Behind the scenes

Thoughts on Creativity, Life, Faith, or Inspiration:

My faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of everything I do—especially my writing. He's not just an influence; He’s the source. Creativity, to me, is a gift from God—a sacred echo of the Creator’s image in us. Writing is how I worship, how I process life, and how I try to bring light into a world that desperately needs it.

Inspiration strikes in many forms—Scripture, worship, music, even late-night talks with my wife or my kids’ off-the-wall imaginations. I’ve found that when I let God lead, the words flow better. My stories might explore darkness, but they always carry a thread of hope, redemption, and purpose.

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How My Own Story Influences My Writing:

I grew up in a small town in Indiana, the youngest of four, often lost in my own thoughts or in the fantasy worlds of games and books. I’m neurodivergent, which means I often see and process life differently—and that shows up in my characters. Many of them wrestle with identity, with feeling like outsiders, and with finding a place to belong. That’s not a coincidence. That’s my heart on the page.

My writing is also a reflection of my role as a husband and father. My wife Jacqueline and our kids, Tyler and Sailor, are part of my creative process. I bounce ideas off them, sometimes even include their suggestions directly. In fact, several moments in Starborn Descendants wouldn’t exist without their input. This isn’t just my story—it’s ours.

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Reflections on Publishing, Rejection, or Growth as a Writer:

Before Starborn Descendants was picked up by Sheltering Tree Media, I experienced years of discouragement trying to break into the industry. I self-published a few titles, but responses were limited. Then came the rejection letters—dozens of them—from literary agents. Each “no” felt like a gut punch. I started to question whether I had what it took.

But I kept going. I kept praying. I trusted that if God had given me this passion, He’d also open the right door in His time. And He did.

To anyone still in that place of waiting or rejection: Keep trying. Don’t give up. Rejection doesn’t define you—your perseverance does. Growth as a writer isn’t just about better sentences; it’s about stronger faith, deeper humility, and learning to find joy in the journey.