What literary pilgrimages have you gone on? I have specifically gone out of my way to find and visit bookstores and libraries in other towns because I'm drawn to them. What is the first book that made you cry? I've read a lot of mysteries and science fiction. Nothing comes to mind, except in my own writing. The end of Lightyears II: Intragalactic Terrorism gets me every time. There are scenes in the book I just finished writing, Feathers of Shardaa, that also are very emotional. What is your writing Kryptonite? Responsibilities in life always seem to get in the way of my book stuff. And I complain to my wife about it way too often. Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book? The only connections crossing over to other books would be if they are in the same universe. To date, I have three separate universes in my writing. The Lightyears universe (trilogy), the Treasures From Afar universe (stand-alone), and the Xeno Tryst universe (duology). For now, they are complete, but I would never dismiss the idea of going back and adding supplemental stories to any of those universes. There is always room for more stories. How did publishing your first book change your process of writing? Seeing the effects of publishing a book with global distribution has motivated me to continue. Searching the internet for Troy D. Wymer pulls up tons of my book stuff and that feels powerful. As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal? A Wolf, of course! What did you edit out of your books? (keep it family-friendly, please) In Lightyears, I edited out thoughts of suicide for the main character Roedie Cantin. I also did a major edit with regards to time travel in the same book. I changed the word 'droid to robot in Lightyears as well because LucasFilm has a registered trademark on the word. What one thing would you give up to become a better writer? My day job. I would love to be a full-time novelist. What is your favorite childhood book? The Green Turtle Mystery What is the most difficult part of your writing process? Editing. When I write, I try to be as grammatically accurate as possible and still get the story to flow out smoothly. What is the easiest part of your writing process? World building. How long on average does it take you to write a book? Six months. A common misconception entwined with authors is that they are socially inept, how true is that? For me, I can do both fairly well. So, I would say it depends on the author. Would that be an introvert with extrovert tendencies? When did it dawn on you that you wanted to be an author? I was fifteen when I started writing Lightyears. I was influenced by science fiction movies, TV shows, and books, and I wanted to create my own universe. Who are your biggest literary influences? Frank Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. What's your favorite movie which was based on a book? Why? Star Wars, based on Alan Dean Fosters' ghost written book for George Lucas, because it's just awesome. How did it feel when your first book got published? How did you celebrate? I was ecstatic, although I tend to be nonchalant about things that most people get very excited about. I celebrate each book release with a book launch party. What is that one thing you think readers generally don't know about authors? I don't believe some readers really know how emotionally connected authors can be to their stories. Can you tell us about your current projects? I just finished writing book two of the Xeno Tryst Duology. It is called Feathers of Shardaa. I am in the editing phase and it should be available in early 2021. Here is the book overview: Feathers of Shardaa is the epic conclusion of the Xeno Tryst Duology... A much darker theme, the backstory of the Shardaa Sector is revealed. Sierra Shalinsky is persuaded to advocate for the Humolfans and their repatriation back into galactic society. Through a series of dramatic events, Sierra falls in love. Are you attending any conventions/festivals where readers can meet you and/or buy your books? Please provide all the "find it" information. I hope to attend more events in 2021. I am currently scheduled to attend the Tulip City Comic Con on May 2, 2021 with Jean Davis. Here is a link: https://www.facebook.com/tulipcitycomic Please provide links and/or instructions about how readers can purchase signed copies of your books. There are a few ways. The best way would be physically at an event. There are currently a couple signed copies at Barnes & Noble - Woodland Mall in Grand Rapids, MI, or I can be contacted via my website contact form for a signed copy request. It would require payment up front, including the shipping cost. Alternatively, I also offer book plates that can be adhered to the half-title page. I can be contacted via my website and then give instructions on how that can be done and where to send a self-addressed stamped envelope to receive a book plate. Any advice you would like to give to aspiring authors? If you put an effort into it, you can get published...especially these days. It was not as easy thirty years ago. The one and only thing that motivated me to publish my books was Steve Harvey's Motivational Jump speech. It is so profound, I would like to share it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uPDyzeA1_w
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