Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Interview and Giveaway: Hell’s Mercenary by Luke West




What inspired you to become an author?

The fact that I can create anything or anyone that I want. The industry has no rules.

Do you have a specific writing style?

I tend to always write in first person. I feel I can connect with the reader better, allow them into that characters head to hear whatever they are thinking.

Do you write in different genres?

I normally write anything with a bit of suspense. I love anything supernatural/paranormal. I also like moving the reader to the edge of the bed with a horror.

If yes which is your favorite genre to write?

It depends what mood I’m in. At the moment I’m working on something really different, really obscure I guess you could say. It’s a horror, but not a “scary” horror – it’s more of an unusual way of thinking. The characters are gothic loners that are brought together by attempting suicide at the same time. They are lonely people who build a unique connection. 

How did you come up with the title for your latest book?

Hell’s Mercenary was actually called “The Devil’s Assistant.” My editor and I came up with it over a Skype chat funnily enough.

Do you title the book first or wait until after it’s complete?

Usually after the first few chapters I start thinking of titles. Only because all of my saved documents have to be called insert title here and that becomes quite annoying.

Is the book, characters, or any scenes based on a true life experience, someone you know, or events in your own life?

The only character that is based on someone I know is Ida – the Witch that lives deep within Hell’s forest. Certain elements of her are based on my grandmother who passed away several years ago. I don’t know if she would agree with the remaining elements :D

What books/authors have influenced your life?

Shirley Jackson – We have always lived in the castle. Absolutely love her writing style and her unique view on different scenarios.

Jodi Picoult – My Sisters Keeper. I know, I know, it’s a “girly book” but I always remember it like it was the last book I read. That has to mean something right?

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

Shirley Jackson or J.K Rowling. Both magnificent imaginations that I would love an invitation into.

What book are you reading now?

I’m reading The Farm by Emily Mckay.

What books are in your to read pile?

Dean Koontz – 77 Shadow Street.
Suzanne Collins – Book three of the Hunger Games series.
A.A. Bell – Diamond Eyes

Do you have to travel much to do research for your books?

Thanks to the wonderful world of the Internet, I can travel the world without actually leaving my chair. I have visited some cRaZy websites in my time.

Saying this, I have been to some deserted cemeteries and ghost tours (I’m not a freak I promise) old buildings and secluded beaches. I also love to people watch with a hot chocolate (once again not a freak I promise).

Who designed the cover of your latest book?

My partner Jess is a Graphic Designer. She worked on my cover for a long time, and completed several different photo manipulations and lighting to pull it together. I was a picky client and she did a wonderful job.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Laugh in the face of people who tell you that you can’t.

Don’t be embarrassed to be a writer, without us imaginations would be non-existent.

Do you have a song or playlist (book soundtrack) that you think represents this book?

I love the band Evanescence. Any track by them would suit perfectly.  


February 11 Guest blog
Secret Southern Couture, 

February 12 Interview
Roxanne’s Realm

February 13 Spotlight
The Creatively Green Write at Home Mom

February 14 Spotlight

February 15 Spotlight
My Sexy Escapes 

February 16 Guest blog
A Bibliophiles Thoughts on Books

February 18 Interview
Fang-tastis Books

February 19 Spotlight

February 20 Interview
Bex 'n' Books

February 21 Review
Unraveling Words

February 22 Guest blog
K. A. Last 

February 24 Spotlight
Lisa’s World of Books

February 25 review
The Full Fang


Hell’s Mercenary
Intervening World Chronicles
Luke West

Genre: Fantasy

ISBN: 978-0-9874799-0-7 

Number of pages: 203
Word Count: 58, 000

Cover Artist: Jessica Drumm




Book Description:

If you were faced with the abominable decision to die or kill a loved one to survive, would you be the honorable sacrifice?

Hell’s Mercenary. The Urban Fantasy novel from the Intervening World Chronicles, by up and coming author Luke West.

Tobias is the Devil – the ruler of Hell. For years he has banished the souls of innocent humans only to compliment his ruling status, but slowly things are starting to change.

Fewer souls are struggling down the elevator ride eventuating at Hell’s reception desk, yet heaven is reporting an influx of angel’s climbing the staircase into the clouds.

Tobias begins questioning the rules with his sister and rivalry – Constance – the leader of heaven.

When his inquiries go unanswered, he entrusts his assistant Arliah with a mission she simply cannot refuse, yet reluctantly accepts.

Her uncanny nature and gothic philosophy only cause havoc among Hell’s people, and their eyes slowly open as they begin noticing her continual departures through Hell’s gates and presumably into the beauty of heaven.

What Arliah soon comprehends is that the gates of heaven are located at the other end of Earth.

Earth – A deserted world: a place of patience, hope and misery. The only escape is to win the game; your target – the humans with the leading bounties.

Will her black magic connections lead her to the gates of heaven – a world believed to be the light at the end of the tunnel? Or will her newfound supernatural powers carve the third strike against her signed contract?

Her mission – find heaven, and once she does, bring it to Hell.

About the Author:

Luke West is an up and coming author from Queensland, Australia. He was raised and still resides on the Gold Coast.

“Life is a journey, who knows the destination.”
 – Luke West

Luke has always enjoyed creative writing, and his first dream – to become a published author – was realized at a young age. His parents were constant, avid readers of his many short stories and novels, and have always supported his decision to chase his dreams.

After studying the art of writing throughout his teenage years, Luke finally took the leap to pursue his writing career and set out to release his debut novel.
Luke decided to explore the self-publishing world, aiming to prove to the publishing houses that he has what it takes to research, market, and sell his work. With this goal achieved, he hopes to secure a full time career in the world of the written word.

Luke enjoys writing Fantasy, Horror or anything with a paranormal twist. His debut Urban Fantasy novel, Hell’s Mercenary is the first of three books from the Intervening World Chronicles and is available for download now!

For the latest news or to connect with Luke personally, visit www.lukewest.com.au
“Thank you for allowing me to entertain your imagination. I hope my books find themselves among your favorite books.”
– Luke West


Official Website: www.lukewest.com.au





Official Page: www.lukewest.com.au
Leave a comment for a chance to win 
an ebook copy of Hell's Mercenary

3 comments:

Debby said...

What an interesting dilemma - you or your loved ones. I think I would pick my loved ones but you never know.
debby236 at gmail dot com

Anonymous said...

Thanks Debby. It would be quite the predicament wouldn't it?
Luke West.

BookLady said...

What a great book! Would love to win it. Thanks for the giveaway.