🏰 Author Interview Featuring Jens Boele, author of Urbex Predator

Jens Boele, a veteran media designer in the entertainment industry, brings over two decades of cinematic expertise to his writing. Born in Germany in 1975, Jens embarked on his writing odyssey in his youth, culminating in the publication of his debut book, “Sunshine,” in 2015. This was followed by “Hurensohn,” and his latest spine-tingling creation, “Urbex Predator.” Jens is a genre-bending author, specializing in horror and crime thrillers. His narratives often blur genre lines, weaving intricate tales that plunge readers into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Jens’s storytelling brilliance lies in his fascination with the criminal mind; his villains are always profoundly human, offering readers a chilling examination of the psychological aspects of the criminally insane. Jens sets himself apart by seamlessly integrating classic horror with the gritty authenticity of the present day. This innovative fusion imbues his narratives with a dynamic quality, seamlessly blending archaic thrills with contemporary intrigue, resulting in an immersive reading experience that resonates with both vintage enthusiasts and present-day readers alike. Jens Boele’s latest endeavor takes his work across borders, as “Urbex Predator” becomes his first book to be translated into English. A globetrotter with deep connections to the United States, Jens’s passion for exploration and his international perspective, nurtured by family and friends in the US, shine through in his writing, offering readers a captivating blend of horror and cultural diversity. Visit Jens’ website at https://jensboele.com/.

🏰As a book bloggin’ and book luvin’ Princess, I’m always curious to find out how authors got the ideas for their books.  How did you come up with the idea for your book, Urbex Predator?

Ah, my dear Book Bloggin' Princess, the genesis of "Urbex Predator" is quite the tale. You see, I've always been captivated by the allure of abandoned places, those forgotten corners of the world where time seems to stand still. As an avid urban explorer, I've traversed deserted military compounds, ventured into decaying hospitals, and wandered through dilapidated buildings, each with its own story to tell.

The idea for "Urbex Predator" was born from my personal experiences in these forgotten realms. One particular incident at an abandoned hospital left a profound impression on me. While exploring with a friend, we stumbled upon a group of individuals who initially appeared harmless but soon revealed their sinister intentions. This encounter, though unsettling, sparked the inspiration for my novel.

Drawing from real-life experiences and my fascination with the macabre, I crafted a narrative that delves into the darker facets of human nature, exploring themes of isolation, survival, and the chilling secrets that lurk within abandoned spaces. Thus, "Urbex Predator" emerged as a testament to the haunting beauty and perilous allure of the urban exploration world.

In essence, the idea for "Urbex Predator" was born from a blend of real-life encounters, a passion for storytelling, and an unwavering curiosity about the mysteries hidden within abandoned places.

🏰What was the hardest part about writing your book?

While crafting "Urbex Predator" was an exhilarating journey, there was one particular challenge that stands out in my memory. You see, as I delved deeper into the narrative, I found myself at a crossroads, faced with a pivotal decision regarding one of the characters.

Midway through the writing process, I made the bold choice to give this character a more sinister twist, altering their fate and the trajectory of the story. While this decision added layers of complexity to the narrative, it also presented a formidable challenge.

Suddenly, I found myself tasked with reshaping key scenes and reimagining the climax of the story to accommodate this unexpected twist. Boundaries blurred as the lines between good, bad, and the downright ugly became increasingly blurred.

Navigating this narrative shift required careful planning, creative flexibility, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. Yet, despite the challenges it presented, this decision ultimately enriched the story, adding depth and intrigue to "Urbex Predator."

In hindsight, while it may have been the hardest part of the writing process, it was also one of the most rewarding, reaffirming the unpredictable nature of storytelling and the boundless possibilities that lie within the creative realm.

🏰Do you hear from your readers?  What do they say?

Oh, dear Princess, hearing from my readers is one of the greatest joys of being an author! Their feedback provides invaluable insights into how my stories resonate with them and helps me grow as a writer.

Overall, the response to "Urbex Predator" has been wonderfully positive. Many readers have described it as a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thriller—a real page-turner that keeps them on the edge of their seats from start to finish. They've praised its modern twists on classic horror tropes and confessed to being thoroughly spooked by its chilling atmosphere. Some have even jokingly admitted that it's almost too scary for them to handle, which, in the realm of horror, is the highest compliment one can receive!

Of course, not all feedback has been sunshine and rainbows. Some readers have found the story to be a tad complex, with a plethora of characters to keep track of. In today's fast-paced world, where attention spans seem to grow shorter by the minute, I understand that juggling multiple characters can be a challenge. That's why I've taken steps to address this concern by including a handy list of characters at the end of the hardcover version, as well as offering it for download on my website, jensboele.com. My hope is that this will make the reading experience easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

Despite the occasional challenge, I'm thrilled to hear that readers have been hooked by the story and have found it to be a thrilling ride from beginning to end. Their enthusiasm and support mean the world to me, and I couldn't be more grateful for their continued readership and engagement.

🏰How long have you been writing or when did you start?

My journey into the world of writing has been a long and winding road, filled with twists, turns, and unexpected discoveries.

I first dipped my toes into the waters of storytelling during my childhood, drawn to the enchanting realms of pen and paper roleplaying games like Dungeons & Dragons. It was here that my imagination took flight, weaving tales of daring adventurers and fantastical creatures that sparked my passion for narrative creation.

