Character Interview With Darthorn From Illusional Reality

Today I have a character interview with Darthorn, Warlord of Senx from the novel, Illusional Reality by Karina Kantas. Enjoy.

The Interview

1. When did you decide to take the powers of the Changlins, or was that a lifelong goal?

“Lifelong goal?  You humans retain a strange tongue.  I have desired for this power for much duration.”
 

2. What is your hope for your heir, Kovon?

“Kovon will evolve into a superior warlord. He will rule over the Tsinian queen.”

3. What would you do if you woke up and saw that the Darkeye was missing?
“Ha! You know naught.  One cannot enter the cavern without demise.”

4. Once you have the power of the Changlins, what are your plans?

“The Tsinians will be under my command. I will rule such an army. The Outlands are vast. There is much to ascertain. “
 

5. Have you ever considered getting rid of the Tsinian’s Oracle so you can attack easier?

Stands up from the chair and growls. "Why you speak of such, foolish human." He takes his seat again and breathes deeply. “The Oracle is a vision bestowed upon a Tsinian from the generation of Zeniths.  If I slay the one with the gift of Sight another will appear. You believe it is so effortless.?” Laughs loudly.


6. What are you prepared to offer the Dark Force in return for it giving you dark sorcery?

His eyes darken. “Anything.”


7. What would the world be like if you obtained the power you seek?

“If? This will come pass. Are you concerned?  He smirks. “Enough. I have replied to your tedious queries. Depart with haste and do not linger in Senx.”

Character Bio: 

Darthorn is the Warlord of Senx. He rules his kinsmen justly, but he desires for the power of the Changlins, sacred monolith stones that are housed in Tsinia. It is said that the Tsinina’s powerful gifts are bestowed on them by the Changlins and he believes if he could kill their prophesised saviour, Thya, then he would have nothing to stand in his way of getting the power he believes he rightfully deserves. Darthorn has signed a treaty between the two lands on the understanding that Thya, the rightful heir of Tsinia, will wed his son, Kovon, Prince of Senx.

Illusional Reality is an award-winning YA fantasy PNR duology.
Book 1 Illusional Reality: https://books2read.com/u/b6OZ8E
Paperback: http://bit.ly/IRpaperback
Also available in Audiobook:  https://www.audiobooksnow.com/audiobook/illusional-reality/5221102/

Book 2 The Quest:  https://books2read.com/u/bW9Bo7 
Paperback: http://bit.ly/TQPPAM 

Author Bio:

Karina Kantas is a bestselling author with 14 titles covering most fiction genres, including thrillers and award-winning young adult fiction. She is also an award-winning filmmaker with numerous awards for her documentary and short films.

You can check out Karina Kantas here: http://linktr.ee/karinakantas

A Fireside Chat with Jared from The Valiant Series

Today we return to the world of my fictional interviewer, Richard Dale, as he chats with the character of Jared from Joanna White's novel Hunter, book one in her Valiant series.

A Fireside Chat with Jared

“Welcome everyone, to another Fireside Chat. I’m Richard Dale, your host. Today, our guest is Jared, a genetically enhanced assassin from the prison Zagerah.” Richard nods politely to the man fidgeting in the chair opposite to him. “Welcome, Jared. Let’s begin with you telling our audience a bit about yourself.” 

Jared crossed his arms, not at all interested in doing this particular interview. “I’m a Hunter in Zagerah. My task is to track down and kill the prisoners inside it.” 

“So, what’s it like to be an assassin? Do you have doubts about what you do, or do you feel this is a calling?” 

Jared shrugged—such a simple movement, but there was a lot of weight to it. “It’s all I’ve ever known. I don’t remember a life outside of this.” 

“Fascinating.  Now how do you deal with your telepathic abilities?  I understand you’ve had some recent issues with one of the new prisoners?” Richard leans forward. “Have these unusual circumstances made you distrust your abilities?” 

“I know my abilities and have confidence in them. But this new prisoner is just…” Jared sighed, running his fingers through his hair. “Frustrating. I can read the minds of every Hunter and prisoner inside Zagerah, except the new one’s and I don’t know why. That’s the most annoying part.” He frowned. 

