A Letter from Chris – 12/01/2023

Hello dear reader

I entered The Dance Between into several more contests and opened it up to more general review on BookSprout, which you can view/join here: https://booksprout.co/reviewer/review-copy/view/143588/the-dance-between 

Additionally, new praise came in for my book:

“I honestly went into The Dance Between almost blindly, looking for a unique new story in a fantasy genre that often feels recycled. Christopher Katalinas stands out from the crowded pack with a fresh storyline that is very different from anything else I've read. The author created an immersive and imaginative world, building suspense and engagement through action, developing characters, revealing mysteries, and evoking powerful emotions in the reader. Sevi and Lily have genuine emotional depth, and Katalinas harnesses this in prose that is appropriate for their natural ages. "He was mad—madder than mad. He was positively seeing red. But in all his anger, all his pain, he could not mistake one thing: he wanted, needed, a reason not to hate her." The world is spectacular and rich, where supernatural elements and both human and magical beings are featured, like a figure in wooden armor with twisting branches, fiery swords, and eerie eyes. Overall, this is brilliant work, and I look forward to following the author and seeing what he comes up with next. Very highly recommended. 5/5 stars.“ – Asher Syed, Reader’s Favorite

“Christopher Katalinas writes about a vibrant world in vivid detail. The exceptional descriptions of the Cut made me picture the tunnels lit by bio-illuminant plants. Sevi’s emotions are relatable, and it is easy to see how his youth influences his perception. His need to trust someone intensifies as he discovers how deceptive adults are. The dialogue was engaging, and the supporting characters added depth to each event. The intensity of the suspense captured my imagination. There are no dull moments and the book is filled with magic, loyalty, danger, and espionage. Each page reveals a twist of intrigue that leads Sevi into various predicaments. The Dance Between will appeal to a wide range of readers as it spans several genres, including fantasy, science fiction, and adventure. 5/5 stars.“ – Stephanie Chapman, Reader’s Favorite

“Christopher Katalinas nails the characterization, suspense, and worldbuilding, leaving readers both pleased and hungry for more. I couldn't get enough of it. The chemistry between Sevi and Lily is obvious from the beginning; they are seen sharing jokes and teasing each other throughout the story. For example, Sevi sarcastically refers to Lily as "Queen of the Cut, most benevolent bestower of meals." Sevi's journey is rife with heart-racing surprises, near-death experiences, and intriguing questions. Imagine not knowing whether you will be eaten by the next being you come across and being haunted by shadows and nightmares. Apart from being a great story for dark fantasy and adventure fans, The Dance Between is also suitable for readers who love political conundrums and military strategies. I enjoyed every bite of this chunky, flavourful tale that's brimming with distinctive magic and slowly unfolding secrets. 5/5 stars.“ – Foluso Falaye, Reader’s Favorite

Not bad, eh?

Sadly, it’s not all good news. I lost someone dear to me this month; an uncle who had been an integral part of my life for nearly 30 years. I made this poem in memory of him and would like to share it.

In the House of Giants
In loving memory of Theodore Kraven III

My name is of a traveler,
to wander is my way.
To wear my shoes on every road,
and on this journey, stay.
When pilgrim seeks their respite
from bed of rock and sand,
there is no place more kind, more full,
than the house where giants stand.

Foundations on a hilltop high,
for giants each live tall.
With light and laughter filled to burst
from every storied wall.
Sorrow knows no servant.
To hunger, our reprimand.
No bowed back nor anguish
in the house where giants stand.

The master is a mountain,
his son touches the sky.
The mistress, no more than their knee
yet dwarfs them each, besides.
The daughters perch on silver cloud
and wave from sunlit strand,
yet all are lifted to their height
here, where giants stand.

Begone, all earthly harrows.
Vanish, all splitting pain.
Silence, echoes of a cry
which rent my heart in twain.
My shoulders are so fragile;
with yours, I may withstand.
No weight shall cave our pillars
in the house where giants stand.

Endless is the wind and rain
which brings us all to melt,
and terrible to journey forth
when comfort I once felt.
May words keep you eternal;
cradled in love’s command,
and evergreen in my embrace
the house of giants, stands.

With my best wishes,

Christopher

The Dance Between is out now! Buy your copy here! You may also find me on Twitter or Instagram at @ChrisWritesNow

A new word that found me: Subaltern: a person who is lower in position or rank; a subordinate.