Character Q&A: Ben Marshall of Jens Boele's Urbex Predator #characterinterview

 





Today's guest is Ben Marshall from inside the pages of URBEX PREDATOR by Jens Boele.  It is a pleasure to have him with us at The Literary Nook!




What is your name?

My name's Ben Marshall.

What do you look like? Where are you today and what


are you doing?

I reckon I'm about average height, with a sturdy build from years of hard work. Got a bit of gray creeping into my hair, but that just comes with age. As for where I am today, I'm out patrolling the perimeter of that old Cold War barracks I'm tasked with guarding. It's a quiet day so far, but you never know when trouble might rear its ugly head. Just me, Athos, and the wide open spaces.


Describe the outside of your home.

My two-story standalone house sits amidst a serene rural landscape. A colorful garden adorns the front, with a stone pathway leading to the welcoming front porch. Its weathered wooden siding exudes charm, while rocking chairs beckon visitors to relax. It's a tranquil haven where I find peace after a day's work.

What’s the mood outside right now?

The recent incidents at the barracks have left an unsettling atmosphere. The air is tense, with the memory of the homicides and the aftermath of the fire weighing heavily on everyone's minds. Despite the turmoil, I remain steadfast in my commitment to restoring peace and security to this troubled place.

What is your favorite piece of clothing? 

My favorite piece of clothing? Well, it's gotta be my trusty old boots. They've been with me through every twist and turn, every step of the way. From trudging through muddy fields to standing firm in the face of danger, these boots have seen it all. They're sturdy, reliable, and just plain comfortable. Plus, there's something about the way they fit just right that makes me feel like I can take on anything that comes my way.

What scares you? 

What scares me? Well, I reckon it's the thought of failing to protect those I care about. Whether it's Nela, my old dog Athos, or anyone else who's counting on me, the fear of letting them down weighs heavy on my mind. After what happened with the Sherwin brothers and the ambush, I can't help but feel a sense of unease knowing that danger lurks around every corner. But I won't let fear paralyze me. I'll do whatever it takes to keep them safe, no matter the cost.

How would your parents describe you?

If my parents were still around, I reckon they'd describe me as a determined and hardworking fella. They raised me to value honesty, integrity, and standing up for what's right. I like to think they'd be proud of the man I've become, even if my line of work ain't exactly what they had in mind. They'd probably say I've got a stubborn streak a mile wide, but that ain't always a bad thing when you're standing up for what you believe in.

What’s the last thing you do before you go to bed at night? 

The last thing I do before I hit the sack? Well, I reckon it's taking a look through the binoculars at the barracks, making sure there ain't no lights wandering around where they shouldn't be. It's become a bit of a nightly ritual for me, a final check to ensure everything's as it should be before I call it a day. Can't be too careful, especially with all the trouble that's been brewing lately.

Who is your best friend?

My best friend? Well, that'd have to be Athos, my loyal old Golden Retriever. He's been by my side through thick and thin, never judging, always there when I need him. There's something about the bond between a man and his dog that just can't be beat. He's more than just a pet, he's family.

Do you believe the author did a bang up job of portraying you as a character that everyone would love to read about?

I reckon the author did a mighty fine job of portraying me. They captured my essence, my struggles, and my determination to protect what matters most. Whether it's facing off against the Sherwin brothers or forging a bond with Nela, they've brought my story to life in a way that folks can connect with. And if my tale brings a bit of excitement and intrigue to readers, well, that's just icing on the cake.

 
About the Book   

 

A relic from the Cold War, the old barracks beckon photographers, influencers, and adventurers, shrouded in secrets and peril. Nela and Tess dare the eerie ruins for their photography thesis, while Zander, Yelka, Vivien, and Damon embark on a simultaneous shoot. Amid the abandoned shadows, Yelka’s group runs into Steven and his ruthless gang, initially outsmarting them. Yet, Nela and Tess fall victim to a nightfall ambush, escaping but torn apart. As adrenaline courses through the gang, they stalk Yelka and her friends, unleashing a relentless manhunt. Vivien becomes their captive, setting off a chain reaction. Tess encounters Damon and Yelka, while Nela, guided by Ben, the barracks’ security manager, races to find Tess. Yelka strives to rescue Vivien, trapped in an abandoned outdoor pool. On his lone pursuit, Zander witnesses the gang’s brutality, delving into a darker realm within himself, spurred by the horrifying thrill of Steven’s actions. The scene propels Yelka, Damon, and Tess into a frenzy, unleashing chaos to liberate Vivien. Nela and Ben, attempting to overpower the gang, witness Yelka and Vivien’s escape as the gang closes in. With the arrival of Steven’s older brother, Henry, the stakes are set; the old military hospital transforms into a battleground. No one is to leave alive, and a matter of life and death ensues. In the ruthless clash, Nela and Yelka emerge as the lone defenders, while Zander pursues a mission for his own catharsis. In Henry’s basement, dubbed his Hades, the teams converge for a pulse-pounding final duel, where survival is the ultimate prize. 

You can pick up your copy at Amazon


 

About the Author 
 
Jens Boele, a veteran media designer in the entertainment industry, brings over two decades of cinematic expertise to his writing. Born in Germany in 1975, Jens embarked on his writing odyssey in his youth, culminating in the publication of his debut book, “Sunshine,” in 2015. This was followed by “Hurensohn,” and his latest spine-tingling creation, “Urbex Predator.” Jens is a genre-bending author, specializing in horror and crime thrillers. His narratives often blur genre lines, weaving intricate tales that plunge readers into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Jens’s storytelling brilliance lies in his fascination with the criminal mind; his villains are always profoundly human, offering readers a chilling examination of the psychological aspects of the criminally insane. Jens sets himself apart by seamlessly integrating classic horror with the gritty authenticity of the present day. This innovative fusion imbues his narratives with a dynamic quality, seamlessly blending archaic thrills with contemporary intrigue, resulting in an immersive reading experience that resonates with both vintage enthusiasts and present-day readers alike. Jens Boele’s latest endeavor takes his work across borders, as “Urbex Predator” becomes his first book to be translated into English. A globetrotter with deep connections to the United States, Jens’s passion for exploration and his international perspective, nurtured by family and friends in the US, shine through in his writing, offering readers a captivating blend of horror and cultural diversity. Visit Jens’ website at https://jensboele.com/.
 



 

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