UPGRADE
by Stephen Hise
Genre: Contemporary fiction/psychological drama
62,886 words
A very wealthy but unattractive young man undergoes a microprocedure that re-contours his face. Though he sees the same reflection in the mirror as always, others now see him as extremely attractive. Whole new worlds of romantic possibilities open up to him, but there is a terrible and unforeseen price.
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Stephen, how did you come up with the title for your book? Does it have any special meaning?
The main character, Brent Schoenfeld, undergoes a “medical” procedure which he believes will improve his appearance—therefore giving him an “Upgrade.”
Who was your favorite character and why?
Marcie was my favorite. She is a sexy, flirty, fun manipulator. She is comfortable with her true self, knows her attributes and is not afraid to use them to get anything she wants.
Does your book have any underlying theme, message, or moral?
There is a discrepancy between how we each perceive our own outward appearance, how that appearance is perceived by others and the balance of what we think of ourselves and what we believe others think of us. The book explores these themes and the opportunities and ramifications created when that dynamic suddenly changes.
What would/could a reader or reviewer say about your writing that shows they “get” you as an author?
Upgrade has meanings on multiple levels. For me, the best thing has been when someone told me they not only couldn’t put it down till they finished it, but that it also made them think.
Give us an excerpted quote from your favorite review of this book:
“I’m telling you, your book had me thinking about it for several days AFTER I read it!”
Where can people learn more about your writing?
http://stephenhise.com/
