Smorgasbord Book Promotions – New Book on the Shelves – Dark Butterflies: Poetry and short stories by Jude Itakali

Delighted to share the news of the latest release by Jude Itakali… Dark Butterflies: Poetry and short stories – On pre-order for September 26th

About the collection

An ambitious dive into our hidden depths, ‘Dark Butterflies’ wades the brackish waters of mental health and finds that beauty blooms there also.

Through this collection of poems and short stories, the author approaches mental health with raw compassion, all while peeling away at the stigma behind these states of mind.

The author takes us on a journey of many passages through life, using compelling narratives, lyrical prose, artistic illustrations, and a rich array of poetic forms to sate any literary craving.

This collection will disturb many, captivate most, and finally, comfort all.

Tackling themes on sanity, self-image, relationships, culture and spirituality, ‘Dark Butterflies’ offers something meaningful for us all.

Head over to pre-order the book for September 26th: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Also by Jude Itakali

A review for Broken Ties

D. W. Peach 4.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful African mythology, real and imagined.

Reviewed in the United States

I’ve read Jude Itakali’s beautiful poetry collection “Crossroads” and enjoyed his rich use of language and sublime imagery. This is the first book I’ve tried of his fantasy fiction, and I encountered the same vivid descriptions in some entrancing worldbuilding. Though this is a contemporary story, it’s set in several magical realms in Africa. It’s full to the brim with flavors of African culture and mythology (real, fantasy, and probably both). Itakali’s imagination is impressive.

Three friends – Kamau, Ninuwe, and Kena – are seeking the parts of a powerful weapon they will need to destroy the Evil One who has inhabited the body of one of their close friends. Their quest introduces them to dangerous and helpful magicians, bloodthirsty monsters, fickle gods, and brutal war games. Romance is a secondary plot thread with elements of a love triangle and hints of betrayal.

I didn’t start the series with the first book, Realms of the Mist, but I recommend that approach since this isn’t a stand-alone novel. Beginning with the first will fill in some backstory and help build a connection with the main characters. Kamau is the character I got to know best, and I liked his steadiness, smarts, and nobility. Ninuwe and Kena are also three-dimensional and excellent allies.

The plot has many elements of a quest with new challenges encountered along the way. Accordingly, the pace alternates between high-speed adventure and danger (including some bloody battles), slower romantic interludes, and moderate sections of conversation and planning. Since the group moves into new realms throughout the story, there are a lot of characters to keep track of. The story does end with a massive cliffhanger, so be prepared to read onward. Recommended to fans of epic fantasy quests, African mythology and culture, and amazing world-building. 

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK –  Blog: Jude Itakali WordPress – Twitter: @jItakali – Follow Jude: Goodreads

About Jude Itakali

Jude Itakali is a poet, writer and fiction author from the suburbs of Kampala, Uganda.

Itakali never liked sharing his books as a child. That has changed, especially since he started writing his own.

A lifelong obsession with ‘the good story’ evoked his personal phrase, “Reality is all around us, but fantasy is a part of us.” Egged on by a conniving appetite to consume works across genres, Itakali crafts the compelling themes and rounded characters in his books.

When not ‘life-ing’ or pursuing infrequent exercise routines, you can find Itakali writing fiction in a small cubicle, or under a tree, furnishing his website, Tales told different, with life epiphanies, ponderous prose, and poetry.

 

Thanks for dropping in today and it would be great if you could share the news of Jude’s new release.. Sally.