Interview with Rory Surtain, Author of Psyker

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Psyker?

I’ve always been a fan of the dystopian, futuristic Black Library novels but wanted to do my own thing. Instead of focusing on the heroes and legends of that science fantasy universe, I went after an unknown, picking one life out of trillions and building an edgy, relatable story from the ground up.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Psyker, what would they be?

Fun question. Between chapters, I’ve been known to create monumental indie rock playlists on Spotify building the emotional tone for each book. Paric Kilhaven, the MC and narrator of Psyker, evolves and thus a theme song varies for each book. For Psyker, Hanging by a Thread by Des Rocs. For Psykana, the sequel, a great theme song would be Save Me (I’m Not Crazy) by Electric Enemy.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I normally read urban fantasy and historical fiction. So far, I’ve been writing dystopian epic fantasy and science fantasy with a darker bent. Not grimdark, but not Harry Potter. The MC doesn’t back down from the challenges—often with a steep price—and grows as a result.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

A Time for Witches by Craig Schaefer, Smoke Bitten by Patricia Briggs, and yes, I’m falling way behind.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My books always have a bit of mystery, and my favorites scenes always have an element of surprise. To describe one here would be a spoiler.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I never use the letter J.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Forgive the world.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

The next book will be even better.