This issue features a book recommendation, updates on my work in progress, an interview with an indie bookstore owner, my discussion about writing and mental health, and upcoming author events.

I interviewed Nicole Zelniker in May, and her new novella, We Are Made of Scars and Starlight, is almost here! This deeply moving story is about Kai, a young man struggling with lupus, his sense of self-worth, family loss and separation, and sexuality. You will cheer and cry for him as he searches for love and loses it, but he finds support from his roommates and friends. With an amazing cast of characters and rich depictions of New York that bring the city to life, We Are Made of Scars and Starlight is a story that stays with you. It's a must-read.

This book will be out October 14 from Vine Leaves Press. You can preorder your copy on Amazon, Bookshop.org, and ask for it at your local bookstore.

Last month, I finished the framework of my latest work in progress, Escape from Arzack's Castle. Now, I'm filling in the details of characters, settings, and conflicts. I'm also doing a lot of research, which includes:

• 14th century Romanian castles.
• Emergency treatments for low blood sugar.
• Dyslexia.

Part of the revision process is understanding the characters at a deeper level and how they interact with one another. My characters continue to surprise me, and they take the story in unexpected directions.

This is why I don't understand why writers would want to generate their books with AI. Crafting a story, creative exploration, and bringing characters to life are part of the joys of being a writer. When you enjoy writing, it shows in your work. And people will enjoy reading it.

I look forward to having something to share with you soon. Stay tuned.

My next event will be the Local Author Fair at the Fullerton Library this Saturday, August 23. Get caught up with your summer reading at this event featuring authors from throughout Orange County. We will be at the Fullerton Library from 12–4 pm. In the meantime, you can watch my reading at the 2023 event on YouTube.

Indie Author Day returns to Anaheim!

Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 15 when Indie Author Day returns to the Anaheim Central Library. This is my eighth appearance at the event since it started in 2016. I will have updates as we get closer to the event.

I was recently interviewed by Mia Sanchez about writing and mental health, especially the issues faced by men. You can read my interview on her Writing While Healing page. 

Lonnie Owen recently opened 13 Tomes in the UK. She calls it, "My own little witchy book shop." 13 Tomes offers handcrafted jewelry, art, and of course, books! 

I talked to Lonnie about her experiences opening a bookstore and her love of reading and all things witchy.

How did you choose the name 13 Tomes for your bookstore?

I wanted something that alludes to books but also unusual/spooky/witchy things. Thirteen, unlucky for some, has many connotations, including my upcoming wedding date, which I thought was a nice touch.

You mentioned you’ve been a "reader since before I could read." What was the book that turned you on to reading?

Honestly, reading has always been a part of me, so I can't pinpoint one particular book that really fueled that fire. My mum always valued the importance of reading with your child and I've carried this on with my own son.

You also mentioned you’re "drawn to reading new things" What is a book you recently read that you greatly enjoyed?

Our reading tastes can change for any number of different reasons, and I feel like I'm going through a period of this. Fantasy will always remain a huge love of mine, but I'm also leaning harder into the classics and some non-fiction, branching out a little more than I maybe have before. 

What made you decide to open a bookstore?

Since becoming a part of the online book community a number of years ago, it's been the dream to turn my passions into something more. I enjoy sharing my joy with others. This way, I can work towards supporting my family through my love of books and witchy wares while spreading a little bit of magic around.

What has been the biggest challenge in opening it?

The imposter syndrome is real! I've always been quite the overthinker, so doing something like this is quite a personal challenge for me.

How do you decide what books and other products to stock in your store?

I try to bring in a nice variety, making sure we have enough books from a number of different genres and ensuring our homeware caters to different budgets and tastes. It's a really fun part of this!

Tell us why people should shop at indie bookstores instead of going to the major chains and big e-commerce sites.

Shopping with an indie bookstore such as ours doesn't go to Mr. Bigshot who might not even notice. Every penny to 13 Tomes prompts a little giddy dance. It buys groceries, clothes, family days out, school uniform. It supports an average family just trying to do something cool.

How can people learn more about 13 Tomes?

• 13 Tomes website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Discord

If you are an author or someone associated with the book community who wants to be interviewed, send me an email to admin@matthewarnoldstern.com with the following information:

• Your name.
• A brief bio (100 words or less).
• Your books.
• What you would like to talk about in your interview.

By supporting each other, we can all grow!

I hope you have enjoyed this newsletter. If you have any comments and suggestions, feel free to email me at admin@matthewarnoldstern.com. 

If there is someone who you think would enjoy this newsletter, pass it along and encourage them to subscribe. A simple subscription form is on my website.

I'll be in touch again next month with more news and content.