Every Tuesday, get to know a bit about the stories behind the books you love, and discover your next favourite novel.

Zilla: Poetry is a delight for all ages—Yewande Akinse has written some for children. Today, Yewande is here to talk about it!

Yewande: I am excited to introduce my latest poetry collection, The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms. This book is a heartfelt exploration of life’s essential lessons, crafted specifically for children. Comprising 100 poems, it aims to engage young readers through playful language and vivid imagery, while imparting valuable insights on themes such as kindness, resilience, curiosity, and self-discovery. Written in the structured form of dizains, each poem is designed to be both rhythmic and memorable, making it accessible and enjoyable for children. The collection reflects my deep love for my daughter, serving as a guide to help her navigate the complexities of growing up. The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms is not just a collection of poems; it is an invitation for children to explore their emotions and the world around them. I hope that through these verses, readers will find inspiration, joy, and a sense of connection to the lessons that shape their lives.

Zilla: You write about birth and death. Do you see this as a linear passage or as a cycle?

Yewande: I  see the themes of birth and death not as a linear passage but as a profound cycle. This cyclical perspective reflects the interconnectedness of life, where each ending gives way to new beginnings. Birth represents not only the physical arrival of life but also the emergence of ideas, experiences, and transformations. Similarly, death is not merely an end; it signifies a transition, a release that allows for renewal and growth. In my poetry, I explore this cycle by highlighting the beauty and complexity of both birth and death, emphasizing how they coexist and inform one another. This perspective encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of existence, recognizing that every moment of joy and sorrow contributes to the richness of the human experience. Ultimately, viewing life as a cycle fosters a deeper understanding of resilience, continuity, and the enduring nature of love and memory.

Zilla: What do you want to teach people through your poetry?

Yewande: Through my poetry, I aim to teach people about the beauty of resilience, the importance of empathy, and the power of self-discovery. I want to encourage readers to embrace their emotions, whether they are joyful or painful, and to recognize that each experience contributes to their growth and understanding of the world. I also seek to illuminate the richness of cultural heritage and identity, fostering a sense of pride and connection among individuals from diverse backgrounds. By exploring themes of belonging and community, I hope to inspire readers to appreciate the shared human experience and the stories that unite us. Ultimately, I want my poetry to serve as a catalyst for reflection and dialogue, prompting readers to consider their own journeys and the impact they can have on others. Through my work, I aspire to create a space where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered to express their own truths.

Zilla: Your poems are about community. What communities nutured you during your life?

Yewande: Throughout my life, I have been nurtured by several communities that have profoundly shaped my identity and creative voice. First and foremost, my family has been a foundational community, providing unwavering support and encouragement for my artistic pursuits. Their love and values instilled in me a deep appreciation for storytelling and cultural heritage. Additionally, the literary community has played a significant role in my development as a poet. Engaging with fellow writers, attending workshops, and participating in readings have allowed me to share my work, receive feedback, and learn from diverse perspectives. This sense of camaraderie and collaboration has enriched my understanding of poetry and its potential to connect people. These nurturing communities have collectively shaped my journey as a poet, providing the support, inspiration, and context necessary for my growth and creative expression.

Zilla: Thanks for sharing your story and your process. We’re looking forward to reading! Where can the Night Beats community find you and your book?

Yewande: My books are in bookstores and online on Amazon and Google books. My books can primarily be found on my website. I am on social media @adwande on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Every Tuesday, get to know a bit about the stories behind the books you love, and discover your next favourite novel.

Zilla: Jaime Castle is here with a horror full of demons and angels. Jamie—can you introduce your book to us?

Jamie: On the run and out of time…

Everything changed back in Crescent City when Crowley made his choice to stand up to his angelic handler Shargrafein. It was either her or Rosa, and the choice was clear. Now, there’s no going back.

Something about Rosa has everyone scrambling—a hidden power. It’s up to Crowley to bring her back to land of the living, and discover exactly what she is. Only then might they have a chance against the forces of Heaven and Hell, both of whom want her for their own devices.

So what if that makes him a traitor to the White Throne? They kept the truth about her from him. Made him a pawn in their endless war.

But those above and below aren’t the only ones after Crowley and Rosa. An old rival has resurfaced and he’s out for vengeance, no matter what takes.

