We have a new feature here on the DMR Blog to give some exposure to independent fantasy authors. Kicking things off is Jason J. Nugent, whose first book in the Curse of the Drakku series comes out today. Read the interview, then go check it out!

Please introduce yourself and tell us about your latest release.
My name is Jason Nugent. I write fantasy, scifi, and horror. My newest release is the first book in a new fantasy series called The Blood Stone: Curse of the Drakku Book One. It's going to be at least three books, but may go longer depending on where the story goes.

Let’s face it, there are tons of fantasy books out there, and more are released every day. Why should someone care about yours?
Great question! In my book, there are 5 races of dragons, all tied to gem stones. There are also 5 classes of Magus (the common name for the wizards of the book) who enhance their power through gems infused with the blood of slain dragons. There's a lot of action and the story is approachable.

What are the most prominent influences on your writing? How do you incorporate those influences without being derivative?
I studied medieval history in college and have always been intrigued by Arthurian literature. I love the idea of good vs. evil, though sometimes it's difficult to tell who's good and who isn't. We often exhibit traits of both.

What are the greatest difficulties facing you as an independent author?
Visibility with new readers. Once I can get them to try my work, they tend to enjoy what I've done. It's getting them from bystander to engaged reader, that's the hard part.

How much does your audience’s expectations factor in to what you write?
I do try and keep the audience in mind when I make decisions with my writing. Of course I have to enjoy the story I'm telling first (or I won't want to finish it) but reader expectations must be considered. After all, they're the one buying and reading the book!

Name one newer and one older book you have read and enjoyed recently. (“Newer” meaning from the past year or so, and “older” meaning written before 1980.)
Hmmm, with the older, I absolutely loved the Wheel of Time series. I was hooked from book one and never looked back. I love Robert Jordan's depth and scale. The balance between magic and might, mixed with wit always intrigued me.

I can't say I've read anything "new." I'm reading Morgan Rice right now, but her book isn't new, just new to me.

Any final words?
Thanks for this opportunity! I hope your readers get a chance to try my work. I'd love to meet new readers and share what I can do.