My debut novel, The Monarchs, published through Koehler Books, is now available to order from major retailers! This is a book that can be enjoyed by a wide audience, particularly those interested in metaphysics and the potentials of consciousness—including psychic abilities—filled with riveting action, romance, humor, music, as well as uplifting spiritual wisdom.
See below for a description of the book and order links.
The eyes are the windows to the universe, if one knows how to look. For a select group of extraordinary children, this has never been more apparent.
Born into a world ravaged by war, Samuel Helen is among the first in a wave of “new youth” children who possess abnormally large eyes and breathtaking psychic abilities. But Samuel’s powerful telekinesis cannot be managed by the team of scientists at General George Mabus’s military facility. He finds his only solace in his sessions with his wise tutor, Walter, who introduces him to music and philosophy, and his cherished weekly visits with an ordinary orphan girl, Evelyn, in the neighboring village.
When a twist of fate sends Samuel and Evelyn into uncharted territory, Samuel is forced to confront dark shadows from his past in order to unlock the deepest wells of his psyche, even the universe itself, and discover deep spiritual truths while harnessing his abilities—and facing off with vengeful enemies.
He soon realizes that he is part of something much greater than he could have ever imagined . . .
Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/Monarchs-Mark-Sabbas/dp/B0CYW39XGT/
B&N – https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-monarchs-mark-sabbas/1145160932
Indie Bound – https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-monarchs-mark-sabbas/21293667
Goodreads Page – https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/212343438-the-monarchs
For more information about the creative process behind my writing, please refer to the blog post “My Debut Novel, Creativity, and The Question of Identity.”
Customer reviews are appreciated! I hope you enjoy.
What People Are Saying
“A thought-provoking and spiritual dystopian quest.” -Kirkus Reviews (link)
“The story’s real power is in its extensive philosophical and spiritual threads . . . The smooth blend of philosophical, spiritual, and musical elements make this a unique read. The novel is highly recommended for those who gravitate towards deep existential themes.” -BlueInk Reviews (link)
“Elevated by debut author Mark Sabbas’s infectious passion for music, philosophy, and matters of the spirit, The Monarchs delivers an uplifting, vividly imagined tale of human potential and the unifying power of empathy and love . . . this is an engaging and moving hero’s journey.” -IndieReader (link) (author interview)
“Mark Sabbas’ The Monarchs is pure and powerful. He’s crafted an unforgettable page-turning novel featuring fascinating characters who live in a vividly described world that I could clearly see in my mind’s eye. A must-read for fiction enthusiasts of all ages!” -Natacha Belair, Award-Winning Author of A Stellar Purpose trilogy
“Steeped in fantasy, this is an action-packed romp through time and space. Suitable for the YA market, due to its fantastical elements, the book has echoes of the Harry Potter books and could be easily made into a TV series along the lines of His Dark Materials.” -Madison Brightwell, Amazon Best-Selling Author of The World Beyond the Redbud Tree
“Mark Sabbas’ The Monarchs is a mesmerizing tale set in a chaotic yet magical and spiritual futuristic dystopia. The book offers an intense emotional and mental journey unlike any other. Samuel’s reflections and dreams seamlessly blend with reality in a mind-bending narrative that keeps readers guessing from start to finish. The Monarchs is filled with brilliant surprises and compelling clues . . . From rich stories of past destructions to a deadly rebellious group and dystopian tyrants experimenting on children, Sabbas creates a vivid and immersive universe . . .The Monarchs offers a thrilling adventure that excellently blends magic, danger, and love.” – Literary Titan ★★★★★ (link) (author interview)
“The Monarchs is an epic, immersive, fantasy fiction novel, by debut author Mark Sabbas. Set in the not too distant future, Sabbas transports readers to a harrowing dystopian world where children are incarcerated to weaponize their telekinetic powers. With a unique blend of science fiction, fantasy and mysticism, Sabbas has created a unique futuristic world, full of action and memorable characters. Social commentary and contemporary references give this magical story an element of realism. A stand-out debut novel by Mark Sabbas. Beautifully written, with incredible world building and unforgettable characters, this book will appeal to readers of science fiction and fantasy of all ages.” – Readers’ Choice Book Awards ★★★★★ (link)
