You were previously an FBI agent, you must have seen some pretty exciting stuff. Is it all like ‘The X Files’ and ‘The Wire’?
TV shows rarely reflect the reality of working in law enforcement, though I have experienced some exciting events. As a street cop, most encounters were unpredictable and potentially dangerous. The most “fun” I had was when I worked on an FBI-NYPD Drug Task Force; we were doing it all – undercover operations, wiretaps, surveillance, raids and arrests.
How did you make the leap from law enforcement to writing?
That was a completely unforeseen transition. After retiring and reflecting on my 27 years of experience, I just started writing. I never really expected to have anything published.
Are your books entirely fictional or do some of the cases you were involved in appear?
My novels are inspired by my experiences, though the stories are primarily fiction. The backdrop of ‘Midnight Sin’ was inspired by a case I worked on as a plain clothes cop. ’Bad Intent’ was inspired by my years on the Drug Task Force I mentioned above. The characters are cross-sections of the real characters I have encountered – cop and criminal. 
My first book, ‘Walking the Corporate Beat’, is a non-fiction, lessons learned book based on real experiences I had over my 27 years. 
Describe for our readers the genre(s) you write in and why they appeal to you as a writer.
My genre is gritty crime fiction. That’s what I know best.
What inspires you to write?
I write because it gives me a chance to tell my story within a story.
Do you have time to read? If so, what are you reading at the moment? Do you have a favourite all-time read?
Unfortunately, I don’t have much time to read. In addition to writing, I have a consulting firm and give presentations. I read more non-fiction along the lines of my favourite work – ‘Blink’ by Malcolm Gladwell.
Which author(s) would you say have most influenced your writing?
I can’t identify a particular author who has influenced me, though I enjoy the work and style of Malcolm Gladwell. There’s so much talent out there.
Are you working on anything new at the moment?
I am working on ‘Bad Intent’, which is released one short story at a time, building into a full novel. Volume 1 is now available. 
What are your hopes for the future?
Most of my hopes for the future have to do with my kids. I’m at a point in life where I can just take it day-to-day.
Where can you be found online?
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
Yes, find your own voice.
What do you most like about writing? What do you dislike?
I like that I can speak honestly and uncensored. There’s nothing about writing I don’t like.
What are your strengths and weaknesses as a writer?
I think my strength is that I bring a unique voice to crime novels. My weakness is my tendency to stick too close to reality and forgetting that fiction is fiction.
How do you feel about the e-book and e-book publishers?
I think we all need to adapt to our rapidly changing society and e-books are a way of doing that.
Wise words from Michael. Thanks again, Michael, for joining us here today.
Vic x
