Interview with Jack Selvaggio, Author of The Feats of Madeleine

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Feats of Madeleine?

When I started writing I jumped into it blindly. I published my first story and wasn’t really sure if I wanted to continue at all, or if it was just going to be a one-time thing. After I decided to keep at it, I wanted to write something different. My first story was melancholic so I wanted this to be more fun and adventurous. I created my character Madeleine off the cuff, originally as the opposite of the protagonist in my previous book. Where my other character is lost and unsure of himself, Madeleine is self-confident and a visionary. I really enjoyed writing in her voice, allowing her unique personality to run free. At first it was supposed to be detective stories but I switched to more fully action & adventure. Although the mystery and detective elements are still there as well. The stories follow Madeleine as she traverses different trials to become the hero she always wanted to be. Overall they became a cool blend of adventure, mystery, intensity, and most of all…fun.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Feats of Madeleine, what would they be?

“Shiroyama” by Sabaton. The song retells the last phase of the Satsuma Rebellion during Meiji Era Japan. Where a small group of samurai made their last stand against the imperial army, reflecting a part of Madeleine’s heritage as well her journey, so that even when the gang was outgunned, they always found a way to fight back. The riffs in rock music are most fitting for Madeleine in general.

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

This may shock people but I’m not much of a reader. *GASP*. I know, but it’s true. I feel it makes me unique though in a way, or maybe just an oddball. But I love creative writing and using my imagination. If I had to pick a genre for books, it would probably be the same that I write. Action & Adventure or mystery.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

See my response above…. 🙂

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The fighting scenes where I use my martial arts experience to make them come alive. And any heart to heart or banter scenes between Madeleine and Lance.

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

I don’t write start to finish, It’s all over the place. Sorta like: Very Beginning. Somewhere towards the end. Part of Middle. In between scenes. End. Yeah it’s goofy. I kinda spontaneously write scenes out as they come to my head. Then connect everything together like puzzle pieces later on. It also helps me avoid writer’s block.

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

Life is short so do what you love and enjoy. I know it’s cliche but it’s true.

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

I hope that readers can make a connection with Madeleine. If my character made an impact on them, then I fulfilled my goal.

Jack Selvaggio is the author of the new book The Feats of Madeleine

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