Monday, August 15, 2022

Cedric and the Golden chalice of Mercia



Matthew Noonan
Cedric and the Golden chalice of Mercia

Tell your readers a little about yourself, where you grew up, where you live now, where you went to school etc. Let them get to know the personal you.

I grew up in a small town in northern New South Wales, called Coffs Harbour. I attended a Catholic primary school and a government high school. My family always encouraged me to read, and I grew up surrounded by books, particularly historical ones. From an early age, I loved writing stories and imagined living in different historical periods, particularly ancient Rome and Greece.

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What inspired you to author this book?

I have always loved history, and after watching an animated film about an Irish monastery during Viking times, I felt inspired to write a book.

Where did you get the inspiration for your book’s cover?

I derived inspiration from images of Constantinople and historical monuments.

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Who has been the most significant influence on you personally and as a writer?

So many people and forces. Above all, my mother instilled in me a deep love of history and learning.

What were your struggles or obstacles you had to overcome to get this book written?

Loneliness, fear of not finishing, the historical details, remaining faithful to my voice.

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Tell your readers about your book.

“Cedric and the Golden Chalice of Mercia” is a YA fantasy/historical fiction novel, largely set in Constantinople in the 8th century. The narrative centers on the quest of its eponymous 16-year-old protagonist to retrieve a golden chalice from the Great Palace of Constantinople. Along the way, he meets and befriends a thief and a fiery dancing girl. There is also a raven that assists him at key points.

Who is your target audience, and why?

Although it’s described as a YA novel, I assume, or rather hope, anyone who loves history and the links between different cultures would find something of interest in the novel.

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What do you consider your greatest success in life?

Keeping up a lifelong passion for learning and history.

What one unique thing sets you apart from other writers in your genre?

Attention to historical detail and awareness of different cultures. In addition, I relish inserting details of historical periods into scenes, such as clothing, music, and food.

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