Interview with Jeffrey L. Kohanek, Author of Hijinks Investigations

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Hijinks Investigations?

I’m a fan of TV shows and movies that blend action and comedy, especially those featuring government agents or private detectives. Shows like Psych, Castle, Red, and Men in Black inspired me to create an urban fantasy series combining elements from all of them. I chose Las Vegas as the setting for several reasons. First, it’s the secret hub of supernatural activity—a fact the US government works hard to keep hidden.

The story begins with the opening of the first portal to another universe at Area 51 in the late 1940s. Being just south of that site, Vegas eventually became the new location for gateways between our world and realms where magic and mythical creatures run wild. This premise sets up our story. The other reason I chose Vegas is that I currently live there, allowing me to scout and research the real locations where the action unfolds. This adds an element of realism and familiarity for anyone who’s been there. The result is a fun, fast-paced paranormal detective adventure filled with magic, mystery, and mayhem—guaranteed to make readers laugh along with the antics.

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

I read fantasy. Period. I enjoy all kinds of magic; spells, enchanted relics, magical creatures, which is why I also write in the genre. However, when it comes to film and TV, I’m equally drawn to thrillers, comedies, and sci-fi.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I tend to enjoy the comedic moments the most, and since there are so many in this book and series, it’s hard to choose just one.

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

I rarely write at my desk. Instead, I sit in a chair in the living room with my feet up on an ottoman and one or both of my French Bulldogs nestled beside me.

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

Keep a positive attitude, make an honest effort, and things will work out. If that doesn’t work, figure out a new approach and try again.

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

The characters. No other element is as important to me as a reader or as an author. In this series, the characters all have their own quirks, and when they are put together, those quirks create a fun dynamic. Here are some quick character bios:

Fierce, stubborn, and filled with snark, Agent Cara Cruz does not play well with others. Driven by a desire to live up to her dead father’s legacy, she hunts down magical beings who threaten humanity. Her greatest enemy may be the one that lurks within—the one whose terrible power is unleashed when she loses control.

Spencer graduated as the class clown, likely to make a joke out of any situation. He is blessed with a photographic memory, but his greatest gift might be the one that gets him killed: his blood. If he can survive his first test, he and his best friend, Leo, might just remain in Vegas as private detectives.

Powerful empath abilities twisted Leo’s childhood, and he never really grew up. Broken by emotions he cannot control, he is unaware of social norms, says whatever comes to mind, and acts on impulse—likely to do anything at any time. His OCD and quirks are means for him to cope. He leans on his best friend for guidance and his dog for emotional support… even though the dog is crazy too.

Flick, the French Bulldog, loves life, but more than anything else, loves to lick. He is happy, energetic, and adventurous. Feeding him the wrong thing is not recommended. Even with a stable diet, Frenchies are gassy. How can this little pork sausage help solve supernatural crimes? Read and find out.

Jeffrey L. Kohanek is the author of the new book Hijinks Investigations

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