Author Spotlight: Interview with Benjamin Andrews

1. Quickly, give us the title and genre of your book and a 30-word or less tagline:

Rift of Askrah Book 1: Fracture

A story of loss, recovery and change spanning across an entire world. An age of peace ends, and Nihlen Draven must understand his powers to win back his homeland.

2. How did you come up with the title of your book or series?

The title was born from the main points of the overall story. The “Rift” is the division between two nations, Draven and Rinh, which occupy the island known as Askrah. In ages past within this world, Askrah was a powerful nation that has ruled over every continent. The island of Askrah was also the location of the original nation known as Askrah. After a split though, it became two nations known as Draven and Rinh. A large portion of the story is about the past of this once powerful nation entering the world once again. There is a rift between these two nations, and the world requires a king of Askrah once more.

3. Who is your favorite character from your book and why?

It's an equal toss up between the main hero Nihlen, and another main character named Marina. Nihlen is the upstanding hero, who isn't afraid to stand up for what he believes in. Many of the most passionate scenes revolve around him. For Marina, it's her personality. Writing stuff with her is fun, because she's so strong about some things, yet just as weak for others.

4. How about your least favorite character? What makes them less appealing to you?

Least favorite is probably Cal. He's surly, and prone to anger and outbursts. This is highly contradictory for my personality in real life, and that seems to translate into my feelings about this character.

5. If you could change ONE thing about your novel, what would it be? Why?

I think it would be travel time. I set the different continents pretty far apart, and have had to do some creative changes in book 2 of this series to not be hindered by it. Thankfully with imagination any problem can be overcome, but it has made certain things difficult.

6. Give us an interesting fun fact or a few about your book or series:

The Rift of Askrah series was the second book idea I ever came up with. I spent a couple years when I was a young teen writing out the outline to the first series I ever created. When I finished though, I had the idea about the Rift of Askrah series. I developed it through high school and college, and decided it would be my pilot project. I'm keeping that first series under wraps until I decide it's time to write it.

Also, I've been writing another series along with the RoA series. It's called Into the Devil's Eden. This series is a hybrid between two stories I had brief ideas for after the completion of book 1 in the RoA series. It leans more into the science fiction realm. You can learn more about the creation of this new series on my blog.

7. Do you have any unique talents or hobbies?

Since I seriously began pursuing writing, I haven't had a lot of free time for other hobbies. When I can get up the mountain I love snowboarding. I cook, do some artwork, and enjoy video games. I also write reviews for books and video games on my blog.

8. How can we contact you or find out more about your books?

You can check me out foremost on my blog: magicjarpublishing.blogspot.com

I'm also on Twitter, Facebook, and other websites. I'll save you some reading and let you know you can find them all from my blog.

Rift of Askrah Book 1: Fracture is available at:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Rift-Askrah-Book-Fracture-ebook/dp/B0059XRUJW/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1312617230&sr=1-1#_

 

9. What can we expect from you in the future?

You can expect quite a lot! With two series currently in development, and other ideas I have written down, I have no shortage of ideas for future books.

10. Do you have any tips for readers or advice for other writers trying to get published?

Whether you're taking the traditional route, or are going independent, you just have to keep at it. Give each story everything you have, and keep writing even if sales aren't there. It takes a combination of time, luck, and skill to get anywhere as a writer. A vast majority of time, it doesn't happen over night.

11. Is there anything else you’d like to say?

I'd like to thank Jenna for the interview! Also, thanks to those who read all the way to the end. I hope you enjoy this book, and all those that come after it!

12. And now, before you go, how about a snippet from your book that is meant to intrigue and tantalize us:

This is a scene from an early chapter, just after Nihlen escapes confinement. His ability, the Eye of Kings has just manifested, and he is enthralled by its power.

            “Demon!” The man shouted, taking multiple steps back. He hadn’t made a sound during the entire conversation between Nihlen and Calden. Now that Nihlen’s attention was back on him though, he was quite alive again. He brandished his sword wildly, and it shook as he held it. “Stay back monster! I will kill you if you come any closer to me!”

            Nihlen put his hand up to his eye. “I don’t know what this is. Maybe I am a monster.” He said, as a smile slowly came upon his face. “And right now, I don’t care. You shout threats at me in your desperation, that clearly you can’t accomplish. This pursuit, and the fear, end here.”

            Nihlen quickly closed the distance between himself and the man. The man screamed in fright, trying to attack Nihlen with his sword. Nihlen easily caught the man’s arm though, and in one fluid movement, he smashed his other hand into the man’s forearm, shattering it.

            “Ugh!” the man cried out, dropping his sword, and falling to his knees. He cradled his arm, crying silently to himself.

