Book Cover Junkie Interviews Horror Thriller Author Jens Boele

Jens Boele, a veteran media designer in the entertainment industry, brings over two decades of cinematic expertise to his writing. Born in Germany in 1975, Jens embarked on his writing odyssey in his youth, culminating in the publication of his debut book, “Sunshine,” in 2015. This was followed by “Hurensohn,” and his latest spine-tingling creation, “Urbex Predator.” Jens is a genre-bending author, specializing in horror and crime thrillers. His narratives often blur genre lines, weaving intricate tales that plunge readers into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Jens’s storytelling brilliance lies in his fascination with the criminal mind; his villains are always profoundly human, offering readers a chilling examination of the psychological aspects of the criminally insane. Jens sets himself apart by seamlessly integrating classic horror with the gritty authenticity of the present day. This innovative fusion imbues his narratives with a dynamic quality, seamlessly blending archaic thrills with contemporary intrigue, resulting in an immersive reading experience that resonates with both vintage enthusiasts and present-day readers alike. Jens Boele’s latest endeavor takes his work across borders, as “Urbex Predator” becomes his first book to be translated into English. A globetrotter with deep connections to the United States, Jens’s passion for exploration and his international perspective, nurtured by family and friends in the US, shine through in his writing, offering readers a captivating blend of horror and cultural diversity. Visit Jens’ website at https://jensboele.com/.

 

Interview:

Tell us about your book! What inspired you to write it?

The inspiration for 'Urbex Predator' sprang from my own adventures as an urban explorer, delving into the forgotten corners of the world. I've always found the eerie allure of abandoned places captivating, with each decrepit structure holding untold stories within its crumbling walls.

As an Urbexer, I've ventured into deserted military compounds, once bustling with life but now consumed by decay. These sites, complete with housing, shopping centers, and medical facilities, offer a haunting sense of isolation, occasionally punctuated by unexpected encounters. I vividly recall a chilling incident at an abandoned hospital, where my friend and I stumbled upon a group whose hostile intentions were immediately evident.

Initially mistaken for harmless photographers, they revealed their true colors with menacing gestures, leaving us shaken but unharmed. However, this encounter planted the seed for 'Urbex Predator,' as I delved into the disturbing world of predatory individuals lurking in the shadows of forgotten places.

Drawing from real-life experiences and infusing them with elements of horror, 'Urbex Predator' explores the darker aspects of human nature and the sinister secrets concealed within abandoned spaces. It's a journey into the unknown, blending reality with fiction to create a gripping tale of suspense and intrigue.

How did you choose the title for your book? Did it come to you right away, before you started writing it, or did it come later?

Well, considering the book revolves around Urban Explorers, often shortened to Urbexers, it felt natural to incorporate that term into the title. The inclusion of the 'X' at the end lends it a somewhat scientific vibe. Building on that, I decided to add the word 'Predator' to the mix. Interestingly, there's a Latin term for the predator, which sits atop the food chain, known as the Apex Predator. The similarity struck me.

Within the narrative, the abandoned barracks are teeming with various predators. It raises the intriguing question: who truly holds the mantle of predator, and who becomes the prey? The title 'Urbex Predator' perfectly encapsulates the thrilling and terrifying journey that awaits the readers—a blend of adventure, danger, and the primal struggle for survival.

Tell us about the cover design process. Did you have a basic idea of what your book cover would be like? 

As an Urbexer myself, I've spent countless days exploring and photographing abandoned places. This passion has led me to capture some hauntingly beautiful images, many of which are showcased on my Instagram. When it came time to design the cover for "Urbex Predator," I had a clear vision in mind. I knew I wanted to use one of my favorite photographs of an abandoned barracks.

The image, originally taken during the day, needed some adjustments to fit the eerie, night-time atmosphere of the book. Luckily, I know a guy who is a wizard with Photoshop. He transformed the photo into a chilling night scene that perfectly captures the suspense and terror of the story. It's amazing what a bit of digital magic can do!

So, yes, the cover design process was very personal and straightforward for me.

Who is your cover designer and how did you find him/her?