“Interesting.” Richard taps a finger on his chair. “What is the oddest thing that has ever happened to you?” 

“Probably the situation with the new prisoner. I’ve never had a prisoner whose mind I couldn’t read. That, and having to pretend to be one of them. I’ve never done that before, either. It’s usually just track them and kill them, then move on to the next ones.” 

As Richard is about to reply, they are interrupted by a gentleman carrying a tea tray. “Oh, I believe it’s time for our break. Thank you, Jenkins.” Richard nods as Jenkins sets the tray down. “What do we have today?” 

Jenkins clears his throat slightly. “We have a nice Chai blend today, sir, and some lemon cake.” He looks at the guest. “Would you care for a cup and a slice of cake, Mr. Jared?” 

Jared lifted an eyebrow and stared at it with a look of distaste. “No.” 

Richard suppresses a sigh and tries to smile. “I’ll take a cup and two slices of cake, please.”

Jenkins pours one cup and serves the tea and cake to Richard before retreating.  

Richard Dale takes a sip from his cup, and asks, “What is your idea of perfect happiness?” 

Jared stared blankly at first, unsure how to respond. In honesty, he wasn’t even sure what happiness was—in definition, maybe, but not actuality. “I’m a Hunter and always have been. What else is there?” 

Richard raises an eyebrow, but does not reply, continuing with the interview. “What would you consider your greatest character flaw?” Richard taps his finger again, adding, “And what would be your most virtuous trait?” 

“I guess I’m loyal, but then again, all the Hunters are. We follow Hindah’s orders without hesitation. The others… they sometimes like to toy with the prisoners first… cause them unnecessary pain. I don’t. I’d rather just kill them and be done with it. If you can consider that a virtue.” 

Richard leans back in his chair, biting the edge of his lip. “Do you have a prized possession? And if so, why do you value it so much?” 

“My Inquiri blade. Hands down. Anyone who touches it, dies.” 

“I see.” Richard nods. “One last question. What would you consider the best quality of human nature?” 

Jared scoffed. “From what I’ve seen—which is pretty much only Zagerah—human nature doesn’t have a best quality.”

“Well thank you, Jared, for agreeing to this interview.”

For more on Jared and the Valiant series, check out Joanna White's website:

https://authorjoannawhite.com/

A reckless young woman named Averella does what no woman has ever done.

She disguises herself as a man and purposefully gets herself arrested and thrown into Zagerah. Her brother Gabriel was taken, and with his disease, he will not survive on his own. She has no idea what to expect inside the prison; all she knows is that once men get taken, they never come back.

The Hunters will find her.

Genetically altered to be faster and stronger than humans, the Hunters use their powers to find and kill every prisoner who enters Zagerah. The only ones who can defeat them, are in fact, themselves.

Jared is a Hunter. It’s all he’s known, all he remembers. He kills ruthlessly and without regret, one prisoner after another. When a new prisoner Dalex shows up, everything begins to change. Jared goes undercover to make Dalex and the other prisoners believe he is one of them, a prisoner himself.

No one knows the truth.

He will trick them.

Toy with them.

Then, he will kill them.

Hunter is available on Amazon.

 

Fireside Chat With Johnson Nottidge from Belle Vue

Today we have part two of our C S Alleyne interview weekend and a Fireside Chat with Johnson Nottidge from her novel, Belle Vue.

Fireside Chat with Johnson Nottidge

“Welcome everyone, to another Fireside Chat. I’m Richard Dale, your host. Today, our guest is the Honorable Doctor Johnson Nottidge, of the Belle Vue Asylum.” Richard Dale holds out a hand in greeting.

Nottidge gazed at the outstretched hand with a slight moue of distaste. He brushed a non-existent speck from the lapel of his frock coat and, after carefully adjusting his straight legged trousers, seated himself.

Richard Dale takes his own seat, a slight scowl on his face. “Why don’t we begin with a bit of your life story, shall we?”

“Let’s not. I am here at the behest of a chum, who is Chairman of the Metropolitan Asylums’ Board solely to provide information about my role in capturing that murderess Mary Grady who dared to bring Belle Vue into disrepute. Her poor sister, an inmate at the asylum, who died in unspeakable pain. I knew immediately it was that shameful trollop and was more than happy to play a key part in revealing the culprit and her guilt and see justice done.”

