Frequently Asked Questions

No release date has been set yet, as the book is currently seeking literary representation. Sign up for the reader list to be the first to know when that changes.

The book is written for middle-grade readers, ages 10–14+. That said, the themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and courage resonate across age groups — adults who love fantasy have enjoyed early drafts too.

This story was inspired by numerous works I enjoy, books and movies alike, as well as by challenges people I care about have faced in real life. Still, much of the story comes to me from places that I will never know, and some comes from the characters themselves, as they speak to me through the page. But I do remember my first thought for this book. It came to me on a long drive home: a fantasy kingdom where two cities ruled the land together, one responsible for training the soldiers of the land, the other responsible for ruling it. The story has come a long way from that moment.

I have plans for James, Cassandra, and the world of Theridal beyond this first book. More details will be shared as the publishing journey unfolds.

The best way to keep up with me and my writing is to join my reader list. Those on the list are always the first to know what's going on.

Short answer, yes! I would love any opportunity to connect with young readers and educators. That said, my book is not yet published, so my efforts at this stage are best spent perfecting my story for future readers. But you can reach out to me at Joseph.P.Moore@outlook.com to discuss availability.

My military experience influences my writing in a variety of ways. Six years of leading soldiers gave me a front-row seat to what true leadership looks like. I've been fortunate to have met people in real life who have put their lives on the line in situations that rival any fantasy story. I also got a lot of opportunities to experience some of the things the characters do in my story: I've trained for hours in the blistering heat, shivered all night in the snow and rain, slept on the ground countless nights, pushed my body to its limits, and spent time away from family and friends. You don't have to experience something to write about it, but it sure can help.

A discussion guide and classroom resources are planned for release alongside the book. In the meantime, visit the Educators section for an overview of themes, or email Joseph.P.Moore@outlook.com directly.

The book pairs naturally with character education, social-emotional learning, and ELA units on hero's journey, moral dilemmas, and friendship. Its medieval world also complements history units on ancient and medieval societies.

Live a little, experience life, read a lot, and WRITE! The habit of writing is more important than the quality of any first draft. Don't worry about whether it's good enough, and don't think you have to create the perfect plot in advance. That single thought kept me on chapters 1 & 2 for YEARS! There are two types of writers: plotters and pantzers, and the latter sits down and lets the story guide them, like me! Do what's best for you.

Ideas are everywhere once you start looking. Read widely, watch films, talk to people, and listen to music. Most of my ideas strike on long drives or runs. Keep a notes app or a small notebook nearby, and write down anything that comes to mind, even if you don't use it until years later.

FUN FACT: 12-year-old me still inspires 29-year-old me with the first series I wrote in fifth/sixth grade (and it's TERRIBLE)! But I kept those books in my Pirates of the Caribbean folder throughout the years, because they're mine, and some of their ideas have influenced the stories I write today.

You're not alone. Getting stuck is part of the process — every writer faces it. When it happens to me, I step away for a bit and try to get outside, talk with my wife, play with my kids, and watch or read something that inspires me.

As for wanting to give up: I've been there too. But you must persevere. Ask yourself this: if you don't tell your story, then who will? Write because you enjoy it, because it is good for you — because you NEED to. Even if it's never published, your story is worth finishing, for you, and for your characters.

No! Don't fall into the trap of thinking that only an A+ student can become an A+ writer. I have never been a top student, probably because I was often too busy daydreaming in class.

Now, that does not give you permission to be a bad student. ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST, AND ALWAYS RESPECT AND LISTEN TO YOUR TEACHERS. But don't fret over a few bad grades; life is about more. Reading helps more than almost anything else, and grammar and spelling are important, but can be learned and corrected as you write. The most important thing is that you imagine, persist, and write from a place of love for stories and life. Those things can't be graded.