Stuck That Way and Other Quandaries is a collection of eerie short stories that tell some fantastic paranormal tales. What was the inspiration for the titular story in this collection?

The title story was inspired by a conversation I had with a former yoga teacher. We were discussing frequencies and elevating oneself to higher vibrational quality. The question, did I think ascension was the raising of one’s frequency, was asked. Fascinating question and it made me wonder if the lowering of the frequency sends one to this plane. My story was born.

My favorite story from the collection is “By Induction.” Do you have a favorite story in this book?

Something Lurking is my favorite in this collection. It is loosely based on my dog Finn and the dark woods behind my house. Sometimes he stares, frozen, out into the woods. Scary.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in your stories?

I am always finding ways to expose and explain the shadow aspect of our personality. That and perspective are always themes in my writing.

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

Since publishing Stuck That Way and Other Quandaries, I have had two children’s books published: A Perfect Place for Scary Monsters to Hide with author Jill Yoder and Pigglety Pigglety Poo, illustrated by Jane Jago. In addition to these two books, I also have The Many Worlds of Mr. A. Skouandy and Other Stories from Oakwood Sanatorium, a postmodern collage-style short story cycle featuring sketches by Tanweer Dar, and the first volume in a new series of gothic poetry with poet and author Derek R. King entitled The Darker Half, Volume 13

November 12 is the release of a beautiful inspirational book based on the Japanese art of Kintsugi, written with Derek R. King entitled Honey; Words to Heal & Mend. And on November 26, the release of Volume 12 in The Darker Half Series of gothic poetry, entitled Santa’s Claws. Another two books might squeak in as well: Our Christmas: Traditions, Memories, & More, with Derek R. King and maybe, just maybe, the release of That’s Creepy, Santa! The Trilogy, which includes part one from Stuck That Way. More to come in 2021.

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