Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve always had a passion for people and their stories. This led me to dissect pieces of my own life and take an introspective view of all the things that go unnoticed in our everyday lives. I published my first book under a pseudonym, which was semi-autobiographical. I saw this more as a learning exercise and quickly realised that my storytelling needed more work. This led me to study a Bachelor of Film Production, as it allowed me to experiment with different types of story beats, and more fully understand its psychology. Since then I’ve established a small film production house, Gothic Zen Studios, and also written a few manuscripts. Acupuncture of The Mind is my latest published work, and I am currently writing the sequel to this unnerving novel.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Acupuncture of The Mind was 12 years in the making and it was mostly circumstantial and investigative. I had conducted interviews and research to give the fictional story some real credibility. The paranormal activity and strange encounters were as real to me then just as it remains now.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
All my stories come from an emotional ledge and the people who stand there with me are the ones who inspire me. I never know if they’re going to pull me away, admire the view, or push me. My golden hour for pulling experiences from my mind is at 4am, usually after a surreal dream jolts my mind. This is particularly relevant to the deeply though-provoking sections of the novel.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I don’t actually read fictional novels; however, an author’s journey does inspire me. Especially the writers who push through all the noise to get their work out in to the world. Most of my inspiration comes from the old masters of European filmmaking, fringe artists, gothic architecture and dark wave music.
What are you working on now?
The sequel, and prequel in many ways, to Acupuncture of The Mind. This will be based on a fresh turn of events that pushed my physical, spiritual and mental boundaries after being hospitalised with a serious medical emergency.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Authentic conversations.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Push the doubts and the naysayers to the side. Carry your intentions proudly and keep moving until the story reveals its strengths to you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
If you’re going through hell, keep going. – Winston Churchill
What are you reading now?
Research papers for hallucinogenic drugs and painkillers.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Developing a screenplay for the pilot of Acupuncture of The Mind, as I plan to turn it into a TV series.
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?
1. Acupuncture of The Mind (to remind myself that the mind is the home)
2. A blank diary
3. A sketch pad
Author Websites and Profiles
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