An Interview with J.P. Coffman
J.P. Coffman is a storyteller, family man, and self-proclaimed hermit in the woods. A lifelong lover of fantasy, he has been building worlds since he was old enough to write and roll dice. When not writing, he enjoys painting miniatures, playing tabletop war-games, and crafting adventures for friends. Battle for Crossroads is the first book in The Arkencrest Chronicles.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
I started crafting a world for my Dungeons and Dragons gaming group. The project just snowballed into something much larger and I knew that it had to become a book.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
It was rather easy, as I had the world of Arkencrest already built and so the title just came naturally as I know I want to write more books that take place in Arkencrest.
Describe your dream book cover.
I love the old school style art works, especially from the Dragonlance series. My ideal cover is one that has that retro vibe with a modern aesthetic.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
I would love to have a soundtrack similar to those found in the LOTR movies, Willow, and the Dark Souls video games.
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
The Redwall series, one of my childhood favorites.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I am a United States Air Force Veteran.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
I have always loved writing and excelled at English classes growing up. My grandmother really influenced me as far as reading and writing when I was younger and introduced me to the fantasy genre.
Where is your favorite place to write?
In the forest, among the trees.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
Start writing earlier, save everything, and don’t be afraid to share it.
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
That there is always hope, even when things are at their darkest.
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