Michael - Illustrating Author

After fifteen years of modeling in New York, I spent the past six years as an interior designer in Chicago. I decided to take my creative talents and write/illustrate my first y/a novel, AMBER AND THE WHISPERING WILLOWS. I've been editing for the past year and have started the second in the series. I never knew how wonderful it could be to write a novel ... I'm addicted.

1. In your fantasy works, do you often make up completely new worlds or interweave your ideas into the existing world?

In my first novel I did make up an entire fairy world inside a willow tree grove which so happened to be on the outskirts of a NYC suburb.

2. Do you have any projects outside YA fantasy?


Yes. After I finished AMBER AND THE WHISPERING WILLOWS, which is the first in a series, I decided to write something else. I wrote an edgy Y/A contemporary.

3. Where do you sit when writing? Do you use the computer or regular old pen and paper?

I don't sit generally. I stretch out on a bed or sofa, with my laptop on a computer table that adjusts. So I work between the bedroom (usually at night) and the living room during the day. The only time I jot things down is when there are many characters so I'm able to keep them straight.

4. What is/are your favorite blog(s) outside of the group?

Oh, that's a tough one. I have several I really love. Critique Sister Corner... they give excellent advice on writing and the publishing industry. Nathan Branford for the same reasons, erica and christy, because they are funny and good friends. There are so many more. I hit at least fifty a day.

5. What is your favorite fantasy creature (elf, dwarf, werewolf, etc.)?

I would have to say fairies.