The Melancholy Strumpet Master follows an anthropology doctorate student who is writing a dissertation on Tijuana streetwalkers. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

I traveled extensively throughout Mexico when I was younger and in my mid-twenties would cross into Tijuana to buy and consume hard drugs. In the neighborhoods where those substances were available, I crossed paths with streetwalkers. A few became friends, and I discovered — surprise, surprise — they were people like you and me with intelligence, families, problems, and future goals. For the record, I haven’t used drugs in many years. Please don’t misconstrue my answer.

Why choose this place and time for the setting of the story?

The story straddles Los Angeles, one of the wealthiest cities in the world, and the more run-down neighborhoods of Tijuana. I think the juxtaposed settings work well to advance themes I was interested in. 

What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?

The most interesting thing is that we’re all human and we haven’t really changed as the centuries have rolled on. That’s why the Iliad, Romeo and Juliet, and the Bhagavad Gita still ring true.  The billionaire, despite his wealth, watches his marriage crumble, while the homeless person laughs on his park bench. 

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

I’m outlining something right now with a fifteen-year-old teenage girl protagonist that will likely cross YA and psychological thriller. Give me a few years to get it right. I wish I could say more but I’m really liking the idea and don’t want to tip my hand.

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