What Do You Write?

     One of the questions I'm asked most frequently is: "What do you write?" Well, that question's not easy to answer in a few words. When I try, it always seems inadequate. I usually respond that I write science fiction novels because the vast majority will have some idea of what I'm talking about. To those who instantly reply, "Oh, I don't read science fiction!" I try to communicate that I write science fiction for those who don't usually read science fiction. I'd like to say, "So you don't enjoy a good mystery or a love story or an adventure?"

     My "brand" of science fiction isn't hard science fiction, which is what most people consider "science fiction." That genre features a load of technical jargon, futuristic hardware, and scientific theory. Let me assure you, I have nothing against hard SF; on the contrary, I grew up reading Asimov, Heinlein, Hal Clement, Poul Anderson, etc. But my specialty is writing "soft" science fiction. I most enjoy writing character-driven, well-plotted, and exciting stories about the future, blending several genres into one.

     My latest novel isn't science fiction, but space opera. Think Star Wars, Flash Gordon, and Buck Rogers. It's my homage to pulp fiction, with a healthy dose of humor and tongue-in-cheek. Galaxy Rand has proven to be one of my most popular books so far.

     My first three books ( Judgment on Tartarus, True Son of Tartarus, and Ransom of Tartarus--also known as the Tartarus Trilogy ) are all soft science fiction. They've been reviewed as fun, easy reads featuring a strong, complex female protagonist. If you're seeking deeper meaning, it's there if you look for it.

     For instance, you may notice the many "twin" references: Twin Moons, twin pillars, double-bladed dueling knives, etc. Two of my characters are referred to as "two sides of the same coin"--yin and yang. As Malkis, one of my heroes, says at one point, the villainess is "the dark side of my own being." In other words, duality; we all suffer from it.The never-ending battle between good and evil takes place all around us, as well as within us. But my books are far from preachy; I'm just trying to be truthful

     Okay, try communicating all this in a few words and in a time-span of a minute or two. Impossible! But I always try my best. My readers are free to ignore the messages and just enjoy a vicarious adventure--or two.

Keep on reading and keep on writing!

MRTighe