Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a senior at the University of Dayton. I’m studying biology even though my real passion is for writing. I’m really just about over college and very ready to graduate, although being a real adult doesn’t seem too great yet. I started writing in my free time three years ago and haven’t stopped since. I’ve written three complete books, one of which is now published and available on Amazon – A Trip to Remember – a novella. The other two I thought were garbage so they’ll never see the light of day. I draw inspiration from Charles Bukowski and Hunter S. Thompson. Both speak the truth, both are straight forward, and both are concise with their words. I’m currently working on a fourth book as well as a book of poetry.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Trip to Remember is my most recent work. It was inspired by a few things. My personal interest in psychedelics played a role, along with the emerging societal views of shrooms and DMT. But the real credit goes to a girl who pushed me to stick with it and finish what I started.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Haha, yes. My friends and parents find my writing habits very unusual, but I don’t think they really get it. I don’t/can’t write before the sun goes down. I don’t know why, the words just don’t come as easy. I don’t ever sit down and say, okay – time to write, it has to come naturally. Typically, it comes naturally after a glass or two of bottom shelf whiskey.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The first book I read that really stuck out to me was Chasing Redbird by Sharon Creech. I think I was around ten years old when I read it the first time. After that I stopped reading until I got to college. Then, I started writing some myself and discovered Hunter S. Thompson and Charles Bukowski. Bukowski is my main influence, but I think both of them are two of the best authors to have graced us with their words.
What are you working on now?
Right now I’m going back and forth between a book of poetry and a realistic fictional novel that I hope to have done by March.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
So far, Inkitt and Awesome Gang are the only two websites I’ve used for promoting. Other than that I’ve relied on my social media accounts and friends/family sharing a link to my book.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Not everyone can write a book, not everyone can be an author. I have something published, but I still don’t think I’m a real writer. Let everyone tell you you can’t do something and then do it anyways. Who cares what other people say to you, if you want to write then write. Don’t go half way though, if you want to write go all the way.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“You can never support yourself off of writing. You’d have to get lucky and I doubt it happens” – my adviser here at UD. He told me that and I walked out of his office. He’s probably right, but that’s just gonna fuel my passion even more.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading Women by Charles Bukowski.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to continue to promote my first book and hope I get noticed somewhere. If not, I’ll finish the next one and try again.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Ham on Rye – Bukowski
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas – Thompson
You get so Alone at Times that it just Makes Sense – Bukowski
Factotum – Bukowski