            Nihlen reached down, and picked the man up by the throat. He rose him up slowly, until he was holding him above his head. The man pulled futilely at Nihlen's hand with his remaining good one. He chocked and sputtered as he gasped for breath, but to no avail. Nihlen reached towards the man’s belt, and drew his knife.

            “Nihlen!” a voice called from behind him. “Don’t do it! Please don’t do it!”

            It was Marina. Nihlen didn’t turn around, he continued holding the man, staring up at him, knife in hand.

            “These people came after us. It is only fitting they should meet the fate they were willing to visit upon us. That is the way of the world.” Nihlen said quietly, still not turning to see her.

            “That’s not the way…” Marina said. “That’s not what you said while we rode together today! You were outraged at things like this! Talking to you, I saw you weren’t a monster! The person I was talking to today would not kill an opponent when clearly he had already won! Let that man go, let him down and let him flee! He will not come after us again!”

            Nihlen stood silently. The feeling of calm detachment began to slowly disappear as she talked to him. His self awareness was returning, and he looked around at the carnage surrounding him. His clothes were stained with blood, and bodies were all around.

            What have I done? He wondered, feeling himself slipping into shock. I knew what I was doing… But at the same time it was all a blur. Like someone else was in control…

            Nihlen soundlessly dropped the man he was holding, and turned away from him, toward Marina.

Slowly her expression changed. A look of shock and fear began to appear on her face. Just as it had with the other men. Silently she stared at him, her mouth open slightly. Then, just as Nihlen opened his mouth to say something, Marina beat him to it.

Her blood curdling scream echoed through the night.

* * *

Thank you Benjamin for taking part in my Author Spotlight interview!  I hope your writing continues to flourish and we hope to see more of you in the future.
 *****
If you or an author/illustrator you know is interested in being interviewed, feel free to send me an email at jejoescienne@yahoo.com

Author Spotlight: Interview with H.S. Stone

1.   Quickly, give us the title and genre of your book and a 30-word or less tagline:

My first novel is called "George and the Galactic Games". It's a sci-fi story for readers of all ages.

The title character, George, is a boy abducted by aliens who finds himself thrust into a series of galactic games against an alien species, with his fate in the balance.

2.   How did you come up with the title of your book or series?

I envision writing a series of books titled "George and ___". As for "Galactic Games", it made sense, and I'm a fan of alliteration!

3.   Who is your favorite character from your book and why?

My favorite character is Ralph because he always has a sense of humor, no matter the circumstances. It's a trait that I wish I had.

4.   How about your least favorite character?  What makes them less appealing to you?

My least favorite character is one of the aliens, Gargantua. Let's just say I wouldn't want to meet it in a dark alley, or even in broad daylight!

5.   If you could change ONE thing about your novel, what would it be?  Why?

When I wrote this book, I wanted to leave myself an opening for sequels. Unfortunately, what I've heard from readers is that the ending doesn't provide enough closure. Now I know what I need to improve on in my future  novels.

6.   Give us an interesting fun fact or a few about your book or series:

The idea for the book came to me in 2004 when I was watching the Athens Olympics. I wrote an outline for the story and even a one-page summary for each chapter. Those notes sat neglected in a notebook for six years before I finally turned them into a novel.

7.   Do you have any unique talents or hobbies?

When I was a kid, I was pretty good with a Rubik's Cube and placed in some local and state competitions.

8.   How can we contact you or find out more about your books?

I have a blog that I try to update every week: http://hswriting.blogspot.com/.

You can also follow me on Twitter at https://twitter.com/hswriting or email me at hsstonewriting at yahoo dot com.

9.   What can we expect from you in the future?

I just started working on my next book, which will be geared toward older readers than "George and the Galactic Games". I enjoy reading thrillers and sci-fi, both for young readers and adults, so those are the genres I'd most likely write in. And of course, one of these days, expect another "George and ___" novel!

10.   Do you have any tips for readers or advice for other writers trying to get published?

I don't know if I'm qualified to give that kind of advice, but let me pass along something I learned from people who are more qualified than myself: keep reading and writing. The best way to become a better writer is to continue reading and writing.

11.   Is there anything else you’d like to say?

Thank you for the opportunity to reach readers, and thanks to all of you readers for your support!

12.   And now, before you go, how about a snippet from your book that is meant to intrigue and tantalize us:

“George!” he heard someone shout.

“Mom?” George turned toward the direction of the voice, trying to locate its origin.

“George, where are you? Are you all right?”

“Yes, I’m fine, Mom.” He raised his head as high as his restraints allowed, but he couldn’t see her. “I can’t see you. I don’t know where you are.”

A pneumatic hissing sound interrupted him. The soft patter of feet followed, moving in the direction of his mother’s voice.

