Write Now with Peter Topside

What’s the oldest piece of writing you’re still working on? Today’s Write Now interview features Peter Topside, author of Preternatural: Reckoning, which he began writing over 25 years ago! There’s never a wrong time to complete your work in progress! Enjoy Peter’s interview.

Who Are You?

Peter Topside, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, based in New Jersey. Visit Peter’s Instagram.

What Do You Write?

I write horror and started my trilogy about 25 years ago, only publishing a few years ago. I avoid common tropes, especially with vampires, like excessive sexuality, which is a very tiresome interpretation of such magnificent creatures. I love writing, reading, and what I do as a full-time profession. Both writing and my work challenges me every day, which motivates me.

Where Do You Write?

I write in a relaxed environment, usually in my living room on my PC using Microsoft Word. I developed a soundtrack for each book in my trilogy, consisting of songs that inspired me to write the characters and particular plot points. Before the actual writing, however, I have a special small 5-subject spiral notebook with a four color ink pen that I would write down outlines and concepts for each chapter and book.

When Do You Write?

I never set limits or put pressure on myself. Writing should be a very special experience, so I just sort of ‘let things fly.’ Sometimes, a session could be as short as 10 minutes, but I’d gone as long as 10 hours.

Why Do You Write?

Professionally, I love helping people live to their potential. I help them achieve what is their personal best, which translates to a life-altering experience for them. I never take credit, but I am just thrilled to be able to be a part of their process. My writing is no different. I have lived through quite a bit of very tough circumstances and was able to focus all of my feelings, trauma, and energy into my writing. I hope my audience finds my books inspirational, meaningful, and entertaining.

How Do You Overcome Writer’s Block?

The soundtracks that I developed were always a huge part of getting beyond writer’s block. And I was never afraid to walk away from my writing for a bit of time, as to not let it become a stressful, forced experience.