“I see. Perhaps we’ll get to that later. For now,” Richard leans forward slightly, “describe your relationship with your father.”

“Distant. Which suits me. His lordship has a sense of noblesse oblige whereas I have none at all. Every man for himself. It used to worry him, he even threatened to disinherit me but my exposing the murderess has seemingly made him feel I can be in his words ‘saved’. The title and estates will be mine on his demise and I shall carry on as normal doing exactly what I want.” Nottidge gives a broad smile but his eyes remain cold.

“Interesting. What is your involvement with the Mephisto Club?”

“What is that?” Nottidge leaned forward his piercing gaze raking Richard’s face as though seeking any malicious intent. “I am of course a member of the best clubs in London but don’t recall one with that name. If it exists, perhaps it is some sort of secret society who doesn’t want all and sundry,” Nottidge’s mouth tipped upwards for a bare second, “poking their noses and causing undesirable consequences for themselves.”

The sound of clinking cups interrupts the tense conversation, as a distinguished gentleman enters the room carrying a tea tray.

Richard eyes his guest and says, “Ah, here’s Jenkins with refreshments” Richard turns to the butler. “What’s on the menu today, Jenkins?”

“I have a lovely Darjeeling tea today. And some scones fresh from the oven, as well as strawberry jam.” Jenkins sets the tray down and asks Nottidge, Would you care for a cup, sir?”

“No thank you.”

Richard adds. “My usual cup, please. And one scone.”

Jenkins pours one cup and serves Richard Dale, before retreating.

Nottidge takes out an impressive gold watch from his fob and opens it. He raises his eyebrow then puts it away. “Are we done yet?” Nottidge asks with not a smidgeon of enthusiasm.

Richard Dale takes a sip of his tea and asks, “Almost. We’ll continue with a more mundane question. Tell us about a fond childhood memory?”

“You’re assuming I had any. Or would speak about them to you. Your questions are very impertinent. The past is over and nothing can change it. The present and future are what interest me and how I can profit from and enjoy whatever it is I choose to do. That will create the memories I want to retain. Mary Grady’s hanging next week will be one for instance.

“A sad affair that. Of course, you got involved in that sordid mess through your work. How do you find your career at Belle Vue? Fulfilling?”

“Not fulfilling, rather the means to an end. The dregs of society are off-loaded in ever increasing numbers to the Belle Vue Lunatic Asylum. I study them. Study—and experiment—on them. On occasion that part of the work is fulfilling but mostly dealing with the imbeciles, cretins, drunks and worse from the rookeries and workhouses—and my responsibility is for the female inmates—can be extremely tiresome. They want so much attention and I am an extremely busy man who has far more important matters to deal with. But they have their uses…” Nottidge stopped there and this time the smile did reach his eyes.

Richard Dale’s eyes and lips narrow and his fingers tighten over the arm of his chair. “Let’s get a bit philosophical. What would you consider your perfect life?”

“I have it now. I do what I want, I have everything – and everyone - I want.  Little bothers me. I love the gambling tables as the element of risk is what excites me.  My only concern is that life becomes boring. So it’s about continually raising the stakes. Winner takes all.”

Richard Dale nods. “In your own opinion, what are your best features, and your worst habits?”

“My best is that I always win. Anything less is not acceptable. It may take a little while – as Mary Grady has found out to her cost – but I will not rest until I am the victor in whatever battle I choose. I think your definition of worst habits and mine would greatly differ. And I am not going to share them with you as doing such a thing creates vulnerability. That is a failing I despise. It is something I will never suffer from.”

“One last question. What does morality mean to you?” Richard Dale finishes his tea as he waits for an answer.

“Nothing I need worry about. That is for the lower orders. Like religion, it keeps them in their place.”

“Thank you, Doctor Nottidge, for joining us today.” Richard Dale doesn’t offer his hand to his guest, nor does he rise as the man sees himself out.

