Holiday Guest Author: John G. Hartness

This holiday season, I’ve decided to promote some of my writer friends and ask some of the questions that folks ask me. Today’s guest/victim is:

John Hartness

First, a little something about John.

John G. Hartness is a teller of tales, a righter of wrong, defender of ladies’ virtues, and some people call him Maurice, for he speaks of the pompatus of love. He is also the best-selling author of EPIC-Award-winning series The Black Knight Chroniclesfrom Bell Bridge Books, a comedic urban fantasy series that answers the eternal question “Why aren’t there more fat vampires?” He is also the creator of the comic horror Bubba the Monster Hunter series, and the creator and co-editor of the Big Bad series of horror anthologies from Dark Oak Press and Media. 2015 has seen John launch a new dark fantasy series featuring Quncy Harker, Demon Hunter.

In his copious free time John enjoys long walks on the beach, rescuing kittens from trees and recording new episodes of his ridiculous podcast Literate Liquors, where he pairs book reviews and alcoholic drinks in new and ludicrous ways. John is also a contributor to the Magical Words group blog. An avid Magic: the Gathering player, John is strong in his nerd-fu and has sometimes been referred to as “the Kevin Smith of Charlotte, NC.” And not just for his girth.

At what age did you start writing or know that you wanted to write?

I’ve wanted to be a writer ever since I was very young, and started writing creatively around age eight. My first published work was a poem for my 3^rd grade English class called “Kool Kitty” that I wrote about Garfield. My teacher ran it in the school paper, and that probably sealed my fate right there.

  

Where do your ideas come from?

Almost everything I’ve written comes from “What If” questions about something I see, read, or experience. The Black Knight Chronicles happened when I read Laurel K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake series and wondered “What if there were fat or nerdy vampires?” Harker came from hearing that Constantine was going to network TV and wondering “What if somebody wrote Hellblazer right again, like Garth Ennis did in the ‘90s?” So most of my ideas come from seeing something in the big world and turning is 20 degrees off center.

Do you base your characters on people you know or know of? Family or celebrities?

Not really. There may be one characteristic they share, or a physical look that they share, but the root of the character is mine.

Do you plot out your stories or just make it up as you go?

I outline religiously, even my short stories. I can’t get through even a 10,000-word short without a road map.

Do you listen to music while you write and if so, what do you listen too?

What I listen to depends on what I’m writing. If I need to focus, it’s probably instrumental. Lindsey Stirling is my current favorite for that. I’ve written entire novels to Jason Isbell, Turnpike Troubadours, and The Avett Brothers. I dig the new outlaw country stuff, not the big hat bro-country BS, although I’ll listen to that in the car. I like Rob Zombie for fight scenes. More Human than Human gets my adrenaline pumping and I can spray some blood on the page.

Which of your characters would you most like to meet in person? Which character of another author would you want to meet?

I’d like to party with Bubba, but a fair number of people would say that partying with me is parting with Bubba, so that could end in tragedy (or hilarity). I’d like to hang with Silk, from David Edding’s The Belgariad. Or Jimmy the Hand from Raymond Feist’s Riftwar Saga.

Which of your stories/books/works do you consider the best?

Well, I was fortunate enough to win the EPIC award for Best Horror Novel for Paint it Black, but I think In the Still of the Knight (Black Knight #5) is even better. It’s more honest.

How much do you write each day/week?

On a good day, I get 2,500-4,000 words done. That’s Monday-Friday. I usually don’t write on weekends. My mileage varies depending on what else I have to work on. Like yesterday I spent half the day designing postcards, so I only got half a day’s worth of writing done.

Can you tell about your experiences working with publishers? Any juicy or painful experiences?

I love my publishers, so all my stories are boring. But I will say that when the publisher asks to use one of your edited pages as an example of how detailed their editing process is, it means there’s a LOT of blood on that page. J

Do you have a routine when you write?

Not really. Since moving to doing this full-time, I sit down in the home office in the morning and hammer at it until I’m done.

What is your latest project/release?

I just released a brand new Bubba the Monster Hunter novella, Moon over Bourbon Street, this week. In it, Bubba and the gang travel to New Orleans for vacation but get dragged into local supernatural politics and have to save the city from itself.

Do you have any signings or appearances coming up?

