Saturday, October 27, 2012

Interview with G. Eric Francis, Author of A Prayer for the Dying


Gregory F. Flagler, aka G. Eric Francis, was born in the late 1960's on the East Coast. He attended Utica College (Formally of Syracuse University), graduating in 1991 with a degree in Journalism. He has been writing poetry and short stories since he was 8 years old, and had dreams of either being a screenwriter or a published author. He moved to the Midwestern United States in the mid 1990's, where he met his wife of 12 years, Carla. He has 2 kids (including one with special needs -Down Syndrome and Autism). He is an avid sports fan, and a collector of music (nearly 18K at this time).

Visit the author online at http://www.gericfrancis.com/

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in New York City; born in Manhattan, raised in the Bronx. I spent most of my formative years in the South Bronx.

When did you begin writing?

Probably when I figured hout how to use a pen (Laughs). I believe I started making up stories around 8 years old, using my friends as characters in grand adventures. It was my way of escaping what was a somewhat rocky childhood

Do you write during the day, at night or whenever you can sneak a few moments?

Well, the big thing concerning my writing is that there are times that I will write at 3 AM in the morning…then not do anything for months. I always believed that a writer needs readers, otherwise the inspiration dies. Had/Have a blog, yet never caught fire because of my, um, "unique" view of myself and the world.

What is this book about?

A Prayer For The Dying is about a young boy who loses his brother to a more aggressive and deadlier version of the HIV virus. Having a knack for biology and chemistry, he discovers a cure for this strain a few years later. The catch? It only works on his own blood. Enlisting the help of the government, including two unorthodox feds from a special division of the DEA, the intent is to escort him to D.C. from the West Coast. Of course, with something that powerful (and money making), they attract some unscrupulous company.

What inspired you to write it?

A couple of things. One, to finally achieve what I think I was meant to do, which was to write for a living. Two, I had an aunt who passed away from HIV about 20 years ago, and that sort of planted the seed for the story.

Who is your favorite character from the book?

That is a tough one…Dionne Richards, the heroine of the book, is a total bad ass, but covers her soft side with her tough exterior. Francis is, well, the guy I wish I was (without the bad decisions…grin). I would have to say a slight edge goes to Dionne on this one.

Was the road to publication smooth sailing or a bumpy ride?

It was complex. I made a LOT of mistakes (including one that almost derailed the entire project…long story). Going over the book again and again, changing plot points, and then arguing with the folks who helped me edit it down was…never dull.

Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?

Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0095BZOZQ

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

I do, actually. Folks can catch it on YouTube here: http://youtu.be/HXExtfDC2Hg

What is up next for you?

It is my hope that if the book does well, I will turn this into a trilogy. I also have a book for young adults coming out, as well as what I like to call my "Death" trilogy. I'm always thinking of new ideas…

Is there anything you would like to add?

As that I am new, I have recently lowered the price of the book down to .99 cents, so folks can check it out, and hopefully enjoy and leave reviews. I am here to entertain, if folks will give me a chance to do so.

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