The cover designer is someone I've known for quite some time—me! I've been a professional designer for over 20 years, so when it came to designing the cover for "Urbex Predator," I took on the task myself. This allowed me to infuse the cover with the exact atmosphere and mood I envisioned for the book.

Designing the cover was a labor of love, blending my passion for urban exploration with my professional skills. Transforming the original daylight photograph into a chilling night scene was particularly satisfying, as it brought together all elements of the story in a visually striking way.

What has been the readers’ response to your cover?

The response to the cover has been overwhelmingly positive. Many readers have been drawn to the book specifically because of the intriguing cover, which is always a good sign. The eerie, atmospheric vibe of the abandoned barracks really captures the essence of the story and sets the perfect tone for what lies within. It's always rewarding to hear that the cover has sparked curiosity and excitement, compelling people to dive into the book. The visual appeal has definitely played a key role in attracting readers and setting the stage for the thrilling adventure inside.

What tips would you give to authors who are looking for a cover designer?

Definitely go for a pro if you can afford one. A professional designer can make a huge difference in how your book is perceived. Check the covers they have done before to see if their style matches your vision. It's also crucial to see if they listen to your ideas if you have a specific concept in mind. If you don’t have an idea, pay close attention to their suggestions and gauge their enthusiasm for your project.

As a designer myself, I’ve encountered freelancers who market themselves well but ultimately deliver subpar work. To avoid this, do thorough research and read reviews from other authors. There are several marketplaces where you can find talented designers at reasonable prices. Just make sure to communicate clearly and establish a good working relationship from the start. Your book cover is the first impression readers will have, so it’s worth investing in someone who can bring your vision to life effectively.

Anything else you’d like to say about your book?

Absolutely! The journey of writing and publishing "Urbex Predator" has been an adventure in itself, and now it's your turn to embark on the exploration of the abandoned barracks. I understand it's going to be a challenging ride, and the trigger warnings are there for a reason. But rest assured, I'll be right beside you, guiding you through the nightmare our characters endure. You can count on me until the very end, I promise!

Once you've finished the book, I'd love to hear your thoughts and feedback. Feel free to join my newsletter on jensboele.com to stay updated on all the latest news. Don't worry, I won't flood your inbox too often, just the occasional update. And if you're interested in becoming an advanced reader for future projects, shoot me a message through my website. I'd love to connect with you.

As always, I hope you enjoy the thrills and excitement that "Urbex Predator" has to offer!

❀New Mystery Horror Book Alert❀: The Siren's Scream by Thomas White

 

 

The Siren's Scream
Thomas White
Savvy Books
480 pages
Mystery Horror

An old mansion sits atop of a cliff, overlooking the ocean, in Santa Cruz, CA. A young realtor, Darcy Wainwright, manages to sell the dilapidated old house to Henry Childs, an obese nebbish who is obsessed with the property. In the backyard is a pool. Not an ordinary pool but a giant tide pool. In the tide pool is a siren with an evil agenda for revenge.

The Thornton Mansion was a talisman for the death and mystery that surrounded it. Unoccupied for years until Henry Childs was summoned by the house. As directed, he reached out to unsuspecting, novice realtor Darcy Wainwright. Darcy finds herself intricately involved with the house, its history and the haunting tide pool that filled the backyard. It was the pool that beckoned her, and it was the pool that would decide if she lives or dies. The Siren’s Scream. Available on Amazon.

Release Date: October 5, 2022

Publisher: Savvy Books

Soft Cover: ISBN: 978-1088067819; 480 pages; $21.14

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TEz7kx

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-sirens-scream-thomas-white/1142494493?ean=9781088067819

Purchase your copy at the author’s website: https://thomas-white-author.com/

Book Excerpt

Henry Childs led a life of total inconsequence. He had no friends, no hobbies, no guilty pleasures. He had spent his thirty-eight years in the space behind his mother’s aggression, lacking the courage to reach for anything more than this pitiless world deigned to dish to him.

Edith Childs screamed at Henry from the other room, “Henry, I’m bored. I want to go for a drive.”

