I've often wondered what sparks the imagination. Inspiration is all around us through life experiences, nature, and the arts, to name a few. During my research on the historical backdrop of San Francisco for a short story I was writing, I stumbled upon a striking poster featuring The Gibsons, renowned for their awe-inspiring knife-throwing act. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. As I laid my eyes upon the mesmerizing Veiled Wheel of Death, I instantly recognized its potential to shape the identity of my protagonist, Genevieve "Blade" Broussard.
Possibly more fortuitous, throughout my life, I've been captivated by the allure of knives. I vividly recall a childhood memory when a neighborhood friend dared me to engage in a risky game of skill, throwing knives at the ground with the goal of avoiding injury. Needless to say, my nerve failed me, and I withdrew from the challenge. Reflecting on that experience, I believe it became a driving force behind the creation of Blade, a woman characterized by fearlessness, audacity, and a love for throwing knives.
Like Alice venturing into Wonderland, I willingly plunged into the depths of exploration, delving into the world of impalement arts. Through platforms like YouTube, I discovered The Great Throwdini, observing how he skillfully secured an assistant to a circular target board, which freely rotated around its center point. My mind exploded with endless possibilities. Where could she perform? What would the stage look like? Would she use special effects? What would Blade wear? Blade sprang to life within my mind's eye. I envisioned her commanding the stage, striding confidently in a leather jumpsuit equipped with a holster of knives instead of guns.
As I began the intricate process of developing Blade's backstory, a compelling plot began to gradually unfold. With every stroke of creativity, the narrative took shape, weaving a tapestry of an unsolved murder, concealed family secrets, and the enigmatic presence of an ancient Christian brotherhood.
I fell in love with Blade and the cast of characters I created. If you feel comfortable sharing, please comment on what has sparked your imagination lately.
A Blade Broussard Novel, Book 1
Impalement artist Genevieve “Blade” Broussard’s past and present collide when she accepts a lucrative job offer from Spanish billionaire René Martel. This gig could lead to her big break. Yet the moment Blade arrives on the island, she is greeted by a kidnapper warning of impending danger. Anticipation quickly turns deadly after she overhears Martel’s scheme to assassinate world leaders at the United Nations in Geneva.
Soon an attempt is made on her life, and she is on the run. Blade discovers an unsolved murder, family secrets, and an ancient Christian brotherhood are intricately woven together—and she is at the epicenter of this complex labyrinth. Determined to survive and to stop the attack, Blade turns to Chase Maserati, a soldier of the Soldati di Cristo, with a traumatic past and his own code of honor. Racing from Mallorca to Florence to Geneva, Blade and Chase must use all their wits and skills to stop the attack while there is still time.
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Nannette, this origin tale for your tale was great fun and thought-provoking, too. I can hear your fascination with Blade and Chase in your voice as I read, and it's contagious. Just curious... When does your story take place? Is this a historical or contemporary/fantasy mystery?
ReplyDeleteI'm still unpublished, but my first (and greatly beloved by myself and my agent) manuscript has a knife-throwing subplot. Like you, I got swept up in the research into the art. I feel it really put the edge (look, a pun) into my story.
I'm also curious about whether your tale has a glint of romance. Do Blade and Chase fall in love?
Best of Luck with PIERCE THE DARKNESS, and thanks for helping spark my own imagination.
I love this blog post which exudes enthusiasm for knife throwing, something I know nothing about except that someone might get hurt! :) Sounds like a fabulous book premise.
ReplyDeleteSounds so exciting! I always look at research as a tedious necessity, but I love to hear stories about people who are inspired by what they research! Maybe I should try to adjust my attitude and think of it as inspiration instead of an annoying detour. Your story sounds very interesting! (Ashley Bernier)
ReplyDeleteI'm looking for something to read right not that has an edge. Sounds like the right book!
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