Write Now with Peter Topside

Today’s Write Now interview features Peter Topside, author of PRETERNATURAL: RECKONING, a trilogy 25-years in the making.

Write Now with Peter Topside
Photo courtesy of 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.

Bonus: What Do You Enjoy Doing When Not Writing?

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


My thanks to Peter Topside for today’s interview.

Justin Cox Justin Cox

Justin Cox is a donut-loving, word-writing, nonprofit consultant based in Orlando. He also runs The Writing Cooperative on Medium. Come say hello!