An interview with IBOR entrant Mike Cahoon
Author name: Mike Cahoon
Book entered:The Scion Conspiracy
Sale link to book: https://amzn.to/4jJI1vb
If you were telling a fellow fantasy reader about your book over a drink, how would you describe it?
During a burgeoning Age of Exploration, a vast, dangerous conspiracy that is slowly revealed after a daring heist reveals its existence. The protagonists find themselves caught up in its twisted web of violence and danger and must come to terms with how it threatens to change the world as they know it.
What made you decide to enter IBOR, and what are you hoping this competition gives your book?
IBOR is a chance to get involved with the indie community, meet and support my fellow authors and creators and let other people know more about my own book.
Who do you think your book is really for?
My book is for fans of Grimdark and Epic Fantasy, anyone who enjoys political intrigue, character driven narratives and intricate worldbuilding.
What do you think your book does best?
Personally, I am a character first reader and author and I think my work on building strong, engaging characters is my strongest single selling point in my book.
What kind of experience are you trying to give the reader?
I want my readers to feel like they’ve gotten lost in a visceral journey through my world and my characters, one which will leave them excited about the future and the next steps in these stories.
Are there any fantasy books that feel like a good ‘neighbour’ for yours on a shelf?
The works of Joe Abercrombie in his First Law series and George RR Martin in his A Song of Ice and Fire are good neighbors. I would also nod toward the likes of the Licanius Trilogy, The Powder Mage series and Memory, Sorrow and Thorn.
Has the book changed since it was first released?
This is the first and only printing of the book.
Is this a standalone or part of something bigger?
This is the first book in the Crucible of Legacy series, it is meant to start that journey.
What’s a piece of feedback you’ve had that made you stop and think, “Yeah, that’s fair”?
As this is the first in the series, I’ve had several reviews state that character arcs aren’t satisfyingly concluded. Which I agree with and think is a totally valid point. But, I do plan to continue the series, so I feel those complaints will be addressed.
Where do you find your inspiration?
The complexities and challenging questions life presents us with and that we have to find a way to face.
Are you working on anything currently?
A prequel novella and the sequel to The Scion Conspiracy.
Why do you think IBOR is the right place for this book?
IBOR is all about a second chance for the indie books to show they’re worth paying attention to. I believe in my book, think it is a high quality and I believe it will resonate with a large audience given a chance to.
