By AJ Eversole
Super excited to chat with debut author, Kauakanilehua Mahoe Adams today on Cynsations. Reading An Expanse of Blue (Heartdrum, 2026) was a transformative experience for me. From the opening to poem I was hooked and ready to follow main character Aouli along on her journey. So far the young adult novel-in-verse has received a stunning three stars and released on May 19th!
By AJ Eversole
Today we have Christine Hartman Derr (Cherokee) to discuss her debut novel, Raven Rising (Heartdrum, 2026). Raven, Rising has received two starred reviews ahead of its July release. Today Christine speaks to the heart of the story and how being Cherokee has shaped her life.
Raven possesses magical powers in the kitchen.
by AJ Eversole
Today I get to chat with author Karina Iceberg. Her debut picture book, A Good Hide, illustrated by Natasha Donovan (Heartdrum, 2026), is about what happens after the moose hunt, when community comes together to celebrate the sustenance the animal provides. In a starred review,
Continue Reading Author Interview: Karina Iceberg Celebrates Community Connection in A Good Hide »
Cynsations is celebrating its 20th anniversary by switching to a quarterly publishing schedule, featuring in-depth interviews and articles. Thank you for your ongoing support and enthusiasm!
Today we’re welcoming author Ritu Hemnani to Cynsations to discuss her path to publication and the role her family history plays in her middle grade novel in verse,