What was your life like growing up? Tell us a funny story from your childhood.
I grew up in Central NY where it snows half the year. I walked to school every day (Uphill, both ways…) with my friend PK. One day, it had snowed and we were taking a shortcut across an open lot, but part of it was filled with water. I walked around, but he attempted to cross the ice covered makeshift bridge the kids in my neighborhood built. He made it half way then fell into the icy water. It was a cold run home for him. My Dad saw him run by and gave him a ride to school. He never tried the icy bridge again.
Where did you go to college and what did you study?
I studied genetic engineering at SUNY Fredonia.
How did your friends and family react to your first book?
I think they were amazed I actually finished it. It took eight years to write the first one. I’ve gotten faster with subsequent books.
What is one of your first stories you ever made up/wrote? Did you ever complete it?
Growing up, I always made up stories. The first one I remember writing was about a moon station that was under attack. I never finished it.
What challenges did you face while writing your book, Fate & Flux: A Steampunk Adventure?
I love worldbuilding but the biggest challenge in writing this series was creating a whole new universe. I had to work to not get overwhelmed in creating all the details. As it is set in a world that is very different from ours, there were many details I had to create and many items I had to name and explain for readers.
How many books do you plan to write in The Darkest Storm series?
Just the 3 (for now). I love the Darkest Storm universe and there are more stories to tell, but I have many other projects in the works right now. If my publisher requested more books in this world, it would move up the priority list.
What was the most challenging experience on your road to becoming an author? What advice do you have for newbie authors who might encounter the same challenges?
How long do I have? The first thing I tell new authors is finish the book. First drafts are bad by design. Editing is where you polish the story to make it readable.
What do you think of "trailers" for books? Do you have a trailer for your books?
I love the idea of trailers and have seen some amazing ones. I haven’t done any for my books, but at some point, I’ll take the plunge and try one.
Have you read any good books recently? What is your all-time favorite book?
I just finished Demon Kissed by JD Blackrose which was an amazing read. I’m in the middle of Mary Robinette Kowal’s The Calculating Stars, which is fantastic. If I have to pick one favorite book I’d have to say Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo since it inspired me to write my fantasy heist novel.
What are common errors made when people write science fiction?
Too much jargon. When a reader starts reading your story, they are learning who the characters are and what the world is like. If you throw in new terms all over the place it doesn’t add “spice” to your story, it confuses the reader.
When do we call someone an avid reader?
That is tough. If you love to read, I’d term you an avid reader since the number of books you read is so dependent on how fast you read, length of the books, genre, family, and job constraints etc.
How much has your writing process changed since the release of your debut novel, Storm Forged?
Quite a bit. Once I published my first novel and started meeting other authors, I picked up a lot of tricks & tips. From there I started trying all sorts of software to help increase my productivity. Using these tools (Scrivener, ProWriting Aid, Evernote etc.) has greatly increased my ability to write more efficiently and more quickly.
Which is your most favorite to visit in Charlotte, NC?
I enjoy craft beer, so I’d say the breweries in Charlotte. OMB, Wooden Robot, Noda, and many others.
How many plot ideas are just waiting to be written? Can you tell us about one?
More than I care to count. My next series will be set in a D&D-esqe world with a varied set of characters going on adventures. Each book will be a stand-alone adventure but can be read as a series. It should be a fun ride.
What do you like the most about AllAuthor? Do you have any suggestions for the website?
I love that you tweet about my books on a weekly basis. It would be nice if you could expand it to other social media sites as well.
