R.W. Van Sant

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your hobbies and interests.

I have an MBA, BA in history with a minor in political science, teaching certificates for secondary and special education, and an associates degree in general science (astrophysics focus) I spent many years pursuing medieval hobbies (fencing, SCA combat, archery, armoring, etc) and I play guitar.

When and why did you start writing books?

I remember writing my first stories when I was about 8. It is just something I have always done. Plays, poems, guitar lyrics, and short stories. I started my first novel (never finished ) in the 10th grade.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

I have always been driven to write. I guess when my other careers failed to show a promise to provide the life I wanted I decided to pursue publication.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

One doesn't choose their favorite child, each one is important to me for different reasons. My current sympathies are with the Black Microraptor queen from Blood Migrations. She is trapped in a future time where her world has turned upside down. She has to keep her flock alive and find them a new home when the mammals, her once favorite snack have developed an attitude and taken over the world.

Which one of your books was the hardest to write and stretched you the most as a writer?

Teller's Cove- It was my first novel and I worked on it for over 15 years. It pushed me beyond my comfort zone. It was also the first book I self-published

Who is your favourite author and book?

I have favorite authors for different aspects of writing, Zelazny for heroic fantasy adventure, Pratchett taught me I could take heroic stories more lightly, Heinlein was a fantastic world builder. Butcher and Gaiman taught me that perspectives can have a huge impact on stories.

What book are you reading right now?

The witcher books

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

Everywhere, movies, books, the lonely feel of sitting in an office, a news story (or several combined ) Life provides endless ideas.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Playing guitar, reading, and playing with my dogs.

Do you have any new books in the works?

I am working on a sequel to Unity Captives- the working title is "Smuggler"