Interview with James Davis
Author of Dark Days: The Collapse
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How would you describe Dark Days to a new reader?
- I would say it is a story about America breaking apart after an EMP hits and how two brothers survive and protect their family during it all.
What was the inspiration behind Dark Days?
- I listen to alot of dystopian type books on audible and I fell in love with the story lines of those type of books. I listened to so many that one day I just decided I wanted to try my hand at writing.
Which authors do you admire? How have they influenced your writing style?
- My favorite authors are Thomas Watson, David Simpson, Eric A. Shelman, Boyd Craven and pretty much all of the dangerous dozen. Their influence on me was their story lines and characters.
Can you tell us a little about the locations in the book?
- Dark Days is set in Tennessee just north of Nashville. It's a rural area with lots of open space, farms and very few neighbors.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors? How would you advise a new author about traditional publishing versus self publishing?
- I would say just sit down and write until you're tired of writing and then write more and more and more until their story is exactly what they want it to be. I think self publishing is a lot better for someone first starting out. Once you get noticed enough and get some good reviews then a big publishing company will take you more seriously.
What's your writing process?
- When I sit down at my laptop to write that's all I do. I dont outline at all. I just write my story on the fly.
Which character in Dark Days has had the greatest impact on readers?
- I would say Clay. He has been through alot throughout the story and still is able to lead his friends and family.
If Dark Days were to be adapted for TV or film, who would you see in the lead role? Who did you have in your mind’s eye when you wrote him/her?
- I think Steve Howey would make a good Clay Mitchell. I actually had Steve Howey in mind when I thought of the Clay's character.
How have readers responded to Dark Days?
- It has gotten a mix of reviews. More good than bad but still a mix nonetheless.
Where next? What are you working on now?
- Dark Days book 2 of course.
