Frequently Asked Questions

If you write mainly science fiction, why call yourself a speculative fiction author?

Speculative fiction is an umbrella term encompassing any fiction with supernatural, fantastical, or futuristic elements. Calling myself a speculative fiction author gives me licence to work in and blend together a wide spectrum of genres.

Any advice for budding writers?

I wouldn’t be so bold, [well, maybe I would—check the blog] but I recommend reading Writing 21st Century Fiction by Donald Maass, and Dialogue: Techniques And Exercises For Crafting Effective Dialogue by Gloria Kempton, and listening to the Writing Excuses and Grammar Girl podcasts. I think Stephen King gave good advice, saying, “If you want to be writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.”

You don’t blog much. Why not?

Because everyone else is doing it, and they’re more passionate about it. I blog when I have something newsworthy, fun stuff to share, or something important to say. But on the whole, for me, blogging is writing time better invested in my fiction.

Recommended reading?

Jane Austen—Pride & Prejudice; Mervyn Peake—Gormenghast; Isaac Asimov—Foundation; Frank Herbert—Dune; these are books I’ve read again and again, though I could go on forever.

You mention a zombie apocalypse in your bio. That’s a joke, right?

I believe in being prepared.

Um…okay. Do you have anything I can read?

Yes indeed. You can hop over to the Fiction part of the website where you will find some stories you can read free of charge! Hope you enjoy.

What if I have more questions?

There’s a contact form on the website, or you can use social media. I’m always happy to hear from folks taking an interest, and will try to answer any questions.