Hello! Thanks for dropping in. If this is your first visit, I’m Kai O’Connor and I’m getting ready to launch my debut fantasy novel.
Besides all the whimsy and action, the main themes in my series are relational and identity-related. Here’s a taste of what flavors my stories. See if you’re interested in these internal/external conflicts that my characters encounter on the islands of Lonecca:
-Identity Crisis.
My heroes tend to suffer from a lack of self-esteem. My villains struggle from an overabundance of it. Hey, no struggle = no story. I love to help Lonecca’s hidden champions discover their potential, while taking their opponents down several notches. Don’t we all crave an occasional dose of vicarious vengeance?
-Wanting intimacy but feeling too guarded to pursue it.
To many folks, “intimacy” carries an explicitly romantic or sexual implication. But even if you’re a monk, it’s more of a basic need. On the friendship spectrum, intimacy and acquaintance are at opposite ends. Intimacy involves reciprocal knowledge of authentic identity, plus solid trust and vulnerability. It’s the foundation for soul sisters and bromances. So why don’t Lonecca’s characters pursue it? Short answer…
-Fear.
Caution is a healthy response to a perceived threat. It’s part of our survival kit. Besides the physical dangers that are part of real life, let alone the imaginary ones, fear of not finding intimacy is a common issue. Either we don’t see ourselves as worthy, or someone’s convinced us that we’re not. This can result from trusting the wrong people, or not trusting the right ones. In Lonecca, there’s plenty of both.
-Freedom to invest in aesthetic pursuits.
On Lonecca’s smallest island of Katimla is an artisan community. Its founders understood the power of beauty to restore, comfort, and inspire. After decades of poverty, Lonecca desperately needs to experience these qualities. And so do we! Whether you create physical objects, surround yourself with music, delight in nature, or appreciate the subtle but enchanting details of your day, these encounters have the power to feed our souls. As Loneccans discover, suffering doesn’t have to be the defining dynamic of life.
My favorite fiction contains elements that enrich my life. I hope my stories do the same for you.
Ciao for now,
Kai