Interview with David V Mammina, Author of Death or Volentus

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Death or Volentus?

I never planned on writing this story, but it kept forming in my head – the tale of a villain who is compelled to rescue his nemesis, of all people, from a nefarious cult he despises. What would the perspective of this villainous figure be, how would he change throughout the mission, and, of course, why is he doing this?

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Death or Volentus, what would they be?

Mozart: Requiem would be a great fit for Volentus. Cold, calculating, and, yet, a force of nature you can’t help but root for when his dark justice is served.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Dark Fantasy or Gothic Horror, please!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Heir To the Empire is on my list for sure.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene to write was his rescue of the hero, his nemesis. While he feels haughty and self-righteous at the start, he changes the moment he sees her condition. It nearly breaks him to see his once great adversary in such a terribly feeble way. His motivations switch dramatically, leading to an epic turn of events.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I can write almost anywhere, a train, the park, a laundromat. Anything is possible when a great scene is bursting to be transcribed to the page. (Coffee or wine is a bonus!)

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Write what you would love to read yourself.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

“This story reminds me how powerful a great book could be after turning the pages feverishly.”

David V Mammina is the author of the new book Death or Volentus

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