Xlibris Publishing introduces Bevan Knight, author of The Wishing Tree.
About Your Book and Yourself
The Wishing Tree is a moderate sized fantasy thriller. I quote from the blurb on the book:
When a sorcerer’s apprentice locks a powerful spirit in a tree, the nomadic tribes of the arctic face a bleak future. Supplies of game and fish dwindle, and young men desert their families on a quest of illusory dreams. Included in the expedition to deal with the vengeful tree spirit are young Dorno and the woman he rescued, Sheena. He is seeking high adventure; she is in search of her foster parents. Neither of them is aware of the far more terrible foe that lurks in the shade of the tree.
This first volume of a trilogy weaves together elements of science fiction and fantasy to produce an exploration of human needs and values.
Do you have any particular literary influences that have helped you develop in your genre, subject and style?
The novels of the Scottish writer, David Lindsay inspired me – especially Voyage to Arcturus. I read widely, especially science and travel books. Not so much fantasy any longer. Walking and camping in the New Zealand bush, as well as cross-country running, gave me a love of nature, which I think comes through in this book.
What inspired you to write your book, and how long did it take you to finish it?
I have written short stories from an early age. The book grew out of one of those stories and the story is actually embedded in the book. (Chapter heading: The little girl who wanted the moon.)
My big mistake was not setting aside time to write. The book therefore took three years to complete when it should have taken no more than one.
What is the one message you would like to convey to your readers?
The book is a fantasy thriller, to pass the time perhaps when one is in a waiting room, or a plane. I am not trying to pass on any deep message, but rather to celebrate life and show the tragedy of lives that are too locked up in past issues or future expectations. The other books in the trilogy will continue with these themes.
Are you working on a sequel to your book?
I aim to complete the next in the trilogy by the end of August next year, and the third book by that date the year after. Each book will have a different setting, but will aim to expand on issues raised in the one before (I’ll be following a strict routine to make this possible!).
Are there any events, marketing ideas or promotions planned for your book?
I’m hoping for some good reviews, which will help (my confidence, as well as ability to sell!). When I get some copies to wave in front of people I’ll go around bookshops and libraries to see if I can get some orders. Apart from that I have no plans. I’m really just waiting to receive my own copy of the book.
What was your favorite part of your publishing experience, overall and with Xlibris?
The design of the book, the layout, choice of font and cover image were all excellent, and were delivered to me far more quickly than I expected.
Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring authors?
There are heaps of things I could mention (like, setting aside time to write, and staying on task!) but the most important would be: follow your passion, and enjoy. As my wife told me: Go for it!
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