Could You Tell Us About Yourself ?

I am a self published author who recently moved Los Angeles from Pennsylvania, I have aspirations to be an actor as well and I am passionate about living life as if it were a grand adventure.

What made you write your book (s) ?  

It was something that I have wanted to do for a long time since I have been inspired by my favorite authors and I always had a passion for storytelling.

What is the first book you remember reading ? 

I believe that would be the one of the Little Golden Books.

What’s your favourite book ?  

Wizard’s First Rule by Terry Goodkind. There’s just something about his writing style that lights up the imagination like no one else.

Who is your favourite author and why?  

I’d have to say Stieg Larsson who is one of my many literary inspirations.

How many hours a day do you write? 

At minimum 4 hours.

What one thing would you give up to become a better writer? 

Interesting question. I believe that I would give up my affinity for energy drinks to become a better writer. But caffeine would always be my vice .

What is the most difficult part of your artistic process? 

I’m going to say that finding motivation to write amidst feeling down is quite difficult.

If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose and why ? 

I’d be very honored to spend the day with JK Rowling because I had a huge Harry Potter obsession when I was younger.

What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?  

I’d say music because it helps with my creativity.

What’s your favourite writing snack or drink? 

Tea and cookies (or biscuits if you are from the UK).

How do you celebrate when you finish your book?  

I like to indulge in videogames to mentally decompress.

Do you listen to music while you wrote your book (s) ? 

Most of the time. I find that classical is good for progress.

Where do you get your idea (s) for your book (s) ? 

Literally anywhere I can. Whether it be from news headlines, current events or even past events.

What is / was your writing process like? 

It’s essentially controlled chaos for me. Kind of like the auto sport of drifting where you’re in control of being out of control. It entails planning, lots of notes and brainstorming for hours on end.

Do you try more to be original or rather give readers what they want?  

I like to strike a balance between the two.

How did publishing your (first) book ? 

It was a daunting process for sure.

What kind of research do you do and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book? 

I looked up information on the FBI, geography and politics and other related topics. I have spent many hours on each subject so that my book would be grounded in reality. 

How do you develop your plot and characters?  

By picturing my writing as if it were a major blockbuster movie.

What’s your favourite and least favourite part of publishing your book (s) ? 

I would say that my favorite part is the writing process and least favorite would be marketing since I am an indie author. 

What part of the book was the most fun to write? 

I’m going to say that the rough draft was fun because I got to explore new ideas and motifs.

How did you come up with the title for your book (s) ? 

It’s inspired by a defunct Café in Lancaster Pennsylvania that was this cool place to hangout. I just thought that the name would make for a unique title.

Would you and your main character get along?  

Well since my main character is based on me and my life experiences, I’d say we’d be the best of friends.

If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them? 

I’d give them insight on life since I am older then most of them.

Which of the characters in your book (s) do you relate to the most and why?  

I relate most to the male protagonist since he is essentially like me.

What is a significant way your book has changed since the first draft? 

A lot of plot elements were removed for the sake of pacing.

How would you describe your book’s ideal reader? 

It’s definitely for anyone who is into pulse pounding action, relatable characters and real emotions.

What did you edit out of your book (s) ? 

I felt that there was an imbalance of emotion and action so I had to bring things back into focus to remain true to the thriller genre.

What was your hardest scene to write? 

The hardest scene to write was the death of a prominent character for the sake of character development.

How long did it take for you to write a book ?  

Approximately 3 years from start to finish.

What do you hope your readers take away from your book (s) ? 

I hope that they learn that no matter how hard life is or how dark things may seem that there’s always a silver lining.

What was the hardest part of writing your book (s) ? 

Just simply staying motivated while going through a difficult time in my life.

Did you get some negative feedback on your book ? and if so how do you deal with that ? 

I was lucky enough to have people in my life who were cheering me on and they all seemed to like what I have written.

How did you feel when you first published your book (s) ? Scared ? Excited ? Nervous ? 

All of the above.

Where can people who are interested in your book, buy your book ? 

It’s currently available on Amazon via Kindle.

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about? 

I’m currently working on the sequel to my first book.

After writing your book (s) what is your advice to people who want to become writers? 

Just follow your dreams and stay true to what you really want in life.

What are common traps for aspiring writers and have you faced any of them ? 

I feel like there’s a disadvantage for new writers in regards to achieving success right away. I had made the mistake of thinking that I would be an overnight sensation but realized that the process of being a successful writer requires time and dedication.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones? 

I’m honestly not concerned with reviews because I would rather focus my energy and time to writing.

Is it something more you want to tell us which I forgot to ask about? 

I think I have answered all the right questions. 

Charlie Chance Media Links

Amazon Profile + Books

Goodreads