“Sabbas skillfully blends science fiction with deep philosophical themes in a novel that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally impactful. The intricate world-building immerses readers in a dystopian future that feels both eerie and plausible, with vivid descriptions that make the setting come alive . . . I found myself deeply engrossed in Samuel’s journey, not just for the exciting plot developments, but for the thought-provoking questions it raised about our own potential and the responsibilities that come with great power. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend The Monarchs to science fiction fans who appreciate a story that pushes the boundaries of the genre and offers a rich, philosophical exploration of what it means to be human in a world of extraordinary abilities.” – Readers’ Favorite ★★★★★ (link)
“The Monarchs by Mark Sabbas is a thought-provoking and spiritual dystopian novel that takes readers on a deep, introspective journey. . . . Science fiction blends seamlessly with elements of philosophical and spiritual elements as the narrative unfolds into a quest for inner peace. . . . The imagined world Sabbas creates is richly drawn with settings and characters that are both relatable and otherworldly. The writing is at times lyrical with Sabbas’s passion for spirituality shining through . . . Fans of dystopian fiction and stories that explore the intersection of science, spirituality, and human emotion, will thoroughly enjoy this memorable, page-turning novel. With echoes of classics like “His Dark Materials” and Harry Potter, it is a story that will resonate with readers of all ages, making them reflect on their own potential and the strength found in unity and compassion.” -Reader Views ★★★★★ (link)
“The Monarchs shows a world on the precipice of great change. On one side are the old paradigms of violent dominance, perpetuated by both the Union military and the Children of the Dragon. On the other stands a vision of community and mutual understanding—an enlightened age rising from the ashes. This isn’t a battle that can be won by force, but rather through radical forgiveness and communion with the divinity inside every soul. Through music, out-of-body visions, and meditative dreams, The Monarchs engages with philosophy and spirituality. . . . The Monarchs is a story of forgiveness, hope, and the power of love freely given.” -Chanticleer Book Reviews ★★★★★ (link)
“Sabbas’ world-building is evocative, with vivid descriptions of bombed-out cities and forests that feel equally magical. His philosophical and spiritual musings weave naturally through the narrative, with references to Plato, Descartes, and Christian theology adding depth and meaning to the adventure. Musical references, from Fleetwood Mac to Bob Dylan, give the novel an almost lyrical quality, grounding its heavy themes in cultural touchstones. . . the book’s intricate symbolism and thought-provoking themes make it a worthwhile read. Sabbas’ universe is one readers will want to explore beyond this first story. Fans of deep, existential science fiction with a spiritual bent will find much to appreciate in this novel.” -American Writing Awards (link)
“Mark Sabbas’s book packs enough compelling elements to captivate readers from the very first chapter. As the story unfolds, it only grows more engaging. From exquisite futuristic world-building to a deep, intense love story, raw and brutal action sequences, and thought-provoking themes, the book offers a rich narrative tapestry. Alongside these, the author delves into complex human dynamics, highlighting bonds that feel both real and meaningful. . . . These personal connections add a sweet, soulful flavor to the otherwise action-packed narrative, enriching the overall experience and making The Monarchs a truly unforgettable read. . . . The amalgamation of action, emotion, and spiritual and philosophical commentary makes The Monarchs a gripping and highly recommended novel.” -Pacific Book Review ★★★★★ (link)
