Sandy J Cee's Blog, page 5
April 23, 2015
An Interview with Lewis Harrison
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Welcome to Author Talk. Today I have the wonderful pleasure of interviewing Lewis Harrison of “Ask Lewis” fame.
What are your ambitions for your writing career?
To make a difference in the lives of others through motivation, inspiration and information.
How long have you been writing?
49 years
Which writers inspire you?
Lao Tzu, Suzuki Roshi, Alan Watts
Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?
Bruce Willis
What is the easiest thing about writing?
Writing
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
30 days
Do you ever get writer’s Block?
No
Do you read much and if so who are your favourite authors.
Mostly Wikipedia and online research. I.B. Singer
For your own reading, do you prefer e-books or traditional paper/hard back books?
Traditional
What & whose book/s are you reading at present?
“Genius” about the physicist Richard Feynman By James Gleick
Do you proofread/edit all your own books or do you get someone to do that for you?
Someone else
Do you let the book stew – leave it for a month and then come back to it to edit?
Sometimes
When did you decide to become a writer? What made you decide to sit down and actually start something?
I knew at 10 years old that that was what I wanted to be. My mother gave me a copy of “Writers Market” and that was it.
Why do you write?
I can’t help myself.
Do you write full-time or part-time? Do you have a special time to write or how is your day structured?
I write 12 hours a day
Do you aim for a set amount of words/pages per day? How successful are you at achieving that goal?
I work on 20 books at a time. ½ hour daily per book.
Do you write on a typewriter, computer, dictate or longhand? Do you use a special writing program, or just type away?
Computer
Where do the your ideas come from?
In dreams, epiphanies, debates with friends about ideas.
Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?
All flow in fiction. From an outline for non-fiction
How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?
I have less faith in what people consider facts. And look for the contrarian view.
What is the hardest thing about writing?
For me…spelling and grammar
What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book? Always being drawn to think out of the box.
How do you market your books? Why did you choose this route? Speaking and Social networking. Publishing is radically changing
Would you or do you use a PR agency?
I would
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?
FB, Twitter, study how to market books through social networking
What part of your writing time do you devote to marketing your book?
I post what I write as blogs so there is not much division
How do you relax?
Writing, watch a movie each night, cook, argue about politics and economic with my wife
What is your favourite motivational phrase.
“If you live in the material world the dark side is your agent and gets a 25% cut of everything.” This gets me through challenges
What is your favourite positive saying?
All you need is love
What is your favourite book and why?
The Tao te Ching by Lao Tzu. Pure mystic and practical wisdom
What is your favourite movie and why?
House of Games. It is all Game Theory and I love game theory
Where can you see yourself in 5 years time?
Doing the same but wiser and richer
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Don’t change a thing.
Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?
Buckminster Fuller. He understood what was really going on
If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why?
The Bible. Too many contradictions. Jesus got it right. The Apostle didn’t
Well, thank you About Your Books
What genre are your books?
Self Help, Personal Development, Human Potential, Alternative Medicine, Political Science, economics, World Affairs
What draws you to this genre?
My passion for ideas
How much research do you do?
Large amounts
Have you written any other books in collaboration with other writers? If so, with whom?
Yes. D. B Lawrence, Laura Jones
Why did you do decide to collaborate and did that affect your sales?
One was my business partner, the other a student collaborator. No effect on sales
What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around?
Unless I get a large advance I can do what a publisher can do unless they have a strong private list of buyers
What do you do to get book reviews? How successful has your quest for reviews been so far? I have people post reviews on Amazon
Do you have a strategy for finding reviewers?
Yes. I give free copies to those who will review the book
What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?
They matter
Any amusing story about marketing books that happened to you? I often do free life coaching. Some of my students begin study groups in library book clubs and use my books
What’s your views on social media for marketing? Which social network worked best for you?
The absolute future is in social media. I use it extensively
Any tips on what to do and what not to do?
