Do you have a simple childhood memory that you could never forget?
I am very blessed, in that I had an incredible childhood, filled with many wonderful memories. That said, probably some of my best memories involve Spring and Summer in Toronto, riding bikes with my friends as the weather began to warm up.
Who was the first person you shared your first ever story with?
My wife Misty and Daughter Makenna, as the story was inspired by them.
What is the best thing about living in Toronto?
I love Toronto. When I grew up ther it was a city on the rise. I got the advantage of being in a city with a small town feel. It was clean safe and yet Cosmopolitan.
How did you begin your career as a self-taught pianist?
I do not read music. As a child we had a piano in the house and I was drawn to it. I just began to play the songs I heard on the radio and liked. Eventually I wanted to make up songs of my own. I was very inspired by the Beatles. I love the Stories in their songs, I wanted to tell my own stories.
How do you compose music for instruments you do not play?
The modern keyboard/Synthesizer allows me to record and play the other instruments as I hear their parts. As a complete ear player I rely on what sounds good to me, to produce tracks in the studio.
What sparked the idea for your book, The Chronicles of the Virago: Book 1 The Novus?
When my wife Misty and I began to have our two younger Children Emi and Noah, We didn't want our older daughter Makenna to feel any less loved. We knew that the new babies were going to demand a lot of attention. I began to write a short story featuring Makenna as the heroin and protector of her new siblings. I wanted to make a story making her an integral part of the fabric of our family, stressing the importance of her role as a big sister.
How long did it take you to finish the first draft of the novel, The Chronicles of the Virago:: Book II The Apprentus?
The books tended to flow. Because I just write everything that comes to mind, and edit and revise from there, I would say it took about 2 months.
In what ways do you think every girl out there will be able to relate with the character of 12-year-old girl, Makenna Grace Gold?
My Hope is very much. I literally borrowed from the actual Makenna's life. Including and especially her school nemesis Heather Stern. That character was inspired by a student who was bullying Makenna at the time. (Names have been changed...)
How do you spend “quality time” with yourself?
I like taking walks. I am a HUGE Comic book fan, so reading a good comic book is always a treat!
What's the single best bit of advice you've been given as an author?
WRITE, WRITE, WRITE!! You can revise, edit, etc., but I find every idea has some merit. Sometimes one idea sparks another. WRITE EVERYTHING DOWN! Journal all of it!
What was your reaction when your song "Going for Gold" was performed at the 1988 Canadian Olympic Winter Games in Calgary, Alberta?
Honored and shcked. A collaborator gave me his lyrics and said if I like it will be in. It happened very fast and Iwas beyond thrilled.
Why did you choose to study law?
As much as I love music it is an unstable career at best. I knew I wanted a family and I wanted to be able to support them. I was interested in Law and felt for me this would allow me to study this area of interest and offer me the ability to support my family.
Who was the first reader that reached out to you? What did they say and how did you respond?
It was Misty, she is my best critic and inspiration, and now the voice of Book 1 on audible. The Chronicles of the Virago is absolutely a family affair.
Is there anything you are currently working on that may intrigue the interest of your readers?
Book 3 is about a minute away from release and the early reviews have been incredible! Book 1 is now available in Audible and I am very proud of it. I believe it takes the book to the next level. Book 2 is now in production for release on Audible!!!
How has your experience of being associated with AllAuthor been?
In a word, "Excellent." They are very attentive and I love the regular tweets and promotion.
