The Spark of The Key at Closing Time

Hello, fellow travelers!

I’m back to share a little more about The Living Crossroads, specifically how it all began.

If you’re a fantasy fan who loves epic adventures, appreciates authentic family relationships, even the non-traditional kind, and enjoys a touch of humor, this is for you. So grab a hot mug of Ivor’s spicy stew, or at least imagine doing so, and join me as we step through the portal where it all started.

Writing the first book felt a little like opening a portal for me.

As I mentioned before, the idea grew out of the bedtime chats I had with my daughter, Tereza. She didn’t just listen to my stories; she asked questions. One day, she asked:

“What if Mom had a magic key that could save the world?”

That question sparked the idea for Alice’s journey, a mother trading coffee mugs for cosmic battles and proving that you don’t have to be “The Chosen One” to be a hero. Of course, this mother needed a place that could serve as the heart of the story, and the Tavern of Realms became that place, with its oak paneling, glowing lanterns, and eventually the robot spiders Leo would build later in the story. And yes, there had to be spiders. My son loves them.

A lot of the smaller details in the series came from things I saw happening around me. My family gave me little pieces of inspiration that I could take, reshape, and surround with magic.

My first draft of the Key and the Tavern

One of my favorite moments is when Ivor uses his wooden spoon to chase off an intruder, shouting, “Nobody messes with my kitchen!” That blend of heart, family, adventure, and humor is exactly what I wanted to pour into every page.

The first book sets the stage by introducing Alice, Leo, the Tavern, the chaos caused by the Riftmaker, and Alice’s growing responsibility for a multiverse much larger than anything she ever imagined. It also establishes the family bonds that will continue to grow throughout the series.

So, what’s your favorite moment from The Key at Closing Time? And if you haven’t read it yet, which part of the multiverse are you most excited to discover?

Leave a comment below. I’d love to hear what you think!

Till the next rift,

Author