By: Michael Beas – Atlas Elite Publishing

Denison Reed writes books that readers find extremely difficult to put down, so it is not surprising that his series ‘Clifford’s War,’ which includes ‘Clifford’s War: Without End’ and ‘Clifford’s War: The Bluegrass Battleground,’ has hit the bestseller list. Reed’s storytelling style takes readers into the electrifying and dangerous world of his protagonist, Clifford Dee, whether that means traversing the treacherous world of organized crime or delving deep into the dark realm of government intrigue and worldwide conspiracy. In this interview, Reed shares insights into his inspiration and storytelling process, while also discussing how Clifford Dee’s story evolved into a literary sensation.

What is your writing process like? Do you have any specific rituals or habits?

I think writing processes are somewhat unique to the writer. I tend to get my thoughts out and make any edits or rewrite afterward. It took me a while to learn my process and I think it is still evolving. But one thing that has been consistent from my first book is that I like to toast a finished manuscript with a glass of whiskey. 

How do you approach character development in your novels?

I love character development. I like coming up with traits, flaws, and mannerisms that can bring them off of a page and into a reader’s mind. I love it when readers say things about the characters I create. Some have said things like, “I like that Clifford loves eggs” or “when I read what Bandoni says, I can tell he speaks with an accent.” I like to use non-descriptive terms or lightly describe what a character looks like, to give the reader the ability to use their powerful imagination on how the character is portrayed in the story. I believe it gives them a better experience while reading the book.

Are any of the characters in your books inspired by real people or events in your life?

Of course! I typically ask for permission, otherwise it may be considered Identity theft (I joke), but I tend to borrow from people I know. I will use their likeness, names, and mannerisms. Sometimes I combine them to create a new character. Two characters in my books are completely real people, Bailey and Marlon. Others such as Sims, Doyle, and Kevin, are based on real people, but slightly changed.

What challenges did you encounter while writing ‘Clifford’s War: Without End’ and ‘Clifford’s War: The Bluegrass Battleground’?

The hardest challenge was to develop good writing habits, such as coming up with a process to get the words out and onto the screen. I also find myself going down rabbit holes with research and trying to find better ways of expression, but I feel that those are normal challenges for every writer.

Can you share a particularly memorable moment from your writing journey so far?

Keep it simple! I wrote in one paragraph, an easy simple solution for the scene that made complete sense, which was much better than a paragraph of nonsense.

One scene in the Bluegrass Battleground comes to mind. Dee was in a hotel, trying to find someone. I wrote an overly complicated investigative journey that seemed unending. I gave it to my wife to read and she wanted to throw it at me. She was seriously mad that I wrote it. 

I went back to reread what I handed her and it was garbage. I sat in front of the computer after deleting an entire chapter to rethink how I was going to write it and it hit me. Keep it simple! I wrote in one paragraph, an easy simple solution for the scene that made complete sense, which was much better than a paragraph of nonsense. 

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Published by: Holy Minoza