Interview with Thomas Scott, Author of State of Need

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write State of Need: Virgil Jones Mystery Thriller Series (Book 14)?

That’s a great question, and my answer remains rooted in the fundamentals of telling a story that takes place across a series of books where each individual novel is a part of a larger, overarching tale. And don’t worry… I never resort to cliff-hangers! Each book stands on its own, but when you get to the end (if I’ve done my job) you’ll want to know what happens next in my character’s lives.

All of my books are weighted heavily toward character-driven situational dilemmas. In that spirit, we discover that no one person is ever all good, or all bad. The bad guys are sometimes good in their own unique ways, and the good guys aren’t afraid to get a little dirty for the benefit of others.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of State of Need: Virgil Jones Mystery Thriller Series (Book 14), what would they be?

True To Myself by Ziggy Marley.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I like to read Mystery Thrillers, the same genre in which I write.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

John Sandford’s Ocean Prey, as well as James Lee Burke’s Every Cloak Rolled in Blood. Burke is the absolute master of the craft.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

It’s hard to say without giving up any spoilers, but I will say this: With every book I write, the story and the characters within really start to take on a life of their own at about the halfway point of the creative process. As I get closer and closer to the end of the manuscript, I’m excited to find out what happens next, just like my readers. I don’t outline anything in advance, ever, so I’m always looking forward to the end of the story, waiting to see how it all works out.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Nope. Well, okay… yes. But none that I’ll speak to publicly!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I believe that everything happens for a reason, be it recognized as either good, or bad. Our job is to accept what comes our way and know that the universe is unfolding exactly as planned… even if it isn’t in line with our own imaginings.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Truth lies in fiction.