Q&A With Author Luke Christodoulou

What are your favorite mystery/horror stories?

My favorite classic is the exorcist. I enjoy all mysteries written by the great Agatha Christie. The latest books I enjoyed were The Terror by Dan Simons and Horns by Joe Hill.

What inspired you to pen your first novel?
The crazy thoughts in my head. The weird way characters were formed and plot lines unfolded inside my mind.  I had to write. It was not a choice. The Greek Islands were a major inspiration as I always dreamed of a thriller set in Greece.

Your debut book, THE OLYMPUS KILLER really caught my fancy – A killer believes he is murdering the Olympian Gods and mutilates his victims according to Greek mythology. Can you tell us a little more about the story?

We follow Captain Papacosta and Lieutenant Ioli Cara through the sun kissed isles and live the investigation with them. Island after island, body after body, the mystery thickens every step of the way until the shocking end. We are also presented with Katie’s story, set in America during the 70’s. Katie’s story works as an origins story and explain many facts about the case today.

How do you develop your plots and characters? Do you use any set formula?

No set formula. I tend to think of them as real people and form their appearance and character as I write.

What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?

Descriptive writing that allows the reader to visualize and feel the emotions. To live the moment. Also, good characterization and a strong narrative voice are musts.

What are the ingredients of a blockbuster story?

The story itself and your characters (main and minor).

How would you increase literacy?

As a teacher this is a daily goal of mine. Children should be introduced at a young age to the magical world of books. They should be encourage to read and to write down their thoughts and make up stories.

Do you have any advice to aspiring writers?

To read and write daily. To believe in themselves and to fall in love with their story.

If heaven exists, what is the first thing you would like to hear from God when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?

Yeah, he is here at last! Someone interesting to talk to! Jokes aside, I would just be happy that heaven is real and that I am there!

If you could relive one of the happiest days of your life, what would it be?

The day my wife gave birth to our beautiful baby girl. The first time I looked in her eyes and realized I am a father. I loved my wife even more for giving me such a gift in life.

Any exciting news/hints about your upcoming projects?

Greek Island Mysteries book two will be released Easter 2015. It will follow the two main leads, once again faced with murders over the Greek Isles faced with multiple cases, all strangely connected to the church.

Find out more about Like and his books:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00JMTRPTE?*Version*=1&*entries*=0

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JMTRPTE