I am currently writing the third novel in The Sword of the Dragon series. It deals with new realms of the fictional world I’ve created, introduces new creatures, and reveals the ultimate outcome of the battle in book one. At this point I have centered on a few characters in the story and I’m really enjoying taking certain aspects of them for granted (because the readers know them) and focusing on writing a big story. Also, I’ve taken advantage of an opportunity to reveal a characteristic of Satan that many people forget about: namely that he transforms into an angel of light, as do his ministers.
STARTING OUT, WHO WERE THE AUTHORS WHO INSPIRED YOU? WHO ARE THE WRITERS WHO INSPIRE YOU NOW?
That is difficult to say because I read extensively through high school, with a focus on history and astronomy. Though John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress and Mark Twain’s Joan of Arc are at the top of my inspirational books’ list. Over the past few years I’ve delved into some fiction that has made me work hard to improve my writing. The Star Wars novels attract some fascinating authors; I’m a fan of Timothy Zahn’s Thrawn trilogy.
WHAT PART OF A STORY DO YOU FIND HARDEST TO WRITE?
The story comes pretty easily to me. I enjoy writing action, romance, and fairy tale. Transitioning or skipping over periods of time, however, can be difficult. It takes practice to determine when skipping time is appropriate or when it creates confusion for the reader.
WHAT ASPECT OF GOD DO YOU MOST HOPE READERS GET FROM READING YOUR WORK?
His unconditional love and provision for his children. Above everything else God is a God of love. In my stories the heroes and heroines are more prone to mercy than they are to judgment, just as we should be to our fellow man. I think it is important to focus on characters the reader will aspire to follow; men and women of integrity who follow their consciences. Too many contemporary books portray deeply flawed heroes. I want to write books that I would want to read, and I’m tired of main characters whose faults are more a focus of the story than their strengths.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT WRITING?
When not promoting my novels, I enjoy reading and watching dvds (I’m a fan of Stargate, Star Trek, and Star Wars). I also spend a lot of time working on my publishing company Flaming Pen Press. I have a lovely wife and a young son!