O'Hara resident's upcoming book delves into history, science, Greek mythology

Oncology nurse-turned-author Danielle Ancona will take readers on an ethereal journey through history, science and Greek mythology in her upcoming release, “By Immortal Honor Bound.”

It is the first book in the O’Hara resident’s “Of Alchemy & Angels” series and is due out Nov. 4.

“My hope is this book will be a ride through time for readers which will prove to be as much fun as (Kennywood’s) The Phantom’s Revenge — or at least close,” said Ancona, a self-described proud Yinzer.

Ancona will share excerpts from the book at 7 p.m. Friday via Zoom. Pre-order royalties will benefit the Cancer Caring Center with coupon code CCARINGC at kyanitepublishing.com.

To register for the remote discussion, email cancercaringpgh@gmail.com.

A Lower Valley resident for 20 years, Ancona said she has always had a passion for writing and decided now was the time to jump in.

“I decided I just needed to do it, if I were ever going to,” she said. “I am a young 54 and a bicycle trail enthusiast, but still 54.”

During research for the historical fantasy/fiction/romance series, Ancona stumbled on a 16^th century alchemist name Paracelsus who established the role of chemistry in medicine.

Paracelsus investigated dosing and toxicology and derived effective treatments and scientific methodology.

“Being in oncology, I am passionate about these things,” Ancona said. “I am also passionate about the ethereal, spiritual side of our world and weave this through my story.”

The tale stretches from the time of Plato and Socrates to Aristotle’s relationship with Alexander the Great.

There are accurate historical events which provide challenges to her characters and their philosophies.

Ancona said she took a deliberate deep dive into the lives of women in science, from Mary the Jewess, the first known Western alchemist, to female innovators through modern times.

Editor Claire Copland of Scribbles Author Services has helped Ancona with the story and called it a fascinating mix of fantasy, history, alchemy, romance and science.

“What I have always personally loved about reading is the ability to be transported through words to another time/place/life, and in no genre is this more impressive to achieve than in the realms of the paranormal and fantasy,” Copland said. “It is a gift to be able to build a world in your mind’s eye and then take others along with you.”

Ancona said she hopes the book provides an escape from the current world into a compelling adventure.

“It has been a challenge to balance writing, full-time work and my family but since I am fortunate enough to be passionate about all three, it’s been easier to push through and make it all happen,” she said.

“I have supportive writing friends who are hilarious and make me pick myself up when I hit a wall and think I can’t do this any more.”

The sequel, “Dante’s Fire,” is due out Feb. 2, 2022.

Follow Ancona on Instagram at Danielleancona66 or on Twitter @anconadanielle.