George heard his mother say, “My God, who are you? What have you done to us?” Then her voice grew louder and more hysterical. “What are you doing? No! Stop, please!” Suddenly, her shouting stopped.

“Mom!” George yelled. “What happened? Are you all right?” There was no response. Instead, George heard the feet move again, this time toward him.

* * *

Thank you H.S. for taking part in my Author Spotlight interview!  I hope your writing continues to flourish and we hope to see more of you in the future.
 *****
If you or an author/illustrator you know is interested in being interviewed, feel free to send me an email at jejoescienne@yahoo.com

The Finding Book Trailer

For the past few months I've been working on the illustrations for a book trailer for The Finding.  Well, it's finally here and you can see it on YouTube!  Whether you've read the books or not, you should definitely check it out.  Happy reading and watching!

Artist Spotlight: Interview with Danielle Eubank



Mozambique IX
60x72 inches
Oil on linen canvas
A painting of a reflection of the
fishing marina in Beira, Mozambique.



1.  Tell us a little bit about yourself: What got you interested in art?  Have you taken any art classes?

I am a full time working artist. I have a BA and MFA in Fine Art from UCLA, in Los Angeles, California.

2.  What is your preferred medium and why?

I work in pencil, charcoal, colored pencil, and oils, as well as other two dimensional media. My paintings are oil on linen.

3.  Do you have an online portfolio or a blog where we can view your work?

Please have a look at http://www.danielleeubank.com/

4.  Do you have a favorite artist?  If yes, what draws you to that person’s work?

I am a big fan of the German Expressionists, Egon Schiele and Ludwig Kirchner, as well as Henri Matisse, Richard Diebenkorn, Pablo Picasso, Gerhard Richter. These are all artists who had it all: composition, color, form, quality of line, great paint handling. I feel invigorated when I see their work. 

5.  Can you remember one of the first things you drew/sculpted/painted/photographed etc.?  What makes it memorable?

I drew a potato. I think I was three. I think it was the first time I drew something that I thought looked like "something". It made my mother laugh, so maybe it didn't look that much like a potato after all...

Phoenicia VII
36x24 inches
Oil on linen canvas
This is Phoenicia, a replica 6th century BC
boat sailing off the coast of Gibraltar.

 

6.  This being primarily an author’s blog, I would like to ask if you’ve ever designed any artwork for an author (cover image, maps, interior art - including font styles - etc.)?  Do you have a favorite genre (fantasy/sci-fi, thriller, romance etc.) you like to design for?  If not, would you be interested in designing a book cover?

I have designed quite a lot of print and online media over the years. I love working with authors. For this reason I would like to create a lot more artwork for book covers and book interiors. Most notably, I created the book cover artwork for Stephen T Harper's King's X and Amy Newlove Schroeder's Sleep Hotel.

7.  Where do you gather most of the inspiration for your works?

That's a great question, and one that is really hard to answer. Mainly I see colors, compositions, or forms in my mind then try to match those images on the canvas. I also have stacks of ideas in sketchbooks that need addressing. Everything I paint is a kind of portrait. That is to say, no matter what I paint -- people, nature, animals, I try to evoke the personality of the subject matter.

8.  Have you ever stepped out of your comfort zone and discovered a whole new genre of art?  How did it turn out?

Clients ask me for all kinds of imagery, in different kinds of styles. It's fun. Quite often I'll discover a new way of doing things or a new way of looking at something.

Phoenicia Reflection
60x72 inches
Oil on linen
A reflection of the sail of Phoenicia in Syria

9.  Do you have any other interesting hobbies or maybe a fun story about an experience involving your artwork?

In addition to my studio practice, I was an Expedition Artist on the Phoenicia, a replica of a 600 B.C. Phoenician vessel. The ship sailed from the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal, around Africa and back into the Mediterranean, completing the circumnavigation of Africa in November 2010. 

In 2004 I was invited to participate in the international Borobudur Ship Expedition. As Expedition Artist, I traveled 10,000 miles with the replica 8th century Indonesian wooden boat from Indonesia to Seychelles, Madagascar, South Africa, and Ghana, painting and drawing. The boat was of a design based on stone relief carvings found on the ancient Buddhist temple at Borobudur on the island of Java. In 2005, I was an artist-in-residence in Bali for 3 months. I was based in Ubud, a centre of traditional arts.

