An Exclusive Interview With Matthew John Meagher
Matthew John Meagher is hybrid author of young adult fiction including Irish Town, a novel that has been named a Reader’s Views Literary Awards first place winner, a Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Book Awards best juvenile/YA novel winner, a Colorado Author’s League Award winner and a New York City Big Book Awards distinguished favorite. His narrative, Sweet Evil, is extrapolative soft science fiction.
Matthew also has published short stories. “I compose my narratives with accessible language,” he says, “that can be accessed most levels of reader. I have a collection of short narrative coming out in two months, and I am currently edition an adult fiction thriller. I can compose poetry.”
Confessions of an Indie Author: What made you want to tell this story?
Matthew: I am a former teacher. I have experience having taught elementary before the pandemic. I also have experience with high schoolers as an adjunct. I observed the consequences of social norms in my first novel, Irish Town. In Sweet Evil, the main idea is the consequences of our present choices (i.e. 20 years from now).
Confessions of an Indie Author: In what way did your book significantly change since the first draft?
Matthew: In the second edition of my manuscript, I included more elements of literary fiction, as well including a linear dream sequence.
Confessions of an Indie Author: How long have you been writing and when did you start?
Matthew: I have been professionally writing for seven years. I received my MFA creative writing degree from Regis University in 2020.
Confessions of an Indie Author: How many books have you written and which is your favorite?
Matthew: Two. Tough choice. Love em’ both. Momma and baby to me.
Confessions of an Indie Author: Have any of your scenes came from your life?
Matthew: I believe writing from experience is essential. I observe life and attempt to incorporate events, or dialogue to encapsulate the reader in my world. I am a panster writer. I write without planning. What you see is me.
Confessions of an Indie Author: Which character is most similar to you and how?
Matthew: Irish. Chivalry isn’t dead, yet. It just looks a little different these days.
Confessions of an Indie Author: What is your schedule like when you’re writing a book?
Matthew: Morning, I write. Coffee, lunch, then afternoon editor work.
Confessions of an Indie Author: How do you develop your plot and characters?
Matthew: Characters are people you know close enough to portray their responses your plot. Plot is character reaction and growth to an ultimate goal. Scenery and dialogue progress plot.
Confessions of an Indie Author: What do you do to get inside your character’s heads?
Matthew: Think of a similar event in my past and how I responded. Then hyperbolize it.
Confessions of an Indie Author: Does writing energize or exhaust you? Or both?
Matthew: It’s a good workout, and I love it.
Confessions of an Indie Author: Are there therapeutic benefits to modeling a character after someone you know?
Matthew: Understanding perspective and empathizing for others.
Confessions of an Indie Author: What are the most important elements of good writing?
Matthew: Characters drive plot. No adverbs.
Confessions of an Indie Author: What do the words “literary success” mean to you? How do you picture it?
Matthew: Merit first, then financial benefit. Write until I die. Live in cool places while I write.
Confessions of an Indie Author: What do you think of NaNoWriMo? Worth it?
Matthew: If you’re writing is benefitted from being monitored, or structured, sure.
Confessions of an Indie Author: What do you like to do when you are not writing?
Matthew: Snowboarding. Walking my dog, “Sir” Baby Charles.
You can learn more about Matthew on his website. He also can be found on X, Instagram and Facebook. His books can be purchased on his website, Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Behind every book is an author with a unique story waiting to be told. Authors, your voice deserves a spotlight. This series explores the journeys, inspirations, and challenges behind writing. If you have a passion for words and a story to share, this is your moment to shine. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting your career, I want to hear from you.