 

Check out Belle Vue on Amazon

You can read an excerpt of Belle Vue here: 

Prologue and first two chapters

Beauty is the Beast Blog Tour: A Conversation with Gretchen

Today, we join the Beauty is the Beast Blog Tour with a great character interview (and a giveaway). This is a bit of a departure from the normal character interviews you see here, as our intrepid reporter Richard Dale is temporarily indisposed due to a dimensional shift (don't worry Jenkins is working on restoring reality). In the meantime enjoy this delightful slice of life with Gretchen (from the urban fantasy Beauty is the Beast by Jennifer Zamboni).

A Conversation with Gretchen

In which Persephone interviews Gretchen for a position as a stylist at Olympian’s Salon.

Percy glanced at the grandfather clock that sat to the right of her salon. The next interviewee was due to arrive at any moment. She had picked this girl specifically because of what she was, knowing that she could be of help to her. A once over in her station mirror confirmed that her glamour was fully in place.

One of the bells over the double doors rang as a tall dark haired young woman stepped in. She was blinking like her eyes were irritated, and Percy could see her nostrils flare ever so slightly, taking in the scents of the salon.

“You must be Gretchen,” said Percy, stepping forward. “Welcome! Please come have a seat over in the waiting area and we’ll get started.” She held out her hand in greeting and received a firm handshake.

“Thank you,” said Gretchen, selecting a spot on the slick sofa, then handed her potential employer a folder that contained her resume and a brief portfolio.

Percy took a moment to look it over, nodding as she thought, then closed it and set it aside.

“Alright then, let’s get started. How long have you been doing hair?”

“A long time, you?” Gretchen asked, seeming to be resisting the urge to cross her arms.

“Oh, a long time as well.”

“I figured,” said Gretchen, her nostrils flaring once more. “What are you?”

Percy was taken aback, she had thought her glamour was quite thorough. “I don’t know what you mean.”

Gretchen rolled her eyes. “You reek of magic. Old magic.”

“Oh all right, you caught me, I’m Persephone and fae and you’re a werewolf,” said Percy, a grin spreading over her lips.

Gretchen’s lip rolled up, revealing rapidly sharpening teeth, and growled.

“Oh, now, now, there’s no need of that. It’s why I chose to interview you. I already know much of your background. I know you were first licensed back in the ’80s and yet you still don’t look a day past your early 20’s.”

Gretchen huffed, then leaned forward, elbows to knees, and studied the woman seated across from her. “Okay. So the interview is for me as a supernatural or for me as a stylist?”

“Both!” Percy exclaimed. “I think the salon will run much more smoothly if everyone is fae or at least part, then there’s no need for hiding on lunch break. Or full moon.

Gretchen’s eyebrows shot up, and she settled back into the couch. “Okay. What do you need to know then?”

Percy pulled out the pad of paper with the questions she’d written out. “Let’s see. Let’s start with your real age and the age you tell everyone.”

“Um, somewhere in the 180’s I think. I’m fuzzy on dates. I usually tell people I’m 24.”

Percy nodded, noting down the answer. “And was becoming a werewolf your idea, or an attack.”

“It was an offer that I should have refused,” said Gretchen, her face neutral as she misquoted.

Percy threw her head back and laughed. “Well, that’s good I suppose! Moving on. What do you do during the full moon to keep others safe?”

“I try and lock myself up. Some doors are better than others.”

Percy tapped the end of her pen against her lip. “You know, I have a barn out back that’s no longer in use. I’d be willing to fix it up into a kennel for you. If your interested, that is.”

Gretchen drew in a quick breath, and her eyebrows scrunched together. “Why?”

“Well, if you’re going to work for me, I can’t risk you eating the locals. I can offer more than that. I can help you with your furry issue. This is more than just a job I’m offering you. I know you’ve been having control issues and that you’re a lone-wolf--”

“Hey, how did you find--”

“Don’t worry about it, I have my ways. Anyhow, as I was saying, I can offer you room, board, and potentially a share in the business. I can help give you a stable environment and keep you and your wolf safe.”

“I need some time to think--”

“I’m not sure if I can allow that. You see, you’re living in my territory, and I cannot have a loose cannon running around threatening to expose the fae community. You do understand that, don’t you.”

Gretchen’s fists tightened as she nodded. “I understand. It’s either take this job and move in here or get out of Maine.”

“Yes, exactly,” said Percy brightly. “Now, that’s settled, let’s move on. Tell me what you like to do as a stylist.”

