Voted one of Cleveland’s top fiction writers, Michael has written a number of thrillers and dark fantasy novels. These include the “The Castle Chronicles” series, the short story anthology “Bits & Bites: Tales from a Twisted Mind”, the psychological horror film “The Haunting of Matthew Keys” and the hit horror thriller from Mr., “THE FALL”.
Here is an interview with author Michael S. Vassel
Michael S. Vassel Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I was born and raised in Cleveland Ohio. After high school I joined the military as an Airborne Infantryman. Once completing Active duty I returned to Cleveland and attended college. Since completing college I’ve worked as a mechanical engineer.
I found my love for writing while in college, and was published in the school’s quarterly magazine. I picked up my pen about 5 years ago and have sincInte published 8 novels in a variety of genres.
Michael S. Vassel How many hours a day do you write?
Some days I write just a few lines. On good days I write maybe for 3 or 4 hours.
Michael S. Vassel How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?
Only 1 currently, although I have ideas for several brewing.
Michael S. Vassel How long on average does it take you to write a book?
About 6 months. The fastest one took about 3 months, the longest was 9 months.
Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?
My most current is the 4th novel in The Castle Chronicles series. The idea stemmed from me wanting to bring the character back to life.
How did you develop your plots? How do you select the names of your characters?
I normally get an idea and write a few chapters. Then I normally get an idea for the end and write the final chapter. Once that is complete I write the middle. Connecting the dots I guess you’d say.
If you didn’t write, what would you do for work?
I still have my full-time job as an engineer. I’d probably just be more of a workaholic … ha ha ha.`
What is your favorite childhood book?
Oh, probably Where The Wild Things Are when I was really young. My first full-length novel was The Omen. Then it was a lot of fantasy and science fiction from there on out. Too many to name.
Have you read anything that made you think differently about fiction? What are you currently working on?
A memoir of sorts. Decided to break out of fiction for once.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I do. I read them all. At first I was mad and judgement at bad reviews. Now I take them in stride. Reading is so subjective, how can you not!?
What’s your advice for aspiring writers? As I always say, “a writer writes … always.” Try to write something every days. I’d you get stuck in one chapter move onto another and come back later. Lastly, believe in yourself. If I can do it, you can do it.
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What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?
I bought a Samsung Notepad. Perfect for airplanes and bars.
What’s the best thing about being a writer?
Having people tell me they love my stories. I had a lady once tell me my novel is her most favorite novel she’s ever read. That warms my heart and keeps me writing.
Will you have a new book coming out soon?
My latest should be on shelves sometime this summer. 2022.
What is your preferred method to have readers get in touch with or follow you (i.e., website, personal blog, Facebook page, Goodreads, etc.) and link(s)?
Either my author page on FaceBook (www.Facebook.com/vasselms), my website (www.michaelvassel.com), or Instagram (www.Instagram.com/vasselms)