KING was inspired by Akabe, a heroic rebel-hunter-turned-king, who first appeared in my first Biblical fantasy, PROPHET. Akabe was rugged, honorable, and truly reluctant to become Siphra’s king. In other words, Akabe was the perfect character to portray the challenges facing ancient kings from the Scriptures.

Now that we know why R.J. wrote King, let’s see what she has to say about herself!

Do you prefer the people in your life to be simple or complex?
Complex. By nature, most people are complex. Everyone has facets to his or her character that might not be immediately apparent–even to the person in question!

Also, I love trying to decipher each person and understand and predict their reactions to different situations. I think I look at each of my characters in much the same way.

If that doesn’t get you interested in this brand new author, check her out at all these other places:

If you were to be eaten by cannibal, how would you like to be prepared?
First, I want to be DEAD, before I know what’s happening, and then…it doesn’t matter. Steamed, or stewed might be best because (I’m told) humans are tough critters.And my husband says that I’m tougher than most. Yes…I’m going to have to ask him what he meant by that!!!

Do spelling and grammer mistakes annoy you?
Yes, because sometimes the grammar (sc) mistakes are mine! I’m so glad I’m married to an editor.

If you could have any job in the world, what would it be?
I would be an author, because I’m constantly imagining storylines and hearing character’s voices, and the only way to get rid of the characters and storylines is to pour them from my imagination into my computer.. *Pauses.* Oh. Wait….

Are you cheap or thrifty?
Yes. In fact today, I went to the nearest Goodwill and bought books and canning jars–though I usually buy my books new.

Why am I thrifty? Because I was raised in a large family and we were taught to be careful with our money. A good thing, too, because authors usually have to work two jobs to balance their household budgets. Most authors write for love of the craft! ”

What was your most embarrassing moment?
Middle school, ninth grade. At the end of the school year, I was volunteered for the Honor Society presentation by fellow members. I spent weeks memorizing the speech and nailed it, but then (chalk it up to my then-fear of fire) I had trouble lighting the ceremonial candle. That was a loooong, grim minute, possibly two.

My fear must have been visible because when I finally lit that stinking candle with those rotten matches, the audience applauded.

Now, before we get to the last question, let’s look at R.J.’s book …

Akabe of Siphra is certain his people are insane.

Why have they made him a king?
What, in the name of peacetime boredom do kings do?

Frustrated by a lengthy silence from his Creator, the Infinite, Akabe decides to prove himself as king by undertaking a monumental task, his own lifelong dream: Rebuild the Infinite’s temple in Siphra.

But Akabe’s impulsive decision sweeps him into a storm of controversy. The Infinite’s enemies join forces in Siphra, and beyond, conspiring to destroy the emerging temple—and to kill their king and his mysterious new queen.

Favorite 6 sentences from the book
“[Royal counselor Faine admonishing Akabe.]

Faine hesitated, his delicacy at odds with his blunt face. “You need an heir. We’ve agreed you must marry.”
“But have I agreed?” Akabe studied his council members’ faces. To a man, they nodded, death-serious.

Buy it now …

But before you go, one last question …

Wouldn’t it be fun to chuck it all and go live on a sailboat?
Actually, I’d enjoy a houseboat, or a tug boat, or and aircraft carrier. Of the three, I’ve never been on a houseboat. Tug boats are cozy, and aircraft carriers are amazing fun–just stay away from the missile tubes. And you don’t want to miss a meal–the food is great. (Can you tell I’m a Navy brat)

Congratulations, R.J.! Good luck with King!

Have more questions for this author? Ask in the comments!