Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have actually written three “novel length” books, but so far only one has been published (another has been sent to the editor). I really enjoy the process of creating an entire alternate world out of my imagination. I’m not sure I know what my genre of choice is going to be. I like sci-fi, action, adventure, suspense, and horror (if done properly).
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Intergalactic Charters is my latest book. I like hunting and fishing, as well as space-based sci-fi. So, in my estimation, it was a natural thing that the two would come together in a kind of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup of literature. I suppose early television based shows like Star Trek and Lost in Space were inspirational. And my main character was a lot of fun to write dialogue for…he has a snarky, sarcastic streak that serves him well in tense situations.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write very early in the day and later in the evening (by necessity). I also find that I write better if I’m completely naked. Or actually, no. I just made up that last part.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (Sherlock Holmes) in The Hound of The Baskervilles. Possibly the best suspenseful story I have ever read in my lifetime. I also like Stephen King and some of the unique things he does to bring the reader in to the story, like being able to hear a characters inner thoughts, for example.
What are you working on now?
I have a project started that is a deviation for me. I am writing it around one character, a small boy, and have found for some reason that this little guy brings out an emotion response from me. He’s a sweet kid who is eventually going to be in peril. But don’t worry, I fully intend to take good care of him.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Yikes! I don’t know. That is the part of the writing process that I am just learning. Wish me luck!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Judging your own work is like hearing your voice recorded and played back for the first time. Your response is almost guaranteed to be “I don’t sound like that!” Find somebody trustworthy (and qualified) to give you fair feedback. Otherwise, it is my belief that you just won’t know how your writing is going to sound to others. And hang in there. Only one in a million gets successful right at the beginning of their career.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Wear clean underwear. Oh, you mean pertaining to writing? Find an editor. Even the super popular writers do that. You will not believe the mistakes that you will miss…even on a manuscript that has been reviewed multiple times. And don’t be afraid of writing short stories.
What are you reading now?
The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest by Stieg Larsson.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have a full agenda, including two novels (one written, one just started), several short stories and a young adult adventure story I wrote years ago that has just been dusted off.
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?
The Bible, The Stand (Stephen King), The Lord of the Rings (all substantial tomes)