Book Description:
Lucien Nazaire flees his Haitian homeland and meanders around the United States for decades. He settles in a Wisconsin trailer park filled with elderly tenants. He meets Jake, his teenage neighbor, and hires him for odd household jobs. As their relationship progresses, Lucien invites the boy into the world of Voodoo.
Jake LaRue lives in foster care with his abusive uncle. The Voodoo lessons give him a sense of power within an otherwise helpless situation. Although the boy is a loner, he feels an instant connection with his classmate, Henry, and introduces him to Lucien.
Henry Novak has Asperger’s Syndrome. He fixates on historical events, most recently the 2010 Haitian earthquake. Like Jake, he becomes passionate about the dark side of Voodoo. They learn how to cast spells on those they hate and lust, leading up to dire consequences.
Several months after the Haitian earthquake, Henry convinces his family to volunteer with their church in the island's reconstruction. Their mission turns into a nightmare when he mysteriously walks off of the campsite.
Bad Juju is a balance of horror, romance, and literary fiction intended for ages fifteen and up. Research about the Voodoo religion, shapeshifting, zombies, and possession and themes of redemption and loneliness emerge throughout the plot.
About the Author, Dina Rae:
Dina Rae is a new author here to stay. As a former teacher, she brings an academic element to her work. Her three novels, Halo of the Damned, The Last Degree, and Bad Juju weave research and suspense throughout the plots. Her short story, Be Paranoid Be Prepared, is a prequel of sorts to The Last Degree, focusing on the James Martin character. Dina also freelances for various entertainment blogs.
Dina lives with her husband, two daughters, and two dogs outside of Chicago. She is a Christian, an avid tennis player, movie buff, and self-proclaimed expert on several conspiracy theories. She has been interviewed numerous times in e-zines, websites, blogs, newspapers, and radio programs. When she is not writing she is reading novels from her favorite authors Dan Brown, Anne Rice, Stephen King, Brad Thor, George R.R. Martin, and Preston & Childs.
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Interview with Dina Rae:
What inspires you when you write?
It’s fun to record a movie that’s going on inside of your head. Very challenging and very relaxing.
Do you have a favorite spot to write?
Anywhere and everywhere. Especially love to when I’m waiting at the orthodontist or my daughter’s softball practice or for a parent meeting, etc. The downtime during the day is when I appreciate writing the most. It takes away the boredom.
Who is your favorite author(s)?
So many great ones-King, Preston, Childs, LaHaye, Dan Brown (never read Dale), Rice, Rosenberg, Thor-I’ll read anything fiction or nonfiction.
What are you reading now?
I am reading a nonfiction book about aliens and angels-fascinating stuff along with the 3rd book in George RR Martin’s series. Been reading Abe Lincoln-Vampire Slayer for months and still haven’t finished it. Like it, but it’s more like an interesting textbook. My goal is to finish it by Halloween.
Any tips to new writers out there?
I am a new writer so no, but am learning that writing the book is only a small part of the process. Promotion, promotion, promotion! I am learning the ropes about Twitter, Pinterest, and Facebook as well. Whole new side of the business that takes a great deal of time. Thanks so much for having me.
Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Thanks for having me as your guest. Dina Rae
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