Meet Alex Zabala | Landscape contractor and award winning author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alex Zabala and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alex, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I am artistic by nature so it was not surprising that I chose a career that allowed me to use my creative abilities. I am a landscape contractor by trade. When starting a new project, I design, then build to customer specifications. Whether I am constructing an elaborate waterfall, a fireplace, fire pit or installing pavers, plant material or a built-in BBQ, it’s always my intent to add a creative element. My customers have commented that they really appreciate the artistic touches I include. However, my life is more than landscaping. I also write adventure novels. This may sound cliche’ but one night I had an amazing dream and thought it would make an even more amazing book. So I sat down in front of my computer and started typing.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m proud of the fact that I started the creative endeavor of writing at what many consider to be later in life (45). Something else that sets me apart from the majority is I’ve also created a board game based on one of my novels. And it was exciting to have two of my books receive recognition and prestigious awards from the Clive Cussler Adventure Writers Competition.
There is no substitute for hard work, whether it be landscaping in the Phoenix heat, or writing, or anything else. There have been many challenges, one in particular was severe. Twenty-three years ago I had an automobile accident which caused major trauma to my left hand and forearm. After many corrective surgeries I finally went back to work. It was difficult due to limited mobility and use of my hand, since I am left-handed. I decided that being bitter in life was not going to do me any good, so I decided to get more education, get my contractor’s license and get back to work.
As regards my writing, once the first novel was complete, new ideas continued to flow. In addition, my life is also driven by my faith-based beliefs in the Bible, they keep me grounded and focused. I believe all humans must feed their creative, intellectual and spiritual needs.
It is very satisfying to look back and see my finished works. Nothing in life is easy, I believe in the ethic of hard work and self-sufficiency.
I do not plan to landscape beyond the state of Arizona, therefore I would like everyone to know about my books and hopefully find them educational as well as entertaining. I have future projects in the works including another novel and completing the board game.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Sedona always comes to mind. The red rocks and the scenery are incredible! Hiking the West Fork trail in Oak Creek is the best.
The museums in Phoenix are amazing, I particularly enjoy the OdySea Aquarium and the Musical Instrument Museum in Scottsdale.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The old adage, ‘no man is an island’ applies in all areas of life. Where would I be without the encouragement and mentoring of others? First of all, a shout out to my wife, Anita. She has always been supportive of my projects and dreams, even though frequently it meant her sacrificing our time together while I engaged in my projects. In relation to my books, she has been my in-house editor.
I also have the privilege of having as my associate and co-author, Dyego Alehandro, who greatly assists me with his unique talents. His wife KC has also had invaluable input as her role of a story engineer. Without them, my writing career would not exist.

Website: https://alexzabala.com

Youtube: Arcani Arts Pizza Oven Construction

Other: alexzabala2@gmail.com