Henry’s face scrunched in disdain, and the folds in his ample neck turned red. There was no denying her, not that he had ever had the backbone to attempt anything so drastic. Henry Childs had spent his thirty-eight years in the space behind his mother’s aggression, lacking the courage to reach for anything more than this pitiless world deigned to dish to him.

With a stoic exhale, he paused his video game, gulped down his cinnamon roll, lifted his considerable bulk out of the comfort of his reclining chair, and began the routine that would eventually get his mother from her bedroom to her wheelchair and into the car.

He grabbed her yellow sweater to be sure that she would stay warm.

“Henry, I’m not a child. I know if I’m cold or not.”

He held up the cardigan and attempted to help her into it.

“I can dress myself, thank you.”

Then there was the transfer from her sitting chair to her wheelchair.

“For goodness sakes, Henry, you would think this was the first time you’ve ever done this. Move the chair closer. I’m not an acrobat.”

...the parade out to the porch.

“Henry, don’t scrape the wall. You’re always so careless. We have gouges up and down the whole hallway.”

...down the ramp.

“Don’t go so fast. Are you trying to launch me into outer space?”

...across the walkway toward the car.

“Do you have to hit every bump on the walk? Wait, go back, I think you missed one.”

...then finally into the car.

“Be careful of my head. I don’t want to lose what sense I have left.”

By the time the car door was closed, with his disintegrating mother safely ensconced inside, Henry had sweat running down his forehead and was breathing hard. His double chins were dripping from each crevice, and his shirt was beginning to stain from the accumulating moisture. He dropped her chair into the trunk, wiped his brow on his sleeve, and embraced his final moments of silence before he opened the door and plopped behind the steering wheel of his Nissan Murano.

About the Author

Thomas White began his career as an actor. Several years later he found himself as an Artistic Director for a theatre in Southern California and the winner of several Drama-Logue and Critics awards for directing. As Tom’s career grew, he directed and co-produced the world tour of “The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Coming Out Of Their Shells”. The show toured for over two years, was translated into seven different languages and seen by over a million children. Tom served as President and Creative Director for Maiden Lane Entertainment for 24 years and worked on many large-scale corporate event productions that included Harley Davidson, Microsoft, Medtronic Diabetes, and dozens of others. The Siren’s Scream is Tom’s second novel that follows up Justice Rules which was nominated as a finalist in the Pacific Northwest Writers Association 2010 Literary contest.

Tom’s latest book is the mystery/horror, The Siren’s Scream.

Visit his website at www.thomas-white-author.com or connect with him at Facebook.

Book Cover Junkie Interviews Horror Author Patrick Greene

Some dark serendipity plopped a young Patrick Greene in front of a series of ever stranger films-and experiences-in his formative years, leading to a unique viewpoint. His odd interests have led to pursuits in film acting, paranormal investigation, martial arts, quantum physics, bizarre folklore and eastern philosophy. These elements flavor his fiction works, leading to strange and unexpected detours designed to keep readers on their toes. 

Links: Amazon / Website / Facebook / Twitter 

Interview:

Tell us about your book! What is it about and what inspired you to write it?

Olivia Irons was a child of privilege. But a teen pregnancy led to family upheaval, which led to a stint in Special Forces. Mourning the loss of her lover -a fellow operative- Liv seeks sanctuary in a random town, unaware that a small troupe of vampires seeks to recruit her to lead them in saving the world from a renegade faction.

My wife has a thing for vampires and I really wanted to write something for her to, you know, get some snuggles, and it seems to have worked.

Tell us about your publishing process. What was it like? Did you go indie or the traditional way?

Traditional publishing through Hobbes End was a foregone conclusion for this one because I was fortunate enough to have my first novel Progeny published with them, as well as having stories included in their well-received The Endlands anthologies. The beautiful cover and interior design by Jordan Benoit is sort of a trademark of theirs. There was a bit of back-and-forth with that, then we were off and running. I tend to self-edit with a fair amount of meticulous brutality, which I recommend to all writers, as it really is the best way to maintain control of your work and have it reach the masses as close to the form you want it to as possible.

How did you choose the title for your book? Did it come to you right away, before you started writing the story, or did it come later?

