"5 Questions" with Mark Carver!

What do you think makes a good story?

For me, a good story has a fast-moving plot, intriguing characters, unexpected twists, and continuous tension that doesn’t let up. When I feel like I have to read a book, rather than simply wanting to read it, then I know it's a good story.

Where does your inspiration come from?

I am inspired by the books I read and the movies and TV programs I watch, but I also find inspiration when I see the news or a sports game. When I see the emotional intensity on people’s faces, I think, “That’s real, that’s not acting. How can I replicate that with words?”

Do you use events from your own life?

Not specifically, since the themes of my books are usually quite sensational. But I use my own life to shape the more personal elements in the stories and characters, such as family issues, stress, love, marriage, ambition, etc.

Why do you write?

 I write for many reasons. I write because I enjoy the challenge. I write because with writing, I can go anywhere, meet anyone, experience anything. I write because I want to give readers something new and fresh to think about. I write the kind of books that I want to read.

What does your family think of your work?

My mother has always been my biggest fan, and she recognized my writing talent when I was just a small boy. When I stopped writing for about ten years, she gently prodded me to pick it back up, and when I finally did, she was very enthusiastic and supportive. My wife has been very patient in listening to me work out plot kinks and flesh out characters. Everyone in my family has been very encouraging and I’m very grateful for them.