In 'Vera' First-Time Author Offers World of Fantasy in Touching New Novel

M. R. LeClere has always been fascinated with the world of fantasy. As a kid he would spend hours reading about dragons, wizards and elves. He has also written short stories about a page long. However, it was not until his daughter was born and started watching her play out in the yard that he thought of writing an entire book. Now, LeClere debuts into the publishing world with a compelling saga of love and adventure, family and friendship, inspired by his own daughter, titled Vera.

The saga follows the tale of Darrius, an old adventurer who, towards the end of his journeying career, finds an elven child in a ransacked village. He takes the child home and raises her as his own daughter, telling her stories of his youth and teaching her all the things he has learned on his travels. However, Darrius knows he will not be around forever and she will live far longer than he will. It scares him to leave her alone among other humans.

As Vera will not be safe in the world of humans, Darrius' biggest fear is that he does not have enough time to prepare her for the long, dangerous journey she must make to rejoin her own kind. She has to hide herself long enough to cross the border into the land of the Elves, but there is always the risk that she will be discovered before she returns to her homeland-the Weeping Forest. Whatever the outcome, time is the greatest adversary.

Throughout the story, readers are introduced to other interesting characters. Timble, a teenage boy from the village who grows up with and befriends Vera, also wishes to leave the village and set off on an adventure. Captain Tanner is a seasoned soldier who joins the Royal Army in hopes of achieving Honor and Valor like the heroes he grew up idolizing as a young boy. Unfortunately for him, wars and heroes are long gone.

With an inspiring lead female protagonist who is both an adventurer and a warrior-as opposed to male-dominated books like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and Twilight-coupled with society's constant need for escape into fantasy and imagination, Vera is one unique novel that both science fiction and fantasy fans will enjoy. LeClere has undoubtedly captured the essence of memorable stories and offers a most touching excerpt:

"You have grown to be a beautiful woman, Vera. It will be your worst enemy on the road. Keep yourself hidden." Vera grasped his hand in both of hers. "Father, I love you."

For more information on this book, interested parties may log on to http://www.Xlibris.com.

Vera * by M. R. LeClere
Publication Date: March 22, 2013
Trade Paperback; $19.99; 169 pages; 978-1-4836-1223-2
eBook; $3.99; 978-1-4836-1224-9