Author's Interview with Joshua Crosson

First, before we move forward with our Author's Interview, I would like to start with an introduction. 

1. Could you please introduce yourself to us? 

Hi everyone, it’s a pleasure to be here. I’m Joshua Crosson, a writer based in Washington State, which is truly a fantastic place—if you haven’t been, I highly recommend it! By day, I work as a CNA for a hospice agency, and when I’m not immersed in that, I’m likely lost in writing or reading. I share my home with my wife, our cat, and two guinea pigs. Oh, and I have a rather unusual phobia called pendulaphobia!

2. Congratulations on your book. So what inspired you to write this book?

I always begin with character development, as it’s usually the driving force behind my stories. For this book, I was inspired by the idea of creating two main characters with contrasting emotional journeys. Valerie starts from a place of hatred and evolves toward love, while Justine begins with love and descends into darkness and hatred. I envisioned these characters as eclipsing each other, much like a solar eclipse, ending up in emotional states that are the opposite of where they started.

3. What is the book all about? 

Trainwreck Daughters follows Valerie, who has rebuilt her life after leaving behind sex work, drugs, and alcohol. When her estranged friend Justine calls, claiming her pimp lover will hurt her—and possibly worse—if she doesn’t repay a massive debt, Valerie is dragged back into her old world. As she tries to help, Valerie uncovers that Justine's motives might not be as genuine as they appeared.

4. Why did you choose this genre for your book? 

I’d categorize the book as a crime thriller, which aligns with my love for the genre. I'm naturally drawn to crime thrillers, and I'm also exploring horror right now. These genres—crime, thriller, and horror—are my personal favorites across books, movies, and games. They provide a natural outlet for delving into the darker aspects of life.

5. How much time did it take to complete this book?

It took me about a year to a year and a half to complete the book. I was working a lot of graveyard shifts at an assisted living facility, so I used those quieter moments to work on the novel. Originally, it was over twice as long, and despite numerous rejections from publishers and agents, I didn’t give up. After some time away from the project, I realized it needed more editing. I cut it down significantly, and when I sent out the revised version, I received a positive response from a publisher much sooner.

6. What makes your Book Special? 

I think my books represent my most honest self. They serve as a kind of personal confession, letting me delve into the darker corners of my soul and offering a cathartic release. If my writing resonates with someone and they find a personal connection to it, that means a lot to me.

7. When is your second book coming?

This is actually my second book! My first one, a crime thriller titled Limelight, was published by Moonshine Cove Publishing. I’m currently finishing a new novel that’s a straight-up horror story, and I’m really excited about it!

8. While writing did you get any writer's block? What is the Tip that you will give others who are facing writer's block?

Right now, I’m in a great flow state where writing and editing feel effortless, and it’s an amazing feeling. I did go through a rough patch a few years ago, which felt more like hopelessness and discouragement than traditional writer's block. It was during a particularly bleak winter when I had just started working as a caregiver at a memory care unit. I was approaching thirty, feeling trapped in that job, and doubting I’d ever publish anything. I stopped writing for about four to five months during that time. After my first book was published, I felt that spark of inspiration return. 

There are still times when I struggle to write as much as I’d like—like during the spring when I was focused on nursing school and didn’t write for two months. Even though I know sacrifices are necessary, it was a tough period. As I start classes again soon, I plan to better balance my time, ensuring I make room for both writing and reading. I can only share tips based on what’s worked for me, and one key to my progress has been sheer persistence—I won’t give up no matter what. Maybe when I’m much older, I’ll have more tips to offer, but for now, I’m still learning and seeking advice myself.

9. What are your other hobbies besides being a talented author?

My hobbies include reading—I’m an avid reader—and spending time outdoors, like the weekend I just had with family at the lake. I also have a passion for collecting typewriters. Whenever I’m in an antique shop, I can’t resist picking up a new one. I currently have about twenty-five typewriters that I plan to use to decorate a future writing office someday!

10. Last but not the least, How did you feel, while giving this interview? 

I felt great about the interview. Rakhi has some fantastic questions here, and it’s been a pleasure to be a part of her book review and interview!

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