Inspired by the literary works of luminaries such as J.R.R. Tolkien and Stephen King, I began to explore the art of writing in earnest. My earliest attempts at crafting stories often mirrored the fantastical adventures of my gaming sessions, including one memorable draft featuring a motley crew of Viking misfits sailing the Caribbean seas alongside Orc allies—a whimsical concept that ignited my creative spirit.

As the years passed, my literary tastes evolved, leading me to delve into the darker realms of horror and crime fiction. It was in these genres that I found my voice as a writer, penning my debut novels, "Sunshine" and "Son of a Bitch," which cast a spotlight on the seedy underbelly of criminal enterprises.

With each new project, I honed my craft and expanded my storytelling horizons, culminating in my latest work, "Urbex Predator." This chilling tale of urban exploration allowed me to immerse myself in the eerie beauty of abandoned places while delving into the darker aspects of human nature.

So, to answer your question, my dear princess, I've been writing for as long as I can remember, each step of the journey shaping me into the author I am today. And I must say, it's been an absolutely thrilling ride!

 

🏰How do you use social media as an author? What is your favorite social media platform?

I must confess, I'm a bit of a Social Media Grinch myself. However, I do recognize its importance in today's world, especially for authors seeking to connect with readers and promote their work.

My primary platform of choice is Instagram, where I've shared a plethora of posts related to my writing journey, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and snippets of my daily life. It's a space where I can visually showcase the abandoned wonders and thrilling adventures that inspire my stories. If you'd like to join me on my Instagram journey, you can find me at broken_window_shots.

While I've dabbled in other platforms like TikTok, I've found myself hesitant to fully engage due to various social and political considerations. However, I'm open to exploring new avenues, and I've been contemplating becoming more active on YouTube. It's an exciting prospect, but I haven't fully committed to it just yet.

So, for now, Instagram remains my favorite social media platform, offering me a space to share my passion for storytelling and connect with fellow book lovers.

 

🏰What has been the best accomplishment in your writing career?

Reflecting on my writing journey, I must say that there have been two standout moments that I consider to be the greatest accomplishments of my career thus far.

Firstly, around 15 years ago, I penned a book about prison gangs under a pseudonym. To my surprise and delight, it became a bestseller and has maintained its popularity over the years. However, as time went on, I felt compelled to distance myself from that particular topic and explore new horizons in my writing.

Which leads me to my second accomplishment: "Urbex Predator." This book holds a special place in my heart as it marks my debut into the English-language market. To my immense joy, it has garnered a significant following and boasts nearly a hundred reviews to date. The overwhelming support and enthusiasm from readers have truly been humbling, and if my future books can achieve even a fraction of the success of "Urbex Predator," I will consider myself truly blessed.

🏰Do you have anything that you would like to say to your readers?

Absolutely, dear Princess. Here's a heartfelt message to my readers:

Dear readers, thank you for embarking on this thrilling journey with me! Crafting "Urbex Predator" has been an adventure in itself, and now it's your turn to explore the eerie depths of the abandoned barracks. I know it's going to be a spine-chilling ride, and the trigger warnings are there for a reason. But fear not, for I'll be right beside you, guiding you through the harrowing experiences our characters endure. Together, we'll navigate the darkness and uncover the secrets lurking within.

Once you've reached the end of the book, I'd be honored to hear your thoughts and feedback. Join my newsletter on jensboele.com to stay updated on all the latest news and releases. Don't worry, I won't flood your inbox—just the occasional update to keep you in the loop. And if you're interested in becoming an advanced reader for future projects, shoot me a message through my website. I'm always eager to connect with fellow book lovers and hear your insights.

Above all, I hope you find joy in the thrills and excitement that "Urbex Predator" has to offer. Happy reading, and may your adventures be as exhilarating as the ones within these pages!

 

 About Urbex Predator

A relic from the Cold War, the old barracks beckon photographers, influencers, and adventurers, shrouded in secrets and peril. Nela and Tess dare the eerie ruins for their photography thesis, while Zander, Yelka, Vivien, and Damon embark on a simultaneous shoot. Amid the abandoned shadows, Yelka’s group runs into Steven and his ruthless gang, initially outsmarting them. Yet, Nela and Tess fall victim to a nightfall ambush, escaping but torn apart. As adrenaline courses through the gang, they stalk Yelka and her friends, unleashing a relentless manhunt. Vivien becomes their captive, setting off a chain reaction. Tess encounters Damon and Yelka, while Nela, guided by Ben, the barracks’ security manager, races to find Tess. Yelka strives to rescue Vivien, trapped in an abandoned outdoor pool. On his lone pursuit, Zander witnesses the gang’s brutality, delving into a darker realm within himself, spurred by the horrifying thrill of Steven’s actions. The scene propels Yelka, Damon, and Tess into a frenzy, unleashing chaos to liberate Vivien. Nela and Ben, attempting to overpower the gang, witness Yelka and Vivien’s escape as the gang closes in. With the arrival of Steven’s older brother, Henry, the stakes are set; the old military hospital transforms into a battleground. No one is to leave alive, and a matter of life and death ensues. In the ruthless clash, Nela and Yelka emerge as the lone defenders, while Zander pursues a mission for his own catharsis. In Henry’s basement, dubbed his Hades, the teams converge for a pulse-pounding final duel, where survival is the ultimate prize. You can pick up your copy at Amazon.