What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
A passion and a fascination with science fiction books and movies from the 1950s to today’s movies and books. I’m retired, and I needed a challenge. I wanted to see if I could write something better than what I have been reading and watching in movies. More than the enjoyment of writing, it was the enjoyment of learning how to write—something most people don’t realize exists. Outer space is fascinating, and I chose to write a book from another galaxy, which made it even more fascinating, especially compared to the ones I already knew of.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
Maybe Elton John’s “Bennie and the Jets.” I think in my book that would be Basque Avidin. Another one could be “Rocket Man.” That would have to be my character named Ian.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I think my favorite genre for audiobooks would be westerns. Close to Westerns would be army-themed audiobooks. I have to admit, I’m not much of a reader. I like to write, but I’m best at listening.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I have never heard the term “TBR pile.” If you’re talking about books on my bookshelf, they would be Star Wars and Stargate. Now I have about 150 westerns, army books, and science fiction audiobooks. If they’re DVDs, I have thousands—across all genres.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
To be honest, that’s really hard to say. I love the banter that goes on between Ian and Qlee. Then there are the scenes of Webo and his mother, Livia. When Webo was twelve, he was stealing fish, which shows the love and fun of their mother-and-son relationship. But it also shows another type of love—between the two at the time of his mother’s death.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Mostly, I write when I feel like it, first thing in the morning, or when something comes to mind. I do write a lot with my cat, Abby. I also write a lot while watching a movie. I do write a lot with a blaster pistol that I built from scratch, complete with working sound and an RGB. That is as quirky as I get.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
I have none. At least, nothing comes to mind. There is a quote in the book: “In a second it came, in a second it was gone.”
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I hope they come away with the enjoyment they had from reading a book. Maybe they’ll find a character that they’ll keep with them after they finish reading.
