Tell me about your latest release or the book you wish to feature? Genre?
My September release, ANGEL BRAVE, Book 3 in the Azura Chronicles series, is a sci-fi fantasy romance set on the glowing blue planet, Azura. This is the last book in this particular series, although I have other series set in the same universe, like the Byzantium (space station) series, featuring a few Azuran characters. As my readers have learned to expect in my sci-fi novels, one of the characters is a large feline… but I’ll let you discover it for yourself. The hero, Keoke Mahoe, is a spy for the Resistance against the GTA oppressing the galaxy. The heroine, Lady Valoria, is the leader of Azura, responsible for the well being of her people.
Where did the idea arise?
Since this is a series, the idea flowed naturally from the first two books, and also from what happened in the Byzantium series spinoff. The planet, its culture and idiosyncrasies, are already familiar, although I always make sure that each book can be read as a standalone. As for the characters, I wrote so many books that it takes me some time to make each of them unique and memorable. Keoke is a Zephyrian mind-reader with many talents that make him the perfect spy. Valoria is a strong leader, former Avenging Angel (yes, they can sprout wings and take flight anytime) and, like many of my heroines, she’s handy with a sword. As for the plot, it involves the return of a sinister cult that performs human sacrifices to please a certain evil deity.
How much research was involved? Did you stay on point or be distracted by wanting to look at just one more thing?
The readers familiar with the islanders of the Pacific Ocean will recognize some familiar traits in the hero, Keoke. I used my personal experience as a surfer and an islander when I lived in Hawaii. I also included a few Polynesian legends and beliefs. I had to research some of them to refresh my memory, as it’s been a while since I left Hawaii. This hero is very close to nature, and very close to my heart.
How long did you take to write the book?
I started writing this book when my last one was published (a year ago) and finished it in July. One book a year is a good pace for me. I like having a deadline to keep me on point, but I also like having enough time to polish the book to my satisfaction.
Now a bit about you. How long have you been writing? What is your Sun Sign?
I’m a Capricorn, in other words, a workaholic. I wrote all my life, but my first novel was released in 2000. I had many publishers over the years, and more than thirty titles released. BWL Publishing is my only publisher now.
Do you write in a number of genres of stick to one?
I’ve tried my hands at many genres, but science fiction, fantasy, and romance are my favorites. From contemporary, to Celtic legends, to space operas, human conflicts remain the same. The fight for justice, survival, the right to love, are all part of the human (and alien) makeup. So are the ugly side of
Where on the internet can you be found?
Vijaya Schartz, author - Strong Heroines, Brave Heroes, cats
http://www.vijayaschartz.com
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