I have a lot of fun stories about these adventures but I cannot claim to be a good story teller. Here are three entertaining articles:

http://www.laweekly.com/2009-01-15/la-vida/painting-through-pirate-waters-danielle-eubank-expedition-artist-on-the-all-wood-phoenicia-sailing-around-africa/

http://blogs.laweekly.com/squidink/2010/11/cooking_2500_year_boat_phoenic.php

http://content.yudu.com/Library/A1ss8w/MaryleboneJournalJun/resources/24.htm



Venice IV
18x28 inches
Oil on linen canvas
A reflection in a canal in Venice, Italy



10.  Where can we reach you if we are interested in commissioning you for our own projects?

danielle@danielleeubank.com

11.  What, in your opinion, is the hardest step in creating a masterpiece?

Shutting out the noise and listening to your own instinct.

* * *

Thank you Danielle for taking part in my Artist Spotlight interview! I hope your artwork continues to flourish and we hope to see more of you in the future!

*****

If you or an author/illustrator you know is interested in being interviewed, feel free to send me an email at jejoescienne@yahoo.com

Author Spotlight: Interview with Julie Ann Dawson

1.   Quickly, give us the title and genre of your book and a 30-word or less tagline:

A Game of Blood

Paranormal Thriller

What would you do if a three-hundred year old vampire decided you would make the perfect Van Helsing to his Dracula?

2.   How did you come up with the title of your book or series?

The “game” in question refers to both the politics of the vampire court and the game of cat-and-mouse between Mitch and Darius.  Darius in particular often refers to things as a chess match, with various other characters in the book serving as different chess pieces. 

3.   Who is your favorite character from your book and why?

I equally love both Mitch and Darius, as they really are sort of flip sides of the same coin.  In some ways they are polar opposites, and yet those differences only make their similarities stand out that much more.  Mitch is rough around the edges and resorts to some rather colorful language when frustrated, but has a heart of gold.  Darius is smooth, charming, and well-spoken, and also a heartless bastard. 

4.   How about your least favorite character?  What makes them less appealing to you?

A character would not be in the book if it wasn’t interesting in some way.  I can’t say I have a least favorite character or one that is unappealing.  There are a few that need a good shaking to shake some sense into them.  There are a few that definitely deserve exactly what they get in the book.  And there are a few that I feel bad about their fates but I had to do what was best for the story.  But insofar as unappealing?  All those characters were edited out in the final draft!

5.   If you could change ONE thing about your novel, what would it be?  Why?

Well, since I am also the publisher, I can change anything about the novel whenever I want!  But no, there isn’t anything I would change. The book has been through all of the edits it is going to get.  Time to work on the sequel.

6.   Give us an interesting fun fact or a few about your book or series.

The novel actually started out as a short story, and that short story appears in the novel as the prologue.  The original short story was a spoof of sorts of the whole paranormal romance thing, with a young woman meeting a handsome, wealthy, and seemingly sensitive vampire in a club.  When I finished the story, however, I had this amazing character of Darius Hawthorne who was demanding a lot more attention. 

7.   Do you have any unique talents or hobbies?

I wish I could say I was a great artist, but as those who follow my blog know my stick figures are pretty horrible.  Can’t say I have any unique talents beyond writing.  As far as hobbies, I’m pretty immersed in the rpg community.  The old style “Dungeons & Dragons” pen-and-paper variety RPGs.  I also design and publish RPG materials. 

8.   How can we contact you or find out more about your books?

http://www.bardsandsages.com/.  That pretty much has links to everything I am doing and everything my team is working on. 

9.   What can we expect from you in the future?

I’m currently working on a sequel to my dark fantasy novel The Doom Guardian, and there is also a sequel for A Game of Blood in the planning stages.

10.   Do you have any tips for readers or advice for other writers trying to get published?

The only tip I have for readers is to subscribe to my monthly newsletter, so that they can get free issues of the Bards and Sages Quarterly when they are released.  Everyone loves free books!

As far as advice for writers, I would say to LEARN YOUR DAMN CRAFT before you think about publishing.  The beauty of indie publishing is that anyone can do it.  The downside of indie publishing is that anyone can do it, and too many people self-publish before they have honed their skills to a point that they can produce marketable material.  Readers DESERVE your best, not just your “good enough.”  A whole lot of people rush books to market before they are ready. 

The rise of indie publishing has not made it easier to be successful.  If anything it has made it harder, because you are competing with some amazingly talented writers who have their acts together and have mastered their craft.  Readers don’t need to “give you a chance” when they have thousands of exceptional choices to chose from.  So learn your craft and then worry about publishing.

11.   Is there anything else you’d like to say?

Bad open ended question!  I can run my mouth for days!  So I think I will just keep quiet so as not to get myself in trouble.

12.   And now, before you go, how about a snippet from your book that is meant to intrigue and tantalize us:

“I can’t believe Torres put you on leave,” complained Jazz as she put a plate in front of Mitch. 

“Jazz, he did Mitch a favor,” corrected Rodney.