Face, Google plus, twitter, You Tube, Instagram
Did you do a press release, Goodreads book launch or anything else to promote your work and did it work?
No but I would
Did you get interviewed by local press/radio for your book launch? Yes. I also have my own show on an NPR affiliated station WIOX 91.3 FM. It streams at WIOXRadio.org 4-6 on Thursdays (EST)
Is there any marketing technique you used that had an immediate impact on your sales figures?
Giving talks
Did you make any marketing mistakes or is there anything you would avoid in future?
Giving away free copies to the wrong people
What do you think of “trailers” for books?
They are good
Do you have a trailer or do you intend to create one for your own book/s?
I will create one
Do you think that giving books away free works and why? Sometimes
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Read great writers and your own writing will naturally improve
Where do you see publishing going in the future?
On-line
Thank you Lewis. I have seen your inspiring posts on both Facebook and
Finally, we’d all like to hear mAbout Your Current Book
Give us an insight into your main character. What does he/she do that is so special?
He is a Trickster who can see things going on physically that everyone seems to miss.
What are you working on at the minute?
Filling out this questionnaire.
The Official Barter Book
There is Hope (About mental illness)
Extraordinary Days in an Ordinary Life: Biographical Short Stories
Book of Power and Influence
Make Choices, Not Excuses: Tools, Techniques and Strategies for Solving Your Problem: Done
Healing Depression Naturally (an update)
The Trickster Project: (Alternative Title – “The Noble Trickster Guru’s Guide to Creating a Functional Reality” Done
Connecting the Dots: Conspiracy Theories and 1984: Is Orwell’s Reality Here?
Lewis Harrison’s Applied Game Theory: Systematic Strategies for Prospering in a Chaotic World
Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: 200 Visionaries, Heroes and Game Changers
The Visionary Project: Tools, Tips and Strategies for Thinking Like a Visionary
That was Zen, This is Tao: Teachings, Stories, and Koans refitted for the 21st Century
Understanding the Middle East- DONE
Living the Good Life: How to Live Like the 1% When You Are Part of the 99% DONE
The Problem Solvers (A novel about anonymous eccentrics who belong to a secret society of problems solvers). Game Theory
The Tao te Ching: A Micro Analysis on the Writings of Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu with additional
Lucid Dreams: A Stream of Consciousness Novel
Is this book part of a series? What are your thoughts on writing a book series.
Some are. I have a series of e-books called“Ask Lewis”
Did you format your own book? In what formats is your book available?
I use outside vendors
If formatted by someone else, how did you select them and what was your experience?
Fiverr. I try many grogs before i find my prince
Tell us about the cover/s and how it/they came about. Who designed your book cover/s?
Fiverr
Do you think that the cover plays an important part in the buying process?
Sometimes
How are you publishing this book and why?
Both
How can readers discover more about you and you work? www.asklewis.com, www.chihealer.com or just call me at 212-724-8782
Please list all of your published books here.
Massageworks – 1983 (Co-Authored with D. B. Lawrence (Putnam Books)
Helping Yourself with Natural Healing – 1987 (Prentice- Hall)
Making Fats and Oils Work for You -1990 (Avery Books)
30-Day Body Purification – 1994 (Prentice-Hall)
The Complete Fats and Oils Book – 1996 (Avery Books)
Hands-on-Healing: Massage for Total Health the Shaman’s Way – 1998 (Kensington Books)
Master Your Metabolism – 2003 (Source Books)
Healing Depression Naturally – 2004 (Kensington Books)
Wealth Without Cash: Barter, Reciprocal Trade, and Alternative Economics – 2005 (Self Published Manual)
Live Like a Millionaire on $17,000 a Year – 2009 (Blooming Twig Books)
Harrison’s Massage Manual: A Book of Multicultural Approaches to Touch for Advanced Massage Practitioners and Mental Health Professionals – 2013 ((Self Published)
Spiritual, Not Religious: Sacred Tools for Modern Times (Self Published 2014)
Building Your Business in the New Digital Economy (Motivational Press 2014)
Gamification for Business (Motivational Press 2014)
Website: www.AskLewis.com
Blog:www.chihealer.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/lewis.harrison.12382, https://www.facebook.com/askLewis
Twitter: Twitter@AskLewisH
Google: AskLewis Harrison
Amazon Author Page:http://www.amazon.com/Lewis-Harrison/e/B001H6W6Y4/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1427990374&sr=8-2
Smashwords:https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/lewisharrison1
Do you have a Video link you would like included in this published interview? Please paste it here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY-dKQme7nZPDT2x-FMODsg
(* Any order you like and if I’ve missed anything, just type it in.)
