*Cover Reveal & Giveaway* Nontraditional Plot Structures

Check out the cover reveal for this free ebook that introduces neurodiverse writers (and neurotypical) to plot structures beyond the commonly used hero's Journey. These plots are emotionally accessible, highly creative, and more "traditional" than you'd expect.

Nontraditional Plot Structures for Neurodiverse Writers

by Margie Pignataro

Genre: Nonfiction Literary Theory, Writer’s Guide

Born from a rejected dissertation proposal and reworked over the course of 15 years into a compelling exploration of narrative, Nontraditional Plot Structures for Neurodiverse Writers challenges conventional storytelling norms. This free ebook delves into how nontraditional plot structures resonate with neurodiverse writers, offering creative frameworks that align with their artistic and intellectual strengths—traits often mislabeled as obstacles.

Through engaging diagrams and dozens of links to free resources, this book examines storytelling across diverse mediums, from Oedipus the King to Squid Game, spanning novels, poetry, visual arts, television, film, theater, and even commercials. The Mona Lisa and Little Red Riding Hood provide illustrated and textual examples of each plot structure. Whether you're a writer seeking fresh approaches or an artist questioning traditional narratives, this guide provides valuable insights into storytelling beyond the expected.

This ebook lays the groundwork for a forthcoming second edition, arriving next year, which will expand upon these ideas with deeper textual analyses, practical exercises, and hands-on guidance to help you craft your own unique narratives.

  

**Coming May 1st – and it’ll be FREE!!**

I have been writing with serious intent for thirty years. I've been published and produced multiple times. My education has focused on literary theory, theater history and criticism, as well as creative writing. I also sell my collage art in a Redbubble store.

I have been published as a playwright. I had articles about Shakespeare published, as well as blog pieces. I've self-published several novels and one book of poetry under the name Lady Ristretto. I have also worked as a freelance erotica writer with individual clients.

 

Website * Threads * Instagram * Bluesky * Amazon

Follow the reveal  HERE for special content and a $10 giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Book Tour & Giveaway* A Code of Knights and Deception-GUEST POST

 

Outlander meets Black Mirror in this sizzling dark time travel romance!

A Code of Knights and Deception

Swords of Time Book 1

by Eliza Hampstead

Genre: Dark Time Travel Historical Romantasy

Outlander meets Black Mirror in this sizzling dark time travel romance!


Sophia

I thought I was trapped in history. Turns out, it’s far worse than I imagined.

I woke up in 15th-century England, a brutal world where women are silenced, superstition rules, and survival depends on obedience. Trapped far from my husband and son, nothing makes sense. I’m a scientist, not a damsel in distress, so I did what I had to—I disguised myself as a man and trained with Henry, the castle’s master-at-arms, learning to wield a sword to defend myself.

But as I carve my place in this world, my forbidden love for Henry shakes everything I believed in. Do I fight to return home—or surrender to a future I never imagined?

Yet, I can’t shake the feeling that Henry is hiding something—something that could shatter everything I’ve fought for.

Ethan

What if the woman you’re supposed to observe becomes the one you can’t live without?
I never meant to fall for her. She’s fearless, brilliant, captivating. Every lesson, every stolen moment deepens the lie—and my guilt. I’m not the man she thinks I am. That my name is Ethan, not Henry, is the least of the lies I tell her.

If she learns the truth, I’ll lose her forever.

And time is running out.

*Warning: strong language, steamy scenes, and graphic violence inside. Mention/Description of, but not limited to, abduction, blood, death, amputation, childbirth, death, sexual assault, suicide, violence against children, rape, and torture.*

The book is the first in a duology and ends with a cliffhanger.

 

Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

Eliza Hampstead, a scientist by training, lives with her family in the UK. When she's not writing, she spends her time as a geek. Playing all sorts of games (board games, video games, RPGs) and being a big fan of medieval history are only a few of the many hobbies she has. Passionate about fantasy, she’s always planning her next adventure.

 

Website * Facebook * Instagram * TikTok * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

What inspired you to write this book?

Twelve years ago, I was standing in a muddy field at a medieval fair, watching a reenactment of a sword fight. I’d just started learning broadsword techniques at a fencing school, and for the first time in my life, I could see myself inside the stories I used to love—epic battles, knights in shining armour, high-stakes romance. I remember thinking: What would happen if someone like me—a modern woman, a scientist—suddenly woke up in medieval England? That one question never left me.

