Ask the Author: Matt Powers
Answered Questions (6)
Matt Powers
I look into the mirror and my reflection is missing, and then I remember why I have no desires or needs, only unbearable despair. That so-called life that seems to be a distant memory is exactly that, a memory, and I remind myself I am no longer among the living.
Matt Powers
I sent out dozens and dozens of query letters to indie-publishers and agents. I ended up signing a contract with a publisher. The publisher was great and really helped with my final book editing and formatting.
We parted ways amicably when we realized we both had different plans for how to market the book. Working with a publisher was a very good experience for me. In the end I did self-publish which also was a great experience.
I was fortunate in my first book to both get experience with a publisher and self-publishing. There are definitely pros and cons to both. Which is best for you and your book is a personal decision. Do your research, make sure you know what you want, and explore all options.
We parted ways amicably when we realized we both had different plans for how to market the book. Working with a publisher was a very good experience for me. In the end I did self-publish which also was a great experience.
I was fortunate in my first book to both get experience with a publisher and self-publishing. There are definitely pros and cons to both. Which is best for you and your book is a personal decision. Do your research, make sure you know what you want, and explore all options.
Matt Powers
Knowing when to stop, when to call it "done" is very challenging. As with most artistic expression, writing never feels done. And really I don't think it ever is. But you do need to stop at some point.
I found it more challenging to remove/cut sections and even chapters from my book rather than adding. I wouldn't be too afraid to either add or remove things that you don't feel are working. Finishing is just one part of writing your book - editing and editing again is a huge, challenging process in itself.
One recommendation I would offer is to get people to read your book - find people you don't know (so they aren't skewed) to provide honest feedback. Get as much feedback as possible as it will help you make your decision.
Good luck. Keep writing!
I found it more challenging to remove/cut sections and even chapters from my book rather than adding. I wouldn't be too afraid to either add or remove things that you don't feel are working. Finishing is just one part of writing your book - editing and editing again is a huge, challenging process in itself.
One recommendation I would offer is to get people to read your book - find people you don't know (so they aren't skewed) to provide honest feedback. Get as much feedback as possible as it will help you make your decision.
Good luck. Keep writing!
Matt Powers
You hear it all the time and it is great advice for writers - write. Just write, don't think about it too much, just write what is on your mind. Don't spend too much time on the big picture, write short sequences that inspire you. After awhile these scenes will turn into a story. Keep at it.
Matt Powers
For Ghosts of Manor House I wanted to write something that was suspenseful; a bit creepy and felt like it could be real yet with an edge of surreal. I wanted to write something that would make people think, keep them guessing until the end. And finally, I wanted to write a story with a haunted house – a sentient house with needs and desires of its own.
Matt Powers
I have been playing around with a couple ideas. One area I have been playing with is writing more details on the story of Mr. Travels. I've been considering some additional Manor House stories. I've also been playing with some new characters. It is fun to write different stories with interesting characters, see where it goes.
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