I am the second of eight remarkable Self boys, and storytelling has always been a passion of mine. As a child, my brothers would gather around at night, captivated by the scary tales I spun. This early love for storytelling likely set me on my path to a writing career, which began with feature articles for local newspapers and magazines in Tampa and St. Petersburg, FL, Seaside, CA, and Kauai, HI. My inspiration also stems from my admiration for classic films, whether they are the timeless black-and-white noir pieces, spaghetti westerns, or gripping mysteries.
My father served as a Buffalo Soldier in the 10th Cavalry and later fought in Vietnam, which has allowed me to live and travel to many fascinating places, including the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, France, Mexico, Hawaii, and Panama. These diverse settings have often served as rich backdrops for my literary works.
In my free time, I cherish moments with my wife of over 50 years, family, and friends. Whether we are enjoying the beach, hiking in the mountains, riding horses, training in martial arts, or exploring new destinations, I strive to embrace a life full of adventure and connection.