“The Monarchs, by Mark Sabbas, is one of the loveliest books that I have read in quite some time. The author takes readers on a spiritual and thought-provoking adventure filled with magic, peril, and so much love that you cannot help but feel good as you read the final page. . . . The Monarchs is an amazing story that is incredibly well-written. Mark Sabbas is able to create so many amazing worlds in the story and the writing is so descriptive that readers will feel as if they are actually there. . . . There is really nothing about this book that will not be loved by adults and teens alike. . . . There are very few books out there that can be considered truly beautiful and it is a pure joy to actually find one. The Monarchs is just such a book and following the characters on their journey is something that will make every reader feel good.” -Feathered Quill Book Reviews (link) (author interview)
“Stunning in its messaging and epic in scale, The Monarchs is a remarkable work of visionary science fiction. Both an action-packed fantasy and a mind-bending exploration outside our accepted bounds of reality, this is a deeply intriguing read. The action sequences are gritty and visceral bouts of psychic whips and invisible blows, and the intensity of these scenes is palpable, not to mention the hard-edged narration throughout. Brilliant and multifaceted, with a broad appeal to sci-fi and visionary fantasy readers, this heady and entertaining novel will leave anyone changed by the end.” -Self-Publishing Review ★★★★★ (link)
Awards and Recognitions
Listed in LA Weekly’s “Best Indie Books For Spring”
Recommended/Featured in the July 1st, 2024 issue of Kirkus Reviews Magazine (link)
Featured in Chanticleer Book Reviews 2025 Shelley Awards Spotlight for Paranormal Fiction (link)
Named as part of IndieReader’s “Best Reviewed Books of May” (link) (check out my IndieReader author interview!)
Winner in American Book Fest’s 2024 American Fiction Awards in the category of New Age Fiction and Finalist in two other categories (link)
Winner in the 2024 International Firebird Book Awards in the categories of Science Fiction and Dystopian (link) (check out my radio interview with Pat Rullo!)
Winner of Literary Titan Gold Book Award: Fiction (link) (see my author interview here)
Winner of International Impact Book Award in the categories of Science Fiction/Fantasy and Young Adult Fiction (link)
Winner of 2024 NYC Big Book Award in the category of Visionary Fiction (link)
Winner of 2025 Independent Press Award in the category of Visionary Fiction (link)
Winner of The BookFest First Place Award in Supernatural Fiction and Young Adult Science Fiction (link)
Winner of the 2024 American Writing Awards in the category of New Age Fiction (link)
Winner of the Readers’ Choice Book Awards Bronze Medal for Best Teen Book (link)
Winner of the 2025 Feathered Quill Book Awards Bronze Medal for Debut Author (link)
Winner of the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards Silver Medal for Young Adult Fiction (link)
Winner of the 2025 National Indie Excellence Award for New Age Fiction (link)
Winner of the 2025 Best Indie Book Award for Visionary Fiction (link)
Page Turner Book Awards Finalist (link)
American Book Fest’s Best Book Awards 2024 Finalist (link)
American Book Fest’s International Book Awards 2025 Finalist (link)
Chanticleer International CYGNUS Awards for Science Fiction Semi-Finalist (link)
Independent Author Network 2024 Book of the Year Finalist for Outstanding Spiritual Fiction (link)
Pacific Book Awards 2025 Finalist/Runner-Up for Best Paranormal (link)
Storytrade Book Awards 2025 Finalist in Paranormal/Supernatural Fiction (link)
Royal Dragonfly Award 2024 Honorable Mention in Science Fiction/Fantasy and New Author: Fiction (link)
Reader Views 2024 Book Award Finalist in Science Fiction and Fantasy (link)
Readers’ Favorite Book Awards 2025 Honorable Mention in Fiction – Supernatural (link)
Self-Publishing Review 2024 Book Award Finalist (link)
Interview Links
Speak Up Talk Radio Firebird Book Award Interview with Pat Rullo (link)
IndieReader Interview: Follow Your Passion and Calling at any Cost (link)
Reader’s House Magazine UK Interview (link)
Literary Titan Interview: Dreamlike Nature of Reality (link)
Author Interview with Literary Titan
The Monarchs follows a teenage boy with unique psychic abilities living in a laboratory who escapes and goes on the run with an ordinary orphan girl. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
This is a good question, as it is often difficult to discern the source of the inspiration. The original idea for The Monarchs came to me all the way back in 2014 during a senior year of college spring break beach trip. At the time I was questioning what I wanted to do with my life (having chosen philosophy as one of my majors) and was searching inward for answers. My own process of spiritual awakening, questioning the nature of reality, and exploring the potentials of consciousness through modalities such as lucid dreaming were obvious inspirations for this novel and are reflected in Samuel’s journey.
