how would you describe what you do?
Writing is a big part of me and has been since I was young. I have always had a very active imagination, which has helped
tremendously with my writing. Often times I feel that writers see the world a bit different than most folks. Where one person
may see an empty cave, a writer may see a hidden entrance to Elysium.
what are you currently working on?
I am currently working on the second book in the Elysium series, which is, at the moment, titled Elysium and the Spy. I am
also a full time college student majoring in English Lit with a minor in Creative Writing.
what has had the greatest influence on your work?
I would have to say reading has had the greatest influence on my work. Daydreaming is a close second.
what is the greatest misconception about you or your work?
That I’m famous. People seem to think I’m famous because I’ve had poems published and have published a book. That just
makes me laugh. Naturally, this comes from people who have no idea how the publishing world works.
what do you see as the main strengths and weaknesses of the medium you work in?
I will start with my weakness. I procrastinate. I love writing, honest I do, but I am terrible about sticking to my scheduled writing times. There is always laundry that needs done, dishes that need washed, bills to pay, groceries to buy, homework to do, etc…
But once I open that word file and begin typing, I find it hard to stop.
how has technology impacted upon the work you do?
How hasn’t it impacted my work? Networking is easier, research is easier, promoting my work is easier, and getting
my manuscript to the publisher is much easier and cheaper. Also, I safeguard my writing from fire damage or computer
crashes by e-mailing the drafts to three of my e-mail addresses.
what’s the greatest piece of advice you would like to pass on?
Be prepared. Too many writers rush into publishing with little or no idea of what to expect.
where can we find you online?
what are you reading at the moment?
Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones
what are you listening to at the moment?
I usually listen to 104.9 The X when I’m in my car unless there isn’t anything good playing. In that case I will usually pop in a Linkin Park cd.
anything else we should know?
There is a fan page on facebook for Elysium and the Dominion’s Prophesy which has links to my website and updates on the
progress of the series. There is also an unedited snippet of Elysium and the Spy the discussion board for fans to read.
Apparently I forgot to list my greatest strength. Ooops! My greatest strength with writing is my ability to self edit. Many writers find it difficult to distance themselves from their writing in order to properly edit their work. It is something that has taken years to learn and I can honestly say I am probably my harshest critic. But that ability to self edit has served me well, particularly in the college writing I have to do.