Welcome to Olympus, where the Muses of Greek Mythology are charged with the responsibility of discovering, inspiring, and guiding the young incarnations of legends past until they once again take the form of greatness.

Embark on an enchanting journey through Architects of Illusion (Echoes of Olympus, #1), a YA fantasy novel series inspired by my backyard neighbors, Biltmore Estate, in honor of George Vanderbilt‘s extraordinary legacy. 

Join me, and a cast of brilliant film composers, as we awaken your imagination to the magic of the mountains during this year’s international A to Z Challenge (representing #TeamDamyanti).

▶ For a detailed PHOTO TOUR of Biltmore Estate, including the fourth floor observatory, click HERE!  Want to read more? Visit my A to Z “Sneak Peeks” page!

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Observatory

IT WASN’T the stunning celestial ceiling that drew my eye from the fourth floor balcony of Olympus, nor the breathtaking horizon that soared and sank where the sky met the mountains. It was the sprawling green below, peppered with exceptional people doing extraordinary things.

“Something special lives and breathes in each soul that swims in this sea of colors and cultures, regardless of their cover,” Calliope whispered beside me, her eyes, one gold, the other cerulean, swelled with pride. “There’s nothing average about what they’re capable of creating–their potential for greatness.”

I couldn’t help wonder why I was there. I felt utterly average, and more than a little intimidated. I was surrounded by the incarnations of legends who showed obvious skill. I could make a mean pancake and open sealed lids without assistance.

“The ballet dancer gliding across the lawn, there by the fountain,” the Muse pointed out a graceful girl with choppy chocolate hair. “Terpsichore found her in the Philippines a year ago. She once wore the pointe shoes of Anna Pavlova, yet she doesn’t think herself beautiful.”

Calliope leaned over the stone ledge, a curtain of coal falling across her sun-kissed face. “See the young boy on the steps, the one humming?” I followed her gaze and nodded. “We discovered him in India four years ago. He has the inherent musicality of Tchaikovsky, yet lacks the courage to perform before an audience.”

She gestured towards a ginger-haired boy bringing to life an enchanted forest with each vibrant brush stroke. “He once wielded the hand of Leonardo da Vinci, and though his skill is unrivaled, even in this life, he struggles with acceptance.”

Calliope tilted her head, considering me thoughtfully. “Believing in yourself is never easy. But, trusting who you are–who you’re meant to be–is the only way to truly live. Don’t waste this life on doubt.”

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© 2014 Samantha Redstreake Geary

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PHENOMENA’s EPIC HEROES CONTEST

Calling all WRITERS & ARTISTS

Create an original superhero for a chance to be PUBLISHED in an audiomachine ebook!

Open APRIL 15th through MAY 15th.