Historical-fiction/fantasy author Hazel West is stopping by today as part of the release tour for her latest novel, Blood Ties, a young-adult fantasy set in an alternate modern Ireland. I had the opportunity to talk with Hazel about her inspirations and her research process—but first, a little about the book:
In an Ireland that mixes high kings, faeries, and modern warriors who drive fast cars, Ciran, a descendant from the famous warrior Fionn Mac Cool, bands together with a company of young warriors from the legendary order of Na Fianna to go on a quest to recover their missing family members who were captured by the Goblins in a shaky peace between the two kingdoms. Ciran and his companions must figure out not only how they are going to rescue the prisoners, but how they are going to complete their mission without killing each other. Through trial and error, running battles, unexpected friendships, and daring escapes, Ciran and his company come face-to-face with the Goblin King himself in a final battle that will decide the fate of all involved and of Ireland itself.
The first book in a new series, Blood Ties takes the traditional Irish legends and puts a modern spin on them, with a heavy helping of friendship and the love of family.
Read on for an interview with Hazel and for the chance to win a copy of Blood Ties.