I’ll be at the Charlotte Comicon on December 6^th, but that’s it until Arisia in Boston in January.

Favorite authors?

David Eddings, Pat Conroy, Neil Gaiman, Vince Flynn, Richard Kadrey, Jim Butcher, Seanan Mcguire

What book do you read over and over the most?

The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy

Is there a book or book series that you recommend to people?

On Writing by Stephen King and The Belgariad by Eddings

Do you have a dream project that you want to write in the future?

Yes. There’s a literary fiction novel brewing, but it’s not ready to come out yet. It’s a coming of age story.

Do you have a special way of generating story ideas?

Nah, I just drink too much like everybody else.

How much of you is in your characters?

A fair chunk of my voice and snark, but that’s mostly it. A lot of them reflect some aspect of myself that I’m trying to work on, but none of them are “me.”

If you could live the life of one of your characters, who would it be?

NOBODY! Have you seen what happens to those guys? They have to fight monsters, and demons and shit! I don’t want do that, it’d be terrifying.

What genre do you prefer to write?  To read?

I write urban fantasy/horror. I read urban fantasy, epic fantasy, southern gothic, southern lit, military fiction, all sorts of shit

Do you prefer writing short stories or novels?  And why?

I’ve recently found that my natural storytelling length seems to be about 30,000 words, so I’m really enjoying novellas right now.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on Man in Black (Black Knight #6), Hell Freezes Over (Harker #4) and the beginnings of other things.

Is Writer’s Block ever a problem for you? 

If so, how do you deal with it. Writer’s Block is bullshit, it doesn’t exist. Depression happens, and real life interferes, and sometimes what you’re writing is shit and your subconscious won’t let you torture the universe with your turd-droppings anymore, but fucking take time to self-analyze, figure out what’s causing your freeze, and fix it. But don’t just fucking whine about writer’s block. Pros don’t get writer’s block. Pros get the fucking work done.

What 3 things do you feel every aspiring writer should know?

1) This shit is hard. Really hard. Like, go do something else if it makes you happy, hard. But if this is what you’re put here to do, there’s no more rewarding thing in the world. 2) Fuck convention – do your thing your way and make them take notice. Be the best and they have to deal with you no matter whether you’re doing shit their way or not. 3) Own your mistakes and learn from them. Don’t be an idiot and keep doing the same stupid shit again and again, realize what doesn’t work and fix it.

How do you use social media in regards to your writing?

I pimp my shit and other people’s shit pretty relentlessly on Twitter and Facebook. And people can sign up for my email newsletter at my Facebook page – facebook.com/johnghartness.

Do you read reviews of your books?  If so, have you ever engaged a reviewer over comments they’ve made?

Sometimes. The only time I’ve engaged was when a reviewer said I didn’t know the geography of Charlotte, where my books are set and where I’ve lived since 1995. They said there was no cemetery at the corner of Monroe Rd. and Sharon Amity Blvd. I replied that since I drove past it every week on my way to my Monday night Magic the Gathering game, I figured I knew what I was talking about. 

Thanks John.  To checkout his website, click below:

johnhartness.com

Holiday Guest Author: A.G. Porter

This holiday season, I’ve decided to promote some of my writer friends and ask some of the questions that folks ask me. Today’s guest/victim is:

A.G. Porter

 

 

First, a little something about A.G.

A.G. Porter is the author of The Darkness Trilogy, a YA Paranormal Thriller. She is an Independent Author who enjoys writing scary stories as much as she loves reading them. A.G. enjoys writing stories about real people in supernatural situations. She also puts a lot of her faith into her books because she knows that without Christ she is lost and without God she is nothing. Currently, A.G. is working on the last book in the trilogy. When she isn’t writing, she’s either taking pictures, reading, making nerdy jewelry, watching movies, or spending much needed time with her family. A.G. lives in New Hope, Alabama with her husband, Billy, stepson, Brenton, and their 4 dogs.

 

 

At what age did you start writing or know that you wanted to write?

Oh gosh, I feel like I’ve always written at some point or another. I remember my mom typing away at the typewriter when I was around 6. I wanted to be just like her so I convinced her to buy me a diary soon after that. It just blossomed from there really. It wasn’t until the 9^th grade that I really started writing on a daily basis, mostly poetry, but I started writing a book in one of my 5 subject notebooks that was meant for school work.

