Online for Authors Episode 6-9-26

​Steamy Romance Meets Political Upheaval: Why This Genre Mashup Works with Author Deborah J Brasket

​Have you ever picked up a book and found yourself swept away into a tide of genres that feel all too familiar yet refreshingly new? That was my experience with Deborah J. Brasket's novel, This Sea Within. Recently on Online for Authors, I had the pleasure of speaking with Deborah about her fascinating journey in crafting this unique narrative.

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Welcome to the Mashup
Right from the start, Deborah welcomes readers into a world that boldly defies genre boundaries. Described as a historical novel, political thriller, and a coming-of-age love story, This Sea Within is set against the dramatic backdrops of the 1970s, yet it resonates deeply with contemporary themes.

Deborah shared with me how she aimed to write the kind of novel she loves to read—one that combines a steamy love story with urgent global issues. Interestingly, despite not following what many would consider traditional romance tropes, the narrative captures the essence of two passionate souls—Lena and Raoul—deeply involved in a revolutionary cause.

A Setting That's Real Yet Imagined
A notable aspect of This Sea Within is its setting in the fictional land of San Balanque. When asked why she chose to invent a setting, Deborah explained her desire to create her own narrative trajectory while drawing inspiration from historical revolutions in Central America, especially the Nicaraguan conflict. Her research was extensive, grounding the fictional world in a rich tapestry of historical detail.

Genre-Bending Impact
We live in a literary age where genre mashups are becoming increasingly popular, and Deborah stands at the forefront of this trend. Authors who write without traditional publishing restrictions often find freedom in crossing genre lines, and readers enjoy the unpredictability that such stories offer. It's fascinating to explore a narrative where you can’t quite predict where the storyline will take you. As Deborah revealed, this freedom allows genres like literary fiction to blend seamlessly with elements of mystery and adventure.

Characters That Enchant
Deborah and I dove deep into the characters of the book, and a personal favorite character of hers is Fiona, who adds a delightful complexity to the story. Fiona’s vibrancy and unique personality contribute richness and depth, which Deborah attributes to blending characteristics from different inspiring sources.

The Sea Within Title Insight
The title This Sea Within carries layers of meaning, both in terms of the inner conflicts faced by individuals and the external challenges depicted in the narrative. Discussing its origin, Deborah highlighted how the sea acts as a metaphor for the tumultuous nature of life, noting parallels between historical and current events.

Looking Ahead
Excitingly, This Sea Within is the beginning of a planned trilogy. While it stands alone with a complete character arc, there’s much left to explore. Deborah is already working on the subsequent books, promising more of the gripping storytelling readers have come to love.

Join the Conversation
Engaging with Deborah was truly a delight, and her insights on merging genres and exploring revolutionary themes have offered a fresh perspective on historical narratives. If you’re ready to dive into a transformative journey, This Sea Within is your next must-read. and don't forget to check out her first book, When Things Go Missing, for another dose of her captivating storytelling.

Read This Sea Within, and be sure to share your thoughts in reviews—they help authors immensely. Deborah, thank you for sharing your world with us. This conversation has been a wonderful exploration into the depths of historical fiction and beyond.

Purchase This Sea Within on Amazon:
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4eF6aCS

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