Our Author Spotlight is now focused on the Mistress of Dark Fantasy, J.C. Brennan.
J.C. is the multi-award-winning author of ETERNAL BLOODLINES and LEGACY of the ENCHANTED.
Tell us something about J.C. Brennan, the Writer
I am married, have three children, and seven grandchildren—six boys and one girl. I have been told I have no filter and I speak my mind. I don't sugar coat anything. I see no reason to do so.
How did you start writing Supernatural Fantasy / Horror novels? Why these genres?
These genres are my favorite. Supernatural and Horror allow me to play out my deepest fears and fantasies. I love how I can write about anything that comes to mind whether it has a basis in reality or not. Think about it, there are no limits to these genres. It is freedom of the creative, or demented mind, depending on how you look at it.
Do you draw inspiration for your characters from real people, or are they purely from your imagination?
Most of my characters come to me through dreams. Others are real people from my point of view.
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What was the first book you published?
A Fine Line: The Beginning
Of your books, which one is your favorite and why?
I would say, Eternal Bloodlines. I like that I used historical characters of Vlad Tepes and Mihnea cel Rău and was able to give the story one hell of a twist.
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Without giving spoilers, is there something you're excited for readers to discover in this book?
Yes, the ending.
What is your dream for your books?
My dream is for people to enjoy my books. I love to read and there are books that seem to reach out and grab your attention, your emotions. Some seem so vivid you feel as if you are there experiencing what the character is feeling. So—you cannot put them down. That is what I want my books to be.
Can you share something personal about Janet, the woman? What moves you? What is your driving force?
No one has the perfect life and that includes me. I have made it through very rough times, and I am grateful I was strong enough to do so. I use all the bad to help me enjoy the good things life has to offer. The beauty of nature is what moves me. Whether it's a warm summer day at the beach, a hike in the woods, the mountains, or the ocean, I am always in awe of what mother nature has created. There are so many mysteries left to find and enjoy.
Can you share a picture of your writing space, where the magic happens?
My office is not finished yet and everything is still in boxes. We purchased a new home. This is what I can show you for now.
As an Indie author, how do you find the whole publishing process?
Intense is the word I would use to describe the process.
What is the most rewarding part about being an author?
The most rewarding part of being an author for me is the feeling of accomplishment. As an author, you have put something into the world that will be eternal. Bad or Good (hopefully the latter), you fashioned an everlasting creation.
On the flip side, what's a challenge of the writing life that many people might not realize?
Time and writer's block. Time is something that is difficult and there are many, many late nights. Writer's block I believe is the worst though. If someone watched me during this phase, they’d probably think I’m insane.
Personally, I have sat for hours in front of my computer and wrote nothing. I laughed, cried, ranted like an idiot and some things I refuse to tell you about. However, when you finish that last word of your book, Wow. Nothing you have been through seems to matter.
How do you balance the business side of being an author with the creative side?
I do not. LOL! I have a challenging time with the business side. I would rather just write. However, I manage to get through it with help.
Any advice for aspiring writers trying to break into the industry?
Talk to as many independent authors as possible and take notes—I am not kidding. I talked to no one, just jumped in with both feet. I have made so many mistakes that I could have avoided. Also, patience and persistence. Writing takes time, it will not come as easily as you may think. Do not allow yourself to quit because of a failure. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and try again.
What's next? Do you have another book in the pipeline?
I will be publishing A Fine Line: Series again. It has been off the market for some time now and there are new books to the series about which I am excited. Revamping and returning this series to the reader will be an adventure.
Just for fun:
What is your nickname?
JC. This is the nickname my grandmother gave me.
Which fictional character would you invite to dinner, and why?
Pinhead from Hellraiser. I would really love to have a long conversation and dig deep into his thoughts to find what makes him tick—besides the obvious of course.
What's a book you recently read and loved?
The most recent is Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll. No, it is not a horror story, but is one of those stories you cannot seem to get enough of. I cannot tell you how many times I have read it. I've lost count.
Thanks for your time and for letting us get to know you better. 😊
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