Following on from my review of the excellent novel Maria The Wanted and the Legacy of The Keepers last week, I got an opportunity to ask author V. Castro a few questions about; how she got into writing originally and her inspirations for writing the book.
“Word started to get around there was a new enforcer in town. No one knew if she was a demon or an angel, perhaps a mythical mix of both. Maybe the woman in the black hat was one of the old gods that wandered this land before the lash of the cross was introduced. The only thing anyone knew was that no human could run from their devious deeds if Maria and her fist caught you in their sights.” Maria The Wanted
Maria is a wanted woman. She’s wanted by an Aztec trafficker, a cartel boss, the people she fights for, and now the devil she can’t resist.
Her journey begins as a would-be immigrant turned vampire, until the injustices of the world turn her into something else. She’s not just out for blood, she wants answers.
Q. How did you get into writing originally?
A. I’ve always loved books and writing, however, it wasn’t until I became a stay at home mother that I sat down and seriously pursued an idea. I was in a bad place emotionally and had something to say.
Q. For anyone who may be thinking of reading Maria The Wanted and the Legacy of The Keepers what can they expect?
A. You can expect a roller coaster of action, emotions, violence and sex! Adults only! You will also have a diverse cast of characters with their own stories to tell.
Q. Why did you decide to write a horror-fantasy story?
A. I have loved horror since I was a child. Fantasy is a big part of the supernatural. As a Mexican American, I can’t remember a time not hearing a story about the supernatural. Both elements fit with the story I wanted to tell. You should enjoy what you write.
Q. What were your inspirations for writing the book and creating the title character of Maria?
A. All the women that want more for themselves are my inspiration. All the women that don’t come from privilege, yet still fight for what they want are my inspiration. There are very few strong, nuanced, Latina heroines out there. I didn’t see what I wanted to read so I created it.
Q. There is a theme throughout the book, where the women are often repressed. Is this something which you wanted to highlight with the story?
A. Yes. I think it is time for women to be who they are without apology. There is so much negativity we must navigate from childhood, so many expectations. This book is me telling women to fuck that shit. Be you. This goes for those that identify as women as well.
Q. When you started the book did you plan to write it as a series?
A. Absolutely. Maria was going to be book two, but I was so captivated by her. There is just so much I want to do with the characters that it needs to be a series.
Q. Maria The Wanted is the sort of book which could easily be transferred into another medium such as comics or film. Do you have any plans to adapt the book at all?
A. I would LOVE that. I’m just waiting for that call…
Q. The book is the first in the series. What can we expect from the second book and when are you looking to release it?
A. The second book will give you the vampire origin story, take Maria to the border for more ass kicking, and backstory for a few of the characters. I’d like to get a bit more traction on book one before finishing book two.
Q. Do you have any other projects which you are working on?
A. So many! Whenever I get a short story idea, I have to stop and see it through. I’m looking for a home for my original Mexican urban legend and finishing up a novella.
Q. If someone is interested in writing their own book what advice would you give them?
A. Take your time. Don’t compare yourself to others on the journey because it is a tough one and not for the faint of heart.
Published in various websites, Philip is a reviewer who is best known for his interviews and media coverage of independent projects including; films, books, theatre and live events. Always on the lookout for something different to cover!