It took a while. I believe it came somewhere during the second draft or so, when the story’s essence coalesced into its true self, like when you realize your child is going to be an extrovert, or genius, or athlete or what have you. That title leaped out as the perfect succinct description of what this point in protagonist Olivia’s life means.

Tell us about the cover design process. Did you have a basic idea of what your book cover would be like?

I did, and I described it, referencing one of the posters from the Resident Evil film series. Jordan Benoit did a reasonable job of realizing that, but I don’t think any of us were really happy with it at that stage. Luckily, he had a concept in mind that was far superior to mine, and went with it. When I saw it, I was elated. It seems to come right out of the narrative, and an author can’t ask for better than that.

Who is your cover designer and how did you find him/her?

Jordan works with Hobbes End on most of their releases.

How was your experience working with the designer?

Really, it has been a matter of me sending my ideas to Jairus Reddy, who is Hobbes End’s CEO, then having him add his thoughts and forwarding it on to Jordan, who also did the cover for my first novel Progeny. In the case of that novel, it was exactly as I envisioned it, to the T.

What has been the readers’ response to your cover?

I’ve heard so many compliments on it that I wish I could take credit for it! As we know, the cover is a vital element of any book, despite that old adage. Unfortunately, there are a lot of terrible covers out there, some that have you wondering how an author could put their work out with that as its first impression. This cover is beautiful and atmospheric, with a great feel for the novel.

What tips would you give to authors who are looking for a cover designer?

I would say to first take a good long look at covers that you find striking. Ask yourself why it attracted you, what are the colors and shapes and poses, if any, that draw your eye when you glance at it? Then search covers, and see which ones have those attributes. Contact that artist. Even of you wind up with someone fairly inexperienced, you can give them an idea of what you want to see – but leave room for them to interpret as well. The story is yours so let the cover be more of a collaborative experience. Sketch your concept if you can, or have someone else do it. Your concept may not turn out as well aesthetically as you imagined so leave room for the artist’s interpretation.

Anything else you’d like to say about your book?

I didn’t try to make The Crimson Calling everything for everyone, but I did find in the beta and outside editing process that it appeals to a good cross section of readers. Vampire stories lend themselves well to action and horror, but there is also an element of tragic romance in the best of them, and the consensus seems to be that Crimson is a decent mix of those. I want to hear from readers, as always, and my sincere hope is that it serves as a fun and emotionally satisfying diversion.

Book Cover Junkie Interviews Author G.A. Minton

From his early childhood, G.A. Minton has always been a diehard fan of science fiction and horror. Whenever a scary movie was playing down at the local theatre, he was there in attendance with his friends, loudly screaming in terror alongside them. G.A. enjoys many hobbies, but the game of golf is one of his favorites, having lettered on his high school golf team. Besides writing, he also enjoys reading, traveling, fishing, swimming, snorkeling, working out, listening to hard rock music, and watching great movies—especially those genres that encompass horror, science fiction, mystery, and comedy. G.A. is married, and lives in Texas with his wife, a son and daughter, and two Bengal cats.

Strangely enough, it was only after G.A. was rear-ended by a drunk driver and suffered a closed-head injury, that he developed a newfound passion for writing (even though this story has the makings for a cheesy Stephen King horror novel, it is nonetheless true—he is now called “the savant horror writer” by his friends).

G.A. penned his first novel, Trisomy XXI, which oddly enough also has 21 chapters, in only three months. He begins with chapter one and writes in a freestyle manner—almost in a stream of consciousness—using no outlines, formats, or templates to assist him. The narrative flows freely from his vivid imagination, creating a thrilling tale of terror that is formed from an ordered sequence of events.

After his devastating car accident, G.A. suffered from both memory loss and problems communicating with others, which frustrated him to no end. After numerous visits with the neurologist and weeks of taking medication used by patients afflicted with Alzheimer’s Disease, G.A.’s brain slowly began to mend itself. But now, after completion of the healing process, something was very different. G.A. noticed that he had developed this overwhelming urge, this compulsive drive to put on paper a story that had formed de novo in his mind. That’s how Trisomy XXI was born. One could surmise that the damaged neurons in G.A.’s frontal cortex had rearranged themselves into a different pattern, thereby enhancing the creative elements in his brain. God only knows. . .stranger things have happened!

