Jeffrey Wilkins
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Contrivance
Author website: Wilkinswrites.com
Goodreads site: goodreads.com/jeffreywilkins
Facebook: Wilkins Writes
Tell your readers a little about yourself, where you grew
up, where you live now, where you went to school etc. Let them get to know the
personal you.
I was born and raised in Hollis, New Hampshire, where I
graduated from Hollis/Brookline High School. After serving in the Air Force, I
pursued higher education at Mount Washington College (formerly Hesser College)
in Nashua, NH. I continued my studies online, graduating from American
Intercontinental University, and later earned my Master’s degree from Texas
A&M University. Today, I call New Caney, Texas, home—a peaceful community
about 30 miles northeast of Houston.
inspired you to author this book?
Experiencing the turmoil and uncertainty of 2020, I had a
vivid dream one night that felt incredibly real. When I woke up the next
morning, it was as if I had just witnessed something terrifying. I immediately
outlined the dream, and that became the foundation for my book.
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Where did you get the inspiration for your book’s cover?
I drew inspiration for the cover from AI and Adobe Images,
and my family helped choose the one they liked the most.
Who has been the most significant influence on you
personally and as a writer?
My mother has been the greatest influence on me both
personally and as a writer. A published author herself, like my eldest brother,
she continues to write books well into her early 90s.
What were your struggles or obstacles you had to overcome
to get this book written?
The biggest challenge was learning to separate the roles of
writer, editor, and researcher. I found myself wanting to tackle all three at
once, which made the process harder than it needed to be.
Tell your readers about your book.
Contrivance is a gripping science fiction thriller that thrusts readers into an unimaginable crisis as the Earth's core begins to fail. With its imminent shutdown, chaos erupts worldwide, and humanity races against time to transport as many survivors as possible to Mars. The story unfolds through a series of catastrophic events, including devastating tornadoes in Alaska, explosive volcanic eruptions in Maine, and rising seas that engulf entire islands, leaving only a handful of survivors in their wake. At the heart of the narrative are seven characters from diverse corners of the globe, each bound by an urgent will to survive. As societal order crumbles amid widespread riots, deadly viruses, and severe resource shortages, these individuals must confront not only the physical dangers of a disintegrating world but also the emotional turmoil of abandoning their loved ones. In a powerful mid-story twist, the characters face the harsh reality of the dying core, prompting them to reevaluate their choices and confront the true cost of survival. The narrative delves into profound themes of resilience, the indomitable human spirit, and the heart-wrenching sacrifices made in the face of disaster. While some find a way to escape Earth’s fate, they are haunted by the knowledge that many will suffer in their absence. Contrivance is a thrilling journey that explores the depths of human endurance amid overwhelming despair, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with every unexpected twist. This novel challenges readers to contemplate the ultimate 'what if' of Earth's demise and the fierce struggle for survival that follows.
Who is your target audience, and why?
The target audience for Contrivance primarily includes
science fiction enthusiasts who are drawn to thrilling narratives that explore
existential crises and the resilience of the human spirit. This group often
seeks immersive stories that challenge their imaginations while grappling with
profound themes such as survival, sacrifice, and the consequences of humanity's
actions on the planet. Additionally, readers who enjoy character-driven plots
will find the novel appealing, as it features a diverse cast of characters
facing unimaginable challenges, allowing for deep emotional connections and
explorations of personal and societal dynamics. The urgency of the storyline,
marked by catastrophic events and the race against time to escape Earth, will
resonate with those who appreciate fast-paced, action-packed narratives.
Furthermore, the exploration of contemporary issues, such as environmental
degradation and resource scarcity, may attract a broader audience interested in
speculative fiction that reflects real-world concerns. Overall, the novel
caters to readers who crave excitement and thought-provoking themes in their
literary experiences.
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What do you consider your greatest success in life?
I consider my greatest success in life to be the ability to
provide for and share meaningful experiences with my family. Beyond that,
success is reflected in the culmination of my experiences, achievements, and
personal growth. Completing my master's degree in Risk Management while
balancing a full-time job exemplifies my dedication and capacity to navigate
complex challenges. Additionally, my service as an Air Force veteran
underscores my commitment to discipline, teamwork, and leadership. However, the
most profound achievement is my recent endeavor of writing and preparing to
publish my first novel, Contrivance. This project not only showcases my
creative expression but also represents my ability to transform personal
experiences and reflections into a compelling narrative. The journey of writing
this book stands as a significant milestone, emphasizing the perseverance,
creativity, and passion required for effective storytelling.
What one unique thing sets you apart from other writers
in your genre?
What sets me apart from other writers in the science fiction
genre is my unique combination of personal experiences and professional
background in both private industry and military service. This blend allows me
to craft intricate, realistic scenarios that showcase not only imaginative
storytelling but also a profound understanding of complex systems, crisis
management, and the human condition in times of stress. By drawing on real-life
challenges from my personal journey and military training, I infuse my narratives
with authenticity and depth, enabling me to explore themes of survival,
resilience, and moral dilemmas in ways that deeply resonate with readers. This
perspective enriches the storytelling and encourages readers to reflect on
their own lives and the choices they encounter during moments of crisis.
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