Gretchen gaped but found herself unable to argue. “Um, uh, I like funky styles. I like color, and I can work miracles with a pair of sheers.”

“Now that’s what I’m talking about. Yes, your portfolio is quite impressive. I think you’ll succeed here. I can see that you’ve kept up with trends and training, which is very important to me. You can’t be one of those elderly beauticians that does the same cut and curl on everyone, that would just be a dead giveaway that you’re not just a 24-year-old kid.”

“What else do you need to know about me that you didn’t already find out on your own?” Gretchen’s arms once again crossed over her chest.

“Oh, how about hobbies. What do you do when you’re not doing hair or off munching on innocent woodland creatures?”

“I run a lot. It helps me burn off steam, especially with all these woods. It’s part of why I moved to Maine. And I play the violin.”

“Oh, that’s lovely! I’d very much like to hear you play.”

“Well, you definitely will, if you’re making me move in. I spend a lot of time practicing. Anything else?”

“Hey, who’s doing this interview, me or you?” Percy joked. “No, I can’t think of anything off the top of my head beyond when you’ll be moving in. You’re hired by the way.”

“I figured. I can move now if you really want. Everything I own is in my truck.”

“Splendid,” said Percy. “Let’s get you settled then. That first station will be yours, now let me show you to your room.”

Percy led Gretchen up the double grand staircase and to the left, coming to a stop in front of a door. Percy fit a key to the lock, then passed it off to Gretchen.

“Best keep this locked so clients don’t go snooping,” she said, leading the werewolf into the spacious bedroom.

The smell of death and magic filled the room, and Gretchen spun around to find a petite blonde, who appeared a little younger than herself.

“Well, well, well, look what the cat dragged in. Long time, no see, mutt.” The little vampire gave a toothy grin.

“Lacey-Marie, you work here? How have you been? Where have you been?” Gretchen stepped forward and pulled the newcomer into a tight hug.

“Yes, I almost forgot you two knew each other a few years back. I’ll leave you to get reacquainted.” And with that Percy returned to the salon, quite smug in the fact that her plan was working out so well.

Beauty is the Beast: Beasts Among Us

by Jennifer Zamboni

Gretchen is a 24-year-old-hairstylist with secrets: She likes to chase squirrels and howl at the moon. She’s also not really 24. When one of her coworkers turns up dead in the salon, she suspects that the murderer isn’t entirely human. When another stylist is murdered, and then another, she goes on the prowl. A circus with a secret side show catches her attention, as does her former pack, and a group of visiting vampires. Her only outlet is her music, but that will only keep her wolf on a leash for so long with a killer on the loose.

Beauty is the Beast is available on Amazon

About Jennifer Zamboni

Jen loves books. Reading them, writing them, reviewing them, and collecting them. (She claims it’s not hoarding) Urban fantasy is the name of her game, and being a mom is her day job. She also is a licensed cosmetologist, though she no longer works in a salon. She lives in the boondocks of Maine with her husband, 2 girls, 2 dogs, 3 cats, and 1 vocally insistent cockatiel.

FOLLOW JEN ON
WEBSITE  FACEBOOK  TWITTER  
INSTAGRAM  BOOKBUB

GIVEAWAY
Click the link to Enter

A Rafflecopter Giveaway! 

3 ebook copies of Beauty is the Beast!


~*~

For more of the Blog Tour here's the schedule:

January 28: http://www.authorjensenreed.wordpress.com (Spotlight)

January 29: https://alwaysanotherchapter.co.uk/ (Guest Post)

January 30: http://www.nightlyreading.wordpress.com (Spotlight)

January 31: http://rebekahjonesy.blogspot.com/ (Guest Post)

February 1: https://tomfallwell.com/blog/ (Author Interview)

February 1: https://www.jacobrundle.com/news (Book Review)

February 2: http://afstewartblog.blogspot.com/ (Character Interview)

February 3: http://jenniferzamboni.blogspot.com (Wrap up)

Fireside Chat with Travis from the Hell Bent series

Today I have a treat with another Fireside Chat. Our fictional interviewer, Richard Dale, sits down with Travis from the Hell Bent graphic novel series by K Matt. Enjoy!

