In the Dark of Eden follows a man with recurring dreams of a mysterious forest who decides to explore that forest and uncovers a surprising twist to the Appalachian folklore. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?

A couple years ago, I needed a clean break from everything life was throwing at me, so I decided to trek a four-mile trail at Audra State Park. It turned into quite an adventure because I hadn’t lost myself in a forest since I was a kid. My imagination ran wild, and I started jotting ideas on paper to create the plot when I finally returned home.

Tyhannon is an intriguing character. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?

Tyhannon represents many lost men, including myself, trying to find their way in today’s chaotic world. He’s relatable because it’s become increasingly difficult to find our calling or just be content with life. Many of us are constantly in search of something but no avenue to communicate or explore our deepest desires. As a result, many of us become loners or wandering spirits. There’s something out there or within waiting to be discovered, and it’s often indescribably greater than us.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

The prevailing theme is wonder and taking risks in the face of uncertainly. Also, the wisdom of our interconnectedness with nature. Nature is God and we are Gods of Nature when we choose to be by discovering our ultimate purpose.

This is book one in The Eden Trilogy. What can readers expect in book two?

There’s a duplicate scene in Book 1 that’s supposed to represent déjà vu when Tyhannon misses an opportunity to save a man’s life not once but twice. It’s not obvious to Ty, but that scene will have more significance in Book 2 as Tyhannon gets a third chance. And yes, there will be another metaphysical sex scene.

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