 

Where do your ideas come from?

From a lot of places. Some of them have come from personal experiences and some have come from dreams. I find inspirations in a lot of things and people I meet or know.

Do you base your characters on people you know or know of? Family or celebrities?

I don’t necessarily base characters on people I know, but some of characters are influenced by them.

 

Do you plot out your stories or just make it up as you go?

I am a horrible plotter. I procrastinate as well so if I took them time to plot I’d never get a book finished! The only time I even attempted to plot was when I started on a fantasy story, which still isn’t completed. Things change as I write anyway so plotting, for me, was a waste of time.

Do you listen to music while you write and if so, what do you listen too?

Oh yes! I love listening to music while I write. I’m doing that right now actually. I have a playlist of “writing songs” and it consists of Three Days Grace (before Adam left), Breaking Benjamin, The Killers, Evanescence, mostly rock. I do listen to some moping love songs from time to time as well from artist such as Adele, Taylor Swift, Elvis, and The Civil Wars.

Which of your characters would you most like to meet in person? Which character of another author would you want to meet?

I would love to meet my main character Rayna. I think she’s fascinating. She’s got almost any supernatural talent you can think of and, to me, I find that amazing and horrifying at the same time.
If I could meet Odd Thomas from Dean Koontz’s Odd Thomas series that would be awesome! He’s my literary soul mate. I would also give him a hug because he’s been through so much loss and still tries to save the world or his little part of it.

How much do you write each day/week?

I should write more, but I don’t want to force myself. I think if you do then what your write is going to be crap. Some authors claim that you have to write every day, but I don’t think that’s true for everyone. Don’t force it.

Do you have a routine when you write?

Other than listening to music, not really. I do have to be comfy. Sometimes I sit in my chair at my desk, but then sometimes I’m lazy and use the recliner.

What is your latest project/release?

Currently I’m trying to wrap up my trilogy in my Paranormal Thriller. It has been a challenge. You want to make it the best you can because it’s the last book, but you also want to make sure you aren’t leaving any issue unresolved. It’s fun, yet draining. I think I put too much pressure on myself.

Do you have any signings or appearances coming up?

I do. I have YomuCon in Tuscaloosa, AL on November 14^th at the Tuscaloosa Public Library. After that, I don’t have anything until March of next year, so far. I’m sure I’ll be adding events along the way.

 

Who were your inspirations?

I’ve had many inspirations, but my Mom will always be number one. She is such an artsy person. Mom spent most of her life taking care of others, being a mom and CNA, but she shines when she’s painting, crafting, or doing anything that allows her to be creative. She’s always into something and I want to be like, always looking for something new to learn.

Favorite authors?

There are so many! Rowling, Tolkien, Stein, but one that has always been at the top is Dean Koontz. I devour everything that he writes. I want to be that kind of writers, one that writes straight from the heart, even if it’s a bit scary.

What book do you read over and over the most?

I’ve reread the Harry Potter series numerous times. I also love Odd Thomas, by Dean Koontz. I think I could read that book a billion times and not get tired of it.

Is there a book or book series that you recommend to people?

Yes! The Odd Thomas series, of course. If you like anything to do with the Paranormal or following characters with supernatural gifts then it really is a great series. I mean, he sees the ghost of Elvis! Yes, that Elvis.

Do you have a dream project that you want to write in the future?

I’ve been working on a fantasy series for so many years that I’ve lost count. I plan to get it finished one day.

Do you have a special way of generating story ideas?

I don’t think there is one way that a story has come to me. Some stories are derived from personal experiences, although beefed up, and some I’ve actually dreamed about. One that I’m working on, when I’m not writing Book 3 of The Darkness Trilogy, is a true life story that I heard. It’s not word for word, but it gave me an idea for the story. By the time I’m finished you’d never put two and two together, but it was inspired by something that actually happened.

How much of you is in your characters?

I think a lot of me is in some of my characters and some of them are things that I fear about myself. Then there are those characters that I wish I could be. I don’t think you can write something without leaving a bit of your soul behind.

If you could live the life of one of your characters, who would it be?