The second photo is with 100 year old “professor” Irwin Cory one of the great comedians of the 20th century and a mentor of Lenny Bruce and George Carlin
The third photo is what is use for media
The fourth photo is with Spaulding Grey a pioneer in Perfromance Art
The forth photo is with the great Talmudic scholar – Rabbi Mintz
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April 22, 2015
An Interview with S M Spencer
Welcome To Author Talk. Today I have the pleasure of interviewing author S. M. Spencer
Please tell us a little about yourself and your background
I’m originally from California, but
now live in the outskirts of Me
lbourne
with my husband, horses, cats and dogs.
I’ve always loved to write, and consider myself extremely fortunate to be in a position to dedicate the time needed to make it happen.
I’ve also always had a soft spot for all things paranormal. And while I certainly maintain a healthy scepticism about many aspects of the unknown, I also know there are lots of things that science can’t currently, and may never be able to, explain.
Thank you S.M. You sound like my kind of person. Now let’s jump in and learn more About You as a Writer
What are your ambitions for your writing career?
I enjoy reading many different genres and look forward to trying my hand at a variety of them.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing off and on for many years, but have taken it much more seriously over the past five years.
Which writers inspire you?
There are many writers who have inspired me … Daphne du Maurier, Ray Bradbury, J R R Tolkien … the list goes on and on with examples from a wide variety of genres.
Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?
I suspect if my trilogy were to be made into movies, the actors would be new actors. I would love to see the series picked up by a boutique Australian film company
What is the easiest thing about writing?
Letting my imagination run wild.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
The first draft doesn’t take too long—perhaps three to six months—maybe less. But it is the editing and fine tuning that takes more time. Rereading the story to make sure every sentence says what it should and that all aspects of the story remain consistent throughout. Absent Shadows was my first serious book, and I’ve learned a great deal through the process so I suspect each new book will be a little bit easier.
Do you ever get writer’s block? If so, any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?
I don’t think I get writer’s block in the traditional sense of that expression. I sometimes lose interest in writing due to other things I’m interested in, but I don’t consider that writer’s block. When I’m in the mood to write, I write, and when I’m not I simply don’t beat myself up about it.
Do you read much and if so who are your favourite authors.
I go through various genre moods. I devoured Harry Potter and The Chronicles of Narnia (didn’t everyone?) but also enjoy finding an author with a continuing series, like Patricia Cornwell, John Lescroart and Janet Evanovich. I particularly enjoy a good mystery/thriller with a romantic element. At this very moment I’m reading fellow indie authors, from both the Rave Reviews Book Club (RRBC) and indieBRAG Medallion website.
For your own reading, do you prefer e-books or traditional paper/hard back books?
Now that I’ve gotten used to them, I really do prefer e-books. Paperbacks would be next for me. I think hard backs look great on the book shelf, but I read in bed a lot and find them too heavy.
What & whose book/s are you reading at present?
Right now I’m reading a book called Dear Maude by a fellow indie author named Denise Liebig. I’m trying to mostly support other indie authors, from both the Rave Reviews Book Club (RRBC), and indieBRAG.
Do you proofread/edit all your own books or do you get someone to do that for you?
I have friends read them and that helps a great deal, but then I edit and re-edit them myself.
