Originally posted by Renee Scattergood:
Welcome to this week's Friday Author Spotlight! Today I have Tom Fallwell joining us with his complete trilogy, The Shadow of Narwyrm. He'll also be answering some questions later on. But first...
Tom Fallwell, early in his life, found a love for the wonderful escape into realms undreamed of through books of Fantasy and Science-Fiction. Weaned on some of the greats, like J.R.R. Tolkien, Isaac Asimov, Ray Bradbury, Arthur C. Clarke, Robert E. Howard, Roger Zelazny, Robert A. Heinlein, Michael Moorcock, just to name a few, Tom's imagination was forever inspired by those marvelous tales.
One day, he discovered a simple book of rules called Chainmail, by Gary Gygax, and found a new love. The love of creating adventures and stories of his own. Chainmail evolved into Dungeons & Dragons, and Tom played consistently with friends as both a player and a dungeon master (DM). Such activities developed his ability to create worlds and stories for other players to enjoy.
Now retired from his long career as a software developer, Tom writes all the adventures and characters that seem to constantly fill his mind and share them with the world.
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About the Books
The Rangers of Laerean are the protectors of the people, the heroes of Hir. Their exploits are legendary and their great deeds recounted in tales across the ages. These are the stories that will be told for generations.
Baric is a Ranger, a true leader, whose destiny lies before him. It's a journey that starts out small, with but a whisper, and leads him on a quest to save his world from total annihilation and destruction. A journey fraught with obstacles, mystery, love and loss. A journey that tests him and drives him ever closer to the destiny that awaits him.
The forces of shadow conspire against the Rangers and the land to bring about total chaos and destruction. Baric finds himself embroiled in a dark plot to put an end to all civilized races and must find a way to stop the terror. Finding new friends along the way, Baric learns about the past Eras of Hir and the about the creatures called, the Mythica. He soon realizes he is battling forces that have been in contention since the beginning of time, and it will take all his strength and willpower to overcome against the Shadow of Narwyrm.
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Keep reading for an interview with the author:
Why did you decide to be a writer?
It wasn't so much of a decision as an opportunity. I'd always loved creating stories and adventures, but never had much time to do much with my ideas and all the characters I created, until I retired from my software developer career. I then found I have lot of time and just sat down and started writing. I haven't stopped yet.
Did you have a hard time sharing your work with the public?
I didn't really mind sharing, though I did have that fear of rejection that I'm sure we all go through at times. But my faith is my shield, and I simply put my trust in God. If I see a bad review or rating, I don't allow it to tear me down. I write for me, and not anyone else. It is a special bonus to know someone else enjoys what I write.
What genres do you write?
As far as published works, so far it has been Fantasy, and Science-Fantasy. Although I've many ideas and notes which cover Science-Fiction, Mystery, Thriller and other genres. I must admit I favor Fantasy, but I won't limit myself.
Is there a genre that you've been wanting to experiment with?
I've actually been experimenting with a story idea that could be classified as a Thriller/Mystery. I have a lot going on, so I'm not sure when that one will get completely written, though I do a little work on it from time to time. I also have a couple of Science-Fiction stories I'm developing, though I can't put a lot of time into them at the moment.
How often do you write?
Every day. Occasionally I may take a day or two off, but pretty much every day.
How long does it take you to write a novel?
I don't write fast. I'm more focused on quality, perhaps a holdover from my computer programming days. Generally, about 4-6 months, though that varies.
If you could be one of your characters for a day, who would it be and why?
It would definitely be the Ranger Baric. Baric is a character that was created a long time ago, and has been with me for many decades. I know him better than any of my characters, and he has always been the epitome of a hero to me.
What authors/books have most influenced you?
J.R.R. Tolkien is my greatest influence, hands down, though not the only author whom I admire. There are so many. On top of my list is C.S. Lewis, Robert E. Howard and Frank Herbert. For books it is, of course, Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, the Conan series and Dune.
If you could choose an author to be your mentor, who would it be?
J.R.R. Tokien. I can't even begin to imagine what it would be like to be taught storytelling by the master storyteller. :)
When did you first consider yourself an author?
When I started writing. As far as I'm concerned, the term 'author' is not a title that someone bequeaths to you, it is what you do. Being an author does not require anyone's approval or permission. Also, success at being an author is a relative thing. Your own success is however you wish to define it. It's not always monetary.
What is the best compliment you've ever received as an author?
For me, it was when my father (who never reads books) read my book and liked it. I've never received a better compliment. :)
What is the best writing advice you've ever received?
If you don't write simply because you love writing, then maybe you should consider another profession or pastime. Your attitude and love of writing will be reflected in what you write. So be sure you're writing for yourself first.
What made you decide to self-publish?
I like having full control over my work. Just that plain and simple. I don't want anyone telling me what I can or can't write, when I can write, or how much my work should sell for.
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