Interview with Jonathan Walson, Author of From the Ashes

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write From the Ashes?

This is book two of a series I am writing. In “From the Ashes,” the storyline from book one, “Downfall,” of the main protagonist Gracie, who is a bio-engineered human. She is still dealing with the prejudice against her kind known as “Altrant humans.” While also trying to handle her burgeoning relationship with Kerry, her rescuer, which runs parallel to her struggles with war and betrayal, lasting impact. At its heart, the story explores the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love when it emerges from the most unexpected and often painful circumstances. I’ve always been drawn to stories of discovering love in many of the books I grew up reading. I was captivated by the strong but vulnerable heroines and how they were portrayed, which started my writing.

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

Gracie (Main Protagonist): Fight for Love by Epic Soul Factory. Kerry Vorcek (Protagonist): Galaxy Rider by Sound Critters. Erika (Mentor): Broken Hero by 2W.E.I.; Onmyoji & Elena Westermann. Andrey Listunov (Antagonist): Monster by Hidden Citizens. Lady Camille LeBranch (Antagonist): Voices by 2W.E.I. Captain Miriam Fokker (Antagonist): Here Comes Trouble by NEONI. Lady Robbie Coffman (Protagonist): Bloodstream by NEONI and Jung Youth.

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

My favorite genre is science fiction, and what I mainly write. Though with that same vein, I lean into space opera mixed with romance, cyberpunk, and biogenetics elements.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Seeker by Jack Devitt. The Cylons Secret by Craig Shaw.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Scene 7-B: Burying the past. Where Kerry surrenders to Gracie’s trust, conquering a part of his past.

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

I always have my writing lights on, which are LIFX L.E.D. lights that change colors, along with a cup of coffee and various science fiction soundtracks playing in the background.

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

Enjoy every moment in each day, and always tell those who you are close to that you love them. Be the best person you can be.

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

Remember that everyone, no matter what nationality or skin color, we are human and should treat others with compassion, respect, and dignity.

Jonathan Walson, also known as Nightsaber47, is the author of the new book From the Ashes

Connect with Jonathan Walson

Facebook

Instagram

Buy The Book