Interview with the Author

What initially got you interested in writing?

I can’t remember when I wasn’t interested in writing. I wrote stories as a child, I was on my high school newspapers and had a ten year career as a columnist, reporter and news editor at a daily newspaper. Writing fiction Is a very different type of writing from journalism but I think I’ve been able to adapt my skills.

What genres do you write in?

I wrote three books about relationships and people overcoming adversity. Then I began the mystery series and just finished the seventh book in that series.

What drew you to writing these specific genres?

I’ve always loved mysteries whether it be books or movies. I love to create and mystery and then try to roll out the story in a suspenseful and interesting way.

How did you break into the field?

Several years ago I began reading about self publishing which was just bursting on the scene then. Things have changed dramatically in the publishing world and the explosion of online literary blogs and book purchasing has changed everything. There are thousands and thousands of books which can make getting noticed a challenge but it’s a very exciting, dynamic environment.

What do you want readers to take away from reading your works?

I hope they enjoy mysteries as much as I do. It really pleases me to hear readers say they took my book on their vacation or to the beach to read. There are few thrills to compare to seeing someone line at a bookstore waiting to buy your book. One of the most touching notes I got from a reader is that she read one of my books to her husband while he was in Walter Reed Hospital recovering from wounds he received in Iraq. Wow.

What do you find most rewarding about writing?

The actual writing is wonderful. I like to make an outline and then let the story unspool. Sometimes it goes directions which surprise me and that is a real thrill. The creative process is my favorite and when you write you enter a different world—the one inhabited by your characters. When I finish a book there’s a bit of sadness that you won’t be visiting that world any more in your mind as you write.

What do you find most challenging about writing?

It’s to continual to improve my writing and to keep the stories fresh and exciting.

What advice would you give to people wanting to enter the field?

Write the stories that are inside of you and don’t try to be someone you are not. Also get some professional help so that you are a well-edited book and a professional cover that will attract readers.

What type of books do you enjoy reading?

I enjoy mysteries but also history books. There are so many books I want to get to about historical events. I’ve recently read “Girl On A Train,” James Patterson’s “The Black Book,” John Grisham’s “Camino Island,” and am reading Michael Connelly’s new book, “The Late Show.” I believe it helps your writing to be reading good fiction while you are attempting to write good fiction.

Is there anything else besides writing you think people would find interesting about you?

I love baseball and movies, both of which I enjoy living in Seattle. I also like to run outside along the water front to Puget Sound where I live.

What are the best ways to connect with you, or find out more about your work?

I have a newly redesigned web site which I’m very proud of at www.gregmessel.com. I also have an author page on Amazon and Goodreads.