Where are you from, Mark?

I am originally from Memphis, TN but I now reside in Dallas, TX.

Tell us your latest news?

Since the re-release of my book I have been traveling across the country doing book signing and speaking engagements. This has been very exciting for me and I have really enjoyed meeting new people and sharing stories and commentary about my life and relationships.

When and why did you begin writing?

About four years ago I went through the heartbreaking experience of being left at the altar. That experience caused me to take a closer look at my life and reflect on matters that had brought me to that point. About two years ago I began to organize my thoughts and put them onto paper. It was at that point that I began writing seriously.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

At first the writing served as a kind of therapy for me. It was a way of helping me master my thoughts and feelings. And though I thought that the notes and passages I created really would make interesting reading, I guess it wasn't until my book was published and people were buying it that I
looked at myself as a real writer.

What inspired you to pen your first novel?

I have often heard people comment that their life would make a great book. After reading and reviewing some of the notes and passages I wrote, I began to think the same thing! I realized that the pain I was feeling was the same pain that I had heard so many women talk about. The pain of losing the game of love and not understanding why was just as real for me as it had been for them. This realization is what inspired me to put my thoughts together into my first literary work.

Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?

The "reality" of Christian fiction of writers like Victoria Christopher Murray has really influenced my writing.

How has your environment/upbringing colored your writing?

When my characters are faced with adversities that seem to have no clear resolution. I always have them turn to their spiritual father for help. This response to trouble is definitely something instilled in me through my upbringing, and in that way has colored my writing,

Do you have a specific writing style?

In my writings I like to leave the reader with a positive message about God's goodness and mercy. Again, I am truly influenced by the "Reality Christian Fiction" and want to continue this style in my future works. But even though I like to write stories that have a Christian message, I believe in keeping it real. I don't believe you are drama free just because you allow God in your life. I think that's where the reality part comes in.

How did you come up with the title for your book?

I began to look at my relationships and the relationships of others around me and the see characteristics of a well thought out game. I saw patterns of behavior that likened to a game of strategy such as chess. And when I began to structure my writing to support the game theory, the ideas just began to flow. It is from this concept that some relationships are played out like a chess game that the title Checkmate: the games men play emerged.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

I hope the readers take away from my book the message that when you're face with life's disappointments, God uses the situation as a way of getting your attention. A lot of the time we are distracted by relationships, work, children and other things, so it makes it hard to listen. But trust me when I say that when He wants your attention, He knows how to get it. We must learn to listen and trust.

How much of the novel is realistic?

I would say that 100% of my book is realistic. Though the work is fiction, it is based on real life situations and inspired by the experiences of real people. Many of the events and situations are very real to me and the people in my life. I just changed the names to protect the innocent.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

I don't believe I can choose just one because I am blessed enough to have several writers who are mentoring me. Also, when I feel I need help or strengthening in a particular area, I read and study the works of authors who excel in that area.

What are you reading now?

I just finished reading Grown Folks Business by Victoria Christopher Murray. It was a good read.

What new author has grasped your interest?

One author that stands out to me is Nicolle Pierce, the author of The Sacred Sermon. Her book is well written and her words have an excellent way of bringing her characters to life.

What are your current projects?

I am currently working on my second book to be released in July 2006.

Do you feel that the boom in African American writers is a fad or another renaissance?

I believe the boom in African American writers can fade away just as quickly as it came in. It all hinges on the African-American community's support of our writers. It would be great if we as a people would embrace these writers and support them by buying their books and breaking the habit of "sharing" works and passing books among ourselves to save money. Doing so would help insure the growth of the industry.

Do you feel more African Americans are reading?

I do feel African Americans are reading more. This is probably due to the increase in works that relate to African Americans and their experiences, as well as the current marketing trends in the industry.

Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.

Black Images Bookstore in Dallas, Texas has supported me every step of the way. I would like to thank the owners, Mrs. Emma Rodgers and Ms. Ashira Tosihwe for allowing me to sell the self published copies of my book in their store. And I can't forget Black Images staff member Ms. Jackson. I appreciate them all. Thank You Ladies.

How does your family and/or friends feel about your book or writing venture in general?

Everyone is excited for me and has supported my work in any way that they could. I have being truly blessed to have people in my life that I can depend on.

Do you see writing as a long- or short-term career?

I look at writing as a long-term career for me. But realistically I know that it will be the reader and the reading community who will determine my fate as a writer.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything?

The first copies of my book were self-published. Having the book accepted by a publishing house gave me the opportunity to make some changes before the second printing. I consider myself very lucky in this regard since these simple changes were a reflection of some lessons learned about the book business. If I could do it all over again I would have included things that are both helpful and necessary in the industry from the very beginning.

Is there anything additional you would like to share with your readers?

Make sure to bookmark my website www.checkmatethebook.com. You don't want to miss the events I have planned for future months!

Back to Authors