In the rich tapestry of fantasy literature, a new gem shines brightly, captivating the hearts of readers across the globe. ‘Lost Child: Volume 1 of The Talisman Chronicles’ by Susanne Stephens is more than just a novel; it’s an adventure into a world where the lines between romance and fantasy blur into an enchanting genre known as romantasy.
A Lifelong Passion for Storytelling
Susanne Stephens’s journey as a storyteller is as compelling as the tales she weaves. Writing since the age of 10, Stephens has honed her craft through screenplays, several of which have garnered awards, and now, through the pages of her debut novel. Her transition from screenwriting to novel writing reflects a deep-seated passion for storytelling, irrespective of the medium. Working with Elixir Classics, Stephens has embarked on a mission to convert her screenplays into novels, beginning with the mesmerizing saga of ‘Lost Child.’
Her dedication to storytelling is evident in her relentless pursuit of education, from specialized creative writing classes tailored just for her to advanced screenwriting courses at prestigious institutions like UCLA. Stephens’s journey underscores a vital message for aspiring authors: never cease to learn and grow in your craft.
‘Lost Child’: A Tale of Magic and Destiny
‘Lost Child’ transports readers to a medieval world of knights, chivalry, and prophecy. The story begins with a heart-wrenching moment as a newborn girl is snatched away by a shapeshifter and left in a dark forest, only to be discovered by a compassionate nun. Seventeen years later, the girl’s existence threatens a new king, obsessed with a prophecy that foretells her birth, leading to a relentless hunt by his most savage knights.
This novel masterfully blends elements of magic, adventure, and the timeless struggle between good and evil. Stephens’s narrative invites readers into the coming-of-age journey of a young girl reliant solely on her wits and instincts to navigate a world filled with ancient dangers. ‘Lost Child’ is not just the story of an individual but the cornerstone of an epic saga that promises to chronicle the legacy of a remarkable family dynasty dedicated to combating darkness.
The Rise of Romantasy
Stephens’s decision to write for young readers stems from her own experiences of being profoundly influenced by books during her adolescence. Her commitment to crafting stories that are accessible to girls of all ages without venturing into mature content is a testament to her desire to inspire and entertain through the power of romantasy.
In ‘Lost Child,’ Stephens not only entertains but also subtly educates her readers on themes of resilience, courage, and the importance of believing in oneself. Her stories, enriched with magic and magical realism, resonate with readers who yearn for tales that transcend the ordinary, offering a glimpse into worlds where anything is possible.
A New Dawn in Fantasy Literature
As ‘Lost Child’ garners acclaim and anticipation builds for the release of ‘Purloined Crown: Volume II of The Talisman Chronicles,’ Susanne Stephens stands at the forefront of a genre that promises to captivate the imaginations of readers for generations to come. Her work embodies the essence of romantasy, marrying the wonder of fantasy with the depth of romantic storytelling.
For fans of fantasy and newcomers alike, ‘Lost Child’ offers a gateway into a realm where every turn of the page brings unexpected twists and heart-stopping adventures. Susanne Stephens’s debut novel is not just a book; it’s an invitation to dream, to escape, and to believe in the magic that lies within and all around us.
In a world often devoid of enchantment, ‘Lost Child: Volume 1 of The Talisman Chronicles’ shines as a beacon of hope, reminding readers that within the pages of a book lies the power to journey to extraordinary places and meet characters whose bravery and heart echo our deepest desires for adventure and romance. Welcome to the world of romantasy, where every story is a spell waiting to be cast.
We had the pleasure of interviewing Susanne Stephens. Here are excerpts from the interview.
Hi Susanne, It’s great to have you with us today! Please share your journey with our readers.
Hi, I’ve been writing since I was 10 years old. I’ve focused for several years on screenplays (three have won awards). With the advances in publishing, I’m converting my screenplays into books, one at a time. I’m working with Elixir Classics, a small boutique publishing company, and have released ‘Lost Child: Volume 1 of The Talisman Chronicles,’ and will release Vol II, titled ‘Purloined Crown,’ this summer.
I’ve been taking writing classes for years, focusing on screenplays most recently, but it is all about storytelling, even if books and scripts are different media. My high school creative writing teacher created a special Creative Writing II class just for me. I went to film school, and my professor moved me from Screenwriting I to Screenwriting IV, then I took story analysis classes at UCLA and other universities. I keep studying my craft so I can bring my characters and settings to life in the reader’s imagination, whether they contain a contemporary or historical component.
What inspires your writing?
My readers and followers on social media love romance, and they love fantasy. On BookTok, this has led to a new word: romantasy. I also wanted to write books for young readers 12 and older because that was the period when I was most influenced by books. So I don’t write spicy books so girls of all ages can read them.
All of my stories, even the one I wrote when I was 10, involve magic or magical realism. Even though they are all different, that has always stayed the same.
Any message for our readers?
I’ve been blessed with a great reaction to ‘Lost Child.’ Also, I want to reach out to any of the aspiring authors who are voracious readers. Don’t give up on your own stories! You can do it!
Thank you so much, Susanne, for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!