Some nonfiction writers say they have a hard time writing fiction because they'd have to make everything up from scratch, while some fiction writers say they struggle with writing nonfiction because they have to stick to the facts and can't shape the story to their liking. You've done both. Which form do you find easier?
I don't think I really came into my own as a writer
until I started to blend the two for my novels. My first four books were
somewhat surreal, and it wasn't until I started using my background as a
reporter in my fiction that my stories took on an added dimension. My
fifth novel, White Shadow, really changed everything for me in
my writing style and approach to novels. I work much in the same way now
with my Quinn Colson books.
Why did you decide to write about the plight of the American soldier returning home after being at war?
My longtime editor at G.P. Putnam asked me to consider
developing a series character in contemporary times. Coming off four
novels based on true stories set long ago, I was searching for someone
specific to the South, where I live, and who offered an exciting story
to play out in future books...