At the time, I wasn’t a published author. I was scribbling down fragments in notebooks and Word docs, trying to juggle a demanding job and motherhood. But this idea... this one stuck. I didn’t want to write another time-travel story with magic or portals or ancient relics. I wanted a world that felt real. Harsh, beautiful, flawed. And I wanted a heroine who wasn’t a damsel or a quirky romantic comedy lead. I wanted someone with intelligence, grit, and the kind of vulnerability that comes from losing everything you know.Tto end the story. I’d written almost the entire first draft before I shelved it. It wasn’t until I finished my fantasy romance series, The War of the Nephilim, that I felt like I understood how to write emotional arcs—how to balance deep worldbuilding with romantic tension, and how to trust myself to let the characters l

2. When I returned to A Code of Knights and Deception, I rewrote almost every chapter. But the heart of the story—the woman who wakes up in a medieval castle and doesn’t know if she’ll ever get home—remained the same. Today, the book feels more relevant than ever. The question it poses feels even more urgent: What is real? And if given the choice, would you return to your reality… or stay in the dream?

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a $10 giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Book Tour & Giveaway* Imaginary Heroes-GUEST POST

 

His friends may be IMAGINARY… but the danger is REAL!

Imaginary Heroes

by Michael Seidelman

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy Adventure

His friends may be IMAGINARY… but the danger is REAL!

Twelve-year-old Matthew’s life has been incredibly challenging because of his Tourette Syndrome, a disorder which causes uncontrollable movements and sounds. Isolated and tormented by bullies at school, Matthew finds solace in the company of his lifelong imaginary friends, a lovable green monster and a tough-as-nails little girl.

On his way home from school one day, as Matthew is pursued by his relentless tormentors, they all crash into a mysterious underground lair. At first, it seems that being trapped with the bullies who make his life miserable is his biggest problem. That is, until he and the others discover that they are not alone.

Hunted by a menacing presence lurking in the depths, Matthew and the bullies must confront a threat to their very existence. Their desperate mission becomes clear: put their differences aside and work together to find a way to safety before they are all consumed by the darkness.

 

Although fictional, the book is inspired by the author's own childhood experiences with bullying, loneliness, and Tourette Syndrome. He set out to craft an engaging story while exploring issues many kids can relate to—told from the perspective of someone who has lived them firsthand.

 

Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

When Michael Seidelman was growing up, his passions were reading, watching movies, enjoying nature and creative writing. Not much has changed since then.

 Working in Online Marketing for over ten years, Michael felt it was time to pursue his passion and began writing The Garden of Syn trilogy.

 His latest Middle Grade book, Imaginary Heroes, is personal for Michael. While fiction, the book is inspired by his own childhood experiences with bullying, loneliness, and Tourette's Syndrome. He set out to tell an entertaining story while delving into issues many kids can relate to, told by someone who has experienced them firsthand.

 Michael was born in Vancouver, BC Canada where he continues to reside.

 

Website * Facebook * X * Instagram * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

GUEST POST

Can you tell us what your book is about?

Imaginary Heroes follows twelve-year-old Matthew, who struggles with Tourette Syndrome and relentless bullies. He finds comfort in his imaginary friends—a tough girl named Nabie and a lovable green monster named Garby. But when Matthew and his tormentors become trapped in a mysterious underground lair, they must work together to escape before the darkness consumes them all.

What inspired you to write this story?

I wanted to dedicate my next book to my nephew, who’s an avid reader, so I decided to write something for his age group. I was working on the final book in my young adult Garden of Syn trilogy when I heard a radio segment about the host’s imaginary friends—and that sparked something in me. I began thinking about my own imaginary friends from childhood and the challenges I faced, like bullying and Tourette Syndrome. From there, the story came together naturally.

Are any parts of the story based on your real-life experiences?

Very much so. While the book is fictional with elements of fantasy and adventure, Matthew—the protagonist—is similar to me when I was his age. Like me, he has Tourette Syndrome and is bullied at school. Because of his isolation, he still talks to the same imaginary friends I once had: Nabie & Garby. Although I left my imaginary friends behind in kindergarten, I brought them back for this story. The bullies, especially Declan, are inspired by the real ones I encountered growing up.

