FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Why is The Winds of Asharra vol 1 so long? (600
pages)
Although we could have split volume 1 into two books, we
decided against this due to the nature of the increasingly
complex events which happen to the main characters as the
story progresses. We understand that it increased the cost
of the book but we felt it was better than splitting it in
half and releasing the second half many months later. This
way, WOA fans don't have to wait!
2. Why does the story focus so much on the culture and beliefs of the Asharrans?
WOA can be considered not only an entertaining piece of fantasy fiction, but also a fable for readers with a decidedly New Age orientation. The culture and beliefs of the Asharrans, and the world of Asharra itself is as much a central character as any of the "flesh and blood" beings depicted. It's a cosmic parable of sorts for modern mystics as well as an unusual piece of fantasy fiction. The Winds of Asharra is many things.
3. Is
WOA a New Age philosophy-inspired Adventure, a Fantasy or a Romance?
It's all of them and that is both a positive and a negative.
Bookstores (and some readers) like rigid classifications
and that can sometimes make it difficult for booksellers,
reviewers and even librarians to classify. However, the Winds of Asharra has at its heart, a complex and positive New Age culture and philosophy. The World of Asharra and its beliefs and traditions are unlike anything in modern Western society. It's a strange and alluring world, the perfect setting for a bold adventure. The story of Victor, Zoe, Ionera and the rest is as much a journey of self discovery as a traditional thriller. With elements of fantasy and romance, it is quite accurate to label WOA as belonging in those genres. Yet, The Winds of Asharra is much more than that. Through Victor and Zoe's eyes, the reader explores the land of the purple sky and a strange and wonderful culture and its rich belief system. New Age readers, already receptive to creative concepts deemed unconventional by Western standards, will find the Winds of Asharra to be a fable for tomorrow's generation. How can we be natural and mystical and in Asharran terms, "true"?? The storyline depicted in WOA is a path that we all can follow since Asharra (in our definition) literally means "the home all around us." It's a story for the head as well as the heart. It's a myth for a New Age.
4. Why
should I help? What can I do?
The Winds of Asharra is genre shattering and trailblazing
in terms of content and style. It takes
risks and presents topics not often covered in these
genres. It interweaves Asharran philosophy and culture into the story,
offering the reader another perspective of the Universe. As
the characters suggest, anyone can be Asharran. Maybe you
already are! WOA is definitely different and unashamed to
say so. It is New Age fantasy fiction, a modern myth.
Assuming the Winds of Asharra made you smile, think or
laugh, you can help by spreading the word. Post a review on Amazon or elsewhere, or ask your local bookstore or library to carry it. WOA is not for everyone and some larger publishers were baffled by it due to rigid
definitions. Please help the Winds of Asharra reach its
audience. New Age fiction is a rare breed, and we desperately need your help and support to allow this positive fable of a non Western peaceful and natural perspective on life to reach its intended audience. If your worldview is decidedly New Age oriented and you found yourself cheering on Victor and Zoe or wishing that you could visit Asharra, you are already Asharran as far as we are concerned. Together we can make a difference. Asharra was written for you and is always available to be your Home. Please spread the word and show the "conventional world" that something new is
possible. Help us be carried along by the Winds of
Asharra!!! Finally, there is a fable just for us. In true Asharran style, help us welcome others home, to Asharra ...
Author R. Leigh is a mystery to
local neighbors, appearing enigmatic and ageless, and
wearing an ever present red crystal pendant. Some have
guessed this author's secret other-worldly origin,
speculating that the tales of Asharra might somehow be
true. Outskirts Press does not confirm this and will
not comment on rumors that the manuscript for this
novel appeared in their offices out of nowhere. We urge
you to read this book and decide for yourself.
