CHESTER, VA May 2008–Apollo House Press, announced the arrival of a new novel by R. A. Baker—"Rayna of Nightwind". A spokesman for Apollo House Press stated that "Rayna of Nightwind" is a fresh take on traditional fantasy, with strong science fiction undertones. With the commercial success of the Harry Potter novels, and movies like The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars, there is little doubt of sci-fi and fantasy’s appeal. With fantasy and science fiction being such hot topics, Apollo House Press is confident that Rayna of Nightwind will find a favorable audience with many readers. Having put out a book with a gripping plot, filled with detailed narrative, and compelling characters, the publisher may very well be right. The novel presents an unusual but appealing combination of themes, involving—kingdom wars, knife and swordplay, outcast scientists, psychic-powered mages, genetic manipulation, and mutant monsters—just to name a few.

Author, R. A. Baker adds, “I think readers will really enjoy the book. It’s the first in a series of novels set in the same world.” When asked what separates "Rayna of Nightwind" from similar tales, Baker replied, “My novel is unique in that it balances action, storytelling, and romance better than the average fantasy novel. I think that makes for a far more satisfying story.” Baker also noted that his new book features a strong female main character—something still relatively uncommon in fantasy and sci-fi literature. The protagonist, Rayna Powell, is a recent science graduate who suddenly finds herself in the strange world of Taren, where science is mocked and magic is seemingly everywhere. “Rayna has to come to terms with a culture that is uncomfortably alien from the one she left,” Baker says. “She has to overcome this culture shock, and avoid the many deadly dangers of Taren at the same time. In a way, Taren represents the unknown and the different. How Rayna handles her situation tells us a lot about her.”

With so many publishers offering their own fantasy and sci-fi versions, Apollo House Press appears determined to stand out from the crowd. The next planned book in the Taren series, "Beyond Irel’s Band" is currently in the works. Apollo House Press is an independent publisher of science fiction and fantasy books, based in Virginia. "Rayna of Nightwind" is published by Apollo House press, and is available in bookstores and online sites, including Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com. Books may also be ordered via Apollo House Press website: Click here

Rayna of Nightwind
Hardcover: 328 pages
Publisher: Apollo House Press
ISBN-10: 0978751876
ISBN-13: 978-0978751876