Ask the Author: Michael Monahan
Answered Questions (6)
Michael Monahan
Depending on the severity, I might sit and try to think through the issue. Other times, I might walk away for a few hours or days even. I have found, however, that directing my thoughts to something else I need to get done is most effective for me. It could be as simple as running an errand. More than once, I set off on an errand only to have the block lifted before I was less than a few minutes from home. It must be that using my brain for a task frees up the right side of my noggin.
Michael Monahan
I read fiction for the escape; the opportunity to wind down and forget about things. I endeavor to deliver that escape with an entertaining, realistic and perhaps informative story. It fills me with absolute joy when readers tell me they could not put down one of my books. Providing that pleasure to readers is the best thing about being a writer.
Michael Monahan
One piece of advice would be to simply start the process. Too much thinking and attempting to fully structure the story can leave you stymied. You will be amazed with the feeling you have when you complete the first draft of your first chapter, and that progress will inspire you to continue. Another piece of advice is to write what you are passionate about. A third would be to remain resolute. Rejection and unfavorable feedback are part of the deal. Believe in yourself to overcome doubts others may put in your head.
Michael Monahan
As I did with my first two novels, I have the general idea of a plot in my head for the third book in the PJ Carpenter series. I am now doing some preliminary research that will help my crystallize the story.
Michael Monahan
Although writing has been a key aspect to the various roles I have held during my professional career, cogency rather than creativity was always the objective. The bug to write a novel was placed many years ago by a high school teacher who suggested I might have the skills to do it. I am a voracious reader of both fiction and non-fiction. After reading several duds that occupied spots on best-seller lists and despite having no creative writing instruction, I decided to take my former teacher's advice and give it a go.
Michael Monahan
Counter Strike is a sequel to The Bringer of Death. At the end of BOD, PJ Carpenter has some unfinished business and is motivated more than ever to finally deliver the vengeful blow to his longtime adversary. But beyond that quest, I was not sure where the story would take us when I started writing Counter Strike. While many authors follow a structured outline approach, I have found thinking through the twists and turns of the plot as I write to be eminently more effective for me.
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