The Divided Man
by Steve Grobschmidt
Released: Jun 13, 2023
Genre: Science Fiction
Why this book and why now?
This is the sequel to my debut published work, Gemini Girl, which also came out this year. It took me 20+ years to write the first one…The Divided Man came to me in months. I’ve had lots of inspiration, having grown up loving sci-fi in general, but the video games Cyberpunk 2077 and the Mass Effect series more than anything are what filled my brain with the creativity to get this series out in the world.
What is a significant way your book has changed since either the first draft or the way you thought it would turn out when you first had the inspiration?
After I finished the first draft, I was really unhappy with the book. While part of that is my never-ending self-doubts, it felt like it lacked a punch. The ending and key parts felt flat. I went back and worked in some major twists and came away feeling much, much better. I’m really happy with The Divided Man now, and general consensus is that it’s better than its predecessor!
What’s your main character(s)’s favorite book and why?
Nine Princes in Amber…because she’d find the main character so relatable. Not unlike herself, Corwin in the Amber Chronicles isn’t entirely sure who he is and has to bluff his way through a dangerous world full of politics until he has himself figured out. Lorelei Ogden would read that and think, “Yup, I know what you’re going through, Corwin!” And maybe pick up some tips for herself in the process.
What 3 things would your main character want with them if they got stranded away from civilization, and why?
Lorelei Ogden does love her bourbon. She’d need a bottle of that (which she’d have to really nurse to make last for however long!). Some sort of device with recorded baseball games on it would be important too. Ogden loves baseball and would even settle for re-watching the same games over and over and over. Third thing? Maybe a nice sturdy punching bag to hang from a tree and stay fit with. Of course, she’d trade it all to be able to be stranded with her best friend and love interest April Vasquez.
Publishing a book is a huge accomplishment and it’s time to party! Choose a celebratory beverage for one of your main characters to toast the release of your new book.
Lorelei Ogden and I share a love of whisky. If I could celebrate with her, I’d introduce her to my favorite — Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky from Japan. Chances are, it’s not around anymore in the future where she lives…so I’d owe it to her to introduce the two! Hey wait, it’s my world — I can make sure it still exists for her!
What song does your character put on to start your book launch party?
There’s a song called Getaway, by EMME and Dezza. I heard it while writing The Divided Man and it’s become an unofficial theme song (in my head) for Lorelei Ogden and her partner April Vasquez. It sums up beautifully how the both of them would feel — the galaxy may be a messed up place, but everything would be okay if they could just get away and be together.
