Interview with fantasy author Alex Zenk

Today’s special guest is fantasy author Alex Zenk and we’re chatting about his new novel, The Chronicles of Ordi.

During his virtual book tour, Alex will be giving away a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble gift card (winner’s choice) to a lucky randomly drawn participant. To be entered for a chance to win, use the form below. To increase your chances of winning, feel free to visit his other tour stops and enter there, too!

Bio:
Alex Zenk brings a fresh voice to the world of epic quests and magical realms. Born and raised in the midwest, Alex’s love for fantasy was kindled early by the works of J.R.R. Tolkien and nurtured through years of immersive role-playing games. As a pastor by day and a storyteller by night, Alex brings a unique perspective to his writing, weaving themes of morality, redemption, and the complexities of good and evil into his narratives.

Drawing inspiration from his experiences in World of Warcraft, Alex has crafted a rich and immersive world in his debut series, “The Chronicles of Ordi.” His background in theology and his deep understanding of human nature inform the complex characters and intricate plot lines.

When not writing or tending to his pastoral duties, Alex can be found exploring the natural beauty of Iowa with his family, using these adventures to fuel his imagination and inspire new fantastic landscapes. With plans for multiple books set in the world of Asheros, Alex Zenk is poised to make a significant impact on the fantasy genre, offering readers a blend of classic epic fantasy with a modern, thoughtful twist.

Welcome, Alex. Please tell us about your current release.
In a world where ancient magic is fading and darkness grows, one dwarf mage stands between his realm and destruction.

Ordi, a gifted mage with the rare ability to command all elemental magic, is summoned by his king on a perilous quest. Accompanied by his loyal posh hound Mira and his warrior brother Verdun, Ordi must recover the legendary Otthroite Gems—powerful artifacts thought lost to time.

As they journey through forbidden forests, abandoned dwarven cities, and haunted valleys, they discover these gems are the only hope against the rising threat of the long-banished Dark Lord. With each step, they uncover secrets of ancient magic and face betrayals that test the bonds of brotherhood.

Rich in world-building and filled with magical encounters, “The Chronicles of Ordi” blends classic fantasy elements with fresh perspectives on courage, loyalty, and the price of power.

What inspired you to write this book?
My love for classic fantasy, and gaming has led me to write this book.

Excerpt from The Chronicles of Ordi:
A hellhound emerged from the swirling smoke, its eyes burning with an evil fire. Two towering demons flanked the beast, their twisted forms radiating dark energy. Accompanying them was a horde of monstrous spiders, their grotesque legs and mandibles glistening in the dim light. Ordi’s heart pounded in his chest; he hated spiders—no, he was terrified of them. These were no ordinary arachnids; they ranged from five to eight feet tall, their massive forms looming menacingly. The challenge before him was immense. Hellhounds could withstand most mortal magic, and the demons posed a threat he had only read about in the academy’s ancient tomes. Desperately cycling through spells in his mind, Ordi cursed under his breath, doubting whether any would suffice against such formidable adversaries

What exciting project are you working on next?
Working on books 2 and 3 of the series.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
After starting the work on my first book, it became clear to me that I enjoy this hobby. Once I had my first 10,000 words down, I felt like a writer.

Do you write full-time? If so, what’s your workday like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
I keep my days pretty busy. I am a hospice chaplain and college instructor during the week, and a preacher on the weekend. I find time in the evenings to get a few words down, so I am far from full-time at the moment.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I can write just about anywhere, but I prefer the darkness of my office, while listening to classical music.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I changed professions an uncountable number of times. In high school, I wanted to be a video/graphic designer. I spent 12 years in IT but never pursued my earlier aspirations.

Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
I had a lot of fun writing this series, and I hope you enjoy reading it. I sought to complete a clean, classical fantasy quest-style novel that was nostalgic and cozy to read. I think I have done that with The Chronicles of Ordi.

Links:
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