By Her Own Hand centers around two decorated soldiers haunted by civilian deaths, abandonment, and the fear that a single terrible moment has defined them forever. Where did the idea behind this novel come from?

To begin with, my own fractured upbringing where substance abuse and violence prevailed.  Born as an empath, this environment was particularly painful to one of my nature. But irony emerges in strange places. My older brother tutored me at an early age to love literature and history, both ancient and contemporary. That was my salvation. 

The novel contains elements of war fiction, psychological drama, romance, and thriller.  What drew you to blending these genres? 

In terms of war fiction, my extensive reading of conflicts in the Middle East.  On a more personal level, the friends who died in the Viet Nam war and those who came back with the horrible affliction of PTSD.  As far as psychological drama, the setting of the novel and the characters involved dictated high drama.  

In reference to romance, most of my emotional responses would be classified as feminine.  I relate to women’s feelings more than men’s.  Thus, I write more directly to them.  Moving on to thriller, once again, given the setting of high conflict and the personal inner conflicts of my characters, thriller was a necessary component. 

Madeline’s relationship with Eliot and Mira reveal different aspects of her personality.  What did each relationship teach readers about her? 

Even as horrible as her family life was, she did not become hardened.  She still has the will and the strength of character to open herself to vulnerability.  In Eliot’s case, it led to an enduring love.  In Mira’s case, Madeline’s nature was manipulated into lies and deceit.  Yet, in the end, Madeline does not seek revenge.  She knows that would only tarnish the real love she has found. 

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

I do have a new novel in mind, but you know how superstitious novelists can be when it comes to divulging details too soon.  Fortunately, I’m married to a loving and levelheaded wife who keeps her crazy writer in check!

I do promise you’ll be among the first to know when my next book comes out. 

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