I write what I call speculative fiction. Many of the definitions out there never really give a crystal clear idea of what the genres mean, so I picked this name and made my own definition. To me, speculative fiction involves at least one unreal element.

Speculative fiction is a big enough field to keep me happy. It includes paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, urban fantasy, horror, super heroes, and everything similar. I think I’ve dabbled in all of it to one degree or another.

One of the things I try to do is enough research to make it digestible. I’ve always said, “I don’t have to be perfect, I just have to be plausible.” The plausible parts make it easier for the reader to take that leap of faith when I need them to.

I did an extensive amount of research for my novel, Panama. I set this during the…