Scott R. Hylton
I first found my love for writing in high school. At first, it wasn't something that I liked to do as the only things I would write were reports and essays for classes. One year, however, I was asked to write some short stories for my literature class as part of my regular assignments. I soon discovered the power of my imagination as I began crafting stories that were commented as 'original and inspired'.
After high school, I took a break from writing short stories to serve in the United States Navy for four years. I was originally meant to serve as a nuclear engineer, but due to errors in my qualifications profile, I ultimately had to drop out of the program and was deemed 'unrated'. I spent two years chipping away, re-applying paint on ships, and reading fantasy novels until I had the chance to apply for a new rate. I went with something easier this time, the culinary arts, where I discovered my passion for cooking.
After the Navy, the recession hit, and I took on small, minimum-wage jobs just to keep myself afloat. When things began balancing out again, I went back to writing. It was only short stories and paid articles at first, and eventually I decided to try writing a full novel. I hope to continue writing stories that readers will find original and inspired.
When not writing, I enjoy my first passion: Cooking. There's nothing better than using fresh ingredients to create a dish with a flavor that you simply can never find at a fast-food restaurant or boxed meal. I also really enjoy video games, mostly fantasy and adventure games. What I like most about them is the story-lines, as video games in this day have some of the most compelling stories ever found. Some video games can even serve as amazing inspiration for new story ideas.
I always loved reading some classics like Dylan Thomas and in-depth fantasies. Dan Brown was a huge inspiration, and made me want to write dramatic mysteries that kept you on the edge of your seat until the final revelation. In my younger years, the story of King Arthur and Camelot was one of my favorites. I was always especially intrigued by the character, Merlin, and the miracles he performed. I knew I wanted to write something modern, but something that also touched the Merlinian legends. But at the same time, I didn't want to write something predictable, such as a protagonist who travels back in time, or fairy tale about Merlin being alive all these years.
Over the last few years, I've noticed the trend of novels being released seem to walk the same path. I didn't want to do that, I wanted to write a YA fantasy that taught true adult values versus teen drama about a young woman with 4 boyfriends. I wanted to create a story that had nothing to do with vampires, werewolves, or zombies. In a way, I was inspired to write this novel due to the rise of bad novels you see in stores today. I believe that following a trend can get you noticed in this industry, but starting a trend, that's what makes a story truly memorable.
