Using real-life fighter pilot experience in a fantasy novel

My husband’s career as a fighter pilot for the USAF has heavily influenced the DRAGONRIDER CHRONCILES. When I was developing the series and figuring out the angle I wanted to take with Jaevid’s story, he had just begun his training in Wichita Falls, TX. We were young, newlyweds, and since I was raised in a Navy household, I had a very limited understanding of the demands of his training. But we got a crash-course in “Surviving the Military Lifestyle,” which is a book I should probably write sometime later in my life.

22542586 The training my husband went through was nothing short of life-draining, exhausting, and tested every bit of his resolve. But through those struggles, I saw his strength. I saw him be determined. I saw him at the lowest and highest points, and I eventually saw him achieve his dream of being a fighter pilot. I can’t tell you how beautiful that moment was!

So it only made sense to me to put that in a book – Jaevid’s book. After all, what are dragonriders but medieval fighter pilots? 23344338 At least, that’s how I translated them into my world! I adapted many of the aspects of my husband’s training to that setting. I wanted to show how they bonded as a brotherhood, and yet how each one of these pilots his held to a standard by the ones who came before them. There is an inherent need in their culture to uphold traditions, to respect those who came before, and to be prepared for the worst possible scenarios. These pilots, male and female, are warriors. They are our knights in shining armor, straddling fire-breathing beasts as they ride into battle. I just hope my story honors them!

About Immortal

Destiny has called. With Jaevid Broadfeather forever lost to the depths of Luntharda, Felix Farrow struggles to stand on his own. He begins a violent downward spiral which causes him to abandon his post as a dragonrider, hiding in the halls of his family estate. His one hope for redemption lies within the heart of someone from his past—and the very last person he ever wanted to see again. And now the time has finally come. Hovrid, who has ruled Maldobar as a tyrannical imposter, is preparing to make a decisive assault against Luntharda that will destroy what remains of the elven race. Only Jaevid, Felix, and their trusted friends are able to stand in his way. They have only one chance to end the war, and only one hope to absolve the curse that threatens to destroy their world. The stage is set. The plan is in motion. What began as one boy’s adventure will now end in blood.

Find out more about the Dragonriders series HERE

About Nicole Conway:

NICOLE CONWAY is an author from North Alabama. She graduated from Auburn University in 2012, and has previously worked as a graphic artist. She is happily married and has one son as well as a cat and a dog. She enjoys blogging, traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family. Read more on Amazon’s Nicole Conway page