#Authorinterview with A. Marc Ross

Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Barbara Bamberger Scott is talking with A. Marc Ross, author of Attacking the Dragon.

FQ: Can you briefly describe the thoughts and situations that led to your offering your talents through the medium of books?

ROSS: My interest in writing began in junior high school. I started with short stories and my first published work was a science fiction short story entitled Take My Mate—Please! published in Galaxy magazine. In college I considered writing full-time but instead I went to law school. After working as a lawyer, and during the lull of the Covid shutdowns, I decided to start writing again and have been busy doing so ever since.

FQ: What advice would you give to anyone considering a visit/vacation to China? 

ROSS: First and foremost, remember that China is a huge country and it is not possible to see all the wonderful sites in one visit, or even several. Invest the time to decide on just a few cities and regions that interest you most. Also, unless you are adventurous or speak Chinese, consider hiring a guide or taking a tour. My trips have all been for business so I have always had a Chinese native traveling with me.

FQ: Has your literary research affected, perhaps deepened or altered, your professional/personal lifestyle? 

ROSS: My research has deepened my understanding of various cultural and business areas, such as my understanding of China’s global expansion through its Belt & Road Initiative. And I have met many people from a very different cultural tradition. I do need to maintain the distinction between my fiction writing and my legal writing as neither style would be acceptable in the other context.

FQ: What sort of person do you envision as your book’s average reader? 

ROSS: I think that my average reader is someone who likes reading thrillers, and in particular people who like characters and plots that are different than most other thrillers. Also, as shown by Attacking The Dragon and my first book, The Conscripted Extremist, my plots involve real world political elements. The Conscripted Extremist involves a government plan to seek out leaders of Antifa and conflict between the extreme left and the extreme right, so readers who enjoy big picture stories stemming from reality would find both of these books of particular interest.

FQ: Does your knowledge of China – its positives and deficits, derive from your occupation and/or travel, or does it have a longer, perhaps deeper, history in your life?

ROSS: It derives primarily from my business travel to China. I have had the opportunity to lecture to and meet with government officials, Chinese Communist Party members, business executives and professionals. This has led to my understanding of certain aspects of China’s political and business environment and how business is conducted.

FQ: How much time generally has it taken for you to write two novels combining such a wide range of scrupulous information and person-centered imaginings? 

ROSS: Each book takes several months for the first draft. At this time I have two manuscripts in different stages of development and I have found that the more I write, the faster (and hopefully, the better) I do so. And I do tend to keep revising, on my own and with input from beta readers, before a final draft is ready for submission.

FQ: What would you recommend to anyone in midlife considering a writing career? 

ROSS: Be prepared for a long haul. You should decide what your objectives are. For example: is it the satisfaction of the writing process itself; having others read your work; being published by one of the major publishers; or being one of the fortunate few who make their living solely through their writing? You must be tenacious and, no matter how good your writing is, recognize that this is an extremely tough field.

FQ: Have you considered composing an autobiography?

ROSS: No.

 #Bookreview of Attacking the Dragon

By: A. Marc Ross

Publisher: Headline Books

Publication Date: September 2, 2025

ISBN: 978-1958914779

Reviewed by: Barbara Bamberger Scott

Review Date: March 12, 2026

In Attacking the Dragon by A. Marc Ross, readers will discover a livid labyrinth of complex, captivating mystery intertwined in a hefty skein of well-conceived global possibilities, along with a budding romance.

The tale begins in Shenzhen, China, at a tech company where American Wes Robertson has been invited to share his business acumen with a small delegation of foreigners. He is greeted by Haofu Tao, high-ranking female member of China’s Senior Party and delegate for the Rising Star Delegation, who had summoned him to the occasion. She, along with Robertson, finds herself seriously injured in a massive explosion that kills most others in the building. Robertson manages to struggle outside, dragging the unconscious Haofu Tao with him. He awakes in a prison cell, harshly interrogated by local police, accused of perpetrating the horrific attack. The implications revealed and the stances taken by both sides of a thorny, possibly destructive worldwide movement affect a large cast of characters, many of them Chinese, Indian, and significantly, the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Equatorial New Guinea, Maria Braga. She forms an alliance with Robertson after her own nation becomes a target for covert mass destruction and killings.

