Interview with Eamon Ambrose
Author of Zero Hour - Omnibus Edition
I'm a science fiction/horror writer from Limerick, Ireland. I had success with a post-apocalyptic serial called "Zero Hour", and have released a novella "Love and Other Algorithms", as well as having several short stories published in anthologies such as Samuel Peralta's "The Future Chronicles" and "Tales from the Canyons of the Damned".
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How would you describe 'Zero Hour' to a new reader?
- It's a high octane post-apocalyptic technothriller with lots of twists, written mostly in second person for an immersive feel. A soldier gets trapped in a robot body and joins forces with a rogue AI to save a group of survivors while being chased down by a ruthless enemy.
What was the inspiration behind 'Zero Hour' ?
- The first part was originally a standalone short story, I wanted to write something that challenged our preconceptions as science fiction readers. By the end of the story, the reader is given a surprising revelation that makes them think back about how they read it originally.
Which authors do you admire? How have they influenced your writing style?
- Hugh Howey was a huge influence. Wool made me want to start writing science fiction. Ray Bradbury was also a huge influence. I also love Monica Byrne's work which is unique and thought provoking. Her writing had a big influence in the original short story of Zero Hour.
Can you tell us a little about the locations in your book?
- While it doesn't allude to a particular location, it's essentially the Nevada region of the USA.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
- Don't be an aspiring author. Get that story down.
What's your writing process?
- I try to write for at least an hour a day. I wrote Zero Hour mostly on my lunch break in my car.
Which character in 'Zero Hour' has had the greatest impact on readers?
- There's a lot of love for a character called Ned, who turns up halfway through the book. He's kinda goofy, but people love him.
If 'Zero Hour' were to be adapted for TV or film, who would you see in the lead role? Who did you have in your mind’s eye when you wrote him/her?
- Hard to say, as the main character is in a robot body for most of the story!
How have readers responded to 'Zero Hour'?
- It's been great. I initially just published the short story as a standalone, but I kept getting contacted by readers asking "What happens next?" I then started adding to the story and wrote and released it as a serial in 6 parts.
Where next? What are you working on now?
- My next novel "Madeleine Strange" is almost finished. It's a bit of a departure, more urban fantasy/horror.
