Author: Steven James
Submitted: November 27, 2012
Tell us a little about yourself. Ive written over twenty nonfiction books, but this is my first novel. Ive wanted to write novels for a long time and have toyed with ideas for years, so it was a blessing to be able to finally craft one.
What was your motivation behind this project? I wanted to examine, within the framework of an intense psychological thriller, the question of what makes us (specifically, me) different from those who do the unthinkable. Serial killers are just as human as I am; theyre not some kind of monsters, and yet they act in monstrous ways. Am I capable of that as well? Thats the question that drove the narrative.
What do you hope folks will gain from this project? I dont write so much with an agenda in mind, that is, that Im hoping readers will learn a lesson, as much as I am hoping theyll examine and explore moral issues. But I would say that, in addition to being entertained, I hope readers will gain new insights into the fallen nature of man and of the need all of us have of a Savior.
How were you personally impacted by working on this project? For this book I needed to do a lot of research on cults. When I saw the power of brainwashing, I was reminded once again of how powerful ideas are and how easily we can be deceived and led astray by them. Scripture warns against being deceived by the hollow philosophies of this age. Its easy for all of us, me included, to get deceived. Its not easy to admit that, but when we do we open ourselves up to grow more in the knowledge of the truth.
Who are your influences, sources of inspiration or favorite authors / artists? I remember reading Sigmund Brouwers novel Blood Ties and being struck by how groundbreaking it was in the Christian book market. It gave me confidence that my books would find an audience here as well.
Anything else you'd like readers / listeners to know: Since The Pawn contains some graphic and violent scenes, some people have asked me if this book is a Christian novel. I would say that it is not by any means unchristian. If you like gripping psychological suspense without sex and foul language and written from a Christian worldview, youll enjoy this book.