“Well, I liked Cambridge until I found out what scum supported him.  I’m not voting for him now,” she said with a huff.

“That will teach ‘em,” said Rodney.

“Hey, it’s a paid vacation as far as I’m concerned,” said Mitch.  “And I need the break.”

“Where’s Shaquana?” asked Rodney.

“Yearbook meeting,” replied Jazz.

“Did you call the school to make sure?”

“Why would I…” she took a deep breath.  “Um, I got the number somewhere.”  She got up and went to look for the number.

“I’m sure she’s fine, Rodney,” said Mitch.  “She’s got more sense.”

“I know.  It’s a hard age, man.  Sometimes I’ll be talking to her and I forget she’s not an adult.  Other times I look at her and forget she’s not my baby girl anymore.  Try to protect her without suffocating her.  Doesn’t always work.”

“I think you get it right most of the time.”

“Yeah.  I hope so.”  Rodney took another bite.  “You, you talk to Sylvia any?”

“Here and there.  Talked to her dad yesterday.  Her and her mom went to go visit her Aunt up in Miltowne for a few days.  He was happy to have the house to himself.”  They both chuckled nervously.  “I don’t think she’s coming back.”

“Don’t say that.  You guys have been through tougher shit.”

“But that’s the problem.  All that other shit.  I think it just put too many chinks in the armor.  This, I think this might have broke it.”

“She’s there,” said Jazz with a sigh of relief as she returned.  “And I am an embarrassing, overprotective mother who doesn’t trust her daughter.”

“Good, then everything is normal,” joked Rodney.

Everything isn’t normal, thought Mitch.  If everything was normal he would be having dinner with his wife, then going to work in the morning.  Instead, he was mooching off of Rodney again, and instead of going to work he had a mandatory appointment with Dr. Roberts next week.

He left Rodney’s house late in the evening, stopping at the convenience store on the way home to buy a pack of pre-measured coffee for the morning.  They costs more than buying a full size can, but he was actually able to drink it after it brewed so it didn’t matter.  He pulled up to his house to find lights on inside.

“Sylvia?” he whispered as he got out of the car.  The front door was closed, but unlocked.  He walked into his living room to find Hawthorne sitting on the sofa, his file open on the coffee table.

“You know, Mitchell, may I call you Mitchell?  You know, if you were so interested in me, you could have just asked.”

Mitch reflexively reached for his gun, but then remembered he didn’t have it.  “How the fuck did you get in here?”

“You let me in.”

“What?”

“You let me in.  At least, that is what I’ll tell anyone should you decide to call the police.  There is no sign of breaking and entering, and nobody saw me force my way in.”

“What the fuck do you want?” asked Mitch, clenching his fist while deciding whether he should let Hawthorne continue his game or rush across the room and beat him senseless.  Hawthorne leaned back, stretching his arms out across the back of the sofa.  “What are you doing here?”

“Saving your sanity, Mitchell.” Hawthorne’s head tilted slightly as he studied Mitch.  “You are not crazy.”

“But you are.”

Hawthorne frowned.  “Mitchell, here I come of my own good will to offer my aid to you so that you can salvage your sanity, and you insult me.  You wound me.”  Hawthorne flipped through the papers in the open folder, resting his index finger on one sheet.  “Reverse refraction?  Do you understand any of this drivel?  Sounds like badly plotted science fiction.”  He flipped a few more pages over.  “Mr. Lee.  One of the few residents of Abilene capable of stringing together more than two independent thoughts.   He had some potential, but in the end he proved more of a defender than an avenger.  And I do require someone with a bit more zeal.”

“What the fuck are you talking about?”

Hawthorne closed the file, ensuring all of the papers were neatly stacked inside.  He paused for a moment, looking at the remote control and magazine on the coffee table.  He aligned the magazine with the folder and made a slight nod to himself.  He stood and slowly walked around the coffee table.  Mitch’s muscles became tense.  Hawthorne walked in front of the mirrored wall decoration hanging near the TV stand.  He studied himself in the mirror for a moment, adjusting his collar.  “What I am talking about, Mitchell, is your desire to understand.”  Before he even finished the sentence, his reflection had vanished from the mirror.  He turned his head and smiled.  “This is why you went to go speak with that professor, isn’t it?”

Mitch approached Hawthorne cautiously.  His instincts said to get away from the man.  But curiosity overcame his reason, and he felt compelled to try and understand the truth.  He raised his hand between Hawthorne and the mirror, watching his own reflection even as Hawthorne’s remained non-existent.  “How the fuck do you do that?” he said.