Fireside Chat with Travis

“Welcome everyone, to another Fireside Chat. I’m Richard Dale, your host. Today, our guest is the genetically enhanced human Travis. Welcome Travis.” Richard Dale holds out a hand in greeting.

Travis’ tail twitches, and he’s clearly appreciative of being considered a human. He reaches forward to shake Richard’s hand. “Hey, thanks for having me here,” he replies with a grin.

“Why don’t we begin with some details of your life. Exactly who is Travis and how did you end up embroiled in genetic experimentation?”

He chuckles slightly at that. “Who am I, you ask…Ask some people from around Hell Bent, they probably know me as ‘that one guy at the comic shop with the tail’. Restaurants see me as a damn good customer. But how would I describe myself?” He shrugs. “I guess I’m just kind of a genetic freak. I dunno. As for how experimentation came into play…well, my sister and I grew up in kind of a shitty home, and I got us both thrown out. See, one of the things we have to deal with back in my hometown is being experimented on if you’re, say, a criminal or a runaway. But lucky for us, we were picked up by this one scientist that sort of adopted us. She had a few things to prove, and we agreed to help her out with it. Fast forward to…” He gestured to himself.

Richard Dale smiles. “So, what are your feelings now towards the genetic DNA experiments you participated in? What are the advantages, or disadvantages, to in essence being part monkey?”

Travis thinks on that one, his finger-like toes flexing a little. “The ones mom did weren’t too bad at all. She did sort of warn Gemmy and I both about some minor discomfort. And I love having the tail and opposable toes. Ooh, and part of the experimentation involved a regenerative factor. I was an X-Men fan as a kid, and always thought that power was kinda cool. On the downside, I tend to get, like, REALLY hungry after I heal from something. The other huge downside of the healing ability is that everyone seems to want to find out how it works. They don’t always ask permission, and when they do, they don’t seem to take no for an answer. But the good points of the experimentation in general? Increased agility, for sure. Plus, it’s kinda nice to know that if I break a leg or something, I’ll be fine in a few hours.”

“Fascinating. And what of the difficult situations you’ve found yourself in? I believe you’ve experienced violent run-ins with a serial killer and a maladjusted mage. Do you feel your life has been cursed, or unfair? And how have you dealt with these terrible experiences?”

He cringes at the thought of THEM again. “…You do NOT want to get me started on Jesse or McManus,” he grumbles. “There are a lot of good points about my life, but sometimes I do have to wonder if I’m cursed. As for dealing with this shit? I have the best support system, like, ever. I also tend to stress eat from time to time. But my girlfriend is psychic and has helped me go into my mind to deal with whatever’s going on in there. So it’s thanks to my family I’m not as much of a wreck as I probably should be.” 

"A psychic girlfriend? That must be challenging at times." Richard taps the arm of his chair with a finger. “Tell me about your childhood, your relationship with your father? I know it was troubled. Have you resolved your feelings in regard to that relationship? Any lingering issues?”

Travis’ eye twitches, and his tail begins to follow suit. “Walter…yeah, I’ve always hated that guy. When I found out that making your kid sleep on a closet floor wasn’t normal, that made it even worse. You wanna know how my sister and I got kicked out? It happened when I throat-punched that son of a bitch. Yeah…our childhood wasn’t exactly great. We got put under house arrest for three years for going to a friend’s house. I’d like to say I resolved my feelings, but I really haven’t and am just glad to have gotten out.”

“Interesting.” Richard smiles again. “Let’s try a lighter note. What do you like to do for fun?”

Relieved to be on a subject that does not involve his issues with his father, the half-monkey brightens up. “Well, I love comics. So it’s a good thing that the one place that offered to hire me is a comic shop. I also like spending time with my friends and family, spending time with my girlfriend Ivy…OOH, movies. Also like watching those. Especially terrible ones! And then there’s food. I generally like eating.”

“I see. Now for a little introspection. In your own opinion, what is your best trait? Your worst?”

