Ask the Author: Michael Sheeman
Answered Questions (7)
Michael Sheeman
I keep my eyes and ears open. Inspiration can come in any form. Once it's there, it's hard to keep me from writing. Other responsibilities feel like nuisances and I can't wait to get back to my laptop.
Michael Sheeman
After the first draft, read and reread and reread. After you've reread and edited 20 times, do it 10 more.
Michael Sheeman
I read realistic fiction. I have trouble getting into fantasies or made up worlds. There are many choices, but I might go to Westish College (The Art of Fielding) and try to make the baseball team while keeping Henry's head on straight.
Michael Sheeman
Mostly, I do it for myself. I may never reach a large audience. I know what entertains me and I mostly do it for me. I love having created. I love my characters. I imagine them being real people living the lives I created for them.
Michael Sheeman
If I'm not inspired to write, it won't be any good. Inspiration can come from anywhere...another book, a movie a true crime docuseries, a story in the news... I was watching a documentary about a crime on military base from 50 years ago where the soldier (husband and father) was convicted of killing his wife and infant child. One journalist in particular followed the case and interviewed the guy repeatedly thinking he was innocent. After decades of writing and campaigning to free the man, he was shown proof by the producers of the documentary, that the man who he thought was innocent for all that time was in fact guilty. The journalist looked straight into the camera and said, "I'm just as susceptible as the next guy. What the fuck do I know?" That susceptibility inspired my book.
Michael Sheeman
A book that features Max (from Unknown Contact) as one of three main characters seeking to reveal the secrets of a twelve year old mystery while simultaneously being involved in romantic triangle.
Michael Sheeman
Some of my favorite books are psychological thrillers that involve false or missing memories (Before I go to Sleep, Shutter Island, What Alice Forgot, etc.). I wanted to write a book involving that concept. I also liked the idea dual timelines as well as the integration of the mystery admirer texts (slightly inspired by Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda).
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