To start this off, why don't you give an idea of what the book is about?

This is the story of four friends during the Civil War in the New Mexico Territory, and their adventures in settling Arizona shortly afterwards.

Where did you grow up and was reading and writing a part of your life?

I've lived all over this country born in New Mexico, childhood in Houston, then on to upstate New York, and Colorado.  The Army took me to Alaska, after which I lived for a while in Florida, back to Colorado, and now West Virginia. I've always loved to read, and this instilled in me a desire to write.  Unfortunately, I never got around to seriously writing until about three years ago.

Who were your earliest influences and why?

I guess the first author who inspired me was Edgar Rice Burroughs. The action/adventure/sci-fi of his tales took a hold on my imagination. But the author I most respect and would like to emulate is James Michener. I voraciously read everything I could by him, several times over. Historical Fiction seems to be an entertaining and painless way to learn about our past and ourselves.

What would a typical day be like for a writer?

Up at 7:30, watch the morning news while downing a few cups of coffee, then sit down at the table and take pen to paper.  Usually, when I surface for a break, I'm astounded to see that 6 hours has passed.  I spend a lot of time on the Internet networking with authors, reviewers, or doing research. Of course, I try to find the time to read as much as I can. I feel the more one reads, the better he writes.

How long have you been writing and in what capacities?

I have written little diddies poems; short stories, most of my life, but never got serious about it until the year 2000, when I retired.  Since then, Ive written two books, and a number of poems and short stories.

Which is more difficult to write - Fiction or nonfiction and why?

I've only written fiction, so I couldnt say.

Has there ever been a time when you wanted to throw in the towel and give up? And if so, how did you defeat those instincts?

Not really.  If I reach a block I just get involved in something else and when I come back to it, the way is clear.  In fact, I'm not much of a quitter in anything. Just ask my fiancé how persistent I am.

What is the hardest part about being a writer?

Finding a publisher who is willing to take a chance on your work. Then marketing your work successfully.

Do you have any hobbies? What are they? How do they enhance your writing?

I'm a Master Scuba Diver, and at least one of my books is based on some of my experiences. My other interests are reading, sports, history, and travel. They all influence my writing in one way or another.

Articles and media alike make it sound as though the only way to rise to the top is to sacrifice. What do you find to be good sacrifices?

Life is full of sacrifices. If one is to be successful at anything marriage, profession, competition anything he has to be willing to sacrifice. But the one thing you can never sacrifice is your self-respect. Or the love of your family.  Or your Faith in God.

Whats the coolest thing a reader has said to you?

That they were deeply and emotionally moved by my work. And to be compared with several of the contemporary great writers of our time.

What has been your feedback from readers? What do they say to you about their interpretations of your book?

Mostly that they wished I hadn't killed someone off, or that I must write a sequel.

Do you think that as a writer you are more prone to watching what goes on around you and observing behaviors than most people are?

Probably. I'm pretty observant by nature anyway.

Who are some of the authors you consider to be "don't miss"?

Oh, gosh there are so many! Jay Squires, who wrote Dead of Winter, DP Roseberry, author of Rodenticider, Terry Vinson, who penned some great horror books like Bloodlines, and Skeletal Remains, and Joyce Scarbrough, who wrote True Blue Forever.

If one were looking to start his/her own career as a writer, what would you suggest his/her first step to be?

READ!! Read some more! And still read some more! Take your English classes seriously.  Learn grammar and spelling so that it becomes second nature to you.

What kind of movies do you enjoy?

Action, Historicals, Sci-fi. 

What is your favorite city to visit, but one that you wouldnt want to live in?

New York or maybe London.

Whats the strangest question youve ever been asked in an interview?

If I could go back in time and spend a day with anyone in history, who would it be?  Thats a tough one.

Whats the best part of being a writer?

Having people tell me the really enjoyed my book. Especially if they go out of their way to do so.

What's next?

I have several projects floating around my head. A prequel and a sequel to Beyond the Horizons, and another historical novel dealing with pirates in the Caribbean one of the ancestors of Mace Alexander, who is the main character in my first book. For a change of pace, another Young Adult book, and maybe some poetry.