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What inspired you to start writing?
I used to write short stories with twist endings for my own amusement. Sometimes, I would submit them to writing contests and would receive some positive feedback.
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Can you tell us a little about your latest book?
My novel Seven Manipulated Minds is about Alfred's struggle to get respect, not only for himself, but for others on the autism spectrum. It is also about fighting bullying, even when the sources are from unexpected origins. The story begins with Alfred, a super-intelligent Asperger's sufferer, finding revenge against his six worst tormentors in high school. He uses a machine to hijack their minds and transporting them to a cyber-space room for proper adjustment. He then convinces them to join him in re-educating prejudiced movers and shakers in Society.
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How do you create your characters?
People I have met or observed in public life give me an infinite source of raw material for my characters. None of those who inspire me have any idea that they have contributed to my stories.
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What does your typical writing day look like?
I get up around six in the morning and check my email and the headlines. After that, I write when I have a project to finish or an idea I want to study. I rarely write at other times of the day.
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What has been the most rewarding part of being an indie author?
I have been most rewarded when I am writing unapologetically about almost everything.
A few times, I have had a good time discussing my book with others who have read them.
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What’s one challenge you’ve faced in your writing journey?
Promoting my work without being scammed by all kinds of people who offer to help me get more readers is the biggest challenge in my writing journey.
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Do you have any favorite writing tools or apps?
I mostly just use Word for composing and Grammarly for help with spelling and grammar. That's all I use.
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What advice would you give to new or aspiring indie authors?
In these times of AI and over-filled markets, I would tell them to write for their own amusement and not to make money. If they are very good and very lucky, they'll make money eventually. Don't quit your day-to-day job because writing is not usually the best way to get money.
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How do you handle book promotion as an indie author?
I don't pay much attention to the title of indie author, but I use it to explain that I don't fit into the category of those who are the super stars of the industry.
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What’s next for you? Are you working on a new book?
At present, I am waiting to see if Seven Manipulated Minds produces enough interest to justify growing it into a trilogy. Otherwise, I just amuse myself by writing short stories and entering contests with them.