Do you let the book stew – leave it for a month and then come back to it to edit?
Definitely. Probably a bit longer than that in actual fact—the longer the better.
When did you decide to become a writer?
I think the desire to be a writer started in my teens. I read a lot and would often get caught up in the characters, living their stories long after I’d finished the books. I had a great deal of respect for authors that could do that, and I wanted to be like them.
Why do you write?
Because I love doing it!
Do you write full-time or part-time? Do you have a special time to write or how is your day structured?
I write when the mood strikes me—generally during the day, but sometimes I get inspiration at night and have to write for a time. There is certainly nothing structured or disciplined in the way I write.
Do you aim for a set amount of words/pages per day? How successful are you at achieving that goal?
No—I might write five thousand one day, then nothing for the next two or three or whatever.
Do you write on a typewriter, computer, dictate or longhand? Do you use a special writing program, or just type away?
I write on my lap-top, but I also write on scraps of paper or a notebook if I just have a few ideas I want to jot down.
Where do your ideas come from?
For the Absent Shadows trilogy, I was working around the corner from Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Markets, up near the Flagstaff Gardens. Walking around at lunchtime, I started sensing that I was smack dab in the middle of the perfect setting for ghosts and vampires—and the story just developed from there. Of course, the late night ghost tour I’d done in the area, where I’d learned the history of the cemetery under the market’s carpark, really helped. And like many, I was caught up in the resurgence in popularity of vampires.
Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?
I do a bit of both—I have a general plot in mind, but am not afraid to let the characters take me in other directions either.
How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?
I have found that the more I write, the more I notice the subtle things happening around me. Ever since I decided to take my writing more seriously, I’ve seen possible scenes in everyday happenings—the lady at the post office, the girl behind the counter at the chemist, the couple walking down the street—I just view things from a different perspective now.
What is the hardest thing about writing?
Nothing. I don’t find it hard, because I enjoy it so much.
What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book? Waiting to hear back from the agents/publishers that I’d contacted.
How do you market your books? Why did you choose this route? So far, it has been through word of mouth, Facebook, book blogs like yours, Sandy, and taking advantage of the promotions that Amazon offers.
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?
I’m just learning myself so I guess the only advice is to be open to new ideas.
How do you relax?
I think riding my horse is my favourite way to relax—that’s when I feel in touch with nature. And of course, reading a good book is always a great way to relax.
What is your favourite motivational phrase?
Every cloud has a silver lining.
What is your favourite book and why?
One of my favourites is Peter Straub’s Floating Dragon. That book was so scary—I remember thinking I could see things moving just on the edge of my peripheral vision. Scary stuff! But there are many, many more that I would call favourites.
What is your favourite quote?
“That is something up with which they will not put.” Unfortunately, I can’t recall who said it (and Google isn’t helping me), but I doubt I’ll ever forget that sentence!
What is your favourite movie and why?
There are lots that I would call favourites, like Avatar, Lord of the Rings, and anything with Sandra Bullock in it—but if I had to pick one it might be Gladiator. A lot of the reason Gladiator is up there is the music—it is a wonderful story, but Hans Zimmer’s soundtrack and the beautiful tones of Lisa Gerrard, really made the movie special for me.
Where can you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
Helping the aforementioned boutique Australian film company turn my books into movies. [Symbol]
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Trust your intuition.
Thank you S. M. I love your favourite quote. It rather sounds like a Churchill quote to me. he was a great lover of language as well as an author in his own right.
Now, to read About Your Books
What genre are your books?
The Absent Shadows Trilogy is a paranormal romance. I call it YA because it has no overt sex or violence and the main character is only nineteen.
What draws you to this genre?
I grew up watching the eerie television shows of the 60’s: Dark Shadows, The Twilight Zone, The Invaders and Outer Limits being among those I remember best. What imaginations those writers had! So science fiction, fantasy and mystery stories have generally been my favourite. Throw in a romantic element, and you have the perfect story!
