Meet the Author: Julian Velasquez

A Journey Through Fantasy, Imagination, and Storytelling

Every great story begins with a spark of inspiration, and for Julian Velasquez, the author of Blood Moon Axe: Echoes of the Fallen, that spark ignited in childhood. Growing up immersed in fantasy and adventure, Julian’s love for storytelling was shaped by the books, movies, and comics that transported him to otherworldly realms. Today, he channels that passion into creating his own intricate worlds and unforgettable tales.

The Early Influences of a Fantasy Writer

Julian’s journey as a writer began long before he ever put pen to paper. At the age of 12, he was already devouring books like J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and the thrilling “pick your own ending” adventures that allowed readers to shape their own destinies. But it wasn’t just books that fueled his imagination. Sci-fi and fantasy movies like Krull, Conan the Barbarian, and He-Man captured his attention, alongside the Saturday morning cartoons that brought heroic quests to life.

And let’s not forget the influence of classic comics like Iron Man and Captain America. These stories of power, responsibility, and heroism laid the groundwork for Julian’s understanding of character development and moral complexity—elements that shine in his own writing today.

The Creative Process: Crafting Worlds and Weaving Consequences

For Julian, writing fantasy is more than just imagining magical powers or epic battles—it’s about exploring the consequences of those powers. “Too much power corrupts,” he says, and this theme resonates throughout his work. In Blood Moon Axe: Echoes of the Fallen, the mystical axe is not just a weapon but a symbol of the burden its wielder must carry.

This philosophy extends to his future projects as well. From the Sunshard that can see the future, to the talking purple crystal that connects to the dead, and even the healing shield, Julian’s works are rooted in the idea that extraordinary abilities come with extraordinary challenges. His stories are as much about the moral dilemmas and emotional struggles of his characters as they are about the fantastical worlds they inhabit.

Advice for Aspiring Fantasy Writers

Julian’s advice for those looking to write fantasy is simple yet powerful:

1. Read the Genre You Love: “If you love Fantasy, then read as many as you can,” he suggests. Every book you read is an opportunity to learn from the masters of the genre and discover what resonates with you as a storyteller.
2. Start with a Strong Outline: Begin with a concentrated outline of your story. This roadmap will help you stay focused while allowing room for creativity to flourish as you expand your ideas.
3. Embrace Your Passion: Writing fantasy requires a deep love for the genre. Let your passion shine through in your characters, your world-building, and your themes.

What’s Next for Julian Velasquez?

Julian’s creative journey is far from over. With future concepts like a Warrior Priest, a radiant Sunshard, and a mystical shield, his upcoming books promise to delve even deeper into the themes of power, consequence, and redemption. Fans of Blood Moon Axe can look forward to more richly detailed worlds, morally complex characters, and captivating narratives.