Moreover, I’ve always been fascinated with psi phenomena and the possibility of supernormal abilities. Even as a kid, I was obsessed with the movie Matilda—about a young girl who could move objects with her mind—and the X-Men series. Eventually, I came across the concept of indigo children which reignited my interest in supernatural abilities—as well as a possible shift in human evolution—and inspired the idea for “new youth” children. Music was another big inspiration, particularly M83’s “Midnight City” music video, which shows psychic kids being tested at a facility. Only later when I researched the Montauk Project, which the show Stranger Things is based on, did I understand that this might be more of a reality than most people realize.
One point I’d like to add is that although the novel may be taken literally (a teenage boy with psychic powers escaping a facility), from another perspective, it may be interpreted as an allegory for spiritual awakening and enlightenment. The opening scene, which is very dreamlike in nature, shows Samuel attempting to escape the laboratory complex with no end in sight. This represents the endless maze of the thinking mind, the dream of the egoic personality which many teachers and mystics insist that we must awaken from. Luna hints to this later in the novel when teaching Samuel how to meditate: “Beyond the thinking mind, escaping its never-ending labyrinth of illusion, there exists a force infinitely more intelligent.”
From there ensues a hero’s journey which forces Samuel out of his comfort zone, leading him to confront his shadow, learn through challenges, and awaken to his essential oneness with God (or, using an analogy of a book, oneness with the author and all other characters). This culminates with him breaking out of character and transcending the strings of time—symbolizing cutting the cords to his past and dying to his time-based egoic self. The evolution and awakening of Evelyn from her coma also represent that of the earth and humanity as a whole. This novel is loaded with symbolism and synchronicity, and although I left several things up to interpretation, there are many Easter eggs and hidden surprises that readers may not immediately pick up on.
The writing in your story is very artful and creative. Was it a conscious effort to create a story in this fashion or is this style of writing reflective of your writing style in general?
Thank you for the kind words. Because music is a central theme (and I often used lyrics from popular songs in the dialogue), in general I did try to make the writing more lyrical and poetic, allowing the sentences to flow in a smooth manner. I wanted my writing to be affecting to the reader, instilled at points with uplifting wisdom, while being careful not to sound verbose or pretentious. Truthfully, because this is my first novel, it took me a while to find my writing style, and it is still a learning process. It took a leap of faith, and years of trial and error, to trust the ideas that came to me and discover how to put them together into a coherently written story. My editors were also a big help. I am grateful for the journey.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Beginning with Samuel’s conversations with his wise tutor, Walter, and expounded on thereafter, this novel explores several philosophical and metaphysical themes, including the existence of God, free will versus predeterminism, human evolution, planetary ascension, and the dreamlike nature of reality. Before embarking on his hero’s journey, Samuel tells Walter that he feels he has no control over his own destiny—that he is trapped like a puppet on a prewritten path. Here and at points throughout the book, we see Samuel developing a sort of metacognition of being a character in a novel—one who indeed is on a path that is already written, yet strives for free will.
Samuel must reconcile this paradox with the ultimate realization of his essential oneness with God (again, oneness with myself as the author). There is no separation between me, him, and all other characters; it is simply an illusion, a game of “one consciousness interacting with itself.” From this highest level, beyond the conditioned limitations of the egoic personality and into God or “author” consciousness, Samuel comprehends that he does have free will, as in a sense he has “written all of it.” His identity as the small, helpless, separate character dissipates as he attunes to the power to write his own destiny. He dies to his old self and is reborn as a Monarch, a symbol of personal sovereignty and spiritual transformation.