What was your favorite scene to write?

While the fantastical parts were a lot of fun, my favorite scene to write was when Matthew finally snaps and tells his main bully, Declan, how the constant bullying has impacted his life. It’s everything I wish I could have said to my bullies but never did. Writing that moment was incredibly cathartic.

Did any other books or authors influence your writing?

Absolutely. Growing up, I loved Roald Dahl and Enid Blyton. Their creativity and heart have definitely influenced my own writing style. I also drew inspiration from a few other authors I’ve read over the years who know how to mix humor, suspense and imagination. 

Are there any hidden details or easter eggs in the book that readers should look for?

So many! While most might go unnoticed, I’ve included the names of businesses my great-grandparents owned, a former teacher’s name, and references to historic Vancouver companies—even though the story is set in Washington State. It’s a little way for me to honor my roots.

What was the most challenging part of writing the book?

Writing kids wasn’t too difficult—I was one, after all! But writing kids in a different era than the one I grew up in was definitely a challenge. I had to do quite a bit of research to make sure it felt authentic. My nephew and my sister, who’s a teacher, were incredibly helpful in that process.

Do you plot out your stories in advance or make them up as you go?

I’m definitely a “Plotter.” While some authors are “Pantsers” who write by the seat of their pants, I outline everything in advance. I map out the details for each chapter before I even start writing. Sure, some things change along the way, but the major plot points are always planned out from the beginning.

What do you hope kids take away from your book?

First and foremost, I hope they have fun reading it. Above all, I aim to entertain. But I also hope the story encourages empathy—that kids will come away understanding that people who are different from them deserve kindness and compassion just like anyone else.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I just want to thank everyone for checking out my books—whether it’s Imaginary Heroes or The Garden of Syn trilogy. If you read the book and want to share your thoughts or ask me anything, feel free to reach out on social media or through my website. I’d love to hear from you!

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a $20 giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Pre-Release Tour & Giveaway* Downeyoshun

 

A not-always-sentimental vacation to the '50s, '60s, 'and '70s. Bring your swimsuit.

Downeyoshun

by Art Young

Genre: Recent Historical Family Fiction

Sally Osterhoff is a genius. When she grows up, she wants to be a mathematician, a teacher, and a carpenter; and she plans to swim in the 1968 and 1972 Olympics. 

 

Her mother has other ideas, and will emotionally and physically abuse Sally to fit them. After all, she only wants what is best for her child. But between her father trying his best, the family next door who practically adopts her, and her Aunt & Uncle down in Ocean City where she spends her summers, Sally just might have the support and love she needs to make all of her dreams come true.

 

Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights struggles, the Vietnam War, and the early Feminist movement, the story explores the power of found family, and how unconditional love can come from the least expected places. Downeyoshun is a not-always-sentimental vacation to the '50s, '60s, and '70s. Bring your swimsuit.

 

Praise about the book:

“Arthur Young will introduce you to a special world, East Baltimore, and its vacation spot, Ocean City, with his warm Downeyoshun.  Not that life is perfect – not all mothers are kind, and the VietNam war casts a shadow. But you’ll feel as if you’ve met new friends as you follow his characters through the challenges of growing up. In his skillful telling, the fabric of a family and a neighborhood comes to life. You may even find yourself becoming a Baltimore Hon!”

–Pamela Zerba, Contributor Atheists in America, Writer, Creative York Contest Winner

 

“Be prepared to fall in love with one of the most endearing literary characters of the century thus far. Ultimately, this is a book about family, the one you’re stuck with and the one you make. By the end, Sally will feel like part of yours. You will thoroughly enjoy your trip Downeyoshun.”

-Robert Akridge, Writer

 

Amazon * B&N * Bookshop.org * Bookbub * Goodreads

Art Young is a Baltimore-born U.S. Navy / Vietnam / Agent Orange veteran and cancer survivor. He was once a carny in a traveling gadget show, and has worked as a fire-extinguishing-system installer and serviceman, a brewery’s route delivery salesman, flexographic press operator, licensed boiler-plant engineer, and a storyteller. He much prefers the last. 

