Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been writing for almost four decades now. Until a few years ago, I contented myself with writing fanfic. I’ve got five original novels in the “first draft complete but needs work” stage (it’s a sci-fi series), and the one I’ve self-published. I’m more verbal than visual – I love writing dialog but sometimes have to be reminded to mention scenery. I’ve been part of a local author’s group since 2013. In my day job, I’m an accountant, so I live vicariously through my characters – they’re far more adventurous than I am.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The book is Whispers in the Dark, and it was originally inspired by the movie Warm Bodies, which I watched many times. After a while I got dissatisfied – I wanted more details about the romance part. How do you get a character to go from being terrified to falling in love? Seriously, that’s a challenge, and the movie didn’t quite work for me. So I thought I’d see if I could manage it, myself. It’s not insta-love on Karen’s part; Leo has to earn it.
I’ve always loved Beauty and the Beast type stories, but did you ever notice that the only reason she sticks around to get to know him is because she has no choice in the matter? I wanted to see if I could get around that one, too.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know how unusual it is, but I like to create playlists/”soundtracks” to my novels as I’m writing them. The songs have to fit the novel, but then they turn around and influence the novel, as well. Whispers in the Dark is named after a song by Skillet. I don’t like music while I’m writing, usually, but it’s great for listening in the car, just to keep the creative juices flowing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
So many… I discovered Asimov and Heinlein in junior high (aka middle school), and have loved sci-fi ever since. Loved the dragon-rider books. Lois McMaster Bujold is amazing in her use of language and her world-building. But I don’t stick only with sci-fi. I love a good love story. Georgette Heyer wrote regency romances that made me burst out laughing (while I was trying to hide the book under the desk in class, so that’s not entirely a good thing!). I’m a fan of Jayne Ann Krentz romances, especially the ones with paranormal elements. I like that sense of wonder.
What are you working on now?
I’ve got a series that starts about a hundred years in the future, on a planet that we’ve colonized. The colonists are starting to wonder if it’s time to become their own countries. Sort of the American Revolution in space, if Quebec and Florida had joined in rejecting all of Europe, not just Britain. I’m focusing on the clandestine activities that will lead up to a final confrontation – they’re hoping to manage it without bloodshed. The colonists are at a disadvantage – the planet they’re on doesn’t have a breathable atmosphere, which constrains their options. Lots of “I know you’re supposed to be my enemy but I really like you anyway” kind of relationships.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
This one, I hope! I haven’t done that much marketing. I’m on Facebook and peek at Twitter sometimes.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. Keep writing until you reach “The End”. Then go back and edit. You do not need a literature degree, you just need to have a story to tell.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Writers are readers first, and they read the best in the genres they like, so they have high standards. And when they start writing, they’re not as good, so their brains try to tell them that they suck. Spoiler: the only way to success is through “suck”.
What are you reading now?
I just finished re-reading Killashandra by Anne McCaffrey.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I need to take my own advice, buckle down, and edit my first drafts!
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?
Outside of the Bible and a survival manual? The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold. Absolutely, Positively by Jayne Ann Krentz. The Talisman Ring by Georgette Heyer. The Martian by Andy Weir.
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