This would be easy if my characters lived charmed lives, but all of them are facing some dire circumstances. However, I would want to be my main character, Rayna, because she has some amazing supernatural gifts. It’s not the gifts themselves that I find appealing, but how she is called to use those gifts. I think she takes her mission in life with as much as grace as one could.

What genre do you prefer to write?  To read?

I prefer to write in the paranormal vein, but my reading preference is all over the place.

Do you prefer writing short stories or novels?  And why?

Well, when I write, I’m writing with a novel in mind. I’ve written short stories and let me tell you, they can be a challenge. You have so much story to tell in a certain amount of words.

 

Is Writer’s Block ever a problem for you?  If so, how do you deal with it.

I think there is always a moment in your story or writing career when you look at something you’re working on and go: “Uh….” It happens. When it does, I either leave it alone for a couple of days and completely not write or I’ll work on another project. When you pick it back up, more times than not, you start seeing things a bit more clearly. I have to sit and think about my characters sometimes. I act out what they might do in my mind and then I write it down.

What 3 things do you feel every aspiring writer should know?

1. Not everyone is going to love your writing, it sucks, but that doesn’t mean you give up.
2. Don’t rush it. Just because your other author friends and pumping out books doesn’t mean you’re going to get left behind. Yes, work your butt off, but don’t put out a halfway finished book just to say you have book out there.
3. Invest in yourself. It can be on cover art, editing, marketing, or writing classes. Whatever you do, remember to take care of yourself. You are a brand, a small business; treat yourself that way.
 

What is your funniest/ awkward moment at a convention/signing event?

I feel like I’m always awkward at conventions. They have brought me out of my shell though.

How do you use social media in regards to your writing?
Social media is very important for me. I’ve developed great relationships with my readers over Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms. I believe that authors should try their best to utilize those tools as much as possible. It’s validating as an author to hear from a reader who enjoyed your books and the readers feel apart of your process when you reach back out to them. Nurture those relationships.

Do you read reviews of your books?  If so, have you ever engaged a reviewer over comments they’ve made?

I do read reviews. As an Indie Author, reviews are really important. Word of mouth is how we make a living. I don’t want to question a reader’s review of my books. I understand that my books aren’t for everyone. The last thing I want to do is make a reader feel attacked.

 

Thanks A.G.. Checkout her website:

A.G. Porter

 

Holiday Guest Author: Jana Oliver

 

This holiday season, I’ve decided to promote some of my writer friends and ask some of the questions that folks ask me. Today’s guest/victim is:

Jana Oliver

 

 

First, a little something about Jana.

Jana Oliver has the perfect job—she listens to the voices in her head and then writes their stories. Her latest creation, BRIAR ROSE, is a dark steampunk retelling of Sleeping Beauty, complete with Hoodoo, a vengeful Civil War ghost, and metal magic.

In Jana’s young adult Demon Trappers series, Riley Blackthorne, Atlanta’s first girl Demon Trapper, takes on a host of Hellspawn and their diabolical masters. This multi award-winning series has spread across the globe, with editions in ten countries.

When she’s not daydreaming new stories, she can be found savoring a growing collection of single malt scotch and old books. Visitors are always welcome at her website: www.JanaOliver.com

 

At what age did you start writing or know that you wanted to write?

I started late – I was in my mid-forties.

 

Do you plot out your stories or just make it up as you go?

I do a little of both. Sometimes I can see the entirety of the story, sometimes not. Usually I sort of fog-walk my way through the first draft, then go back and put each scene into an Excel spreadsheet so I can get a better handle on the story.

 

Do you listen to music while you write and if so, what do you listen too?

Yes, I listen to music when I write because I need that stimulation. What I listen to depends on the book. I vary all over the map from Rock to Classical to Celtic bands. Each book has a playlist and I post them on Spotify for my readers. Here’s the one for the first Demon Trappers book: https://open.spotify.com/user/1220411649/playlist/0oqv2id7DYUDw4QcIl9zde

 

Which of your stories/books/works do you consider the best?

I am immensely proud of two of my works: the Demon Trappers series and the Time Rovers series. The first is the story of a teen taking on Hellspawn in Atlanta and the other is a time travel/alternate history story set in London during the Autumn of Terror (1888 – Jack the Ripper). Both have pushed me far out of my comfort zone as a writer and they’re my best work so far.

 

What is your latest project/release?

