When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
I was a freshman in college when I first seriously considered becoming a writer. I was inspired by Spike Lee and John Singleton’s success as filmmakers. They motivated me to begin writing movie screenplays which eventually culminated in me writing my first novel, Storm Chaser.
How long does it take you to write a book?
On average I tend to write between 6 and 10 pages of original material each day. In the case of Storm Chaser, I finished the book in 90 days.
What is your work schedule like when you're writing?
When I am writing, I like to totally immerse myself in the project. I will typically write from morning until early evening, taking a few breaks in between.
Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?
I am an avid reader of a wide variety of subjects, but especially topics concerning spirituality, metaphysics and science. I use my imagination as I draw material from these sources to try to produce compelling storylines and characters.
When did you write your first book and how old were you?
I was twenty five when I wrote Storm Chaser, which was my first novel. I wrote it during the summer break of my second year of law school. I had an ample amount of free time which allowed me to pour all my energy into crafting the novel.
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
I enjoy reading, working out, watching movies and dining at exotic restaurants. In the near future I plan on getting my private pilot’s license and to start taking lessons in the martial art of Aikido.
What does your family think of your writing?
My family has been very supportive and encouraging of my writing from the beginning. It was a long process getting Storm Chaser to the marketplace. I faced many rejections and setbacks, but my family continued to support my efforts, for which I am truly grateful.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your book?
The most surprising thing I learned was that writing the book was actually far easier than getting the book published. I always thought that the writing would be the most difficult part. Boy, was I wrong about that!
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
Storm Chaser is the only book that I have written thus far. I am, however, in the process of developing the next two sequels to Storm Chaser which will form a trilogy of stories.
Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?
There is a saying that. “A writer writes, always.” I think that is a very true statement. To be a good writer takes practice, and lots of it. I am also a firm believer that a good writer should also be an avid reader. The more you read, the better and more compelling your own writing will become.
Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?
The feedback I have received from readers who have read Storm Chaser has been overwhelmingly positive. Many readers expressed how much they liked the wide variety of characters as well as the suspense and action contained within the novel. A lot of the readers appreciated the spiritual messages and themes within the book.
What do you think makes a good story?
I feel that a good story involves a compelling conflict of good versus evil, as well as characters that are well crafted and easily related to. Of course, a good bit of romance and occasional love triangle never fails to spice things up.
As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
When I was growing up, I only wanted to do one thing – become an Air Force fighter pilot. However, when I got to college my goals changed somewhat and I decided I wanted a career as a screenwriter and novelist. However, I still long to fly and will eventually obtain my pilot’s license, God willing.
Where are you from?
I was born in Chicago and raised in the South Chicago suburb of Glenwood, IL.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
My sophomore year in college. That was the year I completed my first screenplay. It was rough and ragged, but it was my first attempt at creating a complete story.
What inspired you to write your first book?
I had a burning desire to express myself and all of the different spiritual and metaphysical teachings I had learned.
Do you have a specific writing style?
I like to write in a very gripping and graphic way so as to captivate the reader and place him or her directly into the action of the storyline.
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
If there is a “message” in the book, I think it would be that no matter how difficult or grim a situation might be, if you hold on to your faith in God and show courage, you will make it through and come out victorious.
Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
I think that most writers base their characters and events upon things they have personally witnessed or experienced, and I’m no exception. However, given the somewhat sci-fi nature of Storm Chaser, I would say that I took a bit of creative license in developing the supernatural nature of the storyline.
What books have influenced your life most?
The Bible and The Art of Peace.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? That’s a tough question. There are three writers that have influenced my style and content the most. They are Frank Peretti, C.S. Lewis and Stephen King.
What book are you reading now?
The Healing Light of the Tao by Master Mantak Chia.
What are your current projects?
I am currently working on making Storm Chaser the greatest success it can be. I would love to see the novel turned into a film or television series.
What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Bringing the story to an end. I probably could’ve written another 700 pages but it would have been too laborious an endeavor for anyone to read.
Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
I learned that writing and publishing a book is a very involved process. It’s a lot more work than just sitting in front of your computer and writing out a story. It is a serious business that requires a lot of time and effort to be successful.
Your book focuses on "Spiritual Warfare" from a Christian point of view. Why did you choose such a theme for your book?
I think that we live in a world and universe that is far larger and more dynamic than what we ordinarily perceive in our daily lives. In the struggles that we Christians face in trying to live a Godly life, we inevitably encounter the forces of darkness and evil. I wanted to bring this struggle to light in a vivid, relatable and compelling way in Storm Chaser in order to show how we might be victorious in this battle we call life.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
If you have a dream of being a writer, stick to it no matter the obstacles and difficulties that may come your way. Read as much as you can on a wide variety of topics and try to meet and interact with as wide a variety of people as possible. The more people you know, the more characters you can draw upon when you are crafting your story. And of course, write, write, write!
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
I hope that you enjoy reading Storm Chaser as much as I enjoyed writing it. I would like to send a heartfelt "Thank you!" and "God bless!" to all those who read and support my work. I feel honored beyond measure. Your encouragement fills this author’s heart with joy and satisfaction.
