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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Psyker?

I’ve always been a fan of the dystopian, futuristic Black Library novels but wanted to do my own thing. Instead of focusing on the heroes and legends of that science fantasy universe, I went after an unknown, picking one life out of trillions and building an edgy, relatable story from the ground up.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Psyker, what would they be?

Fun question. Between chapters, I’ve been known to create monumental indie rock playlists on Spotify building the emotional tone for each book. Paric Kilhaven, the MC and narrator of Psyker, evolves and thus a theme song varies for each book. For Psyker, Hanging by a Thread by Des Rocs. For Psykana, the sequel, a great theme song would be Save Me (I’m Not Crazy) by Electric Enemy.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I normally read urban fantasy and historical fiction. So far, I’ve been writing dystopian epic fantasy and science fantasy with a darker bent. Not grimdark, but not Harry Potter. The MC doesn’t back down from the challenges—often with a steep price—and grows as a result.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

A Time for Witches by Craig Schaefer, Smoke Bitten by Patricia Briggs, and yes, I’m falling way behind.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My books always have a bit of mystery, and my favorites scenes always have an element of surprise. To describe one here would be a spoiler.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I never use the letter J.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Forgive the world.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

The next book will be even better.

Rory Surtain is the author of the new book Psyker

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Voodoo and Vampires?

Hailey was a favorite character in a previous story I wrote. She was so popular as a witch turned vampire that my readers asked if I'd write her story, too! As a young vampire, she's looking for love and, perhaps, a bite or two to satiate her growing urges. Now, she has to choose between the allure of an ancient vampire king and a shifter and old high school crush.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Voodoo and Vampires, what would they be?

"Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)" by Kelly Clarkson. After all, getting turned into a vampire didn't kill her (exactly) and now she has the ability as a witch to tap into a kind of magic that other witches wouldn't dare touch.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I'll read anything in the fantasy genre--urban, epic, progression, LitRPG. I write mostly urban fantasy but I like to add a touch of romance to it. I also write some epic/high fantasy.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Brandon Sanderson's latest installment from the Stormlight Archive is sitting on my shelf waiting for me right now!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I included several flashbacks of Hailey's earlier life in the first part of the book that really helped build her backstory. I especially enjoyed the scene where she completed her first spell and became a witch for the first time, unwittingly cursing a few of her friends in the process.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Recently I've been sitting outside on my deck in the morning to write while the sun rises. I've found that the outdoors can give me an extra creative spark.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference! - The Serenity Prayer

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

No matter what happens to you, even if you're betrayed by those you trust, stay true to yourself and if you are pure of heart you'll find your way through it and overcome whatever challenges you face.

Theophilus Monroe is the author of the new book Voodoo and Vampires

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