Much of the conflict centers around the Belt and Road Initiative, an overt scheme that could allow China economic access to, and eventual dominance in, a multitude of global sites. Ross’s plot allows for colorful characters, such as the older but once enticingly beautiful Haofu Tao and her “agent,” young Fei Zu, who can use her undeniable charms to aid in inter-continental conspiracies. The deftly drawn collaborators move and flow through Ross’s saga with gradually amassing hints as to their true loyalties, personal perfidies and admirable aspirations. As the story winds its way across the world, with a gradually developing tender connection building between Maria and Wes, readers will seek and find surprising, dramatic disclosures on every page.

Ross is a corporate lawyer by profession, an alumnus of Stanford Law School, where he was Editor of the Law Review. As an avid world traveler, he has been particularly attracted to China’s ancient, arcane cultures and contemporary political stratagems.

Quill says: With a grasp of the nation’s language and its global goal setting, Attacking the Dragon, which has garnered literary awards and attention, confirms Ross’s well-honed skills as a wordsmith. Upon absorbing this latest human-scale epic tale, Ross’s readers, across a wide range of age, nationality and intellectual curiosity, will doubtless call for further offerings, and perhaps beg a sequel to this latest, engrossing foray into realms of personal interaction and international intrigue.

For more information about Attacking the Dragon, please visit the author's website at: amarcross.com/

 #Bookreview of The Power of Respect

By: Ruth Maille

Illustrated by: Remesh Ram

Publication Date: August 27, 2024

ISBN: 978-1955299169

Reviewed by: Diana Coyle

Review Date: March 11, 2026

In The Power of Respect: Forever Friends by Ruth Maille, Orbit the globe travels to Amelia’s house to talk to her about her ten-year friendship with her best friend, Eleanor. Orbit thinks that Amelia will know what the true meaning of respect is. When he arrives, Eleanor is there because they’re having a sleepover together. The girls tell Orbit that it is important to use kind words to each other at all times. It’s also about helping and sharing with each other, while also listening to each other. Respect is sharing toys and working together to help get things done.

This reviewer thoroughly enjoyed this entertaining children’s book and felt that Orbit was the perfect role model for children’s to help reinforce positive values. In this book, he wanted to learn what Amelia and Eleanor did to respect each other in order to have the successful friendship they did for the past ten years.

Ruth Maille penned this story in such a way that readers will not feel that Orbit is preaching to them. Instead, children will find themselves eager to learn a few things from Orbit, as well as Amelia and Eleanor regarding successful friendships. As disrespect runs rampant in our world today, this book shines brightly as a reminder of how powerful the simple act of being respectful can be.

The illustrations provided by Remesh Ram were found on every page and were full page spreads, allowing readers to be drawn into the story on a deeper level. They were very pleasing to the eye and perfectly complemented what the author had written.

Quill says: The Power of Respect: Forever Friends by Ruth Maille will teach children the true meaning of the word respect. With a wonderfully written storyline complemented by fun illustrations, children will want to read this book again and again.

For more information about The Power of Respect: Forever Friends, please visit the author's website at: ruthmaille-author.com/

 #Bookreview of The Power of Encouragement

By: Ruth Maille

Illustrated by: Pardeep Mehra

Publication Date: February 17, 2026

ISBN: 978-1955299183

Reviewed by: Diana Coyle

Review Date: March 11, 2026

In The Power of Encouragement: Turning “I Can’t” into “I Can” by Ruth Maille, children are playing in their school playground as Orbit, the globe, comes flying in for a visit with them.

Orbit explains that he wants to talk about two superpowers – courage and encouragement. The children excitedly want to help Orbit out so they begin telling him what encouragement means to them. They offer him the ideas that encouragement is cheering someone on, or helping someone feel better. Encouragement also means teamwork and working together to achieve a common goal like winning a soccer game. They also explain that courage means doing something even if it truly scares you to do it. You should try your best to be brave and experience something new because you just may like it in the end. Orbit is thrilled with their answers and tells the children to always remember that the word encouragement contains “courage” in it. The children can’t wait for Orbit to visit them again.

This reviewer truly enjoyed reading another book in the “Power Of” series by Ruth Maille. She hit another home run with this book as Orbit discovers how children view the words courage and encouragement. Once the children offered their viewpoints, Orbit was very happy with their answers because it was clear that the children understood what courage and encouragement were.

The characters are very likeable and readers of all ages will have no problem falling in love with Orbit and the children. Orbit was born during COVID 19 and he is a role model for children, helping them to learn that although times may be tough, there is always a learning experience to take away from all situations. Ruth Maille presents different topics in each of her books to allow children to learn from Orbit and to feel confident and secure in anything they set their minds to do. He exemplifies the perfect role model for children.

