Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have two cold case murder mysteries set at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. I’m also a reporter who writes everything from features to school board stories on a daily basis. When I was in college I wrote a play called “The Perfect Love Lover,” that had a production in Brazil.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Unsung: Hitting a Sour Note.
I’ve been a reporter for 20 years and heard just about every rumor it is possible to hear. I took some of those rumors, threw them in the washing machine in my head and came up with my solution to the problem.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have to make myself write in the evening because I write all day. When I’m working on a project I force myself to write 1,000 words a day.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Sam Shepard, Harlan Ellison, P.D. James just to name a few.
What are you working on now?
A screenplay.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m new to promotion. Admittedly, I just like to write. I’m learning though. And it helps that the newspaper I work for and its sister sites publish stories about my newest adventures.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just keep writing. It doesn’t do a bit of good to sit and contemplate the wisdom to found in the lint in your belly button.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t talk about it. Do it.
What are you reading now?
“A Short History of Nearly Everything” by Bill Bryson
What’s next for you as a writer?
Whatever pops up in my brain. I’ve sketched out a third cold case murder mystery.
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?
“A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeline L’engle
“I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream” by Harlan Ellison
“The Once and Future King” by T.H. White
“Time Enough For Love” by Robert Heinlein