As previously mentioned, music is a central theme, as is the idea that we are living in a musical universe, or the view that “all things could be expressed through vibration, sound, and geometry.” To compliment this theme, many song lyrics are quoted in the book, some explicitly referenced, and others hidden in the dialogue. Samuel gradually picks up on the fact that there is music all around him—that his consciousness is but one note in a cosmic symphony. I had to receive print license permissions for 24 different songs to be included in the novel, from artists ranging from The Beatles to Fleetwood Mac to Jimi Hendrix to The Flaming Lips. This was a journey in itself, but it was worth it to preserve the musical element. Some song references may contain hidden clues pertaining to the story when interpreted correctly.
The book is not without darker themes, including the perpetual cycles of human war and division, government corruption and secret experimentation (some researchers have spoken of “Monarch” mind control programming, which is the lesser-known negative connotation to the symbol). Although another human division is introduced in the book, between the larger-eyed “new youth” and the “ordinary” people and children, the ultimate theme I strove to emphasize is that only through unconditional love, acceptance, empathy, and forgiveness can we truly heal our planet and transcend the influences that have long kept us divided.
As the sagacious Leon puts it, “We are but dream characters in the mind of God, striving for Self-realization, though only a select few may consciously remember this. Most identify entirely with their egos, and this generates great inner conflict.” We all have a choice to stay stuck in our characters, our narrow ego identities trapped in the game of duality and separation, or strive toward something higher—a deeper connection with ourselves, with nature, and with all other beings. Taking this path requires a leap of faith into the unknown, opening our hearts and allowing a greater intelligence to guide us through life, which is one of Samuel’s main lessons.
I find a problem in well-written stories in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?
Another great question. During most of my time writing The Monarchs, I didn’t plan for there to be a second book. Yet as my first editor told me, this story is almost too big to contain in just one book. I now realize that it is meant to be a trilogy, and I have already (albeit very loosely) outlined the story for books 2 and 3. I’m not going to give it away, but it will be done in a way that plays with time, lending a chance to fill in more of Samuel’s backstory, his time at the Facility, and the world in general, while also pointing toward an incredible future destiny.
Books 2 and 3 will further explore mind-bending themes such as the multidimensional nature of self, extraterrestrial life, other incarnational existences, and even other timelines. I’m excited to expand on this story, and I will continue to trust what comes to me. Stay tuned and thank you for the support.
Author Interview with Feathered Quill
Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Kathy Stickles is talking with Mark Sabbas, author of The Monarchs.
FQ: I must say that this is one of the most beautiful stories I have read in quite some time and I highly recommend it to everyone. Where did the idea for this story come from?
SABBAS: Thank you so much for the kind words. I am so glad that you enjoyed the novel. Regarding where the idea “came from,” this is a good question; artists and writers have long pondered the source of their thoughts and inspiration.
The initial idea for The Monarchs came to me all the way back in 2014, during a senior year of college spring break beach trip. I was about to graduate with a philosophy degree and was wondering what I truly wanted to do with my life. At the time, my interest in spirituality and mysticism was burgeoning, which had a large impact on the story. I was also inspired by the idea of “Indigo Children”; this supposed new wave of children with advanced psychic abilities, an obvious parallel to the “new youth” in the novel.
Truthfully, I’ve always been interested in the extraordinary and unexplained. I’ve been drawn to supernormal phenomena ever since I watched Matilda unlock her telekinesis when I was a child, and pour a bowl of cheerios with her mind. So, is this where the story came from? Who knows. But it came regardless, and I felt a strong urge to express it creatively. Yet timing is also important, and I ended up putting the idea on hold for several years until finally, a full decade after the idea first came, the book was physically manifested.
FQ: Samuel is an excellent character and the way you write really shows him to the reader as a strong, albeit confused, man who is searching for better in his life. Is the character of Samuel based on anyone you know or a complete invention?
