Writing Pirate Tales With My Cat

   Not only is Pirate Tales the first story I ever published, it is in fact the first story I wrote, not that it started out that way. I thought I was writing a series of short stories based on a sailing theme. In fact at least two of the chapters in the final book were really short story ideas that blossomed. (The Dance & the end of Ugly Business) And I’m not ashamed to say the first draft wasn’t very pretty. But in the end it only took me a little over two and a half years and 3 billion re-writes to get Pirate Tales into read worthy condition. My first recommendation new writers? Learn to embrace the delete button.

I’m often asked about my writing style, or where does my inspiration come from. Two words: SALTY TAILS. My furry alter ego simply showed up one day and took over my life. He wasn’t planned or even wanted, but in the end, I feel we make a pretty good team. As long as he thinks he’s in charge. I’m often asked if Salty Tails is a real cat? Well yes…and no.

Salty is a blend of several real cats, including the three I live with. But, if I had to pick the one that influences me the most it would have to be Fiona Murphy. A rescued farm cat, Fiona is a big, black tuxedo with a whole lotta Maine Coon mixed in. And yes, she is definitely in charge. She’s the one who demanded her picture be placed on the cover of all my Salty Tails mysteries. And like Salty, Fiona loves food, all food. Unlike Salty and his human servants, we don’t allow any of our kitty’s to eat human food. This concept in the books is pure fantasy on Salty’s part.

Pirate Tales

Salty Tails is a sarcastic dog-hating cat, who thinks humans are here for two things only; to feed and entertain him. To that end, Salty lives with his human partner, the emotionally scarred, Thomas “Stormy” McGuire, on a houseboat in Marina del Rey.

While Salty and Stormy are investigating a string of stolen boats, a friend is found dead in the water. It’s up to Stormy and Salty to find the connection. As if Stormy didn’t have enough to deal with, he suddenly finds himself the target of two women. One he thinks he’s in love with, the second claims only to be a friend. Can Stormy’s wounded heart survive?

Set sail with Salty as he shares his bi-coastal tale of love and intrigue.

Pirate Tales is now available for only $0.99

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