How much research do you do?
Enough to be sure anything purporting to be a fact is correct, but that’s the beauty of fiction—most of it comes from the imagination.
What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around?
The major advantage of self-publishing is being in complete control, and the only deadlines are those that are self-imposed. But the disadvantage is you don’t have a publishing house’s marketing teams and expertise to help you make a big splash. Some self-published books have made it to the big time, but I have no doubt that there are many really great self-published books that will never go far simply because the authors don’t have the time, experience or inclination to push them along.
What do you do to get book reviews? How successful has your quest for reviews been so far?
I’m just getting started with this, so check back in twelve months and I’ll give you an answer.
What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?
I’d rather have a bad review than no review, but of course all authors like the good ones!
Did you make any marketing mistakes or is there anything you would avoid in future?
I didn’t do any sort of pre-launch and that seems to be something that works for others. This is something I might consider next time I’m ready to launch a new book.
Do you think that giving books away free works and why?
Yes, to some extent. Word of mouth can be a big tool, and no better way to get this than to have lots of readers talking about your book.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Firstly, ignore the negative commentary about there being too many books out there. If you have a story to tell, and you believe in it, tell it. There will be people who will be glad you did. But having said that, before you submit it anywhere, make sure your book is the best you can make it. Read books or articles about self-editing. When you think your story is as good as you can get it, set it aside, then sometime later re-read it and edit it again.
Where do you see publishing going in the future?
I think there is a fantastic future for well-written self-published books, particularly with the help of organisations such as indieBRAG (which, if you’re not familiar with it stands for indie, or independent author, Book Readers Appreciation Group and can be found at www.bragmedallion.com ). These organisations rate self-published books to help give readers confidence that the books they are buying are well written, and worth purchasing.
Thank you S. M. I really appreciate your detailed answers. I am looking forward to hearing something About Your Current Book
Give us an insight into your main character. What does he/she do that is so special?
Lili is a typical nineteen year old girl who wants to make a difference with her life, but isn’t sure how she’s going to do it. When Lili is given a wonderful opportunity to visit her aunt in Australia, the land where her father was born, she discovers what she wants to do with her life. Sounds pretty simple, right? But then again, can anything to do with vampires and ghosts really be simple?
What are you working on at the minute?
Right now I’m in the midst of a rural romance.
Is this book part of a series?
What are your thoughts on writing a book series.
I’m hoping to make it a series, but given I haven’t finished the first book yet, I’m not entirely sure where the rest of the series will head.
Did you format your own book? In what formats is your book available?
At this time, the Absent Shadows Trilogy is only available as Kindle books, on Amazon.
How are you publishing this book and why?
I’m an indie author. I canvassed a number of agents and a couple of e-book publishers and got responses that varied from cold to lukewarm. The main message coming through was that the genre was very crowded, so I figured I was wasting my time trying to get a publisher to put their money into the series. But with encouragement from friends and family I decided to simply bite the bullet and do it myself.
How can readers discover more about you and you work?
Follow me on Facebook—and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you have any!
Please list all of your published books here.
Book Title: Absent Shadows Trilogy: Destiny—Book One, Sacrifice—Book Two & Deception—Book Three
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Links:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SMSpencer.writer
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/S-M-Spencer/e/B00PGE0G9U
Book Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com.au/Destiny-Absent-Shadows-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00O6WL9IA
http://www.amazon.com.au/Sacrifice-Absent-Shadows-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00Q2AVXUI
http://www.amazon.com.au/Deception-Absent-Shadows-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00QKRNJQ4
http://www.amazon.com/Destiny-Absent-Shadows-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00O6WL9IA
http://www.amazon.com/Sacrifice-Absent-Shadows-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00Q2AVXUI
http://www.amazon.com/Deception-Absent-Shadows-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00QKRNJQ4
Lastly, I would just like to thank you, Sandy, for this wonderful opportunity to share a little about me, and my books, with your readers.