“You already know the answer to that, Mitchell,” replied Hawthorne with an even wider grin.  This time, when Mitch looked at him, he noticed that Hawthorne’s canines had grown longer and more pronounced.  He took a half-step backwards as the most primal of instincts, fight or flight, welled up in his gut.  The image of Rachel flashed across his mind, and he threw a punch.

Hawthorne didn’t attempt to dodge the swing, and it landed firmly on his jaw.  Mitch’s fist felt like he had just slammed it into a brick wall.  Hawthorne barely budged.  He moved his jaw back and forth, looking upwards as if he was doing nothing more than trying to identify a lingering scent. 

“Did you box in your youth?  That was a good swing.”

Mitch swung again, landing the shot just below Hawthorne’s eye.  He finally grabbed Hawthorne by the shirt and attempted to slam him into the wall, but he couldn’t move him.  Mitch took a third swing, but this time Hawthorne caught his fist and pushed Mitch backwards into a bookshelf. 

“Now Mitchell this is getting rather droll, wouldn’t you agree?” asked Hawthorne as he smoothed the wrinkles from his shirt.  “I didn’t come here to beat you senseless, after all.”  He waved a hand at Mitch dismissively and returned to the sofa.

Mitch’s mind was swirling.  Hawthorne wasn’t a big man.  He was maybe five foot eight, nine at the most.  He looked like he weighed all of a buck fifty.  He pulled himself up and walked toward Hawthorne, stopping in front of the coffee table.  “You’re a vampire?  You expect me to believe you are a fucking vampire?”

“You already believed that,” Hawthorne shrugged.  “I simply wanted to assure you that you were in fact correct with your assumption.”

“Why?  Why tell me?  What’s to stop me from…”

“Telling someone?” Hawthorne finished his sentence.  “Who are you going to tell, Mitchell?  Oprah?  Fox News?  President Obama?  What, exactly, are you going to tell them?  And besides, who would believe you?  As it is, you are on a mental health leave.  You can’t possibly tell anyone that I am a vampire.  Nobody would believe you and it would most likely get you kicked off the force.  And besides, what would Sylvia say if you ran around talking about vampires?”

“You leave her the fuck out of this.  I swear to God you so much as look at her…”

“You’ll what?” Hawthorne leaned forward.

“I’ll burn your fucking house down in the middle of the day.”

Hawthorne sat back on the sofa.  “Well, I must admit that would be troublesome.”  Hawthorne looked down and contemplated Mitch’s threat.  “See, this is why I like you, Mitchell.  You’re willing to go straight for the jugular…and yes the pun was intended.  Tell you what.  We’ll make a deal now, then.  I’ll stay away from Sylvia, and you promise not to burn my house down, at least while I’m in it.  I think that is a fair bargain.”

Mitch collapsed into the chair next to the sofa, dumbstruck.  “Are we negotiating something?”  Hawthorne nodded.  “You’re serious?  What are we negotiating, anyway?”

“The terms of our rivalry,” said Hawthorne with a giddy gleam in his eyes.  “You’re going to make a fine adversary.”

‘Wh..wh..what?”

“My adversary.  My nemesis.  It’s been so long since I’ve had one.  Things have been so very bland these last few decades.  People either lack the ambition or lack the will or lack the courage.  Like the Lee fellow.  Complete lack of ambition.  Despite the fact that he, like you, is resistant to my powers, he just lacks the ambition to look beyond his tiny little world and recognize what is in front of him.”

“I don’t want to be your nemesis, Hawthorne,” said Mitch as he stared with confusion at the vampire.

“Oh, of course you do,” replied Hawthorne glibly.  “You can’t possibly expect me to believe all this is about justice, do you?” He waved a hand at the folder.  “A culprit is in custody.  And no, I won’t believe you if you make some argument over an innocent man taking the fall.  You hardly consider James innocent, and nor should you, I might add.  The parents have their closure and are moving on.  Surely you realize dredging this out further only hurts them at this point.  Yet you continue to press on, why?”

“To stop you from killing again.”

“Well, it’s a bit late for that.”

“Get the fuck out of my house.”

“Do we have a deal, Mitchell?”

“A deal?”

“Yes, Mitchell.  My house in exchange for Sylvia’s life.  Do we have a deal?”

“Sure,” Mitch finally said.  “You got your fucking deal, asshole.”

“You really should develop a larger vocabulary, Mitchell,” said Hawthorne as he stood up and walked to the door.  “But regardless, I’m glad we finally had this chance to talk.”

“Why wouldn’t you just kill me?” questioned Mitch as he stood. 

“What kind of a nemesis would you make if you were dead?” said Hawthorne.  “No, no.  There is no challenge in killing you.  No sport in it.”

“Wait.  All those girls you killed.  You don’t even need to kill, do you?”

“Oh, heavens, no.  If I had to kill every time I fed the world would be nothing but corpses.”