My latest release is MIND GAMES (Book #5 of the Demon Trappers). It came out last Halloween and since it’s all about demons, that was perfect.

 

Do you have any signings or appearances coming up?

I’ve cut way back on appearances and signings, mostly so I can write more books (grin).
My next appearance is at Con Nooga in Chattanooga, TN (Feb. 19-21) http://www.connooga.com/

Is there a book or book series that you recommend to people?

As a devote lover of Urban Fantasy, I always recommend Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels series. It’s set in a future Atlanta which is home to some pretty big bad monsters and Kate and the Curran (the Beast Lord of Atlanta) takes them all on. The series never flags.

 

How much of you is in your characters?

There is some of me in my characters. It’s hard to incorporate bits of yourself. An example: Jacynda Lassiter, my heroine in the Time Rovers series, has a few quirks. She hates being in a tunnel under water. I’m the same. Freaks me out. Still, I forced myself to walk from the south side of the Thames (London) to the north side in a Victorian Era tunnel just to experience the anxiety/fear. I don’t usually do that kind of thing, but it seemed right for the book. Obviously I survived. I still hate tunnels under water.

 

What genre do you prefer to write?  To read?

I write across the genres so there’s not one favorite. As to my reading habits, I’m an omnivore. I adore Regency romances, love a gritty and badass Urban Fantasy and can thoroughly enjoy a classic British murder mystery.

 

Do you prefer writing short stories or novels?  And why?

I prefer novels and the occasional novella. Short stories are actually harder as they have so little real estate in which to tell the story. I’ve written a few, but I just prefer a broader canvas.

 

Is Writer’s Block ever a problem for you?  If so, how do you deal with it.

I don’t have Writer’s Block, per se. I do get stymied every now and then so I wander off and do something completely different: clean the cat box, do laundry, something dull. While I’m doing that mundane task my brain usually spins out the problem and then I go back to work on the book.

 

What 3 things do you feel every aspiring writer should know?

This job isn’t easy. It’s hard, then it gets harder. You have to have that fire in your gut to stick with it, but if you do the beauty of seeing your words being read by another is incredible.
Not everyone is going to like your work. Build up your writer calluses now because the rejection is going to hurt.

Your ability to pen stories is a gift. Never let anyone take that from you.

 

Do you read reviews of your books?  If so, have you ever engaged a reviewer over comments they’ve made?

It’s a no-no to engage with reviewers, but I have on a couple of occasions when I felt they really went over the line. I carefully pick my battles and 99.9% of the time I just walk away. Social Media can exacerbate conflict and the last thing I want is for my author rep to get nailed because someone didn’t like what I had to say.

 

 You can find Jana at the links below:

Jana Oliver website: www.JanaOliver.com

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/janaoliver

Twitter: @crazyauthorgirl

 This holiday season, I’ve decided to promote some of my writer friends and ask some of the questions that folks ask me. Today’s guest/victim is:

 

J. E. Lowder

 

First, a little something about J. E.

Aside from being the author of the War of Whispers fantasy series, he has also played bass for Shania Twain, had a black rhino charge him while on safari, and has been in the Oval Office. In high school, he went backstage to interview groups like Bob Seger, Rush and Kansas, sorta like “Almost Famous” but without Kate Hudson! As an author, he draws from all these experiences (and then some) when crafting his stories. The quote that sums him up the best is by G.K. Chesterton: “Nay, the really sane man knows that he has a touch of the madman.”

He is married, the father of four wonderful children, and a proud grandfather. Jay currently live near Nashville, TN where he writes, bikes and is always on the prowl for adventure and stories.

 

At what age did you start writing or know that you wanted to write?

The first documented case was when I was in my mom’s womb…I tapped out Morse code to let her know I was okay and planned on staying inside. But mom kept pushing and pushing and pushing…

Do you plot out your stories or just make it up as you go?

I brainstorm over the story while I’m painting, which is mindless anyway, and develop the characters & story until I have a concept that moves me emotionally. Then I write and let the characters breathe life into the tale.

Do you listen to music while you write and if so, what do you listen too?

No. My background is music so when I hear a song, I start analyzing it to death which nullifies any attempt at writing. I did listen to classical music for the War of Whispers series but only as a catalyst for story ideas. For example, Gustav Holst’s “Mars:The Bringer of War” was inspiration for conceptualizing the Ebonite (the bad guys) storyline.