You’re very welcome S.M. I look forward to following your books, and your Facebook Page. Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview.
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April 21, 2015
An Interview with Leanne Wood
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Hello and welcome to Author Talk. Today I have the great pleasure of interviewing Leanne Wood.
Please tell us a little about yourself and your background?
My Name is Leanne Wood and I am originally from Sydney. I moved to Orange which is located in Central Western NSW in 2000. Faced with a life shattering ordeal I struggled with PTSD and depression. Hospitalized, I retreated from the world and was forced to reassess everything. Writing assisted greatly through this period. I would class myself as a freelance writer and a poet, a research enthusiast who possesses a love for creativity and a keen interest in trivia and historical events. I have a gorgeous partner, I appreciate good friends, I enjoy great food and wine and I love to travel and write. I believe we should try to live our life to its fullest and follow our dreams.
Wow Leanne, you had some early knocks. I’d like to know more
About You as a Writer
What are your ambitions for your writing career?
To simply write books that people enjoy
How long have you been writing?
I have been writing ever since I can remember, I have always found it enjoyable.
Which writers inspire you?
All writers inspire me, I believe they all have something to offer
Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?
Noni Hazlehurst – “Pages Of your Life – The Secret Life of Shirley Rumming”
What is the easiest thing about writing?
You get to set your own timetable, however, you must also be able to apply yourself as books don’t write themselves.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
The last one probably 12 months (give or take a little) from start to being published. I don’t think there is a need to rush.
Do you ever get writer’s Block? If so, Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?
Yes, I think all writers get writer’s block from time to time. I always walk away, I never dwell on something that is not happening. You can’t force a square peg in a round hole, just as you can’t force writing. I go for a walk, have a chat with a friend, enjoy the company of my partner, play with my dog, enjoy a nice meal or glass of wine (or two).
Do you read much and if so who are your favourite authors.
I don’t read as much as I should. My favourite authors are Bryce Courtenay and Stephen King. I also enjoy reading trivia and biographies.
For your own reading, do you prefer e-books or traditional paper/hard back books? I prefer traditional paperbacks.
What & whose book/s are you reading at present?
I am not reading a book at present as I am focusing on the launch of my second book.
Do you proofread/edit all your own books or do you get someone to do that for you?
I do and I also have others as I believe a writer can be too close to their own work.
Do you let the book stew – leave it for a month and then come back to it to edit? Yes, I believe it is important to let it sit before editing
When did you decide to become a writer? What made you decide to sit down and actually start something?
Several years ago I experienced great trauma, writing was an escape. The more I wrote, the better I felt, the more I loved writing. Writing is addictive, life experiences inspire my stories.
Why do you write?
I love writing, creating a story and developing characters
Do you write full-time or part-time? Do you have a special time to write or how is your day structured?
I do write full-time, however, I do not have a rigid writing schedule. I do prefer mornings for writing but I write whenever I have the urge as I believe writing should not be forced. Some days I will work on a novel for over 12 hours with only small breaks while on other days several hours is enough.
Do you aim for a set amount of words/pages per day? How successful are you at achieving that goal?
Sometimes I set a word count, but believe it is more so about quality not quantity
Do you write on a typewriter, computer, dictate or longhand? Do you use a special writing program, or just type away?
Computer, I also have ideas on post-it notes, in my mobile phone and on scraps of paper
Where do the your ideas come from?
Some of the ideas within my first book, “Pages Of Your Life- The Secret Life of Shirley Rumming” are adaptations of real stories as told to me by my relatives. Other ideas came from extended hours of research and from within my imagination.Generally, my ideas can come from anywhere, observing others and listening, from reading, TV shows, movies and even sounds.
Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you? I do attempt to work out an outline, but I find my stories develop and change, so the story then takes me on a journey
How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?
I have evolved greatly…I do believe writing is one big learning experience. I still have so much to learn. Talking with other writers, learning about the industry and embracing what I love so much (writing) means that I have to evolve.
