From Smashwords:
When did you first start writing?
Approximately seven years ago. My brother is a
graduate of film and comedy school. We like to kick ideas around. He
mentioned writing books and the breakout of the internet for publishing.
It was a business trip to Washington DC that really got me going.
That's where the first came up with the idea of Jack Blackwood, my first
private detective series.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in a small suburb called Jenison. It is a
few miles west of Grand Rapids, Michigan. As a child or even a
teenager, it wasn't exactly a thrilling place to be. However, even in
this conservative town, I found several friends who liked to use their
imagination. This led to playing games, or just trying to find ways to
stay busy. I'm still friends with these people and all of them had led
very interesting lives as if trying to break out of the confinement of
such a boring town.
What's the story behind your latest book?
Ever since I first saw The Road Warrior, I've had an
interest in post-apocalyptic stories. Add in some Star Man's Son, my
love of old Zombie movies, and I decided to write "Nano Zombie" - a
modern take on the undead. I'm currently writing a followup to this
book, this time using the viewpoint of a different character.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
I slaved away at three books, before writing my
first big novel: Horror America. I had it edited and read by several
other authors. I loved that book so I decided to try the standard route
of publishing houses and agents. After a few dozen rejections, I
finally got a bite from an agent. I sent the whole work in, only to be
rejected, but with several suggestions on how to improve the book.
After these changes were made, I decided to self-publish using
Smashwords.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
Smashwords has been a one-stop publishing
destination - it allows me to reach multiple platforms and sellers
through one site
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
I've always had an interest in the old "Gold Medal"
25 cent books from the days past. These are the types of books now
found in dusty bins at used book stores. Unlike much of the mainstream
fiction of today, the stories are interesting and filled with
imaginative scenarios. I, like so many other readers, enjoy a good
story. I try to write what I would enjoy reading.
What do your fans mean to you?
Hopefully a satisfied customer. I try to write
stories that pull the reader out of this world and into another. I hope
they enjoy the adventures as much as I enjoy writing them.
What are you working on next?
A follow up to Nano Zombie. The working title is
Nano Zombie: Redemption. It will be the continued adventure of one of
the characters from the previous novel. The world is decaying and the
Zombies now control the entire earth. I also have a Civil War
ghost story with a treasure hunt book on the back burner. This will be
finished up when the other book is done.
Who are your favorite authors?
The first authors that come to mind are Phillip K.
Dick, early K.W. Jeter, Donald Hamilton, John D. MacDonald, and Andre
Norton.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
Even though I'm a computer programmer by day, I have
very little interest in modern technology. Instead, you'll find me
working on vintage stereo equipment, building engines, hiking, or
reading.
What do you read for pleasure?
I read a lot of non-fiction - mostly shipwrecks,
true crime, biographies, and history. I've found that the real world
really is stranger than fiction. Some of these true stories give me
inspiration for writing.
