Today’s special guest author is A.G. Flitcher and we’re chatting about book 2 in his western/epic fantasy series, The Brothers’ Odyssey.
Welcome, A.G. Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I have a bachelor’s in Creative Writing. In which I have taken what I have learned and I applied it to my writing. Ultimately, it’s life’s challenges and blissful moments that have enriched and deepened my style of writing. Everything from my routine in the morning, to interactions at work or even when I take my dog for a walk. I also write poetry. I love poetry. There is something wonderfully challenging about minimalist writing that encourages a writer to maximize beauty in a small space. I have also written screenplays. One day I hope to take paper to screen.
What inspired you to write The Brothers’ Odyssey?
When I read the Series of Unfortunate Events, I was blown away at the concept of three children being orphaned through chaos they were unaware of. Obligated to survive the elements around them and adults who do not care for their well-being. One of my favorite quotes from that series is: “Life is a conundrum of esoterica.”
This inspired me to write a series of my own because since I was a kid, I’ve felt that life has taught me more about myself than any peer or loved one has ever taught me. I have always felt alone in my journey in life. But I am certainly proud of myself for fighting the fear of the unknown.
The main characters in my series, Boone and Jacque, learn from each other and every instance they share or on their own. As they move along their journey, the fantastical elements begin to fade. However, the level of fear of change increases more than the fear they had of out of the ordinary elements and creatures. Magic is not scary, life is. Nevertheless, there is light in life. But Boone and Jacque have to be willing to fight for it. Everyday.
What exciting story are you working on next?
Third book of the series. Which is entitled: Saddleton Haunting. Boone, Jacque and Shammy have returned to town from their treacherous and transformational journey in a wasteland they do not miss one bit. The town has changed drastically. They, and King Winterson, have something they want to change their life, but something has come to haunt each one of them. Maybe even the few who are left in town.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When my book made it into a commercial store. I did consider myself a writer beforehand, but it felt more real seeing my work being sold commercially. Not because I’m focused on the financial outcome, but because it means my work has value. We all want to be valued. My dream is to one day hear someone say “Thank you for the work you do.”
Do you write full-time? If so, what’s your work day like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
I have a day job doing maintenance and trade work at a zoo. Which has helped me with my creativity and critical thinking skills for complex scenes. I write on my days off. Two to four hours each day. Averaging two to three thousand words a day. Although at the beginning it’s a little less.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I can’t start writing until I’ve eaten a pastry and drank half of my coffee.
I listen to Orchestral Harry Potter music mostly when I write. Sometimes it’s Binaural Beats or Classical music.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A chef. My family is of Egyptian decent. The house always smelled interesting. My parents taught me how to cook. I also took a cooking class in high school and worked in the restaurant industry for seven and a half years.
Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
One of the messages in my writing that remains constant, is that it is not a sign of weakness to bare your soul to someone and more importantly, yourself. So, when you read my work, and you see my characters having an emotional or intense moment, be happy for them. Especially if they are a person who was once closed off or afraid to be themselves in front of others. This message may take on many forms in other work I do. But it will still be there.
Links:
Facebook | Instagram | Website | Twitter | Amazon book 1 | Amazon book 2
Thanks for joining me today, A.G.