Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a former teacher, an athlete, a writer and a philosopher. I’ve been writing for 20 years; professionally for about 5 of those, thanks to self-publishing.
I’ve finished two fantasy novels. They are set in a pun-based world, much like Piers Anthony’s Xanth. The novels are adventure and fun and a little silly at times. It’s exciting to be so creative.
I’ve also turned two famous short stories into full novels. They were formative vampire works from the 19th century.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My most recent release is The Vampire: Revenge of the Sadist, based on the original of the same name by John William Polidori. It’s about a young, very innocent man, Aubrey, who falls under the influence of a mysterious man who later turns out to be a vampire.
Aubrey falls in love while touring Greece. His life looks set for bliss. But when the vampire returns to his life, the monster tries to tear everything food from Aubrey’s life and destroy him. Aubrey must fight to survive and protect those he loves.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I use melted cheese for ink. No, not really. Too expensive.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Piers Anthony and the entire Dungeons and Dragons / Forgotten Realms universe is a big inspiration for my fantasy.
I’m also writing historical fiction, planning an epic series with pirates. My favourite historical fiction authors are Wilbur Smith and James Clavell, masters of the craft.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a 5-6 volume series redoing the original Dracula. I hope to make it more indepth, more fun and bring back the classic vampire. I think it’s cooler than the sparkly, romantic ones we have now.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have not yet found an effective method to promote my works. Still looking. Ads on Facebook and Google don’t seem to pay for themselves. Just having people randomly come across the works in online stores is the only way I sell books so far. I hope to be able to build a fan base at some point and promote books that way.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Never stop writing. We all need the practice. And as much fun as it is to start new projects, I find it’s much more important to be able to finish them. It’s easy to get sidetracked by a new character or series idea and leave the novel we’re working on. Practice finishing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write what you know. It’s the only thing that’s going to sound authentic. People need a little realism in their stories. Fantasy, sci-fi, westerns, they’re all just costume changes for the human experience. No matter the genre, write what real people go through. In order to do that, authors need to grow, to challenge themselves, to seek out as many human experiences as possible.
What are you reading now?
Trying the Harry Potter series. Heard it was popular. Wondered what the fuss was about.
What’s next for you as a writer?
To finish more books and try to connect with readers.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Shogun by James Clavell. A huge novel about ancient Japan. One of the most brilliant novels I’ve ever read.
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