SC:When did you decide you wanted to write?

E: The idea of writing came to me somewhere in the time period of the late seventies. However, the seriousness of it didn’t take shape until 1989.

 

SC: How many novels in all have you written?

E: I’ve written three complete manuscripts, but the third is the only one published.

 

SC: Do you have a favorite? Why?

E: Yes. Because I spent so much time developing my characters, A Man Like Richard is my favorite.

 

SC: How long did it take you to write your first novel?

E: I believe it took me about two or three months to write it.

 

SC: Where do you get your inspiration for your stories?

E: Everyday life, television, and a vivid imagination.

 

SC: Are the characters based on real people?

E: Oh, no. I don’t know anybody as crazy as Maxine. I know they exist because I heard about some, but, personally, I don’t know them. Oh, wait. Yes, I do. But, she still ain’t as crazy as Maxine.

 

SC: After writing your first novel, did you self-publish?

E: Yes.

 

SC: If so, how was that experience?

E: I suppose it’s okay. It necessitates a lot of marketing and expense on my part, but, I guess that’s required no matter what avenue I would have taken to letting people know that I exist.

 

SC: Do you plan to write sequels to any of your novels?

E: Actually, my second manuscript is a sequel to my first.

 

SC: What feedback have you received from fans?

E: I’ve received a great deal of applauds from my fans. There are always certain parts of the story that stands out for them. That lets me know that they actually read what I wrote. That feels good.

 

SC:What authors do you admire? Did one of them inspire you?

E: Glynnis Christian (poet), Eric Jerome Dickey, E. Lynn Harris, Nathan McCall. The one that inspired me is Glynnis Christian. Although we have never met in person, she never hesitates to answer any of my emails, or she would just unexpectedly send me information that proves to be very helpful with my endeavors to becoming a successful writer.

 

SC: Is writing your only passion?

E: Well, aside from cashews, peanuts and ice, my passion next to writing is drawing.

 

SC: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

E: An accomplished writer as well as an extremely successful multi-million dollar entrepreneur.

 

SC: What advice would you give aspiring authors?

E: Write as if you are making a movie. Put some drama, a little suspense, conflict and humor into your storyline. Try your best not to advertise every product you include in your story. After all, those merchants are not going to pay you for free advertising. If you run across negative feedback from people you know, do not tell them what you are doing until you have gotten yourself published. That would put a permanent sealant on their lips. Always keep pen and paper with you just in case an idea comes to mind. You may forget it later. Enjoy what you are doing. But most importantly, thank GOD for the privilege to be talented and offer Him your first autographed copy.

 

SC: What would you like readers to learn from your stories?

E: No matter the strength of a good man, if his woman disrespects all of his thoughtfulness-of-her, it only makes it easier for another woman to weaken him with her tantalizing ways.

 

SC: Are you working on another novel? What is it about?

E: My manuscripts are still stashed away right now. My concentration at the moment have been steadfastly on Richard. But, my two other manuscripts will be my next two releases.

 

SC: Where can people purchase your books? Do you have a website?

E: Purchases can be made through my personal website at http://www.cmyjoy.com. After clicking on the book cover, the link will take you to my publisher: Booklocker.com.