Check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0956787207/How does Veterans of the Psychic Wars differ from your other published books?
‘Veterans of the Psychic Wars’ is an epic science fiction story that takes the reader from London, England, to a distant galaxy known as the Cosmic Sea. It is my most extensive work of fiction, both is scope and scale. And, as far as I know, it is also the only classic space opera to feature protagonists from the Caribbean.
What do you think makes a good story?
I think good stories feature memorable characters in well-chosen settings and employ skillfully developed themes and engaging plots.
During my writing process, inspiration came from a wide range of sources. However, I would list ‘Dune’ by Frank Herbert and ‘Lord of the Rings’ by J. R. R. Tolkien as the books that were most inspirational.
What are your ambitions for your writing career? Full time? Part time?
My ambition is to write memorable, engaging books, whenever time permits, for a perceptive and appreciative audience.
When did you decide to become a writer?
I’ve been writing for most of my life, but writing is just one of several creative, professional interests. I first started writing short stories when I was 6 or 7-years-old. In the late 80s and early 90s, I wrote screenplays including ‘Ashes to Ashes’ in 1995. And, in 2006, I began writing ‘Veterans of the Psychic Wars’, my first novel.
‘Veterans of the Psychic Wars’ took 3 years to write, largely because of the research, which was challenging, enjoyable, and highly informative. The novel contains a ten-page glossary of terms, and there are many historical, cultural and linguistic references. In fact, there are words and phrases from over 24 languages including Ancient Egyptian, Swahili, Armenian, Sanskrit, Japanese, Indonesian and Swedish. I researched weaponry, propulsion systems, religion and myths, ancient astronaut theories, battle strategies, the meaning of names, human physiology and the way different injuries affect the mind and body. Writing ‘Veterans of the Psychic Wars’ involved a lot of reading and a lot of learning.
A light-hearted conversation I had with my mother when I was nine or ten, inspired ‘Veterans of the Psychic Wars’. I’ve always been a dreamer. Throughout my life, I’ve been told that I think too much, and as a child, I often felt alienated. One day, I complained to my mother that I felt that I didn’t belong.
I told her, “I think I’m an alien, from another planet.”
Without hesitation, she replied, “Yes, you’re an alien.”
We laughed and the conversation quickly moved to other things. However, as I grew older, I frequently thought about what she said. I didn’t actually believe I was an alien, but I never forgot the conversation or its possible implications.
I started thinking: what if a young man grew up believing he was a normal human being, only to find out one day that he was actually an alien from another galaxy? Wouldn’t that explain his feelings of alienation; and wouldn’t that make an interesting story? ‘Veterans of the Psychic Wars’ started its life as a film script. I had already written the script equivalent of the book’s first chapter when a friend suggested I write a novel instead. So, I wrote the book with a film firmly in mind.
What do you like to do when not writing?
I have a wide range of other interests including travelling, history, culture, philosophy, photography, cooking, music, films, martial arts, chess and most creative pursuits. I am dedicated to constant learning.
How can readers discover more about you and your work?
For official information, please visit www.redmoon.co.uk or www.waynegerardtrotman.com. Signing up to my newsletter is the best way to keep up to date and get free offers. Also, the Internet holds a lot of information about me and my work. Simply search for Wayne Gerard Trotman.