A Fan Made in Afghanistan
Posted by Meg
Peat received this amazing email from Jason, who was deployed in Afghanistan when he first read The Warded Man.
Dear Mr. Brett,
As I understand you must receive just an abundance of emails every day from avid readers and fans, so I do not expect a quick reply but thank you for your diligence in eventually responding to all of your emails. I just wanted to take the time to thank you for your great writing. I first laid hands on your book, The Warded Man, while in Afghanistan. A friend of mine had offered to let me borrow the book (it is very customary for soldiers while deployed to trade and lend books during downtime if any).
Before reading your book, I was not very keen to that particular genre of writing but your book changed my whole perspective on fantasy novels. I thoroughly enjoyed the development of Arlen’s character and easily related to him given my circumstances at the time. Arlen’s reclusiveness that derived from necessity and his utter perseverance against all odds, his complete dedication to his goal despite the cost, is something I could relate to while deployed. Not many soldiers are willing to talk about it, but the worst part about being deployed was the feeling of loneliness. Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room?…it¹s like that but times 10 and add bullets.
As I understand you gave away several signed bookplates to 500 lucky readers, which I think is absolutely outstanding and shows a true dedication to your fans. I was unfortunately not able to request one, as I was not in the country at the time (and didn’t have the best internet access). I would be greatly honored if you were able to send me a signed copy of your book The Warded Man, I would of course pay for the hardcover and S&H. Your book definitely helped me during a hard time and I would like to have some keepsake to remind me of the joys of reading. Since reading your book I cannot get enough and read fantasy novels nonstop. I hope this email reaches you in good spirits and I eagerly await the next book and possibly movie.
Respectfully,
Jason
It’s always incredible to hear from people who are able to find strength and solace in an author’s books. Peat wrote back to Jason and since he already has The Warded Man, we are sending him a signed copy of The Desert Spear. Many thanks to Jason for letting us share his story on the blog.