Author Interview: Ben Young

This week, I had the pleasure of interviewing an amazing author, Ben Young. Now I’ve read Ben’s novel, Home, and loved it and I’ll admit, I’ve avoided reading a book by him, Stuck, as I find the concept too disturbing. I know, I need to get over it and read it. Until then, let’s sit down and find out a little more about the man behind the pen.

So, Mr. Young. why don’t we start with telling us a little about yourself?

Young: I live near Cincinnati, Ohio with my wife, son and two dogs. I’ve been writing for a while but started taking it more seriously a few years ago.

I’m glad you did. You have definitely made an impact.

So, what inspired you to start taking it seriously?

Young: Many things, but mainly a love of telling stories. It also helps me channel my own fears and anxieties.

Writing can make for an excellent outlet for anxiety. I can attest.

So just how many books have you released?

Young: Two self-published novels and a handful of short stories.

You have definitely made a splash with those novels. So, your novels are self-published. Is that what you’ve done with all your work? Is that your preference?

Young: Novels, myself. Short stories are all through indie presses.

Indie all the way! I love it! So, which is your favorite?

I understand and as I said, it is a great debut novel. I plan to write a review of it next week for BFM in a new series for the site. There was just something very satisfying with this book. Little disappointed about one of the characters, but it needed it. It served the story well.

So, you obviously love horror, who are some of your favorite authors?

Young: Stephen King

Solid choice. There is a reason why he is so popular. I’m sure he’s inspired most the current generation of authors, myself included.

So, that said, what one book would you say is your favorite of all time? What is your go to?

Young: The Stand

A man after my own heart. The Stand has been my all time for a while now and is now. It is just a great piece of fiction.

So would you say that is your biggest influence in your writing?

Young: Yes. Along with Michael Crichton, Josh Malerman and Chuck Pahlaniuk

So, let’s talk a little about your writing. You have published two books and more short stories. Do you find that you prefer to write longer or shorter fiction?

Young: Shorter, but I love the feeling of finishing a novel. It just takes me a lot longer because I’m an obsessive plotter.

Well, you’ve definitely led me into my next question. So, you are a plotter then?

(Now, for those of you that are not familiar, when it comes to writing you are usually either a Panster, Planner, or a hybrid of the two. A pantser is normally someone who rights without anything other than a vague plan of where the story is going to go. A planner on the other hand, outlines the story before they begin writing.)

Young: I suppose a bit of both, but I’d call myself a plotter foremost. I spend weeks outlining, researching, creating character profiles. Then I use about two thirds of the outline based on where those characters take me.

It’s good to do that though and have that in your head. I think it really comes through in your work as well. As you are writing, is there a point when you know, this is it, the book is done?

Young: I usually have the ending in mind before I start. How I get there varies from one book to the next, but I know what the end looks like.

So, how do you come up with your characters?

Young: Most are shades of me and/or people I know. But I do a ton of research and love creating complex character arcs.

Now, from reading home, it doesn’t seem as though you like writing likeable characters. Am I wrong?

Young: I want characters that take the reader on a winding path. At one point you hate them, but then you feel sorry for them and then they surprise you over and over.

So, you are in the Brawl right now, and that must feel pretty good. Have you thought about what’s next? Do you have any upcoming releases?

Young: I’m working on a new sci-fi horror novel, hoping it’ll be out later this year. I also have a collaboration coming out very soon. And a handful of short stories releasing this year. Last, I’m working on a special edition hardcover for Home.

Now where can people find you?

Young: Facebook, instagram at Ben Young Stories. www.benyoungstories.com (under construction)

Thank you, Ben, for taking the time with me, and for everyone out there, make sure to check out Ben’s latest book, Home.

So, before I wrap this up, one last question. Is there anything else you thought I should have asked. Any last bit of knowledge you want to impart.

Young: My favorite Jason Davis book so far is Demon Seed.

You heard it here folks! Ben is a fan of Demon Seed. So, remember that kiddos and to everyone out there, remember – stay spooky everyone!