If they hope to evade capture, Crowley will need to trust old friends and allies. And trust doesn’t come easy to a man shot to death by his own boss.

Zilla: What inspired you to write this book?

Jamie: I’ve always been a fan of westerns, and I believe that’s true for most people, even if they don’t know it. In the science fiction and fantasy community, shows like Firefly, Mandalorian, West World, and The Witcher are huge—and they are all forms of westerns. Sure, they don’t all have cowboys with pistols, but the concept remains the same: a sole individual rides into town, beats the hell out of injustice, and rides off into the sunset. For me, what could be better than smashing together a true western with the fantastical elements you might find in a Harry Dresden novel?

Zilla: How much research did you need to do for your book?

Jamie: Black Badge, the series, required a ton of research and a historian on hand. We wanted these books to feel authentic to the era in all possible ways. We researched guns, ammo, city maps from the time period, technology, and did all we could to incorporate those things into the story in a believable way.

Zilla: Is your work more plot-driven or character-driven?

Jamie: My books, including those I write with Rhett Bruno, are heavily character-driven. I believe a plot can only take someone so far if the character feels like cardboard. Meanwhile, I’ll read a book about nothing if the character is someone I can get behind.

Zilla: What’s your next writing project?

Jamie: I’m currently working on book two of a literary role playing game novel. Book one, An Unexpected Hero, is out and if you enjoy comedic fantasy with heart, it’s for you.

Zilla: Thanks for sharing your story and your process. We’re looking forward to reading! Where can the Night Beats community find you and your book?
Jamie: You can find my books at www.jaimecastle.com. Additionally, we own aethonbooks.com. You can find me anywhere on socials at Jaime Castle.

Every Tuesday, get to know a bit about the stories behind the books you love, and discover your next favourite novel.

Zilla: I fell in love with Justine Manzano’s books when I first read her YA fantasy romance Never Say Never. When I got the chance to interview her about her works, I jumped at it! Justine, can you tell us a bit about your books?

Justine: I’m the author of four YA Fantasy novels. I have an action/adventure series, Keys & Guardians, about a teenager entering a corrupt monster-hunting organization and fighting to overthrow it from the inside. I also have a standalone romantic comedy, Never Say Never, which is about a girl who, after the divorce of her parents, declares she’ll never fall in love. But Aphrodite, disguised as her human teenager friend, sees that as a challenge.

Zilla: What inspired you to write these books?

Justine: Never Say Never was inspired by being a child of divorce, but not just any divorce. I was a kid who grew up knowing my parents didn’t belong together and would be better off without each other. But I’d never read a book about a family like mine. So I wrote one.

For Keys & Guardians, the series was about the abuse of absolute power in its many dynamics. I grew up in an abusive household, and there’s the exploration of neglect, and child abuse, abuse of power in society, in politics…I wanted to explore all of the ways I felt helpless in my life…and then I wanted to craft a character who would stand up against that. In many ways, the main character, Jacklyn, was my hero too.

Zilla: I can see how characters play an important role in your stories—is there a character in fiction that’s been important to you during your life? 

Justine: Batman is my special interest. I love the idea of a hero who chose to protect people. He doesn’t have any special abilities to protect him. Everything about him he chose to hone and to dedicate toward the people of Gotham. He’s a hero built from the strength of his brain more than anything else and I love that.

Zilla: You’ve got so many stories inside you—what’s your next writing project?

Justine: I currently have two writing projects in progress. The first is a short story collection that takes place in the Keys & Guardians series. I’m unsure about the title currently. I’m still sorting that out, but it’s in edits. I believe it will be called Tales of the Dawn.

The other project I’m working on is a new book called Reality Check. It’s a YA Contemporary novel. Leah Marinello deals with an abusive life by throwing herself into imaginary worlds—but when her school theater club offers her an actual escape, she discovers her imaginary friend might not be so imaginary—and he doesn’t really want to let go.

Zilla: Thanks for sharing your story and your process. We’re looking forward to reading! Where can the Night Beats community find you and your book?

Justine: My books are available anywhere books are sold. My website is justinemanzano.com, and you can find me on social media as @justine_manzano on Instagram and Threads, @justine_manzano1229 on TikTok, and as @justinemanzano.bsky.social on Blue Sky.