A little about me –
I am a USA TODAY Bestselling author, award-winning novelist, singer, songwriter, guitar player, YouTuber (guntuber), Senior Project Manager, coach, trainer, sports enthusiast, son, brother, husband, father, friend, neighbor, and pet owner just to name a few.
My first (published) novel ‘Chained Guilt’ won the NIEA Thriller of the year award.
I am a native of Rosharon, Texas, and spend my free time reading, hunting, fishing, and working out. I share this amazing life with my wife and two (grown) children.
Why did you start writing books?
I love to create. Creating is challenging. I enjoy challenging myself and others. Why can’t you do it? Why can’t I do it? How far can I push myself? I don’t put limits on myself.
How did you get started?
I read a fair amount and I had some ideas on characters, settings etc. My first book (for my eyes only) was a cool fantasy story. By the 3rd & 4th, enough people convinced me it was good enough to publish – so I did.
At what point do you think someone should call themselves a writer?
I’ll leave that up to each person to decide. If you write something, technically you’re a writer!
Who is your favorite writer?
James Patterson – love the Alex Cross series.
And, you’re also a musician?
Meh – I’d watch how you use that term… I play guitar, and sing a little… and, I’ve written some songs. A million years ago I played in the school band – Saxophone. ‘Music lover’ for sure.
And a GunTuber? (What even is a GunTuber)
A GunTuber is simply a Youtuber that makes Gun or firearm content. Yes, I am a Gun enthusiast too! I’d shoot all day everyday, but ammo is expensive, and my old ears couldn’t take it!
You can check it out here – CR42 Hunting – YouTube!
How do you deal with negative reviews?
Negative reviews used to get me really down but not so much anymore. If the review is negative and constructive I use it to get better. If it’s just someone that doesn’t like this flavor of ice cream, I accept that and keep it moving!
What advice would you give someone who wants to write a book?
Write. Stop making excuses and write! Stop being afraid to fail and write. The world is already full of enough people who are afraid to launch don’t be one of them.
How do you celebrate when you finish a book?
I take a deep breath – smile and start planning out what book I’m going to write next. I have about a dozen or so ideas for novels in my head at any given time. It can be quite stressful actually.