G.A. has recently completed his second novel, a dark, supernatural tale of horror that takes Good vs. Evil to a whole new level. Currently, his brain is busy at work, meticulously processing the text for another story of the macabre—one that will both entertain and horrify its unsuspecting reader! 

Interview:

Tell us about your book! What is it about and what inspired you to write it?

Trisomy XXI is a story about the thrilling adventures of Joshua Allen, a sixteen-year-old boy who was born with an extra chromosome—a genetic aberration known as Trisomy XXI, or Down Syndrome. When a serious accident leaves him in a coma at the hospital, Joshua receives a mysterious injection that endows him with supernatural powers. The transformed teen is linked to a string of bizarre, unexplained deaths that have both the town’s sheriff and the coroner completely baffled. But when a ghastly creature from another planet lands on Earth and begins its hunt for Joshua—viciously slaughtering anyone in its path in order to complete its deadly mission—Joshua and his friends are thrown into a world of horror that is totally out of control. What follows is a horrific life-and-death struggle with the seemingly-indestructible extraterrestrial being. The salvation of an entire race of aliens hangs in the balance!        

I was inspired to write creatively after sustaining a closed-head injury when rear-ended in my car by a drunk driver traveling at 80 to 90 mph. Immediately after the accident, I suffered from memory loss and aphasia, a problem with expressing my speech and communicating with others. When the damage to my brain finally healed, I was left with an overwhelming desire to write a story, hence, the birth of Trisomy XXI. From my earliest recollections as a young child, I have always loved the genres of horror and science fiction. 

Tell us about your publishing process. What was it like? Did you go indie or the traditional way?

Nowadays, it is very difficult to get your novel accepted for publication by a traditional publisher, especially considering the fierce competition involved. All authors have experienced their fair share of rejections by publishers, a reason why many choose to self-publish their own books. I was extremely fortunate in that Trisomy XXI was accepted for publication by three different reputable, royalty-paying publishers, thereby affording me a choice. I’ve read horror stories (no pun intended) about authors dealing with their publishing companies, so I am very fortunate to have selected World Castle Publishing as my publisher. So far, my journey into the world of book publication is going smoothly and has been very enjoyable. All things considered, I couldn’t have asked for a nicer experience!

Trisomy XXI is published by World Castle Publishing, a traditional publishing press. I chose to traditionally publish my novel because I believe that a royalty-paying publisher is willing to invest their money in a book that is not only well-written, but also has a storyline that will catch the attention of those readers willing to purchase a particular book. A traditional publisher is in business to make a profit, so I felt that my book had the best chance of attaining success through their professional editing, financial backing, and marketing support. 

How did you choose the title for your book? Did it come to you right away, before you started writing the story, or did it come later?

After my brain had healed from the car accident, a little voice in my head came up with this great idea for a horrific tale involving a boy with Down Syndrome, and. strongly encouraged me to write it. Since Trisomy XXI is the genetic aberration responsible for Down Syndrome, and the science behind it plays a major role in the storyline, I immediately decided to use Trisomy XXI as the title for my new novel.. I also penned this story as a way to deter people from judging or belittling others, especially those individuals suffering from any type of a physical or mental handicap. 

Tell us about the cover design process. Did you have a basic idea of what your book cover would be like?

After conceptualizing the storyline for Trisomy XXI in my head, I knew that what I wanted on the front cover of the book would need to reflect the startling horror contained on its pages. The drawing of the green alien monstrosity found on the cover of Trisomy XXI is an ideal fit for my tale of terror. It took me a long time, but when I discovered this particular illustration, I knew that it would be perfect for my book cover. 

Who is your cover designer and how did you find him/her?

Karen Fuller, award-winning author, book publisher, and owner of World Castle Publishing (publisher of Trisomy XXI), combined her special artistic skills along with some magic to create the amazing cover for my book. 

How was your experience working with the designer?

