Book excerpt: ***** Winner! 2021 Independent Press Award! ***** Two Worlds Collide in Andalon Here is the first volume of T.B. Phillips’ action-packed series Dreamers of Andalon. Critics agree that his characters are so vivid they come to life, driving the reader to tears of both dread and celebration as he paints a world directly into your mind. This modern fantasy combines magic with emotion while promising political intrigue and adventure. Each page transports you to a realm of dueling worlds, one advanced and the other locked in the age of sail and pirates. Andalon Awakens Many years from now, in a world in which we have all been forgotten, the Caldera of Cinder erupts and Andalon descends into chaos. Pirates and outlaws ally against tyranny as magical powers awaken at alarming rates, unraveling the plans of the evil Falconers. These dark administrators harvest children who could potentially manipulate the elements, stealing their abilities for a darker purpose. The heroes of this tale include Eusari Thorinson, kidnapped and sold at a young age. She must choose vengeance against those responsible for the pain she endured in evil hands, or choose to challenge the Falconers beside Braen Braston - a quiet outcast from the northern kingdom of Fjorik. Across the continent Robert Esterling fights to come of age and struggles with physical limitations while leading a civil war against his usurper brother - the leader chosen by the Falconers. He must decide the fate of thousands of refugees from the west, the hated and feared Pescari and their powerful goddess of fire. Follow these unlikely heroes as they face political intrigue and work through personal barriers. Read along as they learn to use their powers without destroying the very people they feel compelled to save. Gasp as they discover a much more dangerous foe than Andalon ever dreamed. Andalon Awakens is an emotional ride that will lead you to laughter, tears, and gasps along the way. T. B. Phillips is a craftsman who toys with your heart and leads you by the hand through expert world building, putting you inside each of his characters. "Sometimes you read a book and realize you're reading art. This book does that." "I was absolutely blown away by the rich descriptions and well-formed action sequences. This book is a clinic in writing artistry. It was outstanding in every regard. If there was an option for a sixth star, this book should get it. This book was turned up to 11 all the way to the end. Nice Work." - ZombieTex, ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ "A fantastic tale with pirates, sword fights, magic, love, betrayal, secrets and more!" "TB Phillips is becoming a master-craftsman weaving a beautiful tapestry of characters, adventure and wonder. The imagery of the battles at sea, the Pescari people, and even the evil that lurks behind the book cover is magnificently written. You will latch onto each character and hope your beloved favorites survive to the end of the series. Phillips has a vivid imagination that compels the reader to turn the pages faster and faster until they finish with a desire to read more." - Maria Thompson, ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