I’ve been asked this numerous times since I transitioned into writing murder mysteries and suspense novels: how can you write such horrific scenes?

The answer really is quite simple: I write what story is in my head, and yes, even my heart.

As strange as it sounds, my heart isn’t with writing sweet love stories with meet-cutes and a happily ever after that’s Hallmark Movie worthy. Though, I still enjoy reading them.

You see, writing books with such tragic events is almost therapeutic for me. I can transfer the dark thoughts that fill my mind onto my screen, and every stroke of the keyboard slowly exorcises those inner demons I battle. And while writing those intense scenes can be emotionally draining at times, it can also be cleansing to my soul.

Hopefully that makes sense to you, and you don’t find me strange for admitting such a thing. Every author writes what works best for them mentally and emotionally. While some need the escape from their reality by writing what they do, whether it be romance, paranormal, or sci-fi…my escape is horror and suspense. There are readers for every genre and sub-genre, and I just so happen to be the writer of one of the darker ones.

But don’t think because I write such horrific stories that I am like my characters. Contrary to what some people might believe, I like to think I am actually one of the nicest people you could meet. I might have dark characters in my mind, but I’m only their voice to tell their stories. The same as any other author you read. My characters are just a little more twisted, is all.