Travis taps his chin for a moment. “Like, physical or psychological? Because if it’s physical, that’d be my hair. Psychological…probably the fact that I don’t believe in giving up. Like, ever. Worst would be either my way-too-big nose and…well, I do kinda have some degree of self-loathing sometimes, where I start thinking that Walter was right about me…”

A sudden interruption of clinking cups and the jingling of bells halts the conversation, as a distinguished gentleman enters the room carrying a festooned tea tray.

“Ah, I believe it’s time for some refreshment. And I see you put a bit of holiday cheer on the tray.” Richard frowns slightly. He turns toward Travis. “This is our indispensible butler, Jenkins.” Richard Dale nods at the butler. “Jenkins, our guest Travis.”

Travis offers a small wave to Jenkins, his tail flicking a bit.

“A pleasure, sir, to make your acquaintance. In honour of the season, I’ve prepared some hot chocolate, and cookies fresh from the oven. Would you care for a cup and a bite to eat?” Jenkins sets the tray down and waits.

The half-monkey’s green eyes light up as he notices the hot chocolate and cookies. “Yes, I would, thanks,” he said with a grin. He was something of a chocoholic.

“No tea?” Richard stares at the silver pot and sighs.“I’ll suppose I’ll try a cup of chocolate. And a cookie.”

Jenkins pours two cups, serves both men, before retreating back to the adjoining room.

Richard Dale takes a sip of his hot chocolate, a surprised but pleased look on his face, and asks, “Have you ever done something in your past you are ashamed of or deeply regret, that you would undo if you could? Also, what one act in your past are you most proud of?”

Travis scratches the back of his head with a foot, both hands being occupied for now. “Flunking out of college is a big one for me,” he says. “And so was that failure to save a couple of kids from Jesse. I’d promised to protect them, but…” He shivers, taking a swig of hot chocolate to calm himself down. “I don’t wanna think about what she did to them… Now, what I’m proud of? Umm…that might be when I punched Walter. He had it coming, and it got my sister and I out of there. Had we been forced to stay with him, I have no idea if either of us would be alive right now.”

Richard takes another sip from his cup. “Who would you consider your best friend? And who would be your worst enemy?”

“Ah, that’s an easy one!” says Travis with a grin. “That’d be Spencer. We’ve been buddies since we were in Kindergarten. He went on to marry my sister, and we all live together now. Spence has always been there for me. Well…except for those three years we couldn’t leave the house. Or that time that he and I got into a fight. But when my first girlfriend dumped me? He took time off from his studies to spend time with me.

“As for my worst enemy…that’s hard to say, really. On the one hand, there’s Walter. He made life Hell for a number of years. But then there’s also McManus…y’know how much it sucks to be called an abomination right to your face? Hm…I’d have to say it’s probably Jesse. She’s done more to me and the people I care about than the others.”

“You do seem to be easy-going and friendly, not a loner. Would you consider yourself someone likeable? Do you value friendship and loyalty?”

He chuckles a little. “Not sure if I’d be considered likeable or not. I wouldn’t be opposed, of course! And as for friendship and loyalty, hell YEAH, I value those! Seriously, if it weren’t for my friends and loved ones, I’d have cracked a long time ago. So if you guys are seen this…love you all!”

“Ah, interesting. Now for the final question, where do you see yourself headed in life? What are your goals, things you want to achieve?”

Travis runs his hands through his long red hair. “I don’t really try to think too much about the future. See, the regeneration thing’s kinda made me start thinking I might be immortal, and I keep thinking of what’d happen if I outlive everyone I care about… But goals? I just want my family to be safe, happy, and as un-traumatized as possible.”

Richard Dale leans forward, holding out a hand. “Thank you, Travis, for agreeing to this interview. It has been delightful.”

Travis shakes his hand once more, smiling. “Thanks for taking the time to interview me,”

You can find Travis and the Hell Bent series at the author's Amazon page or Facebook page. 

About the Author

K. Matt is a graduate of Philadelphia, PA's University of the Arts. Her interests in sci-fi, fantasy, horror, comics, and anime have inspired her to both write and illustrate her own work. 

The books in the Hell Bent series are a combination of prose and graphic novels, and tend to be a mixture of (somewhat soft) sci-fi, urban fantasy, and horror. It is something of a pet project for her, a pet that she feeds with time, and that feeds on her sleep. 

Her artwork can be found at kaylamatt.webs.com.