Monday, April 26, 2010

THE SUPERLATIVE STREAM - Kerry Nietz - Free Book

Wecome back, Kerry. Why do you write the kind of books you do?


I just write whatever story comes to me, regardless of what genre it fits into. Typically, the genre ends up being science fiction, but that isn’t a conscious decision on my part. I get a story idea and a few images from the place or situation and just go from there.

There is almost always a technological angle to my stories, though. That’s probably because I have a science and technology background. My major in college was Computer Science, and I spent well over a decade in that field.

Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?

Happy for a whole day, huh? That’s a tough one. I don’t usually think that way. I think more in moments. Happy moments: the first time I saw my children’s faces, the first time I held my printed books in my hands, the first time I noticed the wedding ring on my sleeping wife’s hand.

How has being published changed your life?

You know I really enjoy being a published author. I love meeting other authors and readers. Having people discuss my characters and my work. The feedback I’ve received. It’s exciting! Often a bit of an emotional roller coaster too, but I still really like it.

That’s the biggest change, probably. If you market your book at all (which you should!) you form connections with many, many new people.

I think you also gain a bit of stature. People look at you now as if you have the publishing biz figured out. Like you should be wearing tweed jackets with elbow patches and smoke a pipe...

What are you reading right now?

I’m still in the final stages of revising my second novel, plus spring is starting to show its face around here. Consequently I’ve found it hard to focus on reading a novel-length story. So I’ve been reading a short story collection called “Shepard Moon.” The stories are all based on the characters and situations of the 70s-era sci-fi show “Space 1999.” Fun stuff.

What is your current work in progress?

By the time this is posted, my WIP will probably be surviving a household with three children under six. (My wife is due May of ’10.) That’s OK, though. After having two books release in under a year, a bit of a family-based distraction is probably a good thing.

I’m already starting to sketch out ideas for the third book in the DarkTrench saga, however...

What would be your dream vacation?

If it were reasonably safe, I think a trip to space would be great—either in Earth orbit or maybe a spot on the moon. How cool would that be? If not space, then maybe a submarine ride.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

My settings find me, meaning the situation and characters of the book sort of demand a certain setting. I don’t have near the number of books under my belt as you do though, Lena. When I get to over a dozen, I might have to put more concentrated thought into my setting. We’ll see.

If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?

If it is someone who is not currently a friend or family member, then this is tough, because so many of my literary heroes are long gone. Hmm…maybe Ray Bradbury or Frank Peretti? Those guys can move me with their writing.

I've met Frank Peretti once. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

Probably watching movies. At this stage in my life my free time is fairly limited. The kids are young enough that someone has to be responsible for them at all times. But when my wife and I go out, usually it is to dinner and a movie. And when we have quiet time at home, often we’re watching movies then too.

It’s good practice for being a writer, though. We need to train ourselves to compose impactful movie-like scenes and compelling stories.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

Distraction, mostly by things that seem pressing at the time, but ultimately are not. The “tyranny of the urgent” as it is sometimes called. The only way to defeat that, though, is to have your writing time carved out in stone. Tell yourself you will write during these times, and nothing—short of a family emergency—will tear you away.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Probably the answer to the last question. Designate yourself a time for writing, and stick to it.

Tell us about the featured book?

The Superlative Stream is the second book in the DarkTrench Saga series, which began with A Star Curiously Singing. At the end of that book, a couple of the characters were headed off into deep space, so this book follows their story. Near the end of A Star there was evidence to suggest that some supernatural force other than what the characters have known is out there…waiting. So, ultimately the quest of The Superlative Stream is to find the True God of the heavens. I think it is a very unique and enjoyable story, with a lot of unexpected twists. I hope it surprises people.

Please give us the first page of the book.

The first two chapters can be found here: http://www.marcherlordpress.com/The_Superlative_Stream.htm

I’m extremely happy with my opening paragraph. I think it is one of the best opening lines I’ve ever written. Check it out!

I'm anxiously awaiting my copy, so I can follow the characters on their journey. I loved A Star Curiously Singing How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is http://www.kerrynietz.com/ . I’m also on a bunch of social sites, notably: Facebook, Shoutlife, Shelfari, and Goodreads.

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using this link when you order, you'll be helping support this blog.















Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book.


Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

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14 comments:

Coolestmommy said...

Love the premise of the series!! Sounds like a fantastic space saga.

Congratulations on the baby!

coolestmommy2000 at gmail dot com

Nancye said...

Sounds like an interesting book. Please count me in.

nancyecdavis AT bellsouth DOT net

Marla said...

My husband loves science-fiction. I think he would really get into this series. Please enter me in the drawying. Thanks!

Marla

Jan Cline said...

I like that you write the story that is in you regardless of the genre.
jancline@ymail.com

Sheila Deeth said...

Sounds fascinating, and nice to meet you in the interview.

Kerry Nietz said...

Thanks for the comments everyone, and for taking the time to read my interview.
Kerry

Anonymous said...

interesting....please count me in...thanks

karenk
kmkuka at yahoo dot com

Anonymous said...

Sounds interesting. Please enter me.

hismercysurrounding(at)yahoo(dot)com

Cindy W. said...

Sounds like a really exciting book and I would love to win this book. Thank you for the opportunity.

Smiles & Blessings,
Cindy W.

countrybear52[at]yahoo[dot]com

Kerry Nietz said...

BTW, if the winner would like a copy of the first book in the series, A Star Curiously Singing, instead of the second, I would be happy to substitute.

Kerry

Kristen said...

Sounds fantastic! Please enter me:)
kristengjohnson [at] gmail [dot] com

Mozi Esme said...

Ah - distraction! I can understand that frustration...

janemaritz at yahoo dot com

A J Hawke said...

Would love to read this book. I grew up with Andre Norton books and love a good space story.

Thanks for the opportunity to receive a copy.

A J Hawke

Anonymous said...

Please enter me.

Wendy
ebeandebe at gmail dot com