Book interview - Reflections of Destiny by Benzon Ray Barbin
Please tell us a little about the book
Reflections of Destiny is a science-fiction and fantasy thriller about a battle-tested heiress who orchestrates a plan to exploit a top government assassin, his ex-girlfriend, and their colleagues—on an interstellar campaign to fulfill a personal vendetta only she understands.
Where did the inspiration come from for your book?
Early inspiration came from watching fighter pilots in Macross/Robotech—then being captivated by the storylines and magic in Final Fantasy. I meshed parts of James Bond, the first three Bourne films, 24, Mission: Impossible, and synthesized those elements with the pilot idea. The aerial scenes were influenced by Macross Plus and Macross Zero. Add time travel, and that’s the initial blueprint for my story. Magic + modernity.See more of my inspirations: https://pin.it/3QFZ3K5
How did you find the experience of writing this book?
Writing this book was an adventurous learning process. During graduate school at the University of California, Riverside, I scrapped a previous draft I had written in high school and early college—took the core characters, a few key scenes—and rebuilt the book from the ground up. I had read a bunch of literary fiction at the time and was excited to write a minimalist, fast-paced work. Reflections of Destiny is a book whose creation was a battle between maintaining artistic vision or reshaping it to be conventional. I chose artistic vision.
Did you draw any inspiration from any real life people with any of your characters?
No. The characters were drawn from aspects of fictional characters in movies, TV, anime, and video games. Down the line, some character traits and mannerisms from real life were weaved in.
If you could say anything to readers of this book then what would it be?
Reflections of Destiny is a short read, and I think it should be read more than once. Knowing the endgame puts a different context on events throughout the book.
Are there plans for more from these characters or is this a completely stand alone piece?
This piece works as a stand-alone—but if you like it, check out “Playtime in Vella Dera.” That story complements Reflections of Destiny by expanding the character development and world-building. I’m working on another—but will take my time to write it.
Where can we purchase your book?
Find the book here: https://books2read.com/u/mvWoRVThe eBook is available on Amazon, Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes and Noble Nook, and Google Play.Paperback: AmazonHardcover: Barnes and Noble.
Please tell us where readers can connect with you and find out about any new book releases too.
I'm on Twitter: @seiken1
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