Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Wilbur Arron is the pseudonym for a retired professional engineer who spent over thirty years in engineering and over forty years in technical management. An avid reader of fantasy and science fiction since a child, he always wanted to take up writing. Now in his retirement he finally has his chance. His interests also include ancient history, especially in the Greco-Roman period, the history of science and engineering, space travel and its problems, and fiction writing. He has spoken at many Worldcons around the world on the use of science and engineering in science fiction, and the history of science. He is the current author of a three books series of fantasy which takes place in a world similar to Ancient Greece. The first two, ‘The Forest of Allund,’ and ‘The Laughing Gods,’ are already available on Kindle. The third book, ‘Demigod,’ will be published in the fall.
He has previously published a series of stories on many web-based sites of fiction and fan fiction. This is his first novel.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The author has two books, ‘The Forest of Allund,’ and ‘The Laughing Gods.’ Several things inspired him. The first was the use of magic with its total disregard on the laws of physics. While the use of magic-like power is possible within the laws of physics, some aspects like teleportation, creation of matter from nothing, and movement of objects across space and time have serious problems. The magic system in the author’s books are based solely on energy manipulation and it manifestation into various forms of useful work.
A second item was the lack of real fantasy stories about Ancient Greece. Most of the stories you see revolve around some big dude in a bronze jockstrap beating the crap out of some monster and saving helpless woman. This was NOT Ancient Greece. I The author wanted to bring more of that society into the story and bring in elements that run counter to the preconceived image of a Greek Hero. To this end the author has a blog on his web page that outlines various aspects of normal, everyday life in Ancient Greece.
Another inspiration is the work of the great Japanese Animation figure Hayao Miyazaki. I like his epic tales where the animation and the fantastic elements in the animation do not interfere with the story, but only enhance it.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
The most obvious difference between the author and most others is age. The author did not seriously start writing until is mid 60s.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Robert A. Heinlein
Issac Asimov
Arthur C. Clarke
Harry Harrison
L. Sprague De Campe
Frank Herbert
J.R.R. Tolkien
What are you working on now?
Finishing the third book in my Forest of Allund Series
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
So far I have found really nothing that seems to promote my books. That is one of the reasons I come here. I am looking for ideas.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Have a thick skin and lots of patience. Most overnight sensations take years to develop
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
From Shakespeare
“This above all: to thine own self be true
And it must follow, as the night the day
Thou canst not then be false to any man.”
What are you reading now?
Not much time to read.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Depends on the reception to my novels. If people like them, I will write more. If they don’t I will not.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Wilderness Survivals Manuals so I do not stay stranded on a desert Island
Author Websites and Profiles
Wilbur Arron Website
Wilbur Arron Amazon Profile
Wilbur Arron’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile