healer Book 2, The Curse of Time. https://books2read.com/u/mgjY67
M J Mallon YA Author and Poet 