Thursday, January 18, 2024

INTERVIEW with BRENT GRAMMER


I want to thank Brent Grammer for taking the time for this interview!


BIO:

Hello, I’m Brent Grammer, and I’ve embarked on an exciting journey with my debut book. While I may not have a shelf full of awards (yet!), I’m a dedicated storyteller, inspired by my love for creating worlds and adventures. 

When I’m not weaving tales, I’m a proud partner and parent, cherishing every moment with my girlfriend and two amazing kids. In my free time, you might find me lost in the pages of sci-fi and fantasy novels, or gathered around a table, dice in hand, as I delve into the fantastical realms of Dungeons and Dragons (DnD). 

I’ve always believed that laughter is the best magic in life, and I’ve infused a touch of humor into my writing, just like the laughter that fills our home. 

Join me as we journey into uncharted realms, where imagination knows no bounds. I’m excited to share my worlds and adventures with you, and I hope they bring as much joy to your life as they have to mine.



When and how did you know you wanted to be a writer?

It wasn’t until I was a couple years into the military, after reading roughly 20 books one month that I had decided to try and give writing a shot. Fast forward many possible drafts, and a couple job changes that my first book actually decided to take shape.


Did you have any influencing writers growing up?

Oh for sure! It definitely has to be said that R.A. Salvatore, Rick Riordan, and the great Gary Gygax were heavy influences in my reading.


Are any of your characters based on people in real life?

I’d like to think that a bit of my humor has transpired into the Main character, Jett.


Where do you draw your book inspirations from?

From all over the place! Whether it be from movies or TV shows, music, video games, or the abundance of dnd sessions I’ve had over the years.


Do you use have a basic outline when starting a new story or do you let the characters lead the way?

I give myself a rough outline of exactly what it is I want to take place in the story but I mainly let my characters tell me what is that’s going to happen, which sometimes derails my original plans, but it’s their story and I’m more than happy to let them tell it!


When you are picturing the characters in your book, do you have a cheater photo for inspiration?

Haha no nothing like that, besides for Jett, I did maybe make him look slightly like myself.


Many people read as a form of escape and relaxation. What is your favorite way to sit back and relax?

Well as a father of two beautiful girls and having a full time job relaxation has relatively gone out the window. But I do enjoy every second that I get to spend with them and my amazing girlfriend.


Who are your favorite current authors to read?

R.A Salvatore, Rick Riordan, Peter Flannery, and Mark Frost


What are your favorite books by others?

The entire Drizzt series as well as Percy Jackson series, Battle Mage, and Ready Player One.


Do the locations in the stories have any meaning to you?

To me no but to my characters they should mean everything to.


Do you write in single or multiple POV?

For this first series it is set entirely in first person but this next one I am working on it is in third person.


What do you find to be your best research tool?

Life itself will always be the best research tool anybody could hope for.


Do you write under a pen name? Also, do you write under more than one name?

I only just use my name Brent Grammer.


What genre do you write and why is this your preference?

I write in sci-fi as well as fantasy based for either young adult or slightly older.


Tell me something about yourself outside of writing. Jobs, accomplishments, family, quirky trait...what led to you being you?

Well I work in my girlfriends family’s hardware store that’s been around for 40+ years. 

I have served in the United States Air Force as a Security Forces member. 

I am a father to two wonderful girls as well with my girlfriend of 10+ years. 

I am an avid DnD player(usually the Dungeon Master) as well as a heavy coffee drinker. 

Laughter and love often fills my life.


If you are a duo writing team, how do you share the writing process?

Just me myself and I.


What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Don’t ever give up! Whether it be one sentence or 6 pages, write and keep writing. 

As an amazing person once told me. "Show the world what makes you unique in this crowded space."


How do you deal and process negative book reviews?

I stare at it for about 3 days, shrug and say “well I’m not for everyone I spose" and get back to it.


What is the most difficult part of your writing process?

Having any time to write in an otherwise busy lifestyle.


What do you need in your writer’s space to keep you focused?

I would say music in the background or just any type of soothing sound to keep me focused.


What is your naughty indulgence as you are writing?

Would have to be the pure delightful aroma of coffee.


If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose? And why?

Rick Riordan, mainly because he always seems like a super happy cheerful guy and has an amazing personality about himself.


What is your schedule like when you are writing? Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?

I don’t exactly have a set schedule per say, just whenever I get those 5 minutes or an idea flows through my head. But coffee is always my spark in those moments for sure!


Do you listen to music when you write – what kind of music is your favorite?

Well I don’t exactly listen to it as it’s just background noise when I write. 

However if there is a sad or action packed scene that I write I maybe have something more based towards that playing to otherwise put me in that mood.


Have pets ever gotten in the way of your writing?

I don’t think there has ever been a situation where a pet has gotten in the way, a child yes, but not a pet.


What is your kryptonite as a writer? What totally puts you off your game?

The ebs and flows of life for sure. If I’ve had a stressful work day or a long night with my girls that completely throws me off of writing for the most of the day.


Have you ever killed off a character that your readers loved?

I don’t know if there is a character that my readers love to be honest but if there is I am truly sorry! I would like to say it was an accident?


How do you celebrate after typing THE END?

I stare at it in disbelief for a little bit and then take a deep breath as I begin the never ending cycle of publishing and promoting.


I hope you enjoyed this interview!

Check out all my interviews/reviews for Brent Grammer!

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