to envision the characters with their own imagination. I read every review and try to improve in the best
way that I can. Still, some comments can sting. Writing a book takes so much time and emotion out of an
author. I strive to please my readers and give them something original and captivating. Thankfully, the
great majority of my reviews are positive.
8. You have visited some great countries. How has travel influenced your writing?
My trip to South Korea was my first experience outside of the United States. This foreign land, full of
rich culture and beautiful people, inspired the main character of my series. Koa is half Korean. I wanted
to represent the country that changed my life, and creating a character that embodied their beauty seemed
perfect. The Chronicles of Koa is set in London, and so it is ironic that my travels to England came after
the first book was written. I attended the World Fantasy Convention in Brighton, England in fall 2013,
and finally saw the land that I had dreamt about, read about, and seen on the BBC since childhood, gave
me such inspiration and fuel for the second book in the series, Dark Prophet.
9. Do you have any tips on getting through writer’s block?
I do! I actually wrote an article on defeating writer’s block on my writing blog, www.WriteLikeaWizard.
com. The trick is to push through that dreadful moment of creative blockage. I recommend taking a walk.
Come back, sit down, and just start writing. Write about anything. The waitress, the postman, your best
friend. Write a narrative on them. This is a good exercise, because before you know it…you’re writing
again! I also listen to music sometimes, light candles, or even read. Anything that gets those creative
juices flowing.
10. What are some things that you did to become a better writer?
I go to numerous writing conferences. I also read writing books, such as the ones found from Writer’s Digest. I interview other authors to learn their techniques, and take online courses whenever I can. A writer
can always improve their craft through education, but nothing beats a great writing session