Guest Post with D Wallace Peach and The Necromancer’s Daughter #newbook

~ John W. Howell

I am so pleased to welcome a fellow Story Empire participant and fabulous writer Diana Peach to Fiction Favorites. She is here to tell you about her latest book The Necromancer’s Daughter.

Diana the post is yours.

Greetings John. Thanks for hosting me today at your blog. I thought I’d do a spin-off of one of your features—Views of the Neighborhood. But instead of a Texan tour, we’re going to tour the fantasy world of The Necromancer’s Daughter.

You always start your tours with a gourmet meal. We’re starting this one with soup. My main characters usually don’t have much in the way of resources, and they have to cook on a fire. The soup of the day is a vegetable fish soup seasoned with garden parsley.

The “neighborhood” spans two kingdoms: the lush seaside lowlands of Verdane and the cold mountains of Blackrock. Verdane has a wealth of croplands and harbors. Blackrock has none of those, but they do have dragons and those scary, hungry beasts guarantee a lot of leverage.

Between them, flanked on both sides by palisade walls, is the wilderness known as Catticut, the Forest of Silvern Cats. It’s a place of huge trees, white panthers, and tribes of warriors. In a world dominated by men, the Catticut chiefs are all women, and they’re as tough as their weathered skin. There’s only one road through the untamed forest, and it makes for a risky trek.

One of the first things I do as I start to write is create a map. That way I have a good “view of the neighborhood.” Here’s the map of the world in The Necromancer’s Daughter. All aboard for what I hope is a fantastical ride!

***

Blurb:

A healer and dabbler in the dark arts of life and death, Barus is as gnarled as an ancient tree. Forgotten in the chaos of the dying queen’s chamber, he spirits away her stillborn infant, and in a hovel at the meadow’s edge, he breathes life into the wisp of a child. He names her Aster for the lea’s white flowers. Raised as his daughter, she learns to heal death.

Then the day arrives when the widowed king, his own life nearing its end, defies the Red Order’s warning. He summons the necromancer’s daughter, his only heir, and for his boldness, he falls to an assassin’s blade.

While Barus hides from the Order’s soldiers, Aster leads their masters beyond the wall into the Forest of Silvern Cats, a land of dragons and barbarian tribes. She seeks her mother’s people, the powerful rulers of Blackrock, uncertain whether she will find sanctuary or face a gallows’ noose.

Unprepared for a world rife with danger, a world divided by those who practice magic and those who hunt them, she must choose whether to trust the one man offering her aid, the one man most likely to betray her—her enemy’s son.

A healer with the talent to unravel death, a child reborn, a father lusting for vengeance, and a son torn between justice, faith, and love. Caught in a chase spanning kingdoms, each must decide the nature of good and evil, the lengths they will go to survive, and what they are willing to lose.

***

This is John again.

I just finished The Necromancer’s Daughter last night. I will be posting a review, but for now, I have to say that this is one of the best fantasy books I have read. The story is compelling and the characters are extremely well-developed. Diana has a unique way of writing that compels the reader to go forth until the very end. Speaking of end this tale ends exactly where I wanted it to end. No spoilers here but after spending time with these characters I needed a surprise ending exactly the way Diana crafted it. Needless to say, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes beautiful world-building, action, adventure, moving scenes, and an escape from the real world.

Bio:

A long-time reader, best-selling author D. Wallace Peach started writing later in life when years of working in business surrendered to a full-time indulgence in the imaginative world of books. She was instantly hooked.

In addition to fantasy books, Peach’s publishing career includes participation in various anthologies featuring short stories, flash fiction, and poetry. She’s an avid supporter of the arts in her local community, organizing and publishing annual anthologies of Oregon prose, poetry, and photography.

Peach lives in a log cabin amongst the tall evergreens and emerald moss of Oregon’s rainforest with her husband, two owls, a horde of bats, and the occasional family of coyotes.

Links

The Necromancer’s Daughter Links:

Amazon Global Link http://a-fwd.com/asin=B0B92G7QZX

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-necromancers-daughter-d-wallce-peach/1142003172

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-necromancer-s-daughter-1

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-necromancers-daughter/id6443278849

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1160370

254 thoughts on “Guest Post with D Wallace Peach and The Necromancer’s Daughter #newbook”

  1. Pingback: Guest Post with D Wallace Peach and The Necromancer’s Daughter #newbook | Legends of Windemere

  4. This one is on my list and I can’t wait to get to it. This is one of the more interesting tour posts I’ve ever read. I used to make maps for a living, but have never done it for my fiction.

