2.       If you could tell your younger writing-self anything, what would it be?

John: Don’t be afraid of your own voice and the possibility of success. Very early in my career, I was afraid that my voice would be harshly criticized or completely ignored altogether. I spent precious time worrying over the perception others had of me, which stifled my creativity due to a lack of confidence and self-esteem. This led me to later be wary of success, because when it came, I was unsure how to handle it. I’d often ask myself, what happens next? Would I accomplish one goal (writing a novel, getting published, etc…) only to find myself unable to move forward to the next? This was wasted time; I could have spent writing and completing the next goal on my list.

3.       Did you want to be an author when you grew up?

John: Yes, I started writing stories as early as the 2nd grade and found that I had a great desire to create my own characters and stories.

4.       How long, on average, does it take you to write a book?

John: It varies on the genre and intended length of the book (re: novel vs novella). Usually, a 55k-75k word novel takes 6-12 months. A 35k-55k novella, takes about 3-6 months. I also have to factor other writing projects into the mix such as: short stories, blog posts, reviews, etc..

5.       What is your most unusual writing quirk(s)?

John: I’m a pantser who NEVER outlines on paper and/or PC for any reason when writing fiction. I always write listening to music, the music genre depending on the subject matter/genre of the writing. I hate writing long hand! At a minimum, I have about a couple dozen premises for novels, novellas and short stories rolling around in my head at any given moment. And my best writing, and most well received work, is usually produced when I’m working on multiple projects, sometimes across genres.

6.       What is your favorite genre to read?

John: I don’t have one favorite genre to read, but here are my top five: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery, Horror and Espionage.

7.       What fantastical fictional world would you want to live in (if any) given the chance?

John: I’d like to live in the world of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. I find it to be very engrossing, exciting and one I’d love to explore.

8.       How do you select the names of your characters?

John: I usually watch movie and TV show credits and use name or an amalgamation of names from those I see. I personally find the most intriguing and impactful names this way.

9.       If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

John: Driven, Determined and Dexterous (intellectually).

10.   Tell us 10 fun facts about yourself!

John: 1) I’m a comic book nerd/historian, 2) I’m a jazz/blues/r&b/old school pop music aficionado, 3) As well as being an author, I’m also an accomplished visual artist in the mediums of: graphite, acrylic painting, colored pencil and mixed media, 4) I love both DC/Marvel and Star Trek/Star Wars, 5)  My favorite color is blue, 6) My favorite foods are: chicken, pizza, fish, steak,  burgers, potatoes, broccoli, bacon, eggs and waffles/pancakes, 7) My favorite music is jazz, 8) My favorite number is five, 9) My favorite liquor is Cognac, 10) My top ten favorite musicians/bands: Grover Washington Jr., Anita Baker, Prince, Duran Duran, Marvin Gaye, Eric B & Rakim, Journey, Queen, Chicago, Earth Wind & Fire.

11.   Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

John: Read…not just books on the craft and mechanics of writing, but books by authors within your genre. Always write…even if it’s just a review of a purchased product on Amazon or a grocery list, WRITE! Believe in yourself, find your voice and to quote the late, great Toni Morrison – “If there is a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, you must be the one to write it.”