Covert Alliance starts when a megalithic pyramid is discovered which sets off a series of dangerous events. How did the idea for the pyramid start and change as you wrote?

I took some inspiration from Arthur C. Clarke’s 2001 and 2010, and I suppose the pseudo-scientific folks on television known as ‘ancient astronaut theorists.’ Although at first the pyramid appears primitive, it proves to be a technological marvel that was obviously not built by humans. Like Clarke’s megaliths, among other things, the pyramid is a pointing device that when followed up on, alerts benign, very advanced aliens to the presence of another intelligent species (namely, the human beings on New Earth). And then the real adventure begins!

I enjoyed the depth of knowledge provided in this book. Do you do any research for your books before writing?

I do research, mostly using web-based material (Wikipedia is especially useful as a starting point). As I develop a story, I find my research becomes more intense, as I realize I may have gotten a few things wrong. The creative phase requires abstract thinking, and the review stage requires linear, self-critical thinking. Research and cross-checking is required throughout.

What were some challenges you set for yourself as a writer with this book?

I believe good science-fiction does not try to tell a reader what to think, rather it inspires a reader to do their own thinking. I also want to make the tale fun to read, full of adventure with twists and turns. I depend on my own judgement to evaluate if I get the balance right. And on reviews by Literary Titan of course!

The science inserted in the fiction, I felt, was well balanced. How do you manage to keep the story grounded while still providing the fantastic edge science fiction stories usually provide?

The characters provide the grounding if I get it right. I want them to be recognizable people, with feelings and fears, aspirations and frustrations. If a reader puts themselves in a situation confronting one of the characters, that would be a big win for me.

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