An Interview with Brian Martin, Author of “Between Worlds: A Life of Abduction, Addiction, and Awakening”

In his debut novel, Brian Martin weaves together elements of horror, personal struggle, and supernatural mystery. We sat down with the author to discuss his writing process, his unique desk companion, and why vulnerability is essential to authentic storytelling.

You’ve mentioned that the most difficult part of writing was believing you could contribute something others would enjoy. What changed that for you?

It was about wanting to emulate my heroes of literature—to gift readers the thrill of living in full immersion in a world of experiences that, until arriving there, had been impossible. Once I realized that was my goal, everything shifted. I stopped worrying about whether I was “good enough” and started focusing on creating those impossible worlds.

Speaking of your writing process, we have to ask about what might be your most interesting quirk—tell us about the pleasant pig.

[Laughs] Ah, yes! My desk is this beautiful, century-old oak Doten-Dunton roll top, filled with all sorts of eclectic treasures—an ancient Chinese cloisonné vase, various figurines I use as paperweights. But among them is a pen of pottery pigs, all American and crackled with age, peering out from various nooks until I need them.

One pig, though, is my favorite. He’s chipped and vacant, with eyes made of holes when the clay was still soft, but he’s absolutely charming. We have half a million little mental conversations. He’s always in a good mood and streamlines this process of inner dialogue that might otherwise go on forever. I could carry on without him, of course, but of all the places my eyes fall to rest, his is the most welcome.

That’s wonderfully quirky! Can readers connect with you beyond your books?

Absolutely! I have a blog called “The Attic” where I’d love for people to subscribe. Readers can even email me directly. The website is brianmartin812.wordpress.com, and my email is [email protected]. I also have a newsletter available on request.

Writing can be emotionally draining. What advice do you have for aspiring writers facing the inevitable rejections?

Re-define success. Then re-define it again, and again. We are world builders, and this isn’t going to be handed to you. Even the most mild and tender writers have a core of strength that’s not easily measured or seen. You have to make it happen—you are your strongest supporter, and the competition is staggering.

It is a certainty you will be rejected. Accept this and shed your fears. You must. True creators are paired with what I call “The Drive.” It will either make you mad as a hatter, free you, or both. We don’t have a choice, you see. Artists paint, draw, smudge, mold, scratch, and yes, write because we have to create. Be honest and ask yourself if you can stop. Everything else falls into place after that.

Your writing seems deeply personal. How do you handle the emotional impact of your stories as you’re writing them?

This is actually the easiest question for me to answer. I realized that if nothing is risked—if everything stays safe, safe, safe with not a harm in sight—there’s no you in it. When I write something that makes me cry, it’s real. My grief is felt by all who read it. When I write something so poignant in its ecstasy, it’s because I’ve lost it or found it, despite everything.

If I feel exposed, then I am on the page, and it’s as real for the reader as it is for me. That’s the hope, anyway.

Do you do a lot of planning before you start writing?

Write or it’s wrong. There must be writing first. Write, write, write… That’s my philosophy.

What surprised you most while writing this book?

This first book is the one that demanded to be written! I used to think the premise, plot, and characters had to be fully formed before I started. The reality is I had to find out what I needed to know by writing it. If I’m not interested, why would you be?

What was the highlight of the writing process for you?

Knowing I could reach the finish line—and the next one, and the next. After getting it written, you learn what needs to come next, and there’s no stopping the momentum after that first goal is achieved. Even when you thought that was all there was. At least for me.

What are you reading now?

Ironically, and for the first time, “Communion.” I may be on page thirty-something. It’s part of my first edition collection.

Finally, we have to ask—what’s your favorite food?

[Grins] Chocolate. I never grew out of it. God help me.

“Between Worlds: A Life of Abduction, Addiction, and Awakening” promises to blend supernatural horror with deeply personal themes. Based on our conversation with Brian Martin, readers can expect a story that doesn’t shy away from vulnerability—one written by an author who understands that the best fiction comes from putting everything on the line.