FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why did you become a screenwriter?
Screenwriting came as a natural extension of me wanting to make films. I quickly learned that movies are made in the writing. That it all starts on the page. I wrote with an eye on directing. And the writing part stuck.
Why did you decide to write books?
At the point when film directing opportunities began to present themselves, I decided to make a left turn into fiction. All those yearnings inside me to direct were pretty much vanquished when I completed my first novel.
Writing preference—books or movies?
I love writing. I love having the next project in front of me no matter the format. Though in movies I’ve generally been a gun for hire. When it comes to books, I get to be the boss. Well, the boss of me. I’d like to think I’m a good employer. Though I’m sometimes afraid to ask myself for a raise.
Who were your literary influences?
Stephen King and Ian Fleming.
What is your writing process?
First and foremost, I try to live life as a sponge. When I’m not at the keyboard I’m quietly thinking about what I’m currently writing, what I might eventually write about, details and characters I might want to borrow from the world around me for my next thriller or screenplay. The rest is about organizing my life in order to execute the work. I try to write six days a week, beginning with breakfast at my desk, reading news and such until I finally settle in to tap out the next chapter or scenes.
Where do you get your story ideas?
Everywhere, anywhere, and who the heck knows? Sometimes I have a germ or an inclination that I marinate in for what feels like eons. Other times it is as if the entire story and characters falls out of the sky and land in my lap. I just look heavenward and thank God.
How much of Lucky’s life is planned out in your head?
Just enough so I don’t get lost, but not so far ahead that I’m unable to surprise myself, and more importantly the readers. Luckyland—aka Los Angeles and thereabouts—is a living, breathing place that is ever changing. I’d like Lucky’s stories to reflect that.
Should I read the Lucky Dey books in order?
That’s entirely up to you. I’ve written them so each book will stand alone but for a few character strings that tie to the previous or following book. I suggest starting with whichever book appears most intriguing, then if it was a good ride, go back to the first book and either binge or sip. Just don’t turn off the night light.
Why is there so much violence and profanity in your books?
Good question. It’s one that I’ve struggled with over the years. It comes down to whether I want to be true to life. Lucky lives in a dark and violent world where police officers as well as those living just above or beneath society’s moral red lines use rough language and often behave in the most impolite ways. Thus my characters will sometimes curse.
Will the Lucky Dey books be made into a movie or TV show?
Unknown. I’m not keen on selling the rights without having some form of say-so in the production. Because I’ve much experience in film and TV I would be expected to produce. I’m not against that, but it would make it very difficult to continue writing the books. Currently, I’m choosing to continue down the path of writing more Lucky Dey novels.
Is Die Hard 2 a Christmas movie?
It is. So is the first Die Hard. Argument over.
Do you still write screenplays?
I do. I have a number of projects in various states of development. But my dedication to writing Lucky Dey Thrillers is my primary concern.
Die Hard 2, Bad Boys, Hostage and . . . Welcome to Mooseport???
Don’t laugh. In fact, as a screenwriter, I have a number of dramas and non-action films on my shelf of unproduced. Welcome to Mooseport is a movie that somehow snuck past the genre gatekeepers. It’s a sweet little film. Suggest you watch it with a warm brie and a mulled wine.
Why did you decide to self publish?
Aside from it being the future? It’s pretty addictive. Control. A direct link to my readers. And then there’s being my own boss. That’s never bad.
Will you read my script?
I’d like to, but I can’t. For liability reasons I can’t read much of anything that hasn’t been submitted to me via my motion picture representatives.
