Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
A: I work as a high school English teacher and am also a member of the Navy Reserve with over twenty years of service, including time spent in Iraq and Afghanistan. Writing has always been a passion of mine, and I frequently come up with story ideas. I have been writing since my own days in high school. My personal life is fulfilling as well – I am happily married and have two children.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Terror in the Woods”?
A: In mid-2021, I began this project and faced two major challenges. Firstly, I struggled to find time between my two jobs and family commitments. Secondly, I had to deal with writer’s block.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
A: I am a huge fan of Tom Clancy (The Hunt for Red October), Jeff Shaara (Gods and Generals), and Jack Carr (The Terminal List). Each of those authors is extremely gifted in telling a story and painting a picture to the reader’s imagination. While I try to use my own ideas to create a story, I find myself using many of their styles in my writing.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
A: As a child, I enjoyed visiting Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, because of the rich heritage that place has. Our nation was plagued with a Civil War from 1861-1865, leaving the future of our country doubting if we could remain a unified nation. The battle of Gettysburg was a turning point for the Union during the war, which many historians believe was the beginning of the end for the Confederacy. Even now when I get the chance to take my kids to the battlefield, I find it important for them to have fun at the National Park and learn our country’s history.
Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Terror in the Woods’?
A: I am intrigued by mysterious phenomena that are not yet fully understood. One such topic that has caught my attention is the existence of Bigfoot or Sasquatch, which has been reported by numerous eyewitnesses and featured in documentaries on YouTube and the Travel Channel. Although I am somewhat skeptical of some of the accounts, I remain open-minded and have developed my own theories about these creatures. Recently, I wrote a story about military veterans facing a terrifying ordeal in the woods, which I found to be a compelling and entertaining concept.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Terror in the Woods’?
A: From start to finish, it took about two years.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?
A: Right now, Terror in the Woods is exclusively on Amazon. It is available as a Kindle eBook and paperback.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Terror in the Woods’?
A: I wished to utilize cover art that could capture the audience’s attention without revealing the nature of the terror. The woods have the ability to be both calming and eerie, as we relish the seclusion of the natural world while simultaneously being haunted by the concept of the unknown.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
A: In 2017, I wrote a lengthy novel that I was very proud of. However, I soon realized that the storyline was too complex with too many characters, spanning nearly 600 pages. Reflecting on this, I realized that it may have been too overwhelming for readers. I wanted my next book to be different – fun and easy to read, with a limited cast of just four or five characters. To keep it fresh and exciting, I aimed for suspense, action, and a quick pace. So far, the feedback I’ve received has been more positive than my previous book. I have already received questions asking if I was going to do a sequel.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
A: Interestingly, my English teacher in high school always encouraged me to tap into my imagination and write. Now that I am an English teacher myself, I continually inspire my students to utilize their creative talents and writing skills. I have integrated writing assignments into my curriculum, and the majority of my students find it enjoyable.
Terror in the Woods: When Nightmares Become Reality on Amazon
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