    Liked by 6 people

    1. That’s so cool that you were a cartographer, Craig! I’m fascinated by maps and enjoy making them. If they’re useful, they end up in my books. In this case, I didn’t think the map was necessary for readers to navigate the story, so it was fun to get a chance to share it here at John’s. Happy Reading!

      Liked by 4 people

        1. It’s called “Campaign Cartographer.” Made by ProFantasy. I’m terrible at learning new softwares since I never read the instructions, but they have some excellent youtube tutorials and I just follow along. I’ve been using it for years.

          Liked by 2 people

        11. My husband found the architect who designed the building in 1913. His papers are held in the special collections room in the University of Vermont library. I’m HOPING once I get up there that his papers include the blueprints. If not, I will need the Plan B.

          Liked by 1 person

  5. Pingback: The Necromancer’s Daughter Book Tour: Day 21 | Myths of the Mirror

  6. Thanks so much, John, for hosting me today and for your wonderful comments about the book. It seems like the review is done! I’m delighted to share a view of the necromancers’ neighborhood and look forward to visiting with your followers. Between your kind post and my cup of coffee, I’ve started my day with a grin.

    Liked by 2 people

    2. Thanks for taking the time to drop by John’s place, Kymber. So kind of you. I was delighted with John’s comments this morning and appreciate your endorsement. My review is up on Amazon for your book this morning in case you’re curious. 😀

      Liked by 2 people

  8. I used to draw maps, too, Diana, to orient myself in my fictional worlds. These days, most of my fiction is set in actual places, so I rely on Google Maps to inspire story ideas. Having a firm sense of place is, I think, what allows our fictional worlds to feel real. Great guest post! Thanks for hosting, John!

    Liked by 3 people

    2. That makes total sense to me, Sean. I have one book set in Portland, OR, and used a real map for that one. Making them for fantasy worlds usually involves a lot of tinkering to get distances worked out for travel by foot or horse. That’s probably my biggest challenge. And you’re right that a sense of place definitely “grounds” a story. Thanks for stopping by John’s place, and for the engaging comment!

      Liked by 3 people

    2. I just refer back to my camping days for food choices on the trail, Laurie. Dumping everything into one pot always works. Wait… I still cook that way. Lol. So glad you stopped by John’s place. He’s a wonderful host. And thanks for adding to the fun. 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

  10. The Necromancer’s Daughter is one of my top reads of 2022. I loved it! It certainly is compelling. Great tour of the ‘neighbourhood’, Diana. Wishing you all the best. Thanks for sharing, John 💕🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Thanks, Priscilla. I’m so glad you enjoyed the ending too. For some reason, this ending was effortless to write after all the challenges and suffering. I think it was a long-awaited release. Have a wonderful day, my friend.

      Liked by 3 people

    1. That makes total sense to me, Robbie. A timeline would be essential for most of your stories. I’m writing a real-world-based story right now, and I’m flummoxed by the amount of research I’m having to do – timelines as well as all the minute details. Eeek. You’re amazing. Compared to that, a map is a snap. Lol. Thanks for stopping by John’s and for the fun comment. 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

      3. Thank you for your wonderful review of The Valley Walker, Diana. The main protagonist’s name, by the way, is John Walker Michaels – not Richards. 🙂 You can edit your review, if you care to.

        Liked by 2 people

  14. I love how you tailored your post to emulate John’s Sunday feature. Very clever! You know I was blown away by this book, Diana. My continued wishes for your success.

    John, thanks for hosting.

    Liked by 3 people

    2. It was a little tricky, Anneli, because I wanted three different settings, but they had to make sense in terms of climate and vegetation. That’s one way that a map helped. I went for elevation changes versus long long distances. Kind of like Oregon where you can tan at the beach and then drive for a couple of hours and go snowboarding, all on the same day. I’m glad it worked. Thanks, for visiting and adding to the conversation. Hugs.

      Liked by 3 people

  16. How wonderful to see a map of Verdane, Diana. I wanted to be a cartographer when I was a kid. LOL! This is fabulous! John, I knew you would love this fantasy. You’ve come to the same conclusion as the rest of us. 💜

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Aww. Thanks, Colleen. Wasn’t John’s post wonderful? I loved his thoughts about the book. Not that you need the distraction, but it’s never too late to draw maps! Lol. Thanks for taking the time to drop by, my friend. Have a wonderful day. ❤ ❤

      Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks for swinging by John’s place, Viv. I’m so grateful that he took the time to read and share his thoughts on the book. This community is pretty wonderful, I’d say. Have a lovely day, my friend.

      Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks so much for stopping by John’s to read and for the wonderful comment, Ray. I’m doin’ a happy dance. Whenever you get to the book, I hope it brings you hours of entertainment. Have an awesome day. 😀 😀

      Liked by 2 people

  19. What a fun spin on John’s regular posts, Diana. And that map is gorgeous!

    Thanks for hosting today, John. I highly recommend The Necromancer’s Daughter to anyone who might be on the fence. It is a thoroughly immersive story with wonderful characters and superb writing. Wishing Diana all the best!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks, Mae. I had so much fun gearing the post around John’s Neighborhood feature. It was a perfect fit. I’m so glad you enjoyed the book and appreciate your lovely endorsement. Warms the heart. Huge hugs.

      Liked by 2 people

  20. Winning concept to actually map out the world one is about to build out, establishing physical proximities and boundaries, hinting at geo-political environments, and establishing relationships between areas. I’ve always liked seeing these kind of maps included where applicable as it establishes a visual foundation to work with as exploration of the story itself begins. Best of luck with the book, Diana. Looking forward to reading it!

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Thanks so much for the great comment, Bruce. I find maps helpful for the very reasons you outlined. They “ground” a story for me, and generate the inspiration for certain elements of the story. They also make sure I don’t screw up distances, directions, and terrain. 🙂 I didn’t include the map in this story, but I always use one in the writing. And thanks so much for your interest in reading it! If you decide to pick it up, I hope you enjoy it. 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

    1. Ha ha ha. I tried to make the soup sound a little… um… gnarly. Just to contrast with the amazing epicurean feasts that John offers on his tours. Lol. But get what I’m making for dinner tonight? Fish chowder. Your comment got me laughing, Denise. Thanks for stopping by John’s and joining in the fun. ❤

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Thank you for taking the time to stop by and leaving a comment, Karen. I’m feeling well taken care of and couldn’t be happier with John’s gracious thoughts about the book. It’s been a wonderful day. Happy Reading.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. The idea of the map and a view of the neighborhood fit perfectly, Liz. I had so much fun pulling it together, and it’s been a great day. Thanks so much for the visit and comment. I’m glad you enjoyed the ride. Hugs.

      Liked by 2 people

  27. I loved this book – the imagery, the worldbuilding, the characters (well, there were a few that I loved to hate, LOL). Wishing you success, Diana, and a big thanks to John for hosting today.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks so much for swinging by to read the post, Joan. You’re comment gave me such a boost. It’s been a super day here at John’s and I couldn’t be more grateful. Have a wonderful day. Hugs. ❤

      Liked by 2 people

  28. What a great review and clever way to introduce the book John. Love the map of the neighborhood. My book finally came today.
    Loved the introduction Diana gave you to your plethora of gifts in your writing, blogging and books John.
    Great post and introductions from both of you!💗

    Liked by 2 people

    2. I’m so glad you stopped by, Cindy. I don’t know how John blogs every day and still manages to churn out great books. I’m delighted that you enjoyed my intro. It’s been a fun day, and I loved playing off of John’s “View of the Neighborhood” feature. Any opportunity to be creative! And I’m so excited that the book arrived. Cuddle up with a cup of tea and a cat and enjoy. ❤ ❤ ❤

      Liked by 2 people

      2. It’s always a pleasure and I haven’t a clue as well how he does that. Maybe it will osmoisissly get to us but doubtful. 😹
        I’m seriously hoping the cats will read it to me as I love the cover and title and it’s going to bed with me tonight… 😹

        Liked by 2 people

    2. Thanks, Jacquie. Your comment cracked me up. You’re always so funny. I use Campaign Cartographer software by Profantasy. It was designed for gamers but works well for plain old maps. I don’t use half of its features (way over my head). Thanks so much for spreading the word about my books. You’re so kind to me. Have a lovely day, my friend. Hugs.

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Thanks, Sandra. It was really fun to prepare this one as well as to hang out all day. John and I are meeting later for bourbons (or gin, I forget). Lol. And fish soup. Have a wonderful evening, my friend. Hugs.