Which of your stories/books/works do you consider the best?

My latest release, When Kings Clash. It’s Book III of the War of Whispers series and I had FUN kicking the story into high gear. And without sounding cocky, my writing style has matured.

How much do you write each day/week?

Since I write part-time, I go in spurts. Right now I’m focused on promoting When Kings Clash. After the Holidays, I’ll get back into writing Book IV. When I do, I probably average 3-4 days a week but in small chunks of time, all of which I do early in the morning.

Can you tell about your experiences working with publishers? Any juicy or painful experiences?

Back when I had an agent, we pitched my murder/thriller novel to some big name publishers. A month later, my agent called with elated news: one of the contacts showed interest and wanted to talk. My agent said this was HUGE because he only takes writers/books with potential. Two weeks later, and still on cloud 9, my agent called with an update: his contact had been fired. And just like that, the dream died.

What is your latest project/release?

Book III, When Kings Clash. It came out last month so I’m in the process of promoting.

Who were your inspirations?

The first story to ignite my writing passion was O. Henry’s “The Gift of the Magi.” His prose and plot twist made me start paying attention in English class. Next would be Ray Bradbury. Brilliant plots, twists and prose. Oh, and you can add Rod Serling and Hithcock films, too.

Favorite authors?

Aside from the few I’ve mentioned, I like Anthony Doerr, John Hart, Daniel Woodrell.

What book do you read over and over the most?

The honest answer is the Bible, but that’s not what you were really asking. I LOVE Anthony Doerr’s book, “All the Light We Cannot See.” Brilliant writer! When I’m bored with my style or feel my writing is dull, I skim his book for a good butt kicking.

Do you have a dream project that you want to write in the future?

I’m waiting for Steven Spielberg and J.J. Abrams to call to ask if I’d like to submit any stories. Naturally, they’ll get into a bidding war which I’ll settle by offering my services to both.

How much of you is in your characters?

Great question. Since the War of Whispers series was written to express my crisis of faith, I poured my pain into the main character, Elabea. But that’s where it ends because she’s nothing like my personality. Linwith, on the other hand, is my Doppleganger: skinny, introvert, snarky, melancholic, insecure. By the way, this was not done intentionally but was something I noticed after the fact.

 

What genre do you prefer to write?  To read?

Well, if you look at who my favorite authors are, you’ll note that none, aside form perhaps Bradbury, are fantasy authors. And yet, I’m writing a fantasy series. Go figure!

What are you working on now?

I’m working on Book IV of the War of Whispers series. The bulk of it was written years ago, but now that my style has changed, along with the storyline, I’m starting from scratch.

What 3 things do you feel every aspiring writer should know?

Writing is a craft that takes time to hone: “write/edit/read” repeat. You’ll need a thick skin to handle rejection as well as friends to encourage you when you feel like quitting. Make sure your passion is for writing, not fame or fortune.

Do you read reviews of your books? 

If so, have you ever engaged a reviewer over comments they’ve made? The rule of thumb is that authors are to never contact a reviewer. However, I had one reviewer who gave well-founded critiques and even caught a storyline continuity issue that others, including myself, missed. I reached out to this person to thank them and to ask if they’d be interested in being a beta reader. They agreed and provided wonderful feedback for When Kings Clash.

 

Thanks. To checkout his website, click below:

jelowder.com

Holiday Guest Author: John Pyka

This holiday season, I’ve decided to promote some of my writer friends and ask some of the questions that folks ask me. Today’s guest/victim is:

John Pyka

First, a little something about John.

John Pyka is best known for his work onstage as a new vintage variety artist, fusing music and magic with comedy and dance in a 1920s – 1940s style in what is described as “Dieselpunk.” He can be seen performing in theaters, at festivals and conventions around the country.

He is also the author of 4 books on magic, including the best-seller Theatrical Magic. His first novel, Tales From the Flip-Side is published by Pro Se Press and available wherever books are sold – also available as an audiobook!

John is also the producer and host of the Diesel Powered Podcast, THE Voice of Dieselpunk on iTunes and Stitcher, which consistently is ranked in the top 10 performing arts podcasts. He is also the producer and host of the weekly live stream web-show Comixstravaganza Live, hosted bywww.graphicpolicy.com
and boasting over 25,000 viewers per week!

