What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Broken Alliance?
My goal was to explore the blurring line between science fiction and science fact, a reality we see today with AI deeply integrated into every aspect of our lives—from social media to digital tools. While this reliance formed the underlying threat in Broken Alliance, the true heart of the story is human. It’s a narrative about human perseverance and, crucially, humanity’s responsibility to actively guard our future in a rapidly evolving technological world.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Broken Alliance, what would they be?
Oh, wow. Andre, the Captain, the Tracer who just wants to be an adventurer and live a peaceful life exploring (but can’t abandon his found family!)… I’d have to say: Rocketman by Elton John. Kat Mallory, the General, turned begrudging politician. The fighter pilot who just wants to be a good soldier but knows she has to be “more.” Going with: I Won’t Back Down by Tom Petty. For Bex Tyler, Net-Strider turned Tracer, it’s all about finding themself so: Unwritten by Natasha Beddingfield.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
While I was initially raised on a steady diet of classic science fiction—from Star Trek to Star Wars—my true direction as a writer was solidified by the discovery of Epic Fantasy. Specifically, reading Brandon Sanderson’s work was the catalyst that pushed me to write my first book. I was immediately struck by the sheer boldness of his world-building and the masterful nuance behind every character’s motivations. That certainty in execution elevated the genre for me. Today, because of that influence, both Science Fiction and Fantasy are on equal footing as my primary inspirations.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan. I’m two books in now, just finishing The Great Hunt, with… oh, about 12 more to go? Yikes. I also need to get around to a few others, but that’s the big series I have my sights on at the moment.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Kat’s standoff with The Council, for sure. I enjoyed her getting her licks in after she’d taken so much punishment from them as the “Good Soldier.” I think her voice really shines through in this book, and I enjoyed every scene I wrote with her. Also, this might be a copout, but I have to be honest… I enjoy all of these characters so much, especially Bex and their story of growth and finding their sense of belonging. So, writing any scene with them was heartfelt.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I do the exact opposite of what a dozen people have told me is the “right way” to write a book. I absolutely write and then edit my chapters as I go along. I know, I know… Bad, David, but I find it helps me maintain a consistent tone between starting and stopping, and it also helps me avoid writer’s block when I can step back and review what came before.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
When it comes to writing, absolutely. If I’m ever struggling with how to move forward in my stories, I remember this amazing piece of advice I once got from another writer, and I ask myself: how can I make things harder for my characters?
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That we’re going to be okay. We live in a world of greed, corruption, political upheaval, and violence—but humanity always finds a way. The human spirit will always prevail, and it’s the people beside you who make it worth fighting for.
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