“So you just kill them because, why?”

“Boredom,” he said nonchalantly as he reached for the door.

“Boredom?  You rape, torture, and kill girls out of boredom?  You sick fuck!  You got all that power and strength and fucking immortality and you kill out of boredom?  Wait a minute!  Get back here!”

“Make up my mind, Mitchell.  Do you want me to stay or go?” said Hawthorne as he turned and folded his arms in front of him.

“Boredom?  Go watch a fucking movie!  Rent a video!  Buy a goddamn XBOX! What the fuck kind of an answer is that?”

“I’m not sure why you are so upset.  I was only being honest.”

Mitch stomped over to Hawthorne, standing almost nose-to-nose with him.  It stunned Mitch that Hawthorne seemed genuinely confused as to why he was so upset.  “This is how you squander your immortality?” he said, exasperated.

“How old are you, Mitchell?

“Thirty-five.  Why?”

“Well, come back and ask me that question in another three centuries, and we’ll see if you are still so annoyed by my answer.”

“Get the fuck out of my house.”

Hawthorne offered a slight bow.  Without a word, he vanished into a pale mist and seeped under Mitch’s door.  Mitch collapsed to the ground, leaning a shoulder against the door as his body shook.

* * *

Thank you Julie for taking part in my Author Spotlight interview!  I hope your writing continues to flourish and we hope to see more of you in the future.
 *****
If you or an author/illustrator you know is interested in being interviewed, feel free to send me an email at jejoescienne@yahoo.com

Artist Spotlight: Interview with P.A. Vannucci

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself: What got you interested in art? Have you taken any art classes?



I grew up with a passion for drawing, music and cinema. As a child, my mother forbade me to watch TV at night, and I did talk about the films and then draw the characters and stories. I found myself in a technical school, to go to art school with my cousin Sophia, and the 19 years I never stopped to devote myself to my passions, which are now my job. My important art teacher, Umberto Giovannini, an important graphic and xylographer of my country.


2. What is your preferred medium and why?


The cinema is my main source on which I put every aspect of art, the font for the posters to the work of editors.


3. Do you have an online portfolio or a blog where we can view your work?


My site is exclusively for the fonts and Cinema, "Alphabet & Type" (http://www.alphabetype.it/) and the blog is at alphabetype.wordpress.com

4. Do you have a favorite artist? If yes, what draws you to that person’s work?


Starting from the movies, I like Maurizio Nichetti, a director who joined the cartoon and comics, a comic linked to the great films devoted to Chaplin and Buster Keaton. In 18 years I have personally met Daniel Panebarco (http://www.panebarco.it/), an important cartoonist of my city, Ravenna ... and my fate was decided at that time.


5. Can you remember one of the first things you drew/sculpted/painted/photographed etc.? What makes it memorable?


The first important work, at 19, illustrating a window of a restaurant in my country. I used a character born to school when I was seven. His name was GNU.

Potential book cover illustration.

6. This being primarily an author’s blog, I would like to ask if you’ve ever designed any artwork for an author (cover image, maps, interior art - including font styles - etc.)? Do you have a favorite genre (fantasy/sci-fi, thriller, romance etc.) you like to design for? If not, would you be interested in designing a book cover?


An important collaboration was with ELLEDIEFFE, the official site of the theater company of Eduardo Defilippo (http://www.defilippo.it/), creating tables for the 1998/99 season. I then made some tables for the official site of Anthony DeCurtis (http://www.antoniodecurtis.com/). Some illustrations made for the "2008 Young Illustrator-by Swatch" can consider the potential covers, and I consider myself lucky to have been able to make the cover of Faelorehn-the project, from design to the font. I love the fantasy genre, so much ...

Collaboration with ELLEDIEFFE,
the official site of the theater company
of Eduardo Defilippo.

7. Where do you gather most of the inspiration for your works?


From the cinema, of course ... It's fun to discover books and subjects that can become stories can evolve. Hansel Kenedris is my biggest project, for 3D.


8. Have you ever stepped out of your comfort zone and discovered a whole new genre of art? How did it turn out?


I had a moment where I concentrate my ideas using photography, and "Pensieri e Tratti" (thoughts and traits) has the potential to publish the book that I would one day ...

Artwork for the official site
of Anthony DeCurtis.

9. Do you have any other interesting hobbies or maybe a fun story about an experience involving your artwork?


I love music so much. The first musical work and the CD is called "PensieridiNote", and I'm finishing. It contains songs that I associate photography and design, to tell the songs in poetry and music. I love Bob Dylan and Debussy.


10. Where can we reach you if we are interested in commissioning you for our own projects?


There are no limits ... When Art is always true!



