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# Write Now with Peter Topside
- URL: https://justincox.com/blog/2022/06/write-now-with-peter-topside/
- Published: 2022-06-08T11:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2023-06-16T23:38:44.000Z
- Description: Today’s Write Now interview features Peter Topside, author of PRETERNATURAL: RECKONING, a trilogy 25-years in the making.
- Author: Justin Cox
- Tags: Interview, #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](https://www.amazon.com/Preternatural-Reckoning-Psychological-Horror-Trilogy/dp/1736347225/ref=sr%5F1%5F1?keywords=Preternatural%3A+Reckoning&qid=1646345033&sr=8-1&ref=justincox.com), which he began writing over 25 years ago! There’s never a wrong time to complete your work in progress! Enjoy Peter’s interview.*

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## Who Are You?

Peter Topside, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, based in New Jersey. **Visit Peter’s [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/ptopside/?ref=justincox.com).*

## 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.

## Bonus: What Do You Enjoy Doing When Not Writing?

I am a self-taught baker and chef. And, of course, a voracious foodie.

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**My thanks to Peter Topside for today’s interview.*