The Seventh Mark is unique in many ways when compared to other fantasy works. First off, the main character, a ten year old boy with a penchant for getting into trouble, hails from simple origins. Okay, that’s actually not so uncommon, but he does not end up being "The Chosen One" or "The Prince that was Promised" or any other sort of trope that has been done to death. He is merely a fisherman’s son who, with just a little curiosity, bravery, and a dash of foolhardiness, happens to become entangled in an extraordinary adventure. Though set in a fantasy world, The Seventh Mark is a character-driven tale where everyday people find themselves in harrowing situations. The story should appeal to fans that have enjoyed fantasy series like A Song of Ice and Fire, Lord of the Rings, and Outlander, to name a few.

Now that’s not to say there are not familiar fantasy aspects in The Seventh Mark, but one of my goals during the writing process was to allow the reader to relate to the characters before thrusting them into a gripping and suspenseful story. Perhaps the tracking Board’s 2016 Launch Pad competition said it best when describing the novel:

A world described in such effortless detail that you’ll know it as well as your own neighborhood before the end of the book. This tightly written manuscript has a little something for everyone as a young boy deciphers fact from fiction. Never a slave to the obvious route, this manuscript is packed with shocking but believable twists and upends the readers’ expectations at every turn. The lead characters are complex and compelling, while the scenes are packed with tension. There is just the right amount of action, adventure, and drama to keep the plot well-paced and always moving forward. This is a fantasy adventure that ignites the imagination.

I want to say a special thanks to all future readers out there, and to my fellow writers I wish you the best. Good luck!

Shannon Kelley