Please tell us a little about yourself and Red.

My passion for mythic fantasy began as early as the age of 5, when my minister father had me tested and found I was reading over 200 words a minute. He quickly saw the need to feed my thirsty young mind and placed epic fantasy books (most beyond my comprehension) in my tiny hands. I’m pretty sure I’ve lived most of my life seeing the world through a Coke-bottle-thick lens of metaphor and imagination.

I also appear to have an absorption with stories of redemption, which I’d have to say comes from the need for it in my own life. That need has shaped me and shaped my writing. In all my artistic endeavors, I purpose to use imagery very intentionally, knowing that art can teach the heart without preaching, inspire and heal the soul without patronizing—ultimately changing culture with the divine work that happens within.

What does writing science fiction and fantasy allow you to do that other genres don’t?

Mythic fantasy, which is largely what I write, allows me to use allegory and metaphor and to describe those unseen battles we deal with every day without always having language for them. This particular genre lets me spend more time developing my underlying message and using my imagination. I get more freedom in my worldbuilding, rather than applying myself to the kind of deep research needed for genres that require more precision.

What was your editing process like for Red?

For all of my books, I utilize a small editorial team that works closely with me to ensure quality. After I’ve written and rewritten scenes dozens of times, with my mind full of details, timelines, and plans, having multiple pairs of eyes on the structure of the story is a relief in my pursuit of excellence. Most importantly, my team ensures that my vision for the novel—and my voice as an author—are not impeded by the editing. I’d say their collaboration with me is an encouraging and vital element in bringing my vision to life.

Which do you prioritize and why—storytelling or worldbuilding?

That is such a tough question, because I really love worldbuilding. However, what is a great world but a hollow frame without the stories that fill it? I’m of the belief that stories are a vehicle for the writer’s voice and message, so I’m going to have to go with storytelling on this one.

What can readers expect that might be different from your previous body of work?

I’m always developing my skill—always. I like to think I grow sharper and more refined with each novel I write. My ideas and imagination feel like a bottomless well at this point, which I wasn’t expecting after writing as many novels as I have. So I think readers can expect that they’ve only just begun to see the beginning of what I will produce.

Portions of this Q&A were edited for clarity.