Interview with the Author of Full Tilt

I created a neighborhood newspaper when I was about twelve years old, doing all the stories with a miniature, type-set printing press! In fifth grade, I wrote my first book of creative stories for my mom, which she still has. However, it wasn't until college at Bowling Green State University that I realized, with the help of my journalism advisor (Barbara Austin) that I could make a living as a writer.

Q: What made you decide to write this book? Where did you get your inspirations?

As a boy, I loved rock n roll. Becoming a Christian as an adult, I wondered what would happen if a drug-addicted, millionaire rocker would become "born again." What kind of impact would he have on his millions of secular fans? That's where the story of DeathStroke leader singer Everett Lester was borne.

Q: When you write, are you more a planner - outline, notes - or "stream-of-conciousness" (write as it comes to you)?

I write new and fresh each day, from the seat of the old pants, if you will. At the end of the day, I make some notes about what may happen in the next day's writing. I do not like doing outlines and detailed synopsises, because I don't know what's going to happen until the characters and circumstances develop. However, publishers want this stuff ahead of time, so you have to give them something.

Q: What role do you think religion should play in writing fiction? Do you favor more of an indirect role, or direct role in your style?

It's a personal, subjective issue. Personally, I did not get into fiction writing just to tell "clean" stories. I got in it to testify about the transforming power and love of Jesus Christ. For that matter,
although my stories are real and gritty, the gospel arises from the grassroots and can't be overlooked. I hope my books are both a creative, suspenseful read, but also a great witnessing tool for us to take to our unsaved friends and neighbors.

Q: What marketing ideas are you working on? Do you have a website or a blog?

www.crestonmapes.com. I really keep this site up to date with new photos, reviews, etc.I may have it redesigned soon, but am okay with it as is. Check it out for all the latest.

Q: What's your next project?

A psychological thriller about a homeless man, based in Las Vegas, due out in 07.

Q: Who are some of your favorite authors/writers? Which one would you say has been your biggest influence?

James Scott Bell is a favorite who has helped me a lot with advice and such. I like GK Chesterton, CS Lewis, Davis Bunn, Frank Peretti, etc.

Q: What's the best thing aspiring writers can do to hone their craft?

Read books about writing good fiction. This is an easy, affordable, effective way to hone your skills. Also, submit several chapters to sr. fiction editors, using the Writer's Market as a guide. That's how I got started and how I found out my work may be good enough to be published.

Q: What one thing would you say to aspiring writers to encourage them in their own writing?

Be yourself. Use the unique experiences, knowledge, and voice God has given you to tell a remarkable story!!! Make it unique. Pull out the stops. Don't give us the same old police detective story. Editors are looking for stories that jump up and grab them from page one.