BooksChatter: ℚ Death and Betrayal: Sabel Security [8]

Today we have the pleasure of meeting up with author Seeley James to talk about Death and Betrayal (14 February 2020, Machined Media, 362 pages), a Thriller, book eight in the Sabel Security series.

“I love Seeley James novels and this one was a real thrill ride from beginning to end.” – Amazon Reviewer, Karen S.

“I always find myself going from breath-holding tension to laugh out loud sarcasm and since sarcastic humor is my favorite kind, I'm always in hog heaven with these books.” – Amazon Reviewer, Teresa

|| Synopsis || Teaser: KCR Preview || The Series || Author Q&A || About the Author || Giveaway & Tour Stops ||

A very warm welcome to Seeley James; thank you for joining us on BooksChatter!

What was the inspiration for Death and Betrayal?

"I read a scientific article about the future of weapons of war. In it, the author stated that defense contractors here and abroad are working on a new weapon that is worse than nuclear weapons. I wondered what would happen if/when that weapon ever fell into the wrong hands…"

How much of yourself is reflected in this book, and how?

"I’m naturally snarky, even in church. My personality provides the comic relief in all my books.

I do have a cynical side to my personality as well, and this provides the basis for the scary parts."

The first thing that draws me to a book is its cover. Can you tell us about your cover for Death and Betrayal - why you chose that concept and who the artist is.

"The cover designer for Death and Betrayal is Jeroen ten Berge. He has done a fabulous job designing 8 out of 10 of my book covers.

Our process is that we talk briefly about the book and I describe a pivotal scene, and he takes my thoughts and words and turns them into a visual depiction. There is no substitute for letting the artist loose with your concept."

Why should we read Death and Betrayal and what sets it apart from the rest? What makes your book unique?

"My stories are prescient, ripped from tomorrow’s headlines. I have predicted years in advance scandals now afflicting our country. For example, in Death and Dark Money, published 4 years ago, in March 2016, I wrote about people funneling foreign donations into our elections. In December, 2019, eight men were indicted for doing exactly what my book warned against. Hopefully, the evil plot in Death and Betrayal will not come to pass."

Can you tell us something quirky about Death and Betrayal, its story and characters?

"My fans’ favorite recurring character is one that provides the comic relief in an otherwise scary, gritty thriller. Describing him always gives readers the wrong impression, so I tell people to read until they find him.

You’ll know when you find him. He is unique. But he’s not for everyone, so there is the occasional humorless apostate (who, I have it on good authority, will end up rotting in hell for eternity) who puts it back on the shelf. Which is fine."

Who would you recommend Death and Betrayal to and what should readers be aware of (any warnings or disclaimers)?

"Anyone who likes to read fun and exciting thrillers and action/adventure will love this book and series. At the same time, my books deliver food for thought about the future of society."

If you could / wished to turn Death and Betrayal and the Sabel Security series into a movie, who would be your dream team?

" Locations: The books can be set anywhere, I usually choose a location by asking my wife where she wants to go on our next family vacation.

My fans have debated what actors should play the key roles. They have decided on Chadwick Boseman to play Jacob Stearne and Charlize Theron to play Pia Sabel (although I point out, the actress has to be as tall as Elizabeth Debicki [6ft 2in, i.e. over 5 in taller!]).

For Director, I would choose Taika Waititi [Thor: Ragnarok]."

What do you like to write and read about?

"I live and love mysteries, thrillers and action/adventure books."

What is your writing process?

"I read a lot, both fiction and non-fiction books and all of the big daily newspapers. I determine what is and will be civilization’s biggest threat and I extrapolate by asking “what could possibly go wrong?” When I’ve scared myself with a glimpse of the near-future, I build out a story grid, which is a spreadsheet something like an outline.

Once I have a grasp on the theme, clues, good guys and bad guys, I sit down and write."

What is in store next?

"Death and Betrayal is part of the Sabel Security Series. Jacob has a five book arc in which he will confront the proliferation of arms and the profiteers of endless war."

And as a final quirky thing, to get to know you a little bit better... do you have a pet or something that is special to you that you could share with us?

"Here are 2 pictures of our dog Lincoln: as a puppy and currently."

Wow, Lincoln, you are absolutely gorgeous! Lots of head-scratches to you from all of us at BooksChatter.

Seeley, thank you for sharing Lincoln with us; we hope you are having a great tour.

Have you ever been betrayed by your government, your best friend, and your fiancé—all at the same time?