Q: Where did the idea for Epic come from?
A: I have always been an avid fan of science fiction, from movies, to literature, to video games. I grew up on Star Wars and Star Trek. As far as the military aspect of science fiction, that was greatly influenced by movies such as Starship Troopers and Independence Day, and video games like Master of Orion and X-Com: UFO Defense. While Epic isn't related to any of those, I would definitely credit those things for inspiring me to head in the sci-fi / military direction. They definitely inspired me to create.
Q: Are any of your Epic characters based on real life friends, family, or acquaintances?
A: Are my characters directly based off of any specific individuals? No, and I wouldn't feel right fictionalizing people I know. But have I been inspired by people I know? Of course. Every character in every movie, TV show, or book is inspired by someone that the author was blessed enough to experience, whether they're best friends, or simply a random person who has come across them in life's journey. Anyone who isn't inspired by someone, isn't truly human. A character laughs, because the writer has seen someone laugh. A character cries, because a writer has experienced someone crying.
So to answer the question, yes, people I've come across in life have inspired the creation of characters. But are any of my characters those people themselves? Not at all. When my fingers hit the keyboard, they take on a life of their own.
Q: What was your reasoning for putting a fantasy story in the real world?
A: Because there's so much in the real world that's interesting. A world doesn't have to be completely made-up to capture the imagination of the reader. There are so many unique cultures and unique places in the world...it'd be a shame for people not to be aware of them.
On that same note, I'm a big fan of escapism. I wouldn't want a story that takes place completely in the real world. There are a few tweaks here and there to make the place and time of the setting unique. My goal is to walk a fine line between reality and fantasy. It's an enjoyable realm to write in.
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