SABBAS: Thank you again. Samuel is based entirely on my own experience, when I was experimented on by the military for my telekinesis. Just kidding. But there are definitely some aspects of my experience that made it into Samuel’s character, such as his interest in music, meditation, and lucid dreaming.
Otherwise, Samuel very much follows the collective archetype of the hero’s journey. He is a well-intentioned yet flawed protagonist who struggles to overcome his traumatic past. Yet through a journey of self-love, healing, learning, and forgiveness, he unlocks his true power and discovers a version of himself that he didn’t know existed.
Samuel, at the height of his journey, is a reflection of humanity’s potential and all that we are destined to become. In a way, his quest is one of “breaking out” of character—of the small, egoic personality—and attuning to a transcendent consciousness of oneness with God (or, using a book analogy, oneness with the author) that binds him with all others.
FQ: While I loved all of the characters in the story, I will admit that I particularly enjoyed Luna and all the different facets of the character. I know this question is like asking if you have a favorite child, but do you have a favorite among the amazing group of characters you created in this book?
SABBAS: That is a tough question! I’m not sure if I can (or should) answer. However, I would definitely say Luna is the most complex character—eccentric, brilliant, playful, powerful, and yet deliberately mysterious, keeping readers guessing of her true intentions up until the very end. Indeed, she has many different aspects to her that I enjoyed exploring.
I’m fond of Noah, who is gifted and purehearted. Sangeetha, the healer, whose name means “music.” Walter and Leon, who personify wisdom. Ezra and Sidney, for their love and amicability. And, of course, Samuel, the hero of the story. You’re right, I cannot choose a favorite! Even the “darker” characters I enjoyed writing dialogue for, particularly Matteo, who embodies Samuel’s shadow aspect—what he could become if he did not heal his trauma.
FQ: Is there anything you have experienced in your life that made you choose to go in this spiritual direction for your first novel as opposed to writing a mystery or another genre instead?
SABBAS: My spiritual practice is very important to me, having used modalities such as meditation, Qigong, plant medicine, and lucid dreaming. We are all spiritual beings, even if we don’t realize it. Science is only now recognizing the fundamentality, universality, and non-locality of consciousness, which mystics and sages have spoken about for millennia.
It was always my intention to write a novel that carries a deeper spiritual message, conveying wisdom that can truly help others. I also wanted to use this philosophy of consciousness to explain the scientific basis for the characters’ psychic abilities (anything from telekinesis to telepathy to astral projection to remote viewing). As more and more people awaken to these subjects, they will be drawn toward art and entertainment that contain spiritual messages.
Ultimately, the entire story of The Monarchs can be interpreted as an allegory for spiritual awakening (such as Plato’s Allegory of the Cave, which is referenced in the novel), from Samuel attempting to escape the labs at the beginning (what Luna refers to as the “never-ending labyrinth” of the thinking mind) to transcending his ego identity and “breaking the strings” of time. After all, the book’s central symbol is a Monarch butterfly, which represents enlightenment and transformation.
FQ: Can you tell us what will come next for Samuel and the other characters? Is there a sequel in the works?
SABBAS: Great question! Although The Monarchs stands well on its own, I plan to make it the first book in a trilogy. The second and third books will continue exploring metaphysical themes such as the nature of time, and will be written in a way that lends more backstory to Samuel’s life, his time at the Facility, and the world in general, while pointing toward an amazing future destiny.
The sequels will further explore mind-bending concepts such as parallel lifetimes, reincarnation, time travel, extraterrestrial life, and the future evolution of Earth and humanity. Stay tuned. I’m excited to expand on this story.
FQ: The novel is definitely big on magic and danger but also very big on self-awareness and spiritual learning. How much research was involved and how much time was put into it? I am just wondering if once the idea hit you, how difficult was it to get it onto the paper?
SABBAS: It was my intent for the plot to be entertaining and action-packed yet therapeutic and spiritual at the same time, so I’m glad this was recognized. There was a lot of time of energy put into this book (as I’m sure every author would agree!), and much of it—as a debut novelist—was simply learning how to write a coherently written story. As previously mentioned, I put the idea on hold for several years until coming back to it around 2019 and endeavoring to write this story.