The illustrations provided by Pardeep Mehra were found on every single page and each was a full spread for readers to enjoy as they turn the pages. He used warm, friendly colors to pull readers deeper into the story.

Quill says: The Power of Encouragement: Turning “I Can’t” into “I Can” by Ruth Maille is one children’s book that has a wonderful story to tell, with Orbit teaching children exactly what encouraging others truly means. Young readers will enjoy going on this adventure with Orbit throughout the story.

For more information about The Power of Encouragement: Turning "I Can't into "I Can", please visit the author's website at: ruthmaille-author.com/

 #Bookreview of The Gap

By: C. Anne

Publication Date: March 1, 2026

ISBN: 979-8993110646

Reviewed by: Alma Boucher

Review Date: March 9, 2026

The Gap by C. Anne is a gripping dystopian story that explores distrust, survival, and the delicate boundary between enemies and allies.

The novel centers around Astraea Elms, a determined young woman raised among the Youth Sentinels. The Sentinels are the protectors of the isolated community known as the Gappers. She is motivated by a strong sense of duty and discipline. By the time she reaches age eighteen, she still has not been given higher responsibilities. Her father, Pa, is the First Sentinel and has intentionally kept her from dangerous assignments in an effort to protect her. Astraea carries a dissolvable tablet that will end her life within minutes if the feared Outers were to capture her. When the Outers kidnap her younger brother Tarek and his friend Kyros, Astraea finally joins Pa and a Sentinel team on a perilous mission beyond the Gap. Their target is the towering structure visible from their side of the divide.

What begins as a rescue mission turns quickly into a deeper examination of the two societies divided by the Gap. On the Outer side, readers meet Jas, the son of a powerful leader within the Zenith building. This building is the center of the Outers’ most advanced technology and governance. Astraea’s arrival changed the assumptions Jas has always held about the Gappers. He wants to earn her trust and to better understand her people. What he discovers shocks him, and an uneasy partnership forms between them. They work together to uncover the truth behind the hostility between their communities.

Astraea must face harsh realities about the world she once believed she knew. Jas develops into a more curious and empathetic person as he discovers the truths behind his society's actions. Their changing relationship underscores themes of compassion, bravery, and the willingness to question traditional narratives. Misinformation and the risks associated with allowing fear to dictate entire cultures are explored. The novel shows how understanding can grow when individuals dare to question long-held beliefs.

The writing style is engaging, and the steady pacing balances action-driven moments. The tension of Astraea’s search for her brother keeps the narrative moving forward. The worldbuilding is particularly effective. The contrasts between the disciplined Sentinel culture of the Gappers and the technologically advanced society were outstanding. The author’s descriptive prose paints vivid images of the stark divide between the two worlds.

This is a thoughtful young adult dystopian adventure with strong characters and meaningful themes. Readers who enjoy stories that blend action with social commentary will find much to appreciate here. Astraea and Jas’s journey toward truth and mutual understanding provides both emotional weight and narrative intrigue, setting the stage for further exploration of this divided world.

Quill says: The Gap is a reflective read about personal growth and self-discovery. Readers will enjoy stepping into the thoughtful world created by C. Anne.

For more information about The Gap, please visit the author's website at: c-anne-everydaymagic.com/

 #Bookreview of The Abnormal Gumshoe

By: Tamar Anolic

Publication Date: March 1, 2026

ISBN: 979-8277732007

Reviewed by: Diane Lunsford

Review Date: March 10, 2026

Tamar Anolic delivers a whimsical detective tale in her latest novel, The Abnormal Gumshoe.

It’s another Sunday in Fayetteville, Arkansas and Chloe and her family, along with the rest of the congregation, are enjoying Pastor Ogden’s homilies. Chloe thinks about how much she used to love to sing and wishes she were in the choir. Who has time for that? She is the oldest of fifteen children. Some of her younger siblings have already gone through the courting process and even married their chosen spouses. Not Chloe. She will be thirty this year and she is still living with her parents. They need her and she is a significant help with the younger siblings still at home. Distracted, she looks around the congregation just in time to see Barnabas Anderson staring at her. Their eyes lock and she immediately looks away. Little did she know that would be the least of her concerns (or encounters) with Barnabas.

