Atlantis the point of departure for new trilogy.

Byline: Oregon Author by The Register-Guard

NAME: Marc Phoenix, Wilsonville.

WHAT HAVE YOU WRITTEN? ` `Tashar: City of Mystery' (Publish America/America House). It is the first book of a trilogy. It is for fans who enjoy science fiction/fantasy/ young adult stories.'

WHAT'S IT ABOUT? `In 10 words: `another universe's struggles and how its heroes inspired our legends.'

`This trilogy is a record written by Lan, the prince of Atlantis. He starts his recollection by introducing us to two Tasharans (humans), two Atlantians, one Lyspen and a living technology. He tells us of their journey to free their universe from Dark Shadow, a mysterious nemesis.

`This book ends by solving some mysteries while opening a few more. It is no ordinary space opera, but a story filled with intrigue, action and inspiration.'

WHY DON'T YOU YOU WRITE UNDER YOUR REAL NAME, MARC WEBER? `I was going to use my name, but I realized that there was an author that shared the same last name. So what? Well, his name is David Weber, and he has a pretty good following. Not to mention he is signed with Del Rey.

`So, being the polite person I am, I decided to go by a pen name.'

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND? `Born at Clark Air Force Base, Philippine Islands ... happily married for almost 11 years ... three children."

DO YOU WRITE FULL TIME? `I wish I could quit my job and just focus on writing. But bills have to be paid, so I work as a staffing specialist for LiveBridge in Wilsonville.'

WHAT IS YOUR WRITING PROCESS? `Well, this may seem odd, but I think of a title and then I think of characters to support the title. Then, I sit down and start typing on the computer and make the characters come to life as I challenge them with situations.

`I basically write as if I was reading the book and asking, `What would I enjoy.' Weird, huh?'

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO WRITE YOUR FIRST BOOK AND TO GET IT PUBLISHED? `It took about three months to write the first book and have rough drafts of the other two sequels. It took another three months to rewrite them. After that, it took about three months to finally get a publisher.

`I did get a few rejection letters, about 10. Most said they really liked my story but they were just too busy with other projects. Some had the typical verbiage of a polite rejection.

`I am quite aware of my luck and treat my fortune with awe!'

WHAT'S NEXT? `As soon as I feel confident about the marketing of the first book of my trilogy, I will begin to look at rewriting `Tashar: Chosen' (Book 2). This book continues the journey and adventure of our heroes and introduces a special creature, the Chosen.

`I know most fiction, especially science fiction and fantasy, has the same theme, but my characters are unique enough that I hope fans of those genres will welcome them. If not, oh well.

`Remember, I write for me. If others enjoy it, then it makes me smile longer.'

WHAT ARE YOU READING? `I'm trying to finish Ra Salvatore's `Dark Elf' trilogy. I love the way he writes action. I, too, love writing action. I do not copy him, nor any writer, but I do incorporate techniques when I can!'

MORE INFORMATION AT: www.authorsden. com/phoenix

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