Many of the metaphysically-themed dialogues—such as Samuel’s conversations with Walter, and his meditation lessons with Luna—were based on my own spiritual practice and study of philosophy. Ironically, the research I did was for more mundane subjects, like how to harvest corn or care for a comatose person.
Music is another big theme in the novel which I enjoyed including. There are many popular songs that are either referenced explicitly or hidden in the story, and they almost always contain symbolic meaning. I had to receive print license permissions for 24 different songs to be used in the book, which was a journey in itself and delayed the release date a few months. But it was worth it in the end!
FQ: What advice would you give others who wish to set out on a new career as a writer?
SABBAS: Believe in yourself, have faith in the ideas that come to you, and express with excitement what you feel in your heart without becoming attached to outcomes or expectations. Have patience on your writing journey, and put away all fear of criticism. I was once advised by someone to show my first draft (which was quite sloppily written) to someone in the industry, and if it was not up to their standards, to not waste my time writing because I won’t make any money. I’m glad I ignored this and listened to my heart’s intuition.
With that said, I am grateful for the help I received from editors and other industry professionals—notably the team at Koehler Books, who helped clean up my manuscript and design the cover. Don’t be afraid to exhibit your work and submit it to reviewers, awards programs, and other readers; even if you receive constructive feedback, it will help you as a writer.
FQ: I am always curious when speaking with an author about the types of books and authors you enjoy reading in your spare time… if you actually have any spare time that is.
SABBAS: Like many others, I grew up reading Harry Potter and The Hunger Games, echoes of which made it into my novel. Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist is one of my favorites. I was fascinated by Blake Crouch’s Dark Matter about parallel universes. Earlier this year, I enjoyed reading A Stellar Purpose by Natacha Belair—another Award-Winning Koehler author—involving a teenage girl stumbling into an alternate dimension, and is laden with spiritual and environmental themes. James Redfield’s The Celestine Prophecy is next on my list, which is a staple of Visionary Fiction.
Evidently, I’m drawn to anything magical, mind-expanding, or with a deeper message. These days, however, I mostly read non-fiction. While writing The Monarchs, I was drawn strongly toward spiritual classics such as The Power of Now, Conversations With God, and The Law of One, among others, which definitely influenced my writing. I’m currently in the middle of Autobiography of a Yogi by Yogananda, which is a highly recommended, consciousness-expanding memoir.
FQ: Is it important for you to have a good support network when you are focused on your writing? Is your family that support for you or is it someone or something else?
SABBAS: It is essential to have a good support system. Surround yourself with people who motivate you and bring out the best version of yourself. My wife was a huge help during the writing process, and very patient and understanding of the time needed to write a novel—as were other friends and family. I would also say it is crucial to have faith in something bigger than yourself, following the guidance of your spirit and the synchronicities that the Universe sends your way.
I think we are all supported by a loving unseen, we just have to be open to it. In the words of Paulo Coelho, “when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.”
FQ: What things does Mark Sabbas enjoy doing when he is not writing or working? Any particular hobbies that you really enjoy?
SABBAS: Besides writing, I work a regular 9-5 and help out as a part-time mentor for a virtual learning center, so I’m kept pretty busy. But I find it essential to get up and exercise daily, whether it be lifting weights, playing basketball, taking a hike in nature with my dogs, or practicing Qigong. I also like to read a good book or watch a movie with my wife.
Otherwise, I enjoy exploring the metaphysical and otherworldly. Last year, I joined a remote viewing group that meets weekly and, using only a set of numbers, attempts to pick up on non-local perceptions of “blind” targets—using the same methodology developed by the US military—to quite astounding results thus far. Sometimes, when I find myself alone, I channel my inner Samuel and try to move an object with my mind (to no results thus far) but my hope is that with enough writing and character immersion, someday soon that will happen.
Nothing to Doubt Blog 