Q & A

Q: What inspired you to write Vanish?
A: A burning desire to get published.

Q: Where did you come up with the idea?
A: The basic premise came from a dream I had a few years back. I’m not saying it was God speaking to me. I think it was Mexican lasagna. But over the next few years I began to work out the plot to what I thought would be an interesting story.

Q: Is Vanish geared for Christians or non-Christians?
A: Yes.

Q: Please elaborate.
A: There is a strong evangelistic element to the story, but there are also themes that will speak to Christians as well.

Q: What is the basic take-away you want readers to get from the book?
A: Redeem the time. Make the most of every opportunity.

Q: Explain the process of writing a novel.
A: Think of it as trying to dig a sliver out of your finger with a large rusty scissors. A lot of meticulous, self-inflicted pain.

Q: No, really.
A: It usually starts with an intriguing “what if” idea. Or at least an idea that I find intriguing. And then I spend time figuring out a basic plot. I try to start with the climax. Then work backwards. That way I know where I’m going.

Q: What is more difficult to come up with, characters or the plot?
A: Plot. Characters emerge from there, almost on their own.

Q: Who is your target audience as a writer?
A: Me. That is, I write what I think will be a great story. Then I pray like mad that other people will think so too.

Q: In your opinion as a writer, what’s the key to creating suspense?
A: I’ll tell you in 15 seconds.

Q: Very funny.
A: An exciting story is not all action or fighting and chasing. It’s about making the reader wonder what’s behind the door or around the next corner. Suspense is not about what happens. It’s about what happens next.

Q: What do you recommend for aspiring Christian authors?
A: For starters, join the Christian Writers Guild. It’s a first class ministry with great resources. If you sign up for the writing courses, they team you up with a mentor from within the Christian publishing industry. The courses help you develop and hone your writing skills. Plus your mentor can provide top notch, professional critiques of your work. You’re also eligible to enter the Operation First Novel Contest.