What are the three most important things you have accomplished, aside from publishing a book?

I graduated from Podiatric medical school and finished my surgical residency In the early 1980’s. Since then I developed a successful Podatric surgical practice that encompassed three offices and six surgeons. The practice is well known in South east Michigan.

I worked on and completed getting my pilots license in 1994. Since then I have accumulated over 2000 hours flying to different destinations around the United States. My wife and I are advanced scuba divers and have dove most of the oceans of the world except the arctic and Antartica, too cold for us. Through that we have experienced many different countries and cultures, along with observing many different varieties of ocean species.

Which book or author has had the biggest impact on you, and why?

James Clavell his shogun series. Not only are they entertaining, they are based in historical fact and culture. When I read those books I was learning and being entertained at the same time. I like fictional books that also educate you while you read in an entertaining way. I try to write in the same fashion. Although my books are fictional they are based on factual information the reader may not know about or understand.

How would you summarise your book in as few words as possible? Exciting with twists you never see coming

What were your first experiences with writing?

I had classes in advanced placement English in High school. In this class we were required to write creatively. Before college I took an exam in which I wrote a creative story. The examiners awarded me six college credits.

In your opinion, what are the key ingredients for a good story or novel?

A good story must grab a readers interest and keep it without bogging down in details. The story should keep moving forward and allow the reader to be present in the story. When I wrote my book, I wanted the reader to relate to my characters and remember them. I want the reader to relate to and feel for the main character and the minor characters. Equally important, the antagonist must be disliked with a passion. I believe in The Supreme Pastor. I have accomplished that. When somebody reads my book, they always talk about my characters. I love that!

I would also like my reader to learn something they did not know or understand. In The Supreme Pastor, I bring out Human Trafficking and the signs one should look for if they believe someone is being trafficked. Also, how easy it is for someone to be lured into human trafficking and how hard it is to escape its hold.

The story should hold your attention from start to finish and have an exciting twist you never see coming. The Supreme Pastor has that.

How long do you spend writing every day?

I spend about four hours writing five days a week. I write five days a week unless I am busy with something else. I usually write in the afternoon after I have read the Wall Street Journal and done some workout: Pickleball, a 4-mile walk, or laps in the pool. I try to write between 500 and 1,000 words that will take me roughly three hours. Then my mind is fried, and I quit.

How long did you spend writing this novel?

It took me four months to write a rough draft and about six months of editing. I typically have five beta readers read my manuscript, also. I take their comments seriously, and most times I agree with their criticism. I will change the book to reflect their suggestions. Editing takes a long time, and I put in hours getting the book just right.

What was the most challenging part of writing this book, and what did you learn from writing it?

Actually there were two challenges creating the story. The most challenging part of writing a book is creating a compelling story and well-developed characters. This must be balanced with keeping the story exciting for the reader. I have learned that the writer must immerse themselves in the story as if they were living it themselves. This makes it fun and believable. Second editing is a long process and is time consuming.

What did you find most helpful when writing your book?

One needs to set aside blocks of uninterrupted time. This way your thoughts can be put down on paper while you have them in the forefront of your mind. A good writing program like Scrivener is a great help in writing. It keeps your writing organized and is a powerful tool.

What writing advice would you offer to your younger self?

You need to start writing, put your words down and keep at it soon you will have a finished product. If you do not, a book or project will never happen.