Through a team effort and some back-and-forth emails, it couldn’t have worked out any better. As talented as she is, Karen was able to complete the front and back covers for me in only a matter of a few days’ work! 

What has been the readers’ response to your cover?

I can’t even begin to tell you how many compliments I have received in regards to this eye-catching book jacket. Upon finishing the story, the reader will appreciate the significance of the grotesque alien strategically placed on the front cover of Trisomy XXI.

What tips would you give to authors who are looking for a cover designer?

It’s important to take the necessary time and effort to find a talented designer (take a look at the other book covers they have made), and make sure that the finished product is the book cover that you want. Nowadays, with the vast quantity of books to choose from, it’s very important to have an eye-catching cover, especially since that is usually the first thing seen by a potential reader. In many instances, a book is indeed judged by its cover! 

Anything else you’d like to say about your book?

Trisomy XXI is a unique horror/sci-fi/mystery novel that is unlike any other book you have ever read. If the likes of Stephen King, Clive Barker, and Michael Crichton were ever to have collectively penned a spine-tingling tale of horror, this would be it!

Delivering a roller-coaster ride full of thrills for its unsuspecting audience, Trisomy XXI will intrigue every intelligent reader with its alluring array of unforeseen twists and turns. Packed with tension and excitement, this chimeric version of Alien meets The Thing is a powerful story that is guaranteed to capture your immediate attention. You won’t be able to put this book down!

Gracie Bradford, a book reviewer from READERS’ FAVORITE, gave Trisomy XXI a 5-STAR review and said, “Trisomy XXI by GA Minton has 266 pages of adventure, with twists and turns the reader would not expect.  The chapters are well developed and flow well, and the writer tells his story, adding excitement and anticipation from chapter to chapter. The story of the boy’s transformation and ordeals in life takes the reader to another dimension throughout the rest of the story. This book is filled with humor, sadness, mystery, and interesting twists in every chapter. . .prepare to be thoroughly entertained.”

Chris Fischer, another book reviewer from READERS’ FAVORITE, also gave Trisomy XXI a 5-STAR rating. “Author G.A. Minton's Trisomy XXI is a book with an exciting and unique premise that will keep readers turning the pages from the very beginning all the way through to the very end. I definitely enjoyed Trisomy XXI. Author G.A. Minton has made a bold choice in choosing a young man with Down Syndrome as the protagonist of this book, and has done a great job at making him so much more than just a stereotype of someone with a disability. This read had action almost from the very beginning and will definitely be able to keep readers on the edge of their seats, even gasping with surprise at times. Any reader who enjoys a great work of horror should definitely grab Trisomy XXI. I am pleased to recommend this book, and will look for more from author G.A. Minton in the very near future!” 

Links to book:

www.amzn.com/1629894443 for TRISOMY XXI paperback on Amazon

www.amzn.com/B01D3OSZ38 for TRISOMY XXI eBook on Amazon

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/trisomy-xxi-g-a-minton/1123520769?ean=9781629894447 for TRISOMY XXI paperback and eBook on Barnes & Noble

https://www.smashwords.com/books/search?query=Trisomy+XXI for TRISOMY XXI eBook on Smashwords

http://www.worldcastlepublishing.com/author_g_a_minton.html for TRISOMY XXI paperback and eBook on G.A. Minton’s author webpage at World Castle Publishing website 

Links to your website and social media:

http://www.worldcastlepublishing.com/author_g_a_minton.html for G.A. Minton author webpage at World Castle Publishing

https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/trisomy-xxi for 5-Star reviews of TRISOMY XXI at book review page on Readers’ Favorite website

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29546925-trisomy-xxi?from_search=true&search_version=service for 5-Star review of TRISOMY XXI at Goodreads website

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15065482.G_A_Minton for G.A. Minton author webpage at Goodreads

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010658925253 for G.A. Minton Facebook URL page

https://twitter.com/horrornovelist for G.A. Minton Twitter URL page

https://plus.google.com/107199586325928927299/posts for G.A. Minton Google+ URL page

https://www.pinterest.com/gaminton/ for G.A. Minton URL page

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlcJvtdThMo for TRISOMY XXI YouTube book trailer