Where have you spent most of your childhood?
I spent all of my childhood in the state of Alaska. I was 17 when we moved to “the Lower 48”.
It's clear that writing served as an outlet during your teen years. Could you tell us how writing helped you during that time and perhaps share a memorable experience or story related to this?
This is a hard question to answer and a hard subject to discuss. I survived multiple traumas in my childhood that I’d rather not get into in an interview. However, I can say that I had the support of my mother and my therapist through them all as well as the escape of books and learning to write.
You mentioned your love for Star Wars played a significant role in your passion for writing. How did Star Wars influence your writing style and the themes you explore in your stories?
It’s the timeless characters who have stuck with me and as such, I’ve become a more character-driven writer.
Can you share more about your early experiences with writing? What inspired you to start writing at the age of 10 after watching "Dragonheart"?
All I remember thinking is that Dragonheart needed a sequel so one day I started writing a scene where all the characters were riding on Draco. It made little sense given the end of the movie, but despite how flawed the scene was it was the start of a lifelong passion.
As a writer, you have the power to create whole worlds and characters. How do you come up with your ideas for your stories, and what is your creative process like?
Usually I’m inspired by a scene in a movie, a character archetype, a theme, and start thinking “how can I play with this element? What twist can I give this?” For instance, my Elements of Chaos series was inspired by Avatar: The Last Airbender, but with the twist that it is darker, grittier, and meant for a more mature audience. I am also more of a Planster – I usually do some outlining and world building before I dive into my first draft. If I get stuck, I go back to outlining/brainstorming until I have a clear path again.
What genres do you typically write in, and do you have a favorite genre to work with? Why?
My favorite genre is Fantasy, but I also write in Paranormal with an extra big spoonful of Romance thrown in for good measure. I enjoy building my own worlds and exploring traditional tropes with a twist of otherworldliness for extra flavor.
Your own experiences as a writer seem to have been shaped by your personal journey. How do your life experiences and emotions influence the themes and characters in your books?
It feels cheesy to say, but I write from the heart. Sure there are fantastical elements to my books, but deep down people are people, and we function similarly. I’ve never battled an evil warlord, but I’ve felt the hollowness of grief, been weighed down by anxiety and depression, felt elated at personal victories and accomplishments... These are all emotions and experiences that I pour into my characters and stories.
Can you tell us about any specific challenges you've faced in your writing career and how you've overcome them?
I feel like marketing is a mountain that I’ve been slowly climbing since I began my career. I’m still learning and overcoming obstacles every day and it’s those small victories that I try to focus on.
In your writing, do you have any particular authors or books that have influenced you, or that you look up to as role models?
J.R.R. Tolkien has been a huge source of inspiration for me since I was a teenager as well. To me he is the father of fantasy and someone whose worldbuilding I look up to. My other author role models are Mercedes Lackey and Kevin J. Anderson.
Can you share your thoughts on the importance of storytelling in our lives and the impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole?
I think stories are very important or we wouldn’t have been telling them for ages. It doesn’t matter what form the story takes either. They draw us together, people from different walks of life, and give us something to connect with. That’s what I love most about writing, is getting to meet people I may not otherwise have had the joy of knowing.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being an author for you, and do you have any memorable moments or feedback from readers that stand out to you?
Knowing that people have read and enjoyed my books always makes me smile. It never gets old no matter how many times I read a review or get feedback from a beta reader. One of the moments that stands out to me is when readers suggest or ask for more content for specific characters. I wasn’t planning to write a short story about Kentai’s past for instance, but by popular demand, he’ll be getting his own story at some point!
How do you balance your time as an author with other aspects of your life? Do you have any writing routines or rituals that help you stay productive?
I try to make writing a habit. If I let too much time go by without sitting down to write, it becomes so much harder to get back into the habit. Thankfully, everyone in my life is very understanding so when I say “it’s time to write” they wish me well and off I go on my own little adventure!
Many aspiring writers look up to established authors for advice. What advice would you give to young and aspiring writers who are just starting their own writing journey?
Oh my, I don’t really consider myself established, that’s a new feeling... I guess my advice to other writers would be keep at it. Hone your craft. Writing is an artform just like painting or sculpting. The more you do it, the better you become, and the more confidence you’ll gain. I’d also encourage others to be true to themselves and write what makes them happy.
Are there any books or projects you're currently working on that you'd like to share with your readers or potential fans?
I’ve got 3 projects I’m working on right now. The sequels to Hexen Blood and Embers of the Past as well as a standalone novel called Blood Rage. I’m bouncing back and forth between the three as inspiration strikes me and I hope to have all three ready for release in 2024.
What do you think of AllAuthor? Has this website been helpful to you?
I love AllAuthor. It’s easy to use and has been a lot of fun. I really enjoyed participating in the book cover contest. I’d say it has been helpful in getting my name and books out there. I’m very appreciative.
