Interview With Young Novelist Estevan Vega
Author of Servant of the Realm and The Sacred Sin Discusses Career
Jun 25, 2009
At age fifteen, when most teenagers are trying to get a driver’s license, Estevan Vega was busy publishing his first novel, Servant of the Realm, a thriller about a teenager who can see the future deaths of his loved ones. His second novel, The Sacred Sin, released in 2008, focuses on Jude Foster, a detective hunting down a serial killer who kills his victims by stealing their souls.
Estevan Vega is currently on a virtual book tour promoting The Sacred Sin and can be spotted on various blogs discussing his work. He is also getting ready to release his third novel, Arson, later this year. Estevan Vega took time out of his busy schedule to answer some questions about his writing career and the obstacles that he has faced.
When did you know that you wanted to be a writer?
Estevan Vega: The whole writing thing started when I was in front of the tube, trying to watch a movie. My dad told me to finish a writing assignment; I, naturally, didn't want to do it, because I couldn't stand reading and writing, but you know how fathers are. And it's a good thing he pressed me to do it. After a few short story assignments, my father and I wrote a really cool one. It was dark and moody, perhaps a foreshadowing of The Sacred Sin.
I realized that the more I wrote, and the more my teacher assigned, the more I enjoyed the writing. After getting some good grades, my loathing for English class lessened, and I started looking forward to them. I loved the feeling I got when my teacher would read the stories in front of class. It rocked! I was, like, ‘that's it, I gotta do more of this.’ So, I decided to write a book. I know, nuts, right?
What obstacles have you faced in your writing career?
Estevan Vega: The age thing definitely played a part. I was in high school when my first book came out, and all the kids in my school liked to poke fun whenever I said something they didn't like or agree with. They were like, "go write a book, Vega." That stung. To them, it was an insult. I kind of figured publishing a book at a young age would make me cool. Lame, right? I mean, some local newspapers liked the idea, but kids just found another reason to throw a dagger.
Overall, the age thing, I think, has played in my favor. Other than that, though, my wallet has definitely gotten lighter. My ego has been officially crushed; no, destroyed. Mutilated? Maybe all three. Literary agents and publishers can do that to you. But I guess it's increased my faith a bit, too.
Who are some authors that have influenced you?
Estevan Vega: My favorite book is The Great Gatsby. I love it. Can't remember all the details, but I remember loving it. I am Legend was pretty awesome, too, and Fahrenheit 451, 1984, Shakespeare all rock. You know, the cool classics. As far as authors go, though, I have a lot of respect for Stephen King, Edgar Allen Poe, Ted Dekker. These guys not only know/knew how to write, but they accomplished a lot. Plus, they've all led interesting lives.
Its obvious that Estevan Vega has a lot of great experiences to share in his blossoming career. In the second part of this series, Interview with Estevan Vega, the young novelist continues his discussion about his writing career and further information is given about his virtual book tour and his upcoming novel, Arson.
 |
 |
 |