Imagine Chloe’s horror in the not-too-distant future when her parents decide it is time for her to have a suitor. She learns that the person they have chosen for her to court is none other than Barnabas Anderson. She immediately thinks of that day in church and his “…dark hair that sits like a mop on top of his head…” Conflicted with this latest turn of events, Chloe rationalizes that the truth is she isn’t getting any younger and if she ever plans to have children, perhaps Barnabas is the best option to make this happen. However, as she learns more about Barnabas, she realizes there are more than a few skeletons in his closet and past.

As Chloe gets to know Barnabas, she finds more questions than answers as she tries to unravel his checkered past. As readers join Chloe on her journey for answers, the mystery at the heart of this novel will undoubtedly interest young readers who have just begun reading chapter books. The writing is simple and easy to understand, making it perfect for a young adult audience.

Quill says: The Abnormal Gumshoe would be a great read for a young reader who is just beginning to enjoy chapter books.

For more information about The Abnormal Gumshoe, please visit the author's website at: tamaranolic.com/

 #Authorinterview with C. Anne

Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Alma Boucher is talking with C. Anne, author of The Gap.

FQ: The title, The Gap, suggests both a physical and emotional distance. How did you approach balancing these two interpretations, and which one was more central to your intention as a writer?

ANNE: The emotional distance and drastic difference in lifestyles on either side were central for me as a writer. The physical gap served to make that distance more visceral, but the intention was for the details to focus on what that distance symbolized—people living very different lifestyles and judging the “other” as wrong.

FQ: Many readers interpret the story as a reflection on human misunderstanding and emotional separation. To what extent was this theme intentionally embedded in the narrative?

ANNE: It was very intentional. I wanted the story to explore how a person can grow up in one culture or society and have a completely different view of the world than someone else growing up in another. And how those differences affect each person and create separation and judgement.

FQ: In your view, what does the “gap” ultimately represent in human relationships or society as a whole?

ANNE: The gap represents the distance between people who don’t take the time to understand someone with different beliefs or ideologies. That small gap can quickly become a huge rift, but ultimately we are all human and far more alike than we realize—if we just take the time to see things from another perspective.

FQ: Your characters experience moments of tension and vulnerability. How did you craft these emotional moments to feel authentic rather than forced?

ANNE: Honestly, I become my characters. I flesh them out in my head and have them interact with one another before writing a single word. My next step is to have them monologue on paper so I can get a true feel for who they are, how they speak, and their mannerisms. They become real to me—their emotions are real, and their needs and wants are real. After that, the rest just flows as I write.

FQ: Literature often mirrors reality. What aspects of modern life or human behavior were you hoping to critique or highlight through this story?

ANNE: The story began with a single spark centered around the truth the main characters, Astraea and Jas, eventually discover. But it quickly became much bigger than the idea it began as. I wanted to highlight how quickly humans judge those who are not like them and label them as “others,” which makes it easier to be hostile or unkind. Astraea and Jas, however, want to bridge that gap between their people and show that neither side is bad—just different.

FQ: Did you intend the ending of The Gap to provide closure, or did you deliberately leave room for ambiguity so readers could form their own interpretations?

ANNE: I left the ending ambiguous so the reader discovers the truth about what Astraea and Jas uncover at the same time they do. Even though the characters don’t fully grasp the implications, I hoped the last few sentences would click and create an “AHA!” moment for the reader. It also lets readers draw their own conclusions about what might happen next, while leaving room for a possible sequel.

FQ: When writing the story, were you more focused on delivering a moral message or simply presenting a realistic situation for readers to reflect on?

ANNE: There was no moral lesson intended as I wrote the book. I wanted the story to make readers think and try to see the bigger picture, but mostly I just wanted to entertain.

FQ: If readers walk away from The Gap remembering only one idea or emotion, what would you hope it is?

ANNE: That’s a hard one! The writing was intended to be fast-paced and keep the reader on the edge of their seat, needing to know more, just like Astraea and Jas. So that thrill of wondering what’s going to happen next—what is really going on here—and wanting to find answers and learn more is the feeling I hope stays with readers.

FQ: How do you think the meaning of the story might change if it were read in a different cultural or social context?

ANNE: I think it could be read by many different cultures and societies and still hold the same overall meaning—the same call not to be so quick to judge and to truly try to understand where someone else is coming from rather than labeling them as the enemy.

FQ: Looking back on the story now, has your own understanding of the “gap” changed since you first wrote it?

ANNE: When I first began writing the book, I wasn’t sure how the gap formed or why. Those details didn’t emerge until much later. I’m still working on fully fleshing them out because I want to include that backstory in the next book. The gap, both physical and metaphorical, ended up standing for much more than I initially realized.