Interview with Aaron Ryan, Author of Dissonance Volume I: Reality
Conducted by Writers and Authors
Tell us about your book.
I love it when people ask me that question, haha! My book, Dissonance Volume I: Reality, is set in 2042, 16 years after an alien invasion killed nearly 85% of humanity. What’s left of humanity is eking out an existence in the shadows. The protagonist, Sergeant Shipley, and his team are sent on a recon mission with developments that may alter the trajectory of Earth’s fate—and his own. But when tragedy strikes, Shipley must find a way to work through that while grappling with the larger implications of what’s really going on.
What is the primary benefit, above all others, that your potential reader will gain from reading this book?
Ultimately, this is a story about someone just trying to do their duty for their country, only to slowly realize that there are far more nefarious forces at play. Shipley comes to understand that he’s not just fighting the alien invaders—he’s also fighting a second, more dangerous enemy behind the scenes. Life can be like that sometimes, where we’re battling what we see, unaware of the unseen threats that could be even more dangerous.
If you had to compare this book to any other book out there, which book would it be?
Well, humbly speaking, I’d like to think this is as unique as they come. But for comparison’s sake, it’s a bit like a mix of I Am Legend and Starship Troopers. When I started marketing this book, I used the pitch line, “Aliens meets A Quiet Place,” which gives you a sense of the tone and intensity.
Hundreds of thousands of books come out every year. Why should someone buy Dissonance Volume I: Reality?
That’s a great question. I wrote this book because I wanted to tell a story that terrified me—a story that feels prescient and relevant given today’s world. It’s not just about the alien invasion; it’s about humanity’s disunity even when we should be banding together. That’s why I titled the book Dissonance—even after the invasion, 16 hard years later, humanity is still fragmented. I think readers will find that theme strikingly familiar.
Who is your target audience?
My book trilogy is perfect for young adults and adults who enjoy science fiction, alien invasions, post-apocalyptic stories, and survival tales. If you love a gripping story with thrills and a bit of horror, this is for you. The cover, with its menacing alien monster, is just a hint of the ride you’re in for. It’s a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Did your environment or upbringing play a major role in your writing, and did you use it to your advantage?
Absolutely. I grew up in Riverbend, Washington, which influenced some of the small-town settings in the book. Although the world in Dissonance is vastly different, there are echoes of my childhood environment—vast expanses of grass and trees, small buildings, and isolated towns. Google Maps and Street View were also instrumental in helping me thread my characters through actual terrain that exists today.
Tell us your most rewarding experience since publishing your work.
The most rewarding experience has been hearing from readers who enjoyed the book. I’ve done my share of podcast interviews, and you can always tell when someone hasn’t actually read your book. But I did one interview where the host had clearly read it and asked very specific questions. He even anticipated my answers and asked follow-up questions that didn’t reveal spoilers. That kind of engagement with my work is incredibly rewarding.
How would you describe your writing style?
I’m definitely more of a pantser than a planner. I prefer my storytelling to be organic, following the characters and letting things unfold naturally rather than sticking to a rigid outline. That said, I do have an overarching plan to ensure the story doesn’t wander aimlessly. But I love the surprises that come with writing in the moment.
Are your characters pure fiction, or did you draw from people you know?
Both. My characters are fictional, but they’re inspired by traits of people I know. It’s fairly easy to superimpose real-life characteristics onto fictional characters. That gives them a sense of realism while still allowing me to create new and unique individuals for the story.
Are you more of a character artist or a plot-driven writer?
Definitely a character artist. I like to keep things organic and true to life, where unexpected events can throw the characters off course. Life doesn’t always go our way, and I want my characters to reflect that—being forced to adapt and overcome, just like in real life.
What do you hope to accomplish with your book other than selling it?
Well, besides selling more of it—ha!—I really hope to inspire people with this trilogy. I want readers to walk away with a renewed sense of understanding the difference between justice and revenge, how to navigate difficult circumstances, and the importance of accountability. And of course, I want them to be terrified by the monsters. I know I was when I wrote about them. Ultimately, I want readers to be so gripped by the story that they crave more and can’t wait for the next installment.
How can our readers get in touch with you?
Readers can reach me at https://dot.cards/authoraaronryan for all my social links. My author page is at www.authoraaronryan.com, and my Dissonance trilogy page is at www.dissonancetheseries.com. I love hearing from readers, so feel free to email me at me@authoraaronryan.com.
Where can our readers purchase your book?
You can get direct and autographed copies in paperback or hardcover at www.authoraaronryan.com. You can also find the book on Amazon for Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, or Audiobook. Just follow the links on my site to access the various formats.
Thank you so much for having me—it’s been a pleasure! And remember, watch out for gorgons!
