Tell us a bit about yourself and your background (where you're from, education, work, family and family, anything you would like
to share.)
I am a father
of three daughters and currently live in Tennessee. I have been an electronic
engineer for many years. My composition professor back in college said that I
should consider writing as an option because I have a very creative
imagination. I had never really considered writing as a career choice, but have
enjoyed it as a hobby over the years. Due to my profession, I am a very deep
thinker, keeping track of many diminutive details on a daily basis. I think
this has really impacted the depth of my writing.
What kind of writing do you do?
Up until
recently, most of my writing was technical in nature revolving around
electronic engineering. My first article was published in the August 1995
edition of Nuts & Volts magazine. Two years
ago I decided to step outside my comfort zone and write my first novel. Voncara
Cove is a sci-fi fantasy adventure wrapped around a developing love story. I
wanted my readers to connect with the emotions of my characters and it seems I
accomplished this since I am told that a box of tissues is required while
reading.
When did writing become something you wanted to
throw yourself into?
After visiting
a renaissance festival during pirate week, I came up with a story that I just
had to tell. I had most of the story in my mind before writing the very first
page. I was unexpectedly surprised how it made me feel when my characters
seemed to come to life before my eyes on the paper. They seemed to develop
their own personalities which were dissimilar to mine own. This was both exciting
and strange at the same time.
When did you feel confident enough in your
writing to unveil it to the public?
I was hesitant
for quite some time, but finally decided to send
my book to an editor. When the editor told me she was deep into the story and
crying like a baby, I figured I had something worth sharing.
What was the hardest thing about writing your
latest book?
The hardest thing,
by far, was keeping the word count down. I was actually sad when I finished
Voncara Cove. I missed my characters. One morning I thought; why do I have to stop there? So I added a few lines of text
leading into a second book.
Do you draw from personal experience while
writing?
Absolutely! My
personal life, career, military service, and family have definitely impacted my
writing.
Who are some of your literary and poetic
influences?
Jules Verne has
impacted my life since I was a child. I love to read his works.
Have you read any good books lately that you'd
recommend to other readers?
Stardust, by
Neil Gaiman. I like the way everything ties together in such an imaginative
way. I also like the way the adventure is wrapped around a developing love
story. The action keeps you on your feet
and interested in the story-line.
Do you have any current works in progress or
ready for publication?
My problem is
having enough time to complete the many ideas that I have. I currently am
working on developing story-lines for five novels, including the next Voncara
Cove. I also am working on a motion sensor design book for electronic engineers.
Many nights my mind races and I cannot sleep so I write in a notebook as the
ideas flow uncontrollably.
What advice would you give aspiring writers and
authors?
Go for it.
Publishing a book these days is easier than ever! Don't deprive the world of your
inspirations.
Here are a
few of my links:
