What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
I had a single good thought. It grew from there! I wish I could cite some catalyst for the entire story, but I got hooked on an ordinary person in an extraordinary position.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
This is a little off the beaten path, but I listened to Steps Upwards on repeat when writing certain scenes, often with our main character learning about himself. Alexander Litvinovsky's "Steps Upwards." Give it 30 seconds, and you'll agree that it's a great song.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I try to push myself into different genres. I will read horror, thrillers, and fantasy standalones, but I'll also read educational non-fiction, autobiographies of influential people, or the classics I missed in high school.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I haven't read The Venue yet, and I'm finishing The Shadow of the Wind. I've discovered I'm a little unique in that I don't really have a stack I'm waiting to get to. I buy three, and then I read them! I go back and buy three more—whatever speaks to me on that shopping day.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Oof, that's a tough one. Several scenes have stayed with me, and I get emotional even now, re-reading them. If you're asking me to limit myself to one, my favorite ended up being the scene I hated the most. Chapter Six, Think.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Yes, I had a system set up. It involved red wine, normally 19 Crimes Red Blend, and intense lyric-less classical music.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
"The easy part's over." I don't normally settle or consider something "done." When I graduated high school, "the easy part's over," and I went to college. Again for graduate school, again to find a job. Asking my wife out was the easy part, then convincing her to marry me, and then building a successful marriage. Writing was easy, then publishing, then marketing, now do it again. The easy part's over.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
Ask your heart. And then listen to it!
