So, I had a chance to read this book twice. But I had such a stack of books teetering over my side of the bed that I had to turn it down. (The fact that I was dealing with a firefighter concerned me....fire codes and all that.) But now, I read the first chapter (which you can do, too) and read a few reviews and I'm crabby that I didn't have someone send me the dang book. Shawn was kind enough to humor me with some Dregs Q & A though....
About Shawn:
Shawn Grady signed with Bethany House Publishers in 2008. He was named “Most Promising New Writer” at the 39th Annual Mount Hermon Writers Conference. Through the Fire is his debut novel.
Shawn has served for over a decade as a firefighter and paramedic in northern Nevada. From fire engines and ambulances to tillered ladder trucks and helicopters, Shawn’s work environment has always been dynamic. The line of duty has carried him to a variety of locale, from high-rise fires in the city to the burning heavy timber of the eastern Sierras.
Shawn attended Point Loma Nazarene University as a Theology undergrad before shifting direction to acquire an Associate of Science degree in Fire Science Technology as well as Paramedic licensure through Truckee Meadows Community College.
Shawn currently lives in Reno, Nevada, just outside of Lake Tahoe. He enjoys spending time in the outdoors with his wife, three children and yellow Labrador.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Firefighting burns in Aidan O'Neill's blood. The son of a fireman, O'Neill has a sixth sense about fire and often takes dangerous risks. When one act of disobedience nearly gets a rookie killed, O'Neill is suspended. His weeks off are supposed to be a time to reflect but instead he escapes to Mexico, where another rash act of bravery actually kills him. But only for a few minutes.
Called back to R
eno, he's now haunted by visions of hell and paralyzed in the face of fire. And at the worst time, because an arsonist is targeting Reno. With a growing love interest with one of the investigators complicating everything, Aidan must discover where his trust rests as the fires creep ever closer.If you would like to read the first chapter of Through The Fire, go HERE
If you could ask any person, living or dead, a random question -- what question would you ask of whom?
Maybe Paul the Apostle- what was the thorn in his flesh.
Favorite turn of phrase or word picture, in literature or movie.
There's many- but how about: "Punch it, Chewy."
How does something worm its way into your heart? Through tears, truth, humor or other?
As far as fiction goes, books that feel genuine and real and resonate eternal truth can really impact me.
Where would you most like to travel ----- moon, north pole, deep seas, deserted island, the holy land or back to a place from your childhood, somewhere else? – and why.
Oh, hands down the moon. You get to take a rocket through space to get there.
Which compliment related to your writing has meant the most and why?
Today I was told by someone that a part in Through the Fire made her cry. That's one of the biggest compliments because I know that the words transcended the page and moved her spirit.
What is your favorite word?
Today? Anthropomorphism.
Superhero you most admire and why?
I like Spider-man. I like how he's not indestructible. I think he's easier to relate to then most other super-heroes.
Super power you'd love to borrow for awhile?
Flying.
Favorite chore
I love to season my cast iron dutch oven.
