Interview with Jack Whitsel, Author of Shadow of Kings

Jack Whitsel is a native Californian, but has made Oregon his home since 1982. He holds a Bachelor's Degree of Finance from Portland State University, but studies medieval history in his spare time. His favorite genres are fantasy and historical fiction with a medieval emphasis. Shadows of Kings, the first novel of the Dragon Rising Series is the love child born of these two passions.

"I love the elements of fantasy when mixed with the gritty aspects of a medieval society. In the worlds I create, there are neither citadels of shimmering glass nor any utopian realms."

The final contributing catalyst to Jack's creative process comes from his two sons, Josiah and Noah. They remind him how important an active imagination can be, and are the first to hear his tales of diabolical wizards and valiant knights.

"Because of my boys, I still believe in Santa Claus, the Easter bunny, and the tooth fairy."

Official website: http://www.jackwhitsel.com
Blog: http://jwhitsel.wordpress.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shadows-of-Kings-Book-one-of-the-Dragon-Rising-Series/119975978113722
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JackWhitsel

When did you begin writing?

I was creative writing as soon as I could form coherent sentences. My initial stories involved the adventures of my toy micronauts. And after that...Boba Fett needed some extra attention. Could you blame me? After The Empire Strikes Back, that Bounty Hunter was the coolest character in the Lucas universe.

What is this book about?

Shadows of Kings is the first book in the Dragon Rising Series. During this period, a savage race called the Harhn have begun a major incursion into the Hugue - a collection of Human Principalities. The story evolves around Lord Baudouin and Lady Lucia, as they attempt to rally the armies of Humanity to confront the threat. But unfortunately, there are other forces at work, including the decadent Darkfey. And amidst the maelstrom, Lady Lucia, as a Dragon Maiden, must also come to terms with the agendas of her Order and assist Lord Baudouin against the Harhn Horde.

What inspired you to write it?

I have always been inspired by heroic knights fighting impossible battles - both historical and in fantasy. But in truth, Shadows of Kings is simply a mosaic of many things I've experienced. Everything from watching old black and white movies, playing legos with my sons, to going through a nasty divorce, all had a hand in my creative process.

Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?

My books will be available in independent retailer stores, in select Barnes and Noble stores in the Pacific Northwest and Online - Amazon.com & Barnes&noble.com.

Do you have a video trailer to promote your book? If yes, where can readers find it?

Yes I do, as a matter of fact. It was done by COS Productions and can be found on YouTube, Amazon.com, Goodreads and a handful of other sites.

What is up next for you?

For starters - I'm looking forward to my book release party this weekend. I intend to drink profusely to honor the literary lushes that preceded me. Ernest Hemingway...Edgar Allen Poe - may they look down upon me as I piss myself. Wait...I'm not in college anymore, so that just won't do. I guess I'll just catch a good buzz and call it a night. Secondly - I will continue my work on the Dragon Rising Series, while trying to reach out to my fans as much as possible.

Is there anything you would like to add? Thanks so much for allowing me to visit your site, and a big hug to you, Cheryl, for taking the time to put this interview together. Writing is an incredible journey, and the fact this is my debut novel, I feel like a babe in the woods - consumed with fear and excitement. I appreciate all those who have taken the time to share this journey. And I need to pat myself on the back. Like Bill Maher, I have a potty mouth, but I kept it pretty tame during this interview. "See mom! I can be in public without embarrassing myself and others."