The Magic Islands - The exciting new book is available NOW!

Stephen Bell releases his next major book - The Magic Islands

(PRWEB) March 8, 2004 --The Magic Islands - the exciting new fantasy book from iUniverse is now on release worldwide.

The fantastic tale of magic and mystery set amongst long forgotten enchanted islands is sure to thrill both children and adults alike. It is the first in a trilogy set for release over the next 3 years.

The inspiration for the book comes from many years of reading fantasy authors such as Tolkien and more recently J.K.Rowling," says the author Stephen Bell. My love of fantasy was combined with my passion for a group of beautiful volcanic islands off the north coast of Sicily -- The Eolian islands. They evoked a magic in me since the day I visited them and they inspired the book."

Marcus, the main character in the book is brought into the adventure by the mysterious Falzar, one of the great Northern Wizards. He journeys beyond the edge of the great fog and is catapulted into an ancient prophecy.

The book is a collage of all the books Ive ever read. Its pieced from Greek myths, Nordic folklore and a wealth of fantasy literature. It even takes inspiration from greats like Treasure Island," Stephen smiles. The aim is just to create a memorable world where the readers can enjoy a good old fashioned adventure."

The book was definitely written with a commercial aspect in mind, its a labor of love but also being a long time marketing professional the author has written the book with sales in mind.

Commercial? Absolutely! Ive very carefully constructed the book to be commercially attractive. Its written to attract movie rights and the characters, locations and monsters are all carefully thought out to provide mass merchandising opportunities," Stephen says. I think its naïve not to consider the commercial impact in todays multimedia consumerist world."

There are plans for two further sequels and a major prequel, however the story plots are a fiercely guarded secret by the author.

The entire story has been planned from the outset, the adventure continues for two more books with a host of new and exciting characters plus some very different locations. Id like to tell you the story but then... Id have to kill you," he laughs. I think the book Im most waiting to write is the prequel. This is intended to be my attempt at a Lord of The Rings. It will be much grander and darker with a major political message within. Again I wont give anything away but I will say it will be much more adult orientated."

Already the book has a backorder as fans queue to join the next big fantasy ride.

The first book is available now from all major online bookstores and can be ordered through all good bookshops : ISBN 0-595-30336-6
Full details are on the website www.themagicislands.com