What inspired you to write your first book?
I started writing in the 1980s, but gave it up for family and fun. Then I got bored one winter, at 48 years of age, plus I had technology that surpassed anything in the 1980s. This one is a trunk novel today. It was a western steampunk story with ice age mammals running around.
My newest book is called Will O’ the Wisp. It’s the story of a teenage girl coming face to face with an ancient family curse.
How did you come up with the title?
Will O’ the Wisp is a natural phenomenon, that has become a cryptid. It is a mysterious floating light. People all over the world made up legends about them, so I did too.
Is this your first book? How many books have you written (published or unpublished)?
My first two novels are trunk novels that nobody will ever see. I have five books available on Amazon.
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
I can firmly answer no. I read to escape, and believe there are others out there like me. My stories are pure entertainment.
How much of the book is realistic?
The story takes place in the 1970s, and I went to great lengths to make sure it was an accurate reflection. (Anyone remember Quisp cereal, Montgomery Wards, International Harvester?) my main character, Patty, is fifteen. She has a love/hate relationship with her mother. She also has to face a few teenage coming of age moments. That part is realistic.
Are your characters based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
They are not. I created the characters and tried to really get into them.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
I’m sure every author would. I believe there is a time to stop picking at it and set it free. I’m very happy with this story, and the reviewers appear to be too.
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
This story is suitable for young adults. Not all of my tales are, but your own teenagers can enjoy this one too.
What is your favorite part/chapter of your book/project?
I’m really happy with the climax in this one. It stitched together some supernatural elements with a coming of age moment and a big dose of fear. It just worked out really well.
What is your favorite theme/genre to write?
I write speculative fiction, and don’t limit myself to one corner. My stories are science fiction, paranormal, and fantasy. Will O’ the Wisp is a paranormal story.
Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
We never really think about it, but if a topic doesn’t interest me I won’t force a story. There are too many things that do interest me to worry about it.
What book are you reading now?
As I type this, I’m between books. I have Beginning of a Hero, by Charles Yallowitz up next on my iPad. I may start it by the time this posts. I just finished Maplecroft by Cheri Priest.
Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Yes, and I’m loathe to name names. If I forget someone, I’ll hurt someone’s feelings. These are all indie authors, and I’m really cheering for them.
Do you see writing as a career?
In some kind of dream world, sure. The realities of the 21st Century are that I have a full time job. An FTJ with paid vacation, insurance, and retirement.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Hopefully, continuing to do the things I love. At 64 I expect to still be working, and putting out books.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
There is a huge learning curve here. I learn and adapt, just like anyone else. It’s part of what appeals to me about writing. Perfection cannot be attained, only improvement.
Have you ever hated something you wrote?
No. I like everything I’ve ever written. I’m a better writer today than I once was, but I still like my characters and stories.
What book do you wish you had written?
What is your best marketing tip?
I wish I had one. Marketing is just so foreign to me. I think the best thing I can do is to write my next book. There is stability in volume, provided the product is good.
What genre is your next project? What is it about?
My next book is another paranormal piece with science fiction spicing. It’s about social media gone horribly wrong.
Can you tell us about your upcoming book?
I released Will O’ the Wisp yesterday, (as I’m typing this out). I’d rather focus on that. I think it’s the best thing I’ve ever written so far. I’d really appreciate it if your readers would check it out.
How do we find your books, blog and bio?
Follow my blog: http://coldhandboyack.wordpress.com
Check out my novels here: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00ILXBXUY
Will O’ the Wisp can be found at these sites:
Thank you for the invitation, Mandy. It was a pleasure answering your questions. I’ll make sure to surf back through and participate in the comments.