Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Interview with Melvin Rivers




1.    What inspired you to become an author? 

Many years ago as a young child I enjoyed reading the  “Witching Hour,” an American comic book horror anthology published by DC Comics from 1969 to 1978, and wanted to imitate the style of the different writers. And after discovering the works of Bram Stoker and Edgar Allan Poe, I desired to write like them.


2.    How did you come up with the title for your latest book? 

The story takes place in the fictional town of Havenville, Illinois. Alas “Haven of Evil.”

3.    Do you title the book first or wait until after it’s complete? 

I title the book before it’s finished. I jogged down title ideas, look at the outline, jogged down more ideas, and come up with the final title.

4.    What books/authors have influenced your life? 

My journey as a writer began with authors such as Edgar Allan Poe, Bram Stoker, and of course Stephen King. Stoker’s Dracula was the first horror novel I read. This book more than any other is what pushed me to wanting to be a novelist. “Dracula” may appear a little outdated by today’s standard, but it should be a mandatory reader for all aspiring horror writers. And besides, it’s a classic.

5.    If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? 

Stephen King, because I’ve read almost everything he put out, and I try to pattern my style after his. I don’t necessary try to imitate him, but rather use his writings like one would use a textbook.

6.    What book are you reading now? 

“Misery.” I watched the movie many times, but I’ve never gotten around to reading the book.

7.    Do you have to travel much to do research for your books? 

No. I use my imagination and things such as the library and internet. Maybe thirty years ago, I would have had to travel but thanks to the internet the world is only a few keystrokes away.

8.    Do you have any advice for other writers? 

Read and write every day to improve your craft. Study books on writing, marketing, editing, and formatting. If the traditional route of submitting manuscripts to publishers seems like a dead end street, consider self-publishing. If you do decide to self-publish . . . by all means hire or beg an editor to put the finishing touches to your masterpiece.

Just for fun

If you could have one paranormal ability, what would it be?  

I don’t know if flying is considered a paranormal ability, but it would be awesome to just fly anywhere you would like to go. No need for a car or airline tickets, you can take off and soar to your destination.


If you could keep a mythical/ paranormal creature as a pet, what would you have? 

A dragon. Guard dogs and alarm systems would be a joke if you had a fire breathing dragon protecting your property.





Haven of Evil
Melvin Rivers

Genre: Horror

Re-release date 10/01/16

ISBN: 978-1494317461
ASIN: B01384ES70

Number of pages: 265
Word Count: 41,200 words

Cover Artist: Artrocity

Book Description:

Haven of Evil, a book of supernatural terror, contains bone-chilling terror that is unleashed on an unsuspecting couple who moves into their new home after a flood had destroyed the old one.

When Kevin and Sandra Wilson’s home and personal possessions were destroyed by flood waters, the couple relocated to a town called Havenville. Things started out rough when they avoided hitting a mysterious woman on the road. Later Kevin was attacked by hawks in a cemetery where a stranger rescued him. Kevin and the stranger become fast friends, but later the stranger wasn't who he had appeared to be.

After some tragic and terrifying events Sandra goes into a murderous rage not long after Kevin finds out about an evil that dwelled inside their house--an evil that will change their lives forever.

In this tale of horror, some will live and others will not.



 About the Author:

Melvin Rivers was inspired to write horror by imitating the writers of his favorite horror comics many years ago. As he grew older the works of Bram Stoker, Edgar Allan Poe, H.P. Lovecraft, and of course Stephen King grabbed his attention.

Melvin Rivers was born in the town of Luxora, Arkansas, and grew up in Memphis, Tennessee. He received a degree in Journalism from the University of Iowa. He lives in Cedar Rapids Iowa with his wife, dog and two cats. When he is not writing or surfing the web, he enjoys having a hot bowl of popcorn while watching his favorite horror flick on TV.


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