An Interview with Jack Shannon

Basically a huge nerd, Jack Shannon’s love of history and the macabre have combined in Brigandine, his first full-length dark fantasy novel. When not writing, he enjoys historical reenactment, TTRPGs, wargaming, spoon carving, brewing mead, and soap making. Time permitting, he is also a husband and father to two small children. He lives in Surrey.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

Of course I’m been influenced by amazing writers like Pratchett and Lovecraft, but there was one piece of art that was a huge inspiration for my protagonist, Ulf. Knight—Death and the Devil, a painting by Albrecht Dürer from 1513. Give it a quick Google; it’s a wonderful work of art. This scarred, grim-faced warrior riding on toward battle and slaughter. Ghosts and horrible creatures lurking in the shadows—what more can you ask of a piece of art?

What inspired you to start writing this book?

A lot of things—my own experience as a historical reenactor was useful. I know what it’s like to wear old-timey shoes, cook on a fire, and stand in a shield wall. The Time Traveller’s Guide to Medieval England by Ian Mortimer was hugely inspiring. If I could recommend one book to every fantasy writer, it would be this one. It’s an insight not just into historical details, but most importantly the mindset and psychology of medieval people.

Finally, Ulf himself. One day I was having a crap day at work, cross with my manager. And Ulf strode into my head. Scarred, grim, and down on his luck. Covered in mud from the pouring rain. I felt this was a guy who needed a story written about him.

Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

Brigandine was an easy title to pick. The whole arc of the book is about Ulf as a mercenary, wearing practical armour—Brigandine. Throughout the story he struggles to become something more, someone better, and to live up to his brother’s standards as a knight.

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

Gosh that’s a hard one! Probably a fair bit by Manowar, but also some proper high church music. “When a Knight Won His Spurs” by Jan Struthers.

Describe your dream book cover.

I LOVE my current cover, done by Etheric Designs. It’s grim, dark, and it lets the reader know exactly what kind of book this is going to be.

But here’s the thing. I personally bemoan the loss the the exquisitely detailed covers by artists like Paul Kidby or Les Edwards. Covers that entrance you, filled with dynamic action.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I’m in media sales by trade. It’s a great job for a writer, as it means talking to lots of people!

Something readers wouldn’t know? Well, I did once save a woman from being mugged by a meth head. And I am the office sack race champion two years running. If you’re interested, it’s all in the hips. The sack race technique, not the mugging foiling.

What books did you read (for research or comfort) throughout your writing process?

As I said, The Time Traveller’s Guide to Medieval England by Ian Mortimer was brilliant. But I did brush up on my Lovecraft—his short stories are some of the finest works in the English language.

A Fantasy Writers’ Handbook by Richie Billing was also incredibly useful for a meat-and-potatoes guide to the genre.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

“Gee, this Jack Shannon guy sure can write! I think I’ll buy a few dozen extra copies for my friends and family.”

I kid. In all seriousness, I try not to get on my high horse too much in my writing. After all, no one buys a book to be moralised at.

But if there is one key message to Brigandine, it’s this: those in power must be held to account.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.