When I’m writing a scene and the thought crosses my mind, “Should I write this? My mom is going to read this,” I know I need to write it.
Tiffany Reyes – 22 October 2015
The Back Flap
When Ian Crowell’s best friends are torn apart right before his eyes and he narrowly escapes the killer, he can’t imagine life could get much worse. That is, until the doctor tending to him starts acting strange and Ian knows the safest thing to do is get away. But while on the run, he discovers his pursuer may be a little less than human. Cornered in a library, Ian stumbles on a dusky passage in the wall behind a statue.
He thinks it’s an air shaft–a way out! In fact, it’s the way in…
This story is about a young man who gets sucked into another world, as ancient as it is technologically advanced. His goal is simple: find the one who can show him the way home. But Ian is unaware that a dark entity was awaiting his arrival and is intent on destroying him. It isn’t his fate. It isn’t his destiny. He was a regular person in the wrong place at the worst time.
Here is his struggle for survival on a grim planet charged with bizarre phenomena.
About the book
What is the book about?
It’s about a boy and girl who are thrust onto this wicked planet where the shadows have a pulse. The story covers their struggle to try and get back home. But it’s a world where everything wants you dead. How do two clueless teenagers survive that?
When did you start writing the book?
Originally, this book went by a different name and had a different story, but set in the same world. That started in winter 2001. Since then, it has gone through tons of changes to get where it is today.
How long did it take you to write it?
The final edition that you have before you took me about ten years.
Where did you get the idea from?
My teenage years were really rough and I constantly imagined escaping to other worlds. I wrote a story about a boy having that chance, and what might actually go through his mind if it happened. This was my way of running from my struggles.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Oh man, definitely! There were many parts that were impossible to write and even worse to reread and edit. Most of these parts were huge chunks of the book that were ultimately cut out. Those that survived went through enormous revisions to make them fun and exciting to read.
What came easily?
The horror scenes. Those flowed with ease. They were the most fun to write, and the easiest. The action scenes were a blast to write, too!
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
All of Ian’s friends in the beginning are based off two bullies from my high school years. They terrorized me, traumatized me even. I think writing those characters was my way of working through it.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Richard Laymon! I could scream his name from the mountain tops. Not only do I love his smooth, simple style of writing, but most of all, I love how fearless a writer he is. When I’m writing a scene and the thought crosses my mind, “Should I write this? My mom is going to read this,” I know I need to write it. No matter how gory or controversial or explicit it may be, I’m going to write it. I’m not afraid to push the boundaries and that’s all thanks to Richard Laymon.
Do you have a target reader?
If you’re looking for a fast pace, a dark and eerie world, and lots of beautiful yet gross lands and creatures, then I’m the writer for you.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
I have learned from failed projects before to always start with an outline. And when I say outline, I mean A to Z, beginning to end. It’s so important that you know where your story is going all the time. That will help with Writer’s Block, too.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
Absolutely! I outline extensively. Down to the tiniest details of each chapter. I’m the kind of person that needs structure and needs to know where something is going. I can write from nothing, but it always hits a brick wall eventually.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
Editing pulls me out of the zone, so I make sure to write the entire book first and don’t let myself worry about editing until the very end.
Did you hire a professional editor?
I would love to, but it’s way too expensive.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Occasionally. If I do listen to music, it’s usually during a scary scene or an action scene. I’ll typically listen to music if I need something to pull me into the world. I prefer video game soundtracks or film soundtracks.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
Almost 100.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I realized if I waited for a literary agent, my book would never see the light of day. It took me about 5 years to finally give in to self-publishing.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
I hired an amazing (and affordable!) illustrator named Jonathan Hunt to create something creepy and slimy!
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
Winging it!
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Publishing your book is just the beginning. Prepare to continue to work if you want it to become a success. After all, in the beginning, no one knows about it but you. Build a social network online years before you publish. It will end up helping you so much.
About You
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in New Jersey.
Where do you live now?
I live in Florida.
What would you like readers to know about you?
I’m just a normal person like you. I don’t have some crazy degree or tons of credentials to get me noticed now that I’m published. I’m just a regular person who loves to weave tales and hopes to do so for the rest of her life.
What are you working on now?
A good ol’ horror story.
End of Interview:
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Get your copy of Behind the Chimera from Amazon US, Amazon UK, or Barnes & Noble.
