Kae Cheatham--Child of the Mist

Author of twelve titles, Kae has been an indy author since 2001. Her first traditionally-published book Spotted Flower and the Ponokomita (1978) is also her first indy published book (revised edition in 2001); a 2nd printing of this revised edition will be out ion December 2010. Kae is also a freelance editor and book facilitator, working with authors to maximize their writing potential. She gives presentations and workshops in writing and history throughout her region. She lives in Montana.

Child of the Mist: A Gem of the Galaxy tale

Juilan Pranss is just a lowly government employee on a space-faring planet. Or is she? Juilan suddenly isn’t sure after she’s spirited from a spaceliner, kidnapped and continually under threat on a distant planet she knows little about. During this time, she keeps having visions and begins to believe she’s possessed.

Handsome benefactor Rodrig Ferstan is certain Juilan is the answer to all the galaxy’s problems. But his ideas seem dangerous. Juilan flees him, and comes under the tutelage of Trenner Curembac, a moody, driven outcast.

With doubt and danger at every turn, Juilan learns incredible truths about her background and the world into which she has been forced. Once she accepts the astounding realities, she must still evade her psychotic half-brother and handle the century-old Evincor—the indomitable gemstone that is the very basis of the culture—in a ceremony that could cause her death.

Q: What will e-readers like about your book?
Readers will appreciate the strong characters. My stories always develop from this. Also, this unique world is an interesting place. I’ve written historical fiction and truly enjoyed world-building for this book and its sister, Daughter of the Stone. People who like a series will like that the Gem of the Galaxy titles are stand alone.
Q: Why did you go indie?
Going indie was a function of getting burned out with the traditional route. I’ve had traditional New York publishers, small press regional publishers, online publishers, and it seemed something was never quite right. I decided if blunders were made, I’d take the blame and stop whining about the mistakes of someone else. It’s been refreshing to have control over my work.
Q: Who are your favorite authors in your genre?
In Speculative fiction, I was inspired by Octavia Butler, who was a master at depicting the new and ultra-different. I enjoy reading David Brin’s books. He is deft at blending hard science with interesting characters. I’m just now getting introduced to Mary Buckner’s work. Fascinating!