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It Was Fun To Write
In The Weight of Rage, a young woman new to her high school becomes the target of much more than jealousy when her life is threatened in a near-fatal accident. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
There are several factors intertwined in the story. The primary conflict develops from the rage caused by hurt feelings from a broken relationship, but the plot points to the influence that influential people can use to obtain what they want, the bias of the reporting media, and the manipulation of people by politicians to protest supporting a cause favorable to their position.
What character did you most enjoy writing for?
I enjoyed developing the whole story and trying to keep the characters believable. If I had to choose, I would pick Captain Colbert and Detective Su Santiago. They had to go through the complexities of the case and face many challenges while a personal relationship was flourishing between them. It was fun to write mystery and romance at the same time.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I tried to address the complexity of teenager’s relationships, the influence of wealth and power on the pursuit of justice, and the lack of unbiased news reporting.
Can fans expect to see more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
The Weight of Rage was my sixth novel, and I’m in the process of writing a new one that should be ready by next fall.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook
THE WEIGHT OF RAGE
The Weight of Rage, by Ruben Elustondo, delves into the tumultuous life of high school cheerleading, friendship, and hidden vendettas. Set against a backdrop of competitive teenage sports, it explores the unraveling of relationships and the lengths to which people go to protect their desires. Lucia Romero, the new girl who threatens the established social hierarchy, soon becomes entangled in a web of jealousy, manipulation, and danger, leading to a near-fatal accident. The story follows the efforts of friends, family, and authorities to uncover what truly happened while exploring themes of ambition, loyalty, and the darkness that can brew beneath the surface.
The novel dives into the tangled web of motivations behind what happened that night. Ruben Elustondo expertly keeps readers on edge as we uncover layer after layer of secrets. While Lucia appears to be universally loved by her peers and teachers alike, there’s an undercurrent of suspicion. Where the book truly shines is in its depiction of teenage dynamics and the raw emotions of jealousy and betrayal. Could there be more to her story than meets the eye? Or is something even more sinister lurking beneath the surface? Readers are quickly drawn into the parallel narratives, each filled with suspense and intrigue. The characters are rich and multidimensional, yet the story remains tightly focused, ensuring the mystery takes center stage. Elustondo’s ability to weave historical and true events into the plot adds a layer of realism that deepens the impact of the unfolding drama.
The Weight of Rage is a fast-paced and compelling read, particularly suited for young adults. However, it touches on mature themes that may be more appropriate for an older audience. With its well-crafted characters and engaging plot, this novel keeps you hooked from start to finish, delivering both emotional depth and thrilling mystery.
Pages: 246 | ASIN : B0DDZ7M5YM
Shocking Twists At Sea
Heartless Obsession follows a betrayed bride-to-be who takes off on a cruise to get perspective on her future, only to have more questions. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve been on several cruises and wanted to use a cruise with its various ports of call, entertainment, and activities as the background for the story. A honeymoon trip was a good fit for the plot, and the conflict at the beginning set up the series of events that followed. The story focuses on the wrath of a betrayed woman and, at the same time, her vulnerability while still believing love could mend her broken relationship with her fiancée.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
Christina is the more complex character due to the roller coaster of her emotions throughout the story. The manipulative behavior of her fiancée Kevin also provided some challenges, as well as Lucas, who was tempted by easy money and paid by losing his wife and ultimately his own.
How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?
I usually start writing from a basic conflict and let the story develop by adding situations and characters as needed. The plot twists are additional sources of intrigue to make the reader wonder how the story will end. Story development and shocking twists are interconnected but not necessarily the same.
What is the next book that you’re working on and when can your fans expect it out?
I’m working on my next book right now, and it’s about fifty percent developed. Counting the time needed to finish the story, editing, and design, it may take about four months to publish it. I want to have it ready for the holidays, but it will be tight.
Author Links: Twitter
HEARTLESS OBSESSION
Ruben Elustondo’s Heartless Obsession is a potent, emotional journey that meticulously explores the compelling dimensions of drama, romance, and, most notably, betrayal. Engaging readers from the outset, this novel plunges you into a whirlwind of emotions while delving into the labyrinthine intricacies of human relationships, familial treachery, and the shadowy aspects of love.
At the heart of the narrative is Christina McGregor, a spirited bride-to-be who is tragically betrayed by her closest friend and future spouse a mere ten days before her nuptials. Oblivious to the duplicitous machinations of her best friend, fixated on usurping her fiancé and her father’s wealth, Christina embarks on a Caribbean cruise, attempting to gain perspective and contemplate her future. Yet, unbeknownst to her, the deceitful pair concocts an elaborate ruse to beguile Christina’s inner circle into absolving their wrongdoings and accepting the fiancé’s hollow protestations of innocence.
The captivating allure of Heartless Obsession stems largely from Elustondo’s storytelling prowess, mirroring the depth and diversity of emotions that are poignantly reflective of real-life scenarios. The author’s aptitude for crafting credible and empathetic characters remains a cornerstone of the book’s appeal. Christina’s vulnerability invokes a profound resonance with the reader, eliciting ardent support for her plight, while Kevin’s transgressions serve to enhance the novel’s enigma and emotional trajectory. As the title suggests, the theme of betrayal features prominently within the novel. Elustondo’s astute portrayal of its destructive repercussions and its potential to derail lives and relationships is commendably realistic.
The narrative, rich with intricate complexities, contributes significantly to the story’s allure. Heartless Obsession captivates readers with an enthralling and thought-provoking read, seamlessly marrying joyous entertainment with insightful reflections on the human condition.
Pages: 264 | ASIN : B0C91ZWN7F
LITERARY TITAN 