What is the hardest thing about writing?
Like anything, there are always distractions and you must have self discipline. Research also takes up a lot of time and sometimes you can feel you are getting no where fast, but it is all worth it in the long run.
What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?
As a writer I do get caught up emotionally, so if it is sad, I do feel for the characters. Writing is an emotional journey.
How do you market your books? Why did you choose this route?
I market my books through social media and my blog; these methods have been extremely helpful.
Would you or do you use a PR agency?
Possibly in the future
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?
Exposing your books is one thing, but you should never inundate potential readers as this could dive them away.
What part of your writing time do you devote to marketing your book?
Probably not as much as I should, however, I do post regular updates to social media
How do you relax?
I go for a walk, have a chat with a friend, enjoy the company of my partner, play with my dog, enjoy a nice meal or glass of wine (or two), go on a holiday and I write
What is your favourite motivational phrase.
You can overcome everything, achieve anything and do everything.
What is your favourite positive saying?
Let your past make you better, not bitter
What is your favourite book and why?
A Map Of The World by Jane Hamilton. This a compelling story about life, consequences, regrets, friendship, marriage and endurance. It illustrates that a predictable life can change direction in the blink of an eye. It explores the most basic of human emotions. It is an excellent portrayal of human nature and serves as a reminder that life should not be taken for granted. Thought provoking.
What is your favourite quote?
Never underestimate your acts of kindness and how much you are appreciated and loved
What is your favourite movie and why?
Cleopatra, starring Elizabeth Taylor – what an amazing woman
Where can you see yourself in 5 years time?
Happily writing
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Do what you love every day. A successful day of writing should not be determined by the number of words written but the content which has been created.
Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?
Elizabeth Taylor – she was talented, generous, inspiring, beautiful, successful, caring…a wonderful soul
Thank you for all of this Leanne, I too am a fan of the Late, Great Elizabeth Taylor. She would be one person I would definitely love to meet myself. Now on to read something About Your Books
What genre are your books?
Historical Fiction / Women’s Fiction / Mystery / Life Drama / Suspense / Thriller / Crime
What draws you to this genre?
I love research and I love stories with a twist, books that keep the readers wanting to turn the next page. All of my books are about life and events that could happen to anyone.
How much research do you do?
For my first book; “Pages Of Your Life – The Secret Life of Shirley Rumming” I completed many hours of research as the book spans many decades. I wanted to set the scene and correctly reflect the times with facts relating to historical events. Ensuring there was a balance of facts in which the story could take place without the reader feeling overwhelmed by these facts was imperative. My second book; “Travels Through My Mind” (which is the 2nd book in the “Secrets” trilogy did not involve as much research while the last book; “Where Secrets Lie” does involve more research.
What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around?
I believe you can maintain a greater control over your books. My books are like my children, I would never want to cast them asside and have someone else control them.
What do you do to get book reviews? How successful has your quest for reviews been so far?
I have not received a great deal of reviews since I am only relatively new, however they have been great and I appreciate all feedback.
Do you have a strategy for finding reviewers?
Not really, I do ask but I don’t want to be pushy.
What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?
I think it is important to acknowledge that not everyone will agree on everything; as such we would be foolish to believe everyone will love what we write
What’s your views on social media for marketing? Which social network worked best for you?
I think social media has its place, facebook has worked well for me.
Any tips on what to do and what not to do?
I wouldn’t bombard the same social media site with marketing details, otherwise people will switch off.
Did you do a press release, Goodreads book launch or anything else to promote your work and did it work?
I promoted my first book launch with the assistance of the local library and bookshops. I also used facebook and the local press. I am holding the book launch for my 2nd book on Tuesday 5th May 2015 and I will use the same strategy.
Did you get interviewed by local press/radio for your book launch?
Yes and they were wonderful
What do you think of “trailers” for books?
I like trailors
Do you have a trailer or do you intend to create one for your own book/s?