 

Website * Facebook * Instagram * Instagram * Amazon * Goodreads

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a $20 Amazon giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Excerpt Reveal* The First Lost Boy

      

Title: The First Lost Boy

Series: The Shadows of Neverland Duology

Author: Casey L. Bond

Genre: New Adult Fantasy Romance (Peter Pan Retelling)

Dust Jacket/ Paperback Cover by Melissa Stevens of @TheIllustratedAuthor

Hard Case / Naked Hardback

Cover by @TheFairyFinn

Edited by Stacy Sanford/ The

Girl with the Red Pen

Publication Date: May 2^nd, 2025

Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR

Blurb: 

Stars see everything and forget nothing. And sometimes they meddle far too much.

Ava has no idea who she is or how she got on the unfamiliar island Peter Pan keeps insisting is her home, the place she’s safest. But there are shadows in his cunning eyes and something within her screams out a warning that he can’t be trusted.

When Belle learns that her sister is alive, she leaps at the chance to work with Hook, his crew, and their siren ally to free Ava from Pan’s grasp. She thought that with their help, she’d have time to save Ava before her secret was discovered…

She was wrong.

When the sinister truth slithers its way between the tentative truces formed, some friendships and alliances buckle while others break. But if everyone doesn’t work together to accomplish the seemingly impossible, and fast, all those trapped in Neverland’s gravity will be lost to an insidious darkness forever.

Can Hook and Ava find one another and manage an escape? Or will they be consumed by the malicious shadow and forget one another forever?

AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER!

Casey Bond lives on a rural farm in West Virginia with her husband and their two beautiful daughters. She writes phoenixes – gloriously flawed and morally gray characters that fiercely rise from the ashes of their circumstances. World building is one of her favorite hobbies, along with stamping metal jewelry, swimming, and enjoying the beauty of nature. She thinks thunderstorms are better than coffee and that watching a meteor shower is the closest thing to magic you might ever see. She’s a firm believer that every amazing book needs a world you want to wrap yourself in, a character you want to win, and a love you would fight for.

 

Casey is the award-winning author of When Wishes Bleed, Gravebriar, and House of Eclipses.

Author Links: 

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Pinterest | Amazon | Bookbub | Bond-Tourage | Newsletter

AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER!

Peter beams when we reach a broad tree proudly standing in the middle of another clearing. It’s been stripped of wood from its wide roots to its lowest branch, which is high enough off the ground that I wouldn’t be able to reach it even if he boosted me up. In the smooth, pale grain, names have been carved. There are so many I can’t count them all.

I circle the trunk, reading as many as I can make out. Some are barely visible, having been carved too shallowly. Others have been slashed through. “Whose names are these?” 

Peter begins circling the trunk opposite me, but he stays in step with mine so I can only see his face every time he moves forward, losing sight of him again when I move away. My heart beats faster at the look he gives me. 

I can’t decipher it, or him, for that matter. 

His motives, intentions, and whims still aren’t clear. Like the murky way he answers a question that only displaces the truth’s surface. 

“They’re the names of the Lost,” he finally answers. 

“Who are the Lost?” I glance at him, waiting for him to explain. 

“Everyone who’s called Neverland their home at one time or another has carved their name in the bark.”

There are so many, yet I’ve only seen a handful. Where are all the others? “Why do you call them ‘Lost’?” 

“Because that’s what anyone who steps foot on Neverland becomes,” he says cryptically. 

“So… I’m Lost?” I ask, pressing a hand to my chest. 

He grins and nods. “Of course you are.”

“Should I carve my name here with the others, then?” I tease. 

“You already have,” he replies, eyes glittering with mischief. 

“Where is it?” I ask. “I don’t see Six.”

“Perhaps you’ll recognize it when you see it.” 

His challenge sparks my curiosity and the air between us. I let my thumb trace one of the gouged-out names. “Why are some of the names damaged?”

Peter smiles at the question the way he smiled at the corpse yesterday and I fight to suppress a shudder when he tells me, “We strike through the names of the dead.” He pulls a long blade from his waistband. “I thought you might want to do the honors.” 

He lightly drags the tip of the knife around the tree and I follow, stopping when the tip of the blade touches the first of [REDACTED] haunting letters.