Interview with author, David Diamantes

Tell us a about DEAD PEN PALS?

We’ve all heard stories about people who were mislead or taken advantage of by criminals who misrepresented themselves on the Internet. Very few people grasp the fact that every mouse click leaves an indelible footprint that never goes away. Every site you visit, every email, blog post, or tweet lives on. When crimes are committed, particularly a murder, the police sift through the victim’s computer, or online email accounts. Sometimes the search leads to some pretty high profile members of the community. I wanted to write a story where that is the central issue.

Do you have a favorite character you have written?

My favorite character in DEAD PEN PALS is Detective Andy Debbs, one of the “supporting characters.” He’s politically incorrect and a good, no B.S. cop. He doesn’t pull punches, but doesn’t mind having fun. I enjoyed writing dialog between Debbs and his fellow detectives.

What are you currently working on?

A follow-up, involving the same detectives investigating the death of a punk rock musician on tour (among other things); and a work of historical fiction involving a Civil War spy.

How long have you been writing? What influenced you to start?

 I’ve been writing since childhood, undoubtedly, in response to a traumatic childhood. Why else would anyone subject themselves to it?  

How do your family/friends feel about your writing?

Supportive (I think). When I dedicated my first book to my wife years ago, she said she’d wait for the movie to come out rather than read it. 

Where do you hope to be in 5 years?

 Still in the saddle, working as a fire protection consultant and writer, writing novels on the side.

Do you have any advice for new or aspiring author?

If you want to make money, get a job paying below minimum wage and spend the time you would be writing working. You will make more money.

If you can’t resist the temptation, write, rewrite and persist. Be persistent but remember, even the most successful writers have real day jobs.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I’m all over the place reading, but I have to say Ross Thomas’ MISSIONARY STEW sticks in my mind, as does CHICAGO LOOP by Paul Theroux. They both involve subjects that make people squirm. I’m one that can’t resist opening a body bag. I actually did that a few times as a young firefighter.

 On the fun side, what is your favorite television show and why?

SONS OF ANARCHY of course, because I’m so straight-laced in person, and MODERN FAMILY because I’m politically incorrect enough to appreciate a TV show that celebrates stereotypes.

David Diamantes is a fire protection consultant, writer and beekeeper. He lives in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.

www.deadpenpals.com