11. What, in your opinion, is the hardest step in creating a masterpiece?


Be sure to interest people ... Always.


12. And finally, is there anything else you’d like to say?


I hope I can always get to goals such as this interview. Thank you!


-Paolo Tommaso Vannucci (P.A. Vannucci)

* * *

Thank you Paolo for taking part in my Artist Spotlight interview! I hope your artwork continues to flourish and we hope to see more of you in the future!

*****

If you or an author/illustrator you know is interested in being interviewed, feel free to send me an email at jejoescienne@yahoo.com

1. Parlaci un po 'di te: Che cosa ti ha interesse per l'arte? Hai preso tutte le classi d'arte?


Sono cresciuto con la passione per il disegno, la musica e il cinema. Da bambino, mia madre mi proibiva di vedere la televisione di sera, e io mi facevo raccontare i film per poi disegnare le storie e i personaggi. Mi sono ritrovato in una scuola tecnica, per passare ad un liceo artistico con mia cugina Sophia, e dai 19 anni non ho più smesso di dedicarmi alle mie passioni, che oggi sono il mio lavoro. Il mio insegnante artistico più importante è stato Umberto Giovannini, un importante xilografo del mio paese.


2. Qual è il vostro mezzo preferito e perché?


Il cinema è la mia fonte principale, su cui ripongo ogni aspetto artistico, dai font per le locandine al lavoro di editor.


3. Hai un portfolio online o un blog dove possiamo vedere il tuo lavoro?


Il mio sito esclusivo per i font è Alphabet & Type (www.alphabetype.it) e il blog è all'indirizzo alphabetype.wordpress.com


4. Avete un artista preferito? Se sì, cosa ti attira di lavoro di quella persona?


Partendo dal cinema, prediligo Maurizio Nichetti, un regista che ha unito il cartone animato e il fumetto, a una comicità legata ai grandi film devoti a Chaplin e Buster Keaton. A 18 anni ho incontrato personalmente Daniele Panebarco, un importante fumettista della mia città, Ravenna... e il mio destino è stato deciso in quel momento.


5. Ti ricordi una delle prime cose che ha / scolpito / dipinto / fotografato ecc? Che cosa lo rende memorabile?


Il primo lavoro importante, a 19 anni, illustrando una vetrina di un ristorante del mio paese. Avevo utilizzato un personaggio nato sui banchi di scuola, quando avevo sette anni. Il suo nome era Gnu.


6. Questo blog è principalmente un autore, vorrei chiedere se hai mai progettato qualsiasi opera d'arte per un autore (immagine di copertina, mappe, arte interni - tra gli stili dei caratteri - ecc)? Hai un genere preferito (fantasy / sci-fi, thriller, romanticismo, ecc) che ti piace di design per? In caso contrario, sareste interessati nella progettazione di copertina di un libro?


Una collaborazione importante è stata con ELLEDIEFFE, il sito ufficiale della compagnia teatrale di Eduardo DeFilippo, realizzando delle tavole per la stagione 1998/99. Ho poi realizzato alcune tavole per il sito ufficiale di Antonio DeCurtis. Alcune illustrazioni fatte per La Young Illustrator 2008 le posso considerare potenziale copertine, e mi considero fortunato aver potuto realizzare il progetto della cover di Faelorehn, dal disegno al font. Amo il genere Fantasy, tantissimo...


7. Dove raccogliere la maggior parte l'ispirazione per le tue opere?


Dal cinema, ovviamente... Mi piace tantissimo scoprire libri e soggetti che possono diventare storie da poter evolvere. Hansel Kenedris è il mio progetto più grande, per il 3D.


8. Avete mai uscito dalla tua zona di comfort e scoperto un nuovo genere di arte? Come andò a finire?


Ho avuto un momento in cui ho concentrato le mie idee utilizzando la fotografia, e Pensieri e Tratti è il potenziale libro che vorrei pubblicare, un giorno...


9. Hai altri hobby interessante o forse una storia divertente di un'esperienza che coinvolge i tuoi disegni?


Amo la musica, tantissimo. Il primo lavoro musicale e CD si chiama PensieridiNote, e lo stò ultimando. Contiene dei brani a cui associo la fotografia e il disegno, per raccontare le canzoni in poesia e musica. Amo Bob Dylan e Debussy.


10. Dove possiamo arrivare se siamo interessati a messa per i nostri progetti?


Non ci sono limiti... quando è sempre vera Arte!


11. Quali sono, secondo lei, è il più difficile passo nella creazione di un capolavoro?


Essere sicuri di poter interessare alla gente... sempre.


12. E infine, c'è qualcos'altro che vorresti dire?


Spero di poter sempre arrivare a traguardi come questa intervista. Grazie!