Interview with Paul Penrose, Author of Luna’s Fury

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Luna’s Fury?

I’ve been an avid science fiction reader since I was 12 years old and read a short story called The Far Centurions. I don’t remember the author anymore, but it was about astronauts traveling to Alpha Centauri in suspended animation. When they finally arrive, they find FTL had been invented a couple of decades after they left, and there is now a thriving human civilization there. It was thought-provoking and made me want more.

I read three or four novels a week in middle and high school, mostly science fiction with a smattering of fantasy. Now nearing retirement, with a few stories of my own to tell, I decided to give it a go. Just to dip my toe in the water, I picked what seemed to be a simple story inspired by Clarke’s First Law (any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic). I figured I could bang it out in a few months.

Over a year later and 110,000 words written, I was only halfway through the tale. Realizing I couldn’t finish it in one book, I published Luna’s Destiny and immediately started on the sequel.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Luna’s Fury, what would they be?

When I wrote the chapter in the first book where Luna and her allies take on a powerful enemy, I could hear “Invincible” by Pat Benatar playing in my head. Every time I hear that song now, I think of Luna and that battle.

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

Yes, Science Fiction for both, although I do have a soft spot for some Fantasy authors.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I have We Who Wrestle With God by Jordan B. Peterson on my desk, but finding the time for such a serious subject has not been easy. I also have Dark Carnival by Keith Ferario, because he’s a friend of mine who has been so helpful in this new endeavor. He’s finishing up a new book now, and when that comes out, it will go on the list.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

When the main character, Luna, accesses the full power of her legacy device and takes on a large group of the enemy’s elite soldiers.

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

No, I’m really a pretty boring writer. I try to put the quirkiness into my characters.

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

In the movie The Shootist, the main character, JB Books, played by John Wayne, said he lived by the following code: “I won’t be insulted, cheated, or have a hand on. I don’t do these things to others, and I require the same from them.” I think that’s a good start. Queue Thomas Sowell quotes.

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

You are the master of your own destiny. Choose wisely and move forward with honesty and confidence.

Paul Penrose is the author of the new book Luna’s Fury

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