Online for Authors Episode 4-7-26

​Fastballs and Fear: A Coming-of-Age Story Twisted with International Intrigue with Author Harrison Jenkins

​In the latest episode of "Online for Authors," I had the pleasure of chatting with Harrison Jenkins, the creative mind behind the intriguing novel "A Bad Hand." Our conversation took readers behind the scenes of Harrison's writing process, his inspiration for the book, and the unique elements that make this coming-of-age thriller stand out.

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The Creative Journey of Harrison Jenkins
Welcoming Harrison to the podcast, I was eager to delve into the creative process behind "A Bad Hand." Harrison shared how the novel's storyline emerged from a combination of personal experiences and imaginative developments. From his cherished memories of coaching youth baseball to his fascination with the Japanese criminal underworld, the book is a tapestry of intriguing themes.

A Sneak Peek into "A Bad Hand"
Harrison describes "A Bad Hand" as a coming-of-age story about a young man who lands his dream job as a bat boy for a minor league baseball team. However, his dream life takes a thrilling twist when he becomes entangled with the Yakuza, the feared Japanese mafia. The novel intertwines genres, offering readers a mix of thriller, coming-of-age, and a tender love story.

Research: The Backbone of Authentic Storytelling
A significant part of our discussion centered around the extensive research Harrison undertook to create authenticity in his book. From learning about Japanese culture and the complexities of the Yakuza to understanding minor league baseball dynamics, Harrison's commitment to detail is evident.

Balancing Realism and Storytelling
As an author myself, I appreciated Harrison's honesty about the struggles of balancing detailed research with engaging storytelling. His experience with a skilled editor helped him tighten the narrative, ensuring the story maintains its pace without overwhelming readers with excessive detail.

Themes That Resonate
"A Bad Hand" also bravely tackles complex themes. The protagonist, James, faces numerous personal and external challenges, including dealing with his mother's mental health issues and navigating his own identity. These layers add depth and relatability to the story, prompting readers to reflect on their own experiences.

A Peek into Harrison's Next Projects
While "A Bad Hand" is a captivating standalone novel, Harrison hinted at future projects that include a continuation of this story and a historical fiction piece. His passion for exploring diverse genres reinforces the idea that authors should not box themselves into one category.

Whether you're a fan of thrillers, coming-of-age stories, or simply enjoy a well-crafted narrative, "A Bad Hand" offers something for everyone. I highly recommend picking up a copy, and don't forget to leave a review to support Harrison's incredible work. Happy reading!

Purchase A Bad Hand on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4loaYxB
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4rWJEZS

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