I’m in a very interesting position right now. My novel FIRE IN THE WOODS comes out in about two months, and the early chatter isn’t about my quirky main character. Instead, people are talking about the guy who changes her life forever.

By accident.

This is part of an “introduce your character” game that posted a list of questions for the character to answer, but I couldn’t see David just sitting there and spilling his guts, so I’d rather give you a little character study that will do pretty much the same thing. And for grins and giggles, I’m going to do it in 80 words or less.

Let me introduce you to the current literary love of my life, David.

David

It was a simple mission. Fly over the planet Earth, and send a signal to our people on the surface.

Earth was supposed to be a primitive world.

That was the first lie.

They shouldn’t have been able to detect me.

They shouldn’t have been able to defend themselves.

They shouldn’t have been able to shoot me down.

More lies.

Now my life is in jeopardy.

I was never supposed to set foot on Earth.

I was never supposed to interact with natives.

I was never supposed to meet… her.

FIRE IN THE WOODS

Coming September, 2014

From Jennifer M. Eaton and Month9Books

I’m really glad I said yes when Richard Leonard asked me to join in this game, because I LOVE that little introspection from David. I can see my character standing in the woods, with the fire raging behind him, speaking these words before he starts running for his life from the United States military. This really sets the tone for the beginning of the book.

Thanks for the idea Richard!

And thanks everyone else for spending a few minutes with David.

Richard Leonard writes software and documentation for a living, and fiction for pleasure. He writes elements of sci-fi, romance, mystery, psychological thriller, religious conflict, action, but the common theme of his fictional writing is always based on what makes people tick. Living in the picturesque Yarra Valley wine region, east of Melbourne, Australia with his lovely wife, two teenage offspring and mischievous dog. Neither Richard, nor his dog, drink wine.

Website: richardleonard.wordpress.com

Twitter: @RichardELeonard