Interview with James G. Robertson
Author of The Ripper (Next Life, #2)
Author James G Robertson is an award-winning Dark Fantasy, Dystopian, and Supernatural Horror author. He was born in a small town in Kansas, and also lived in Texas, Missouri, and New York, where he graduated college from SUNY Oswego in 2019, obtaining a bachelor’s in political science with a theatre minor. He has also received an associate’s degree in information network technology, which he received in 2012 from Pratt Community College. His first book, Afterworld, was published on May 1st, 2020. If you wish to know anything else, connect with him on twitter or using the contact page on the official website https://nextlifeuniverse.com
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How would you describe The Ripper to a new reader?
- The Ripper is the second book in the Next Life Universe book series. It follows Jack the Ripper throughout London and beyond. It tells the story of a man one would not normally associate with the Ripper, and of the hardships that brought him there.
What was the inspiration behind The Ripper ?
- Inspiration, hmm good question. Unlike Afterworld, I didn't really have an inspiration for this particular story except the character popped into my head one day. So I worked on it. It connects to Afterworld and is a sequel/prequel mix, so you'll get to learn more about the world and how it relates to the character there.
Which authors do you admire? How have they influenced your writing style?
- King, Stan Lee, Kentaro Miura (berserk manga author). These both influence my style and the ways I write. RIP Kentaro Miura.
Can you tell us a little about the locations in your book?
- Sure! It's mostly set in the background of London, as it is a Historical fantasy book that follows Jack the Ripper and his friend John. It gives you some insight into why he killed those women. There are a few other locations, but the majority of it takes place within Europe.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
- Just go for it! Second-guessing is ok on some parts, but if you have an idea you really like, then do your best to make it come to fruition or it'll never happen.
What's your writing process?
- Mostly discovery writing (the story comes to me as I go along), but this one has been tricky. The reason for that is I have to stay in some parameters because of following a timeline of significant Ripping events.
Which character in The Ripper has had the greatest impact on readers?
- Definitely Jack. He was just a super fun character to write, and his lines are up to par with the name 'Saucy Jack'.
If The Ripper 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?
- This is hard. It would have to be someone who can be eccentric. Perhaps Depp could pull it off, but I'd really have to see the casting.
How have readers responded to The Ripper?
- We'll have to wait and see on this one!
Where next? What are you working on now?
- Finishing the Ripper's audiobook. It should be released late October 2021, but the ebook and paperback are available. I'm also working on remastering the audiobook for Afterworld (slowly hiring voice actors since I do audiobook/drama hybrids). That should be out sometime next year. Keep your eyes on the official website for that announcement, along with a discount for a short period!
