THE PECULIAR AFFLICTION OF THOMAS WADE DUNCAN received a 4+ star review, making it an IndieReader Approved title.
Following find an interview with author Kip Koelsch.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
THE PECULIAR AFFLICTION OF THOMAS WADE DUNCAN (September 13, 2023)
What’s the book’s first line?
“How came you here, soldier?”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
Thomas Wade Duncan lost a leg, his self-control, and his fiancée. This is a dark, Civil War-era tale of addiction, witchcraft, and an uncertain redemption.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
Believe it or not, it is loosely based on an anthology writing prompt that I found too late. It was one week to the deadline and there was no way I was going to crank out a polished story in time. But I still brainstormed and came up with a basic premise that I eventually built into the story of wounded, Civil War veteran Thomas Wade Duncan. As I filled out his character traits, and did the needed research, I became passionate about crafting a somewhat ambiguous and atmospheric story reminiscent of gothic works of the 19th Century—while still being accessible to a modern audience.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
This is for readers who enjoy a tale that harkens back to the gothic-stylings of the 19th century while remaining more than accessible to a modern audience that loves atmospheric, ambiguous, and witchy suspense.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character?
Thomas Wade Duncan is unsure of his desire to get sober and find redemption. Of course, in his state, he is uncertain of many things.
Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
While writing Thomas Wade Duncan, I had two characters in mind—Joshua Chamberlain from the film “Gettysburg” and Wilem Dafoe’s character (Thomas Wake) in the film “The Lighthouse.”
Is this the first book you’ve written?
The Peculiar Affliction of Thomas Wade Duncan is my seventh book. I previously published two science-thrillers, a science fiction/space opera trilogy, and a collection of three short stories.
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
Currently, I work in sales at Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure in Pinellas Park, Florida. It’s a specialty outdoor retail store and I mainly work in the kayak/stand-up paddle board department.
How much time do you generally spend on your writing?
When I have an active project, I devote at least an hour a day. That time may be spent writing, light-editing, researching, creating character sketches, or any combination of things. There will also be certain days when I reserve a larger block of time—when the writing takes precedence over my workouts (which are another important and regular part of my life).
What’s the best and the hardest part of being an indie?
Getting your book in front of readers and getting those readers to leave reviews or make personal recommendations.
What’s a great piece of advice that you can share with fellow indie authors?
Self-publishing is a roller coaster ride—a constant series of ups and downs. Some are more extreme than others—both the highs and the lows. Be prepared for those widely swinging emotions.
Would you go traditional if a publisher came calling? If so, why?
Yes. Though I would chafe at losing total control of my work and the timing of its release, I still believe that traditional publishing can offer some benefits. I know much of the marketing onus would still fall on me, yet I can’t help but think traditional publishing houses still can open a few more doors and get books in front of more gatekeepers.
Is there something in particular that motivates you (fame? fortune?)
I would love to make a living from my writing. That said, I’m motivated by the need to
Which book do you wish you could have written?
Cryptonomicon by Neal Stephenson.