      Liked by 1 person

  31. What an awesome post, Diana! I love the visual the map gives. It puts it all in perspective. And John, I agree with you. It’s one of the best fantasy books I’ve ever read! Congrats, Diana, and thank you for hosting, John!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks so much for popping over to John’s, Jan. I’m glad you enjoyed the post and I’m thrilled with your comment about the book. Speaking of books, I’m loving Saddled Hearts and will probably finish it tonight. You nailed it. Have a wonderful day.

      Liked by 2 people

  33. GREAT review of Diana’s book, John. I read it quite a while ago, but I must say, each of her blog visits about her books are so much fun and remind me of how much I LOVED the Necromancer’s Daughter, the characters, the plot, the setting. I could go on and on, but you did a great job.
    Diana, fascinating that you begin your novels with a map. I could never do that since I still don’t know my east from my west. Thus, I’m always lost (in my mind as well as physically). 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    2. That’s exactly why I need to make a map, Pam. Since I moved from the east coast to the west coast, my sense of direction is completely backward. I think it’s because the ocean is now on the wrong side. Lol. Your comments about the book warm my heart. I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for stopping by John’s to start my day with a smile. Hugs ❤ ❤

      Liked by 2 people

    2. trust me, I know how that feels, Michele. In fact, I don’t know anyone who has an empty Kindle. Can you imagine?! I hope you enjoy the story whenever it rises to the top of the pile. Have a lovely afternoon. 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

    2. Thanks for swinging by John’s, Andrea. I love maps too and can spend hours browsing and finding places I’d like to go. So, it’s something I enjoy doing for my books. And the fish soup I made last night wasn’t too bad! Lol. Have a great Friday and weekend, my friend. 😀 Hugs.

      Liked by 3 people

    2. I always make maps, Teri. Even if I don’t end up using them. I have to since I’m directionally challenged! Lol. This map didn’t make it into the book because I didn’t think it was necessary, but I have a bunch of maps in other books. Thanks so much for stopping by John’s and Happy Friday.

      Liked by 3 people

      1. Thanks again for hosting me, John. It was great fun swapping books with some of your followers and making new friends. I appreciate all your time and wonderful support. Have a wonderful Friday and weekend.

        Liked by 2 people

  39. Pingback: Guest Post with D Wallace Peach and The Necromancer’s Daughter #newbook – Site Title

  40. How fabulous to find Diana’s blog tour landing here, on one of my fave blogs.
    John, I look forward to your review.
    Diana is a – Beyond Blog Book Betelgeuse. Try say that fast 5 times!!!!
    It just means she is a blog star!
    How clever of Diana to make it a tour of the Dragonhood. Okay, I might not know what I’m talking about, as I just began reading it today.
    Diana has spoken Highly of “My GRL”. That will be my next read of yours.
    As a turtle reader, that should be next year sometimes.

    I’ve never seen anything like this tour. I am dizzy.
    Respects to both.
    btw…mmmm… fish soup…yuk! I’ll hav a bowl of the veggies, though. They can be raw!

    Liked by 4 people

    1. I’m telling you this was the mother of all tours. Diana is some kind of rock star in the blogosphere. I told her it felt like the Rolling Stones stopped by for a day. It was great and we did absolutly no drinking. Thanks Resa.

      Liked by 3 people

      1. No drinking, eh. Well did you eat fish soup?
        So, when are you doing the actual review?
        The Rolling Stones? 🤩🎸🤩
        What? Am I 7 years old? I have nothing but questions?
        🐂🐂

        Liked by 3 people

        2. AH! Good. I will still be reading it next week.
          I want to do a review too, but I’m only on chapter 2. I make no apologies for turtle reading! 🐂💋🐂💋

          Liked by 3 people

    2. Thanks so much for stopping by John’s, Resa. You’ll love My GRL. The main character struck me just the right way and I got such a chuckle out of how out of his element he was, and yet so resourceful. The tour has been tons of fun, especially on blogs like John’s where there’s so much engagement. Only a handful more stops, and then I’m going to need to sleep for a month. Lol. And huge thanks for reading the book. Turtle reading is quite all right with me. ❤ ❤ <3. Have a wonderful week, my friend.

      Liked by 3 people

      1. xoxo
        OMG… there’s no turtle emoji…
        I’m going to look again! ………….. Nope, no turtle!!
        I’m sure you are pooped! Still, you are working the line, admirably!
        xxoo

        Liked by 3 people

    3. Oh, and the fish soup was supposed to be a little meh. Lol. I wanted to contrast it to John’s elegant epicurean spreads on his “View of the Neighborhood” posts. I do make a good seafood chowder though. 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

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