1. What's the meaning behind your name?

Marisa S. J. Victus is the pen name I’ve chosen to represent the path I choose to live. S & J are my young children’s initials. “Victus” refers to the Latin phrase, vita est pro victus, life is for living. Loving my family and pursuing my passion for writing and illustration are what bring me joy.

2. What does writing mean to you?

Writing means a great deal to me. I’ve written stories, drawn, and painted for as long as I can remember, and I’ve always been fascinated by the process. Often, I find that writing and creating art will help me to unravel how I truly feel about an issue that’s important to me. It gives me a moment to pause and think about things more deeply, from multiple perspectives. It’s fun to find a way to translate what I envision into words and art. Plus, nothing makes me happier than connecting with readers who’ve grown to love my characters as much as I do.

3. There are many themes in THE OBSIDIAN CHRONICLES. What's your favorite?

My favorite theme is Family is defined by choice, not by birth or blood. Family matters and it’s worth fighting for. This is my favorite theme because it underscores the importance of a “found family,” that can but does not necessarily have to be the family you were born into. It’s important to surround yourself with people who truly understand and care for you, who are willing to see the true you and accept you for who you actually are and who you’re growing to be. In THE OBSIDIAN CHRONICLES, Jai struggles to find people who can relate to her, due to her differences. And, even when she finds friends who can relate to her, we see that, in the greater worldwide community, so much suffering occurs when people are not seen or valued. In Jai’s world, violence ensues and the country crumbles. But, there is truth in fiction. We can alleviate the suffering we all experience in our society, if we strive to develop our understanding of and empathy for others who are not only similar to us, but different from us as well.

4. What is the inspiration for your work?

I’m inspired by the world around me. I have strong feelings about the political divide in our nation today. I’m also fascinated by nature and grew up reading Scientific American and National Geographic. Writing science fiction appeals to me because I can envision possibilities that might be grounded in nature, but I’m not restricted by reality.

5. Your book takes us on a journey across the U.S., Asia, and Europe.
    Where have you traveled to, and where else would you like to go?

That’s the magic of books! Taking your mind on a trip no matter where your body might be! Aside from my travels stateside, I’ve traveled to France, Germany, Britain, Belgium, Hungary, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Thailand, Canada, and the Bahamas. I’d love to travel to Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Japan, and South Korea next!

6. Name three surprising things about you.

#1. People are often surprised to learn that I’m a huge fan of scary movies! It takes a LOT to scare me, and I love horror and frightening sci fi like The Exorcist and the core Aliens movies.

#2. Kickboxing and dancing are two of my favorite activities. Back in the day, my entire family practiced karate. By some miracle, I can still do my high kicks and fast punches. Once, it even helped 5’2″ me to dodge a punch from a crazy 6’2″ guy as we crossed paths down a city street! As for dance, I’ve done ballet, modern dance, jazz dance, and a mix of dance from other cultures (Thai, Russian, African, and Brazilian). I’d love to learn how to hula next (preferably in Hawaii)!

#3. I love to sing! I used to sing in an a cappella group and have continued that tradition in the shower. But, I’m dusting off my Shure mic. Soon, there’ll be music to accompany my books, so stay tuned!