How long does it take you to write a novel?

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Once outlined, it takes approximately 7 months to write a novel, and another 3 months to complete structural and line editing, submit the manuscript to my editor, and work with my graphic designer on the cover, formatting, and marketing.

 

Are your novels a series?

 

Yes, the novels are a series, all set upon a fixed timeline within the same universe, however they are not published chronologically. The stories and characters crisscross heavily, each book woven into and a part of the others. Together they form one interconnected tale, a historic saga spanning decades. 

 

 

Favorite authors?

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Far too many to list, but I have been the most impacted by Clive Cussler, Wilber Smith, John D. MacDonald, James W. Hall, Agatha Christie, James A. Michener, and Lee Child.

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Favorite films?

 

Although I am a writer and avid reader I am heavily inspired by film, notably: Dead Calm, The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, Heat, Cape Fear, L.A. Confidential, Drive, Bad Lieutenant, Play Misty for Me, Psycho, No Country for Old Men, Double Indemnity, Taxi Driver, Palmetto, The Third Man, Chinatown, Manhunter, The Silence of the Lambs, Blue Ruin, The Deep, Cold in July, Body Double, Night Moves, Pulp Fiction, Se7en, Blood Simple, Thief.

 

I owe a special nod and a great deal of gratitude to the 1982 film The Thing. I have paid tribute, studied, and vowed for decades to this masterpiece, and it has given back in spades. A close second is Jaws.

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​​Are you a plotter or pantser? 

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I’m definitely a hardcore plotter—I have a novel fully outlined before I begin writing. That said, a book truly comes into its own during the writing process.
 

 

Any tips for those starting out?

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Without question, writing a novel is a challenging and lengthy endeavor that requires serious dedication and commitment. For many, including myself, the blank page of "Day 1" can be the toughest part. You're going to be spending months alone at a keyboard engaged in a world and characters of your own design. Fortunately I find the daily creative progress of working on a novel extremely rewarding. (If not, this would be a tough game.)

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1. Read voraciously. 
2. Write consistently. Get started—and then keep the ball rolling. 
3. Write for yourself first. Write the book you want to read. 

4. Always keep a pen and notepad nearby—you never know when a fantastic idea is going to hit.