What is your writing process like?
If an idea hits me, no matter the time of day or where I am, I have to write it down. I try never to let something compelling sit because I do not want to forget about it.
For the most part, though, I write the best at night. Maybe it's the horror author in me that loves writing when it's dark outside, but that has become somewhat of my routine.
How do you come up with ideas for stories and characters?
There are so many avenues for my ideas, but a big one for me is through dreams. I have written two novels with a third one coming out later this year that were inspired by dreams.
What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you?
Basically, writer's block is a time to take a break from the story for a short period. The key is to know that writer's block is not permanent and eventually you will get back to writing.
What is the most challenging part of your writing process?
Sometimes it's getting motivated to write. There have been times when I can spit out 3,000 words in one sitting, and others I can't even manage 100. For me, if I don't have that motivation, I will wait a little while, because I don't want to force the story just because I'm "supposed" to be writing.
How long have you been writing, or when did you start?
I wrote my first short story when I was in third grade. Later I became a produced playwright in 1998. But it wasn't until 2018 when my first novel (PUMMELED) was published.
What advice would you give writers working on their first book?
The first draft is going to be crap, and that is okay. What your goal is there is to get the idea written from start to finish. You can always add, expound upon, edit, or delete anything that doesn't sound right when you go through the self-editing process (and yes, you will need several run throughs before even considering sending it off to betas, an editor, etc.).
How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?
To date I have published five novels, two novellas, and one book of stage plays. I also have a short story published in a horror anthology.
It's hard to pick just one favorite. My debut novel (PUMMELED) is one I am extremely proud of, because it showed me after years of self doubt that I do have it in me to complete a full length novel. I have been highly motivated to write more ever since.
What part of the book did you have the hardest time writing?
For me, the ending is always the hardest, no matter the format. Whether it's with novels, short fiction, or even plays. Endings always challenge (and sometime frustrate) me because I know I need to leave the reader wanting more.
What inspired the idea for your book?
For my next novel, THIS IS HOW HE COLLECTS THEM, the story was inspired by a series of dark and somewhat sinister dreams that I combined to formulate a plot. It has become one of my favorite pieces of all my publications.
When was the last time you Googled yourself and what did you find?
The last time I Googles myself, I found out I was dead. Oh, and that I'm a writer.