At what age did you start writing or know that you wanted to write?

I never knew that I wanted to be a writer. But looking back I was writing stories for my original comic book characters as early as age 8. I still have those old plot outlines and synopsis. I’m finding a lot of good stuff there. It wasn’t until around 2000 when I started writing for stage, that I realized I might have some aptitude for it.

Where do your ideas come from?

Mostly my inspiration comes from what other creators DON’T do. I see missed opportunities and those missed opportunities spark my imagination and creativity. One of the major plot points on my new novel Tales From The Flip-Side becaue I didn’t see anyone writing about Nazi Vampires and that seemed like a natural theme to me.

Do you base your characters on people you know or know of? Family or celebrities?

Yes and all of the above. I grew up the son of a former con man turned Teamster. I was around people with names like Mickey the Mechanic, and No Neck Minelli. And those colorful characters made it into my stage and prose work.

Do you plot out your stories or just make it up as you go?

I have a pretty good idea of the direction and outline it, but I allow for organic inspiration. I find that sometime character’s write themselves and their story even surprises me. The revelation of Harker Van Helsing’s origin in Tales From The Flip-Side took me completely by surprise!

Do you listen to music while you write and if so, what do you listen too?

I prefer it to be quiet.

Which of your characters would you most like to meet in person? Which character of another author would you want to meet?

Of my characters, Professor Maxwell Marvel. Of another author? Mara Jade, of Timothy Zahn’s Star Wars novels.

Which of your stories/books/works do you consider the best?

The script “The Vizier’s Love” from my book Theatrical Magic (performance scripts for magicians) is the story I really am the most proud of. It should be the standard for the Origami Box, in my opinion.

How much do you write each day/week?

I don’t set time aside. I write as inspiration hits.

Can you tell about your experiences working with publishers? Any juicy or painful experiences?

I’ve never had anything but good experience with the publishers I’ve worked with. Most recently Pro Se Press has been incredible to work with!

Do you have a routine when you write?

No.

What is your latest project/release?

Tales From the Flip-Side from Pro Se Press

Do you have any signings or appearances coming up?

Nashville Comic & Horror Fest

Geekonomicon

Murfreesboro Anime and Comic Kon

MisSouth Con

Who were your inspirations?

Orson Welles, Michael Jackson, Jon Anderson of Yes.

Favorite authors?

Timothy Zahn and Jim Butcher

What book do you read over and over the most?

Danny, Champion of the World by Roald Dahl

Is there a book or book series that you recommend to people?

Yes, my own Tales From The Flip-Side. I also love Timothy Zahn’s “Thrawn Trilogy” and recommend it to all Star Wars and sci-fi adventure fans.

Do you have a dream project that you want to write in the future?

I would love to write an Avengers comic series with a team led by Hank Pym. I’ve plotted the whole series and would love to submit it to marvel.

Do you have a special way of generating story ideas?

Believe it or not, when I swim ideas start flowing like the water I am moving through.

How much of you is in your characters?

Well, the lead character of “Big Daddy Cool” Johnny Dellarocca in Tales From The Flip-Side IS me. He is a magical character I created as my alter ego for shows onstage. I wrote a show around the character and the show became foundation of the book. 

If you could live the life of one of your characters, who would it be?

The character of “Big Daddy Cool” is a reflection of the kind of life I would love to live, so I guess he would be the one.

What genre do you prefer to write?  To read?

I really prefer short stories, action and high adventure.

Do you prefer writing short stories or novels?  And why?

I don’t have a preference. I write to tell the story, whether that is two pages or two hundred.

What are you working on now?

A short story for the next installment of the Tales From The Flip-Side anthology series from Pro Se Press. I’m really exploring the time travel abilities of “Big Daddy Cool.”

Is Writer’s Block ever a problem for you?  If so, how do you deal with it.

It is. I work on other projects until new inspiration hits.

How do you use social media in regards to your writing?

Social Media is primarily a marketing tool.

Do you read reviews of your books?  If so, have you ever engaged a reviewer over comments they’ve made?

I do read them. I’ve never engaged a reviewer other than to say thank you for the review.

Thanks John.  To find his books, click on the link below:

Amazon.com