Keep Close follows a group of survivors navigating life after meteorites crash to Earth, unleashing creatures that hunt humans. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The story was actually inspired by COVID and the toll it took on mental health. The 6 foot tether law in this devastated world is an inverse to the 6 foot distance rules during COVID. I’ve always been a fan of post-apocalyptic stories. Originally a screenplay, ‘Keep Close’ was also inspired by movies such as ‘A Quiet Place’ and ‘Signs’.

Which character surprised you the most during the writing process?

Fitz for sure. He is intensely complex villain. With each of his scenes I tried to reveal glimpses of the good in him. All of my characters have good and bad qualities to them, which is what makes them so realistic and easy to identify with.

What were the biggest challenges in designing the creatures without revealing too much too soon?

My goal was to keep the threat a mystery to the reader until Ren witnesses it herself. Since that’s not until well into the book, I had to fill the beginning with a lot of ominous signs and one chaotic attack even Lee can’t fully witness. After this, the focus is back at sea with Ren while society adapts to this terrifying reality. When she finally comes ashore, civilization has completely changed and the predator danger is everywhere. This allows the reader to feel the same confusion and alarm that our protagonist does.

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

‘Keep Close’ is the first of a three-part series, and I’m currently working on book 2. I also have a true-crime murder mystery researched and outlined, and 5 children’s book manuscripts that need illustrating. It’s a busy time!

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