Interview with Matthew Newson, Author of The Realm Shifter

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Realm Shifter?

Biblical stories about spiritual warfare have always intrigued me since the day I gave my life to the Lord. Specifically, 2nd Corinthians 12:2, where Paul says, ‘I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago – whether in the body I do not know, or out of the body I do not know, God knows – such a man was caught up to the third heaven.’ That Scripture was the inspiration for The Realm Shifter. Often I ponder what it would be like to travel back and forth in the spirit world in service to the Lord. All while maintaining my life in the natural world. Through the pages of The Realm Shifter, I hope to capture that Biblical inspiration and prompt readers to imagine the fullness of God’s world.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My favorite genre is American military historical nonfiction. I realize it’s completely different than what I write. I also read Christian nonfiction books capturing people’s accounts with the Lord, angels, and Heaven. I write Christian fiction novels because God told me to.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Band of Brothers by Stephen E. Ambrose, Beyond Band of Brothers by Richard Winters, and Heaven by Randy Alcorn.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene to write in The Realm Shifter was when the hero of the story, Dan, meets the primary antagonist, Vengeance, for the first time face-to-face. It’s in that moment that Dan learns just how much the demon had interfered in his life. Their exchange was as intense as it was enjoyable to write, and I feel it’s a picture of the spiritual warfare we all face in our own personal lives.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I have a Boston Terrier named Mr. Wiggles who is my writing buddy. Mr. Wiggles will either lay in my lap or on his dog bed on my desk while I work.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Never give up. I’ve faced a lot of difficulties and setbacks in my life, but I never stopped pursuing my goals.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

No matter how many mistakes you’ve made, or how difficult things may be for you, God is there and has a plan for your life. Trust and accept Jesus to live life abundantly.