Sedition

1. What types of books do you write?

I write political thrillers. Sedition is first of what I expect to be many. As a television reporter (my day job), I love covering politics and so it's a natural extension for me.

2. What is the latest book you have written?

Sedition is my first published book. It takes place in Washington DC in the near (undefined) future. It's a modern adaptation of a real political plot that happened in 1820s England. A group of disaffected patriots didn't like the direction in which their government was headed. They devised a plan to assassinate the prime minister and his cabinet. There are a lot of political parallels to the sentiment then and the climate in the US today. So I played with the history of that plot and mixed it with the reality of today. It's a book that, I think, seamlessly blends reality with fiction. I wouldn't say I write like Dan Brown, but I use the same tools. I make it such that the reader asks, "Wait! Did that really happen?" Then they Google it to find out where the reality ends and my fiction begins. In fact, I created a website that allows the reader to explore some of those real events, real places, real artwork, and real documents discussed in the book. It's a real companion to the book and it enhances the reading experience. At least I hope it does.

Sedition Website

3. Is it part of a series, if so which one?

It's not a part of a series. But I've gotten such a great reception to the primary "villain" in the book that I'm likely to write another book that focuses on him. His name is Sir Spencer and he, without exception, is everyone's favorite character in the book. I think it'd be fun to explore a spin-off with him as the central figure.

4. When did you start writing?

I started writing as a young kid and I've never stopped. But I didn't write my first novel until I was in my late 20s. It wasn't very good. But it was a great learning experience.

5. Why did you start writing?

I love to read. And I love the idea of being transported somewhere else. So the thought of being able to provide the same escape for someone else was really appealing.

6. Who are your influences?

I've read almost all of Michael Crichton's books. I love his detail. I also like Dan Brown's ability to weave research into his narrative. Maybe my favorite book ever, though, is Animal Farm by George Orwell.

7. What can we expect from you in the near future? Book signing events, other details

I'm working on a new book (about 1/3 of the way through) called SECESSION. It's a Texas-centric book that explores Texas' place in the political conversation. It follows one man's unwitting role in a plot that combines politics, energy, and nanotechnology. I'm probably a year out from publishing that one.