By: Paul White
Steve Wilcox is a retired school teacher who has found a second career as an author. At 78 years old, Steve’s journey from teaching to writing has been shaped by his experiences in education and his love for storytelling. He has spent many years teaching English, speech, and theater in various settings, including inner-city schools, rural districts, and even a juvenile prison in Texas. Now, he continues to share his knowledge and passion with students as a substitute teacher.
Steve’s love for writing began long before he retired. He has always been an avid reader and writer, often using his spare time to write stories and hone his skills. His transition from teaching to writing was a natural progression, driven by his desire to share his stories with a wider audience. His books reflect his background in education and his commitment to creating engaging and thought-provoking narratives.
One of Steve’s notable works is “The Mexia Music Murders,” a clean mystery novel set in the small town of Mexia, Texas. The idea for this book came to him after reading a mystery novel that he found unsatisfactory. Determined to write a better story, he chose to set his novel in a small town rather than a big city, believing that a close-knit community would provide a more realistic and relatable backdrop for his characters and plot.
The main characters in “The Mexia Music Murders” are Hal Blaine and Judy Sill, named after real-life musicians. Hal Blaine is a rookie sheriff detective, while Judy Sill is a medical examiner. The story revolves around a murder investigation with international connections, adding an intriguing layer of complexity to the plot. Steve’s meticulous research and attention to detail shine through in the development of his characters and the unfolding of the mystery.
Steve is particularly proud of the fact that “The Mexia Music Murders” is a clean mystery, free from profanity, explicit content, and gratuitous violence. He aimed to create a story that could be enjoyed by readers of all ages, from young adults to seniors. This approach has resonated with many readers, who appreciate the engaging and suspenseful narrative without the need for graphic content.
In addition to “The Mexia Music Murders,” Steve has written several other books, including the Ted James series, which is a faith-based collection of novels. His first book in this series, “Finding Ted James,” tells the story of a man who gets a second chance in life. The sequel, “The Painting,” follows a young woman who has a conversation with God after a life-changing accident. These stories reflect Steve’s deep faith and his belief in the power of redemption and second chances.
Steve’s writing process is disciplined and focused. He participates in National Novel Writing Month every November, challenging himself to write 50,000 words in 30 days. This intensive writing period allows him to draft the first version of his novels, which he then spends several months revising and refining. He values feedback from his readers and peers, often incorporating their suggestions into his revisions to improve the overall quality of his work.
One of the unique aspects of Steve’s novels is the incorporation of music. As a music enthusiast, he enjoys weaving musical elements and references into his stories. This adds an extra layer of depth and interest, making his books stand out in the mystery and faith-based genres.
Steve’s dedication to his craft and his ability to balance his writing with his personal life are admirable. He often hides away in his office, typing away for hours after a day of teaching. His fast typing speed and disciplined approach enable him to produce a significant amount of work in a short period, allowing him to maintain a steady output of new books.
The feedback Steve has received from readers has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have praised his ability to create compelling characters and intricate plots that keep them guessing until the very end. His friends and family, including his wife and students, have been supportive and encouraging, often providing valuable insights and suggestions that help him refine his work.
Looking ahead, Steve has several projects in the pipeline. He is currently editing the second edition of “Blaine/Sill Mystery,” another novel set in Texas, which involves a tornado, a coffin, and a mysterious body. He is also working on the next installment in the Ted James series, continuing to explore themes of faith, redemption, and personal growth.
Steve Wilcox’s journey from a dedicated teacher to a successful author is a testament to his passion for storytelling and his commitment to creating meaningful and engaging literature. His work resonates with readers of all ages, offering them a blend of suspense, faith, and inspiration. As he continues to write and share his stories, Steve remains a beacon of hope and creativity, inspiring others to pursue their passions and make a positive impact on the world.
Published by Tom W.