No, maybe one day
Do you think that giving books away free works and why?
Sometimes yes, however on a limited basis and only to those you know will appreciate it, not to companies who want to profit off your hard work.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
I would give them the same advice Bryce Courtenay gave to me; write, write and write some more. Also maintain an open mind, writing is a learning experience, be open to suggestions and critique.
Where do you see publishing going in the future?
Hopefully onwards and upwards with indie writers achieving the recognition they deserve. You do not have to be published by one of the big 5 to be a good writer.
Thank you Leanne, I like your open hearted honesty. Finally we are ready to read something About Your Current Book
Give us an insight into your main character. What does he/she do that is so special?
My trilogy spans 3 generations. “Pages Of Your Life – The Secret Life of Shirley Rumming” starts with Shirley Rumming, born in Sydney in 1924, the first book is based on her life story. The second book; “Travels Through My Mind” picks up after Shirley has passed away. Claire her only child discovers her mothers book and is forced to question the truth and value of life. She doubts the platform on which she believed her life was built as she embarks on a journey to reveal the truth. Deceit, secrets and lies collide with preconceieved thoughts and more than one person winds up crushed. The third book; “Where Secrets Lie” highlights the impact of delving into the past and family secrets. While it is still a work in progress and without giving too much away it examines the destructiveness that secrets and lies can have on others.
What are you working on at the minute?
Currently I am focusing on the book launch for “Travels Through My Mind” and looking at the 3rd book of my “Secrets” Trilogy; “Where Secrets Lie”
Is this book part of a series? What are your thoughts on writing a book series.
It is a trilogy and I love it. I never intended to create a trilogy. However, when I finished my first story there was so much more that needed saying. The story could not end when the character died, she had family and so the story continued.
Did you format your own book? In what formats is your book available?
I had assistance with formatting. My books are available in paperback and as an e-book. I think it is important to cater to all readers.
If formatted by someone else, how did you select them and what was your experience?
I looked at the work they had created previously. I watched how they interacted with others and I had a great experience.
Tell us about the cover/s and how it/they came about. Who designed your book cover/s?
The cover of “Pages Of Your Life – The Secret Life of Shirley Rumming” came from a collection of photos once owned by my grandfather (who is deceased). I was led to believe that he had taken the photo, however, I was shocked to discover although it was in his collection it was infact a photo he had taken of a photo. Having a great attachment to the photo I purchased the licensing rights to use the photo so as not to breach any copyright. For my second cover, “Travels Through My Mind” I took a photo of my partners eye.
Do you think that the cover plays an important part in the buying process? Definitely, if the cover looks interesting a potental reader is more likely to pick it up.
How are you publishing this book and why (*e.g. Indie, traditional or both)
Indie. I think it’s the control factor plus I can try to keep the pricing of the book down. Reading should be enjoyable not expensive.
Please list all of your published books here
Book Title: Pages Of Your Life – The Secret Life of Shirley Rumming
Genre: Historical Fiction / Mystery / Family Sagas Australia / Life Drama
ISBN: 9781742844800
Publisher: Bookpal
Author:Leanne Wood
Paperback / Hardback: Paperback & Kindle
Distributor/Seller: Amazon
Book Cover by: Leanne Wood
Book Title: Travels Through My Mind
Genre: Mystery / Family Sagas Australia / Life Drama / Paranormal
ISBN: 9780994302908
Publisher: Leanne Wood
Author: Leanne Wood
Paperback / Hardback: Paperback & Kindle
Distributor/Seller: Amazon
Book Cover by: Leanne Wood
How can readers discover more about you and you work?
They can visit my
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LeanneWoodauthor
Blog https://leannewoodauthor.wordpress.com
Twitter https://twitter.com/LeanneWoodautho
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Leanne-Wood/e/B00SM1OGW2/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8558131.Leanne_Wood
Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview. I can’t wait to see the third book out in this series.
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