Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Interview With Author Arthur Edward Sullivan, Jr.


 

1.      What inspired you to write this book?

I thought that the world needed to understand that the rite of exorcism is not simply a Roman Catholic practice. Although I am a Catholic, I hold great respect for all the world’s religions and hope that the insights provided in this book will enlighten the reader to the practices of other faiths. 

 

2.      What exactly is it about and who is it written for?

The book is a fictional account of an exorcism from a multi-theological perspective.  Set in Alexandria, Virginia, in current time, a Rabbi, Iman, and Priest form an allegiance to cast out a demon who is affecting their respective houses of worship.

The book is written for those who are curious about the Islamic and Jewish rites of exorcism and for those who are particularly interested in this genre.

 

3.      What do you hope readers will get out of reading your book?

A better understanding that we are all similar in our devotions. The interactions and mutual respect among the three clerics is also an important element of the book.

 

4.      How did you decide on your book’s title and cover design?

The title was derived from my other two books: A Dispassionate Man and A Passionate Woman. I felt it was important to maintain the “passion” theme.  The cover design was provided by the publishing company, Dorrance Publishing Company of Pittsburgh, PA.

 

5.      What advice or words of wisdom do you have for fellow writers – other than run!?

At this stage of my life, I find writing a cathartic exercise. The process of research, examination, and analysis sharpens my mind and motivates me to continue the process to the next body of work.  I am currently writing a fictional account of the life of Saint Paul, based on historical events. There is a book in everyone. I encourage everyone I meet to take the time to begin this amazing process.  It is a fulfilling experience.

 

6.      What trends in the book world do you see -- and where do you think the book publishing industry is heading?

The book publishing industry is changing daily, for the better.  It has never been easier to publish and place your novel in one of the many online venues. The market response to the emergence of Amazon and the proliferation of ‘e readers” has been tremendous.  Also, contrary to popular belief, I see increases in international readership trends.  Books fairs are well attended around the globe.  People are reading and the demand for books of every genre is increasing.

 

7.      Were there experiences in your personal life or career that came in handy when writing this book?

I will never forget seeing the movie The Exorcist in 1973. It was truly frightening.  I wondered, however, why were all the movies and books the involved the rite of exorcism Catholic-centric? After travelling the globe and engaging many business associates and friends who practiced other faiths, it occurred to me that a book needed to address the exorcism rite from the Islamic and Jewish perspective, as well as the Catholic.

 

8.      How would you describe your writing style? Which writers or books is your writing similar to?

I am a quick read and truly don’t like to add fluff simply to increase the page count. There are very few side stories or non-theme-oriented vignettes.  I guess you might say I’m a “no BS” author. I am a very humble man and would never say that I was similar to a more well-read author.

 

9.      What challenges did you overcome in the writing of this book?

My primary challenges were access to a Jewish and Islamic exorcist.  Also gaining insight into the various rites of exorcism was an interesting research exercise.  The story line was, for me, straightforward.

 

10.  If people can buy or read one book this week or month, why should it be yours?

The Devil’s Passion will inform and enlighten the reader.  It is a simple to read book.  Most readers finish in two days, or less.  People who travel tell me it is a “one ride read.”  That is the book can usually be completed in one cross country airplane ride or a round trip.

 

About The Author: After the death of my wife, Victoria, in April 2020, I began to write short novels (“novellas) that focus on moral issues and personal concerns.  This latest work, The Devil’s Passion, my third book, is perhaps the first book that presents the rite of exorcism from the Islamic, Judaic, and Christian perspectives.   Prior to 2020, I was an international business consultant and supported clients in Bangkok, Abu Dhabi, London, Houston and Washington, DC.   I have profound respect for people from different cultures who practice different religions. I am also a retired Naval Reserve Intelligence Officer.

 

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About Brian Feinblum

Brian Feinblum should be followed on Twitter @theprexpert. This is copyrighted by BookMarketingBuzzBlog ©2023. Born and raised in Brooklyn, he now resides in Westchester with his wife, two kids, and Ferris, a black lab rescue dog. His writings are often featured in The Writer and IBPA’s The Independent.  This award-winning blog has generated over 3.3 million pageviews. With 4,400+ posts over the past dozen years, it was named one of the best book marketing blogs by BookBaby  http://blog.bookbaby.com/2013/09/the-best-book-marketing-blogs  and recognized by Feedspot in 2021 and 2018 as one of the top book marketing blogs. It was also named by www.WinningWriters.com as a "best resource.” For the past three decades, including 21 years as the head of marketing for the nation’s largest book publicity firm, and two jobs at two independent presses, Brian has worked with many first-time, self-published, authors of all genres, right along with best-selling authors and celebrities such as: Dr. Ruth, Mark Victor Hansen, Joseph Finder, Katherine Spurway, Neil Rackham, Harvey Mackay, Ken Blanchard, Stephen Covey, Warren Adler, Cindy Adams, Todd Duncan, Susan RoAne, John C. Maxwell, Jeff Foxworthy, Seth Godin, and Henry Winkler. He recently hosted a panel on book publicity for Book Expo America, and has spoken at ASJA, Independent Book Publishers Association Sarah Lawrence College, Nonfiction Writers Association, Cape Cod Writers Association, Willamette (Portland) Writers Association, APEX, and Connecticut Authors and Publishers Association. His letters-to-the-editor have been published in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, New York Post, NY Daily News, Newsday, The Journal News (Westchester) and The Washington Post. He has been featured in The Sun Sentinel and Miami Herald. For more information, please consult: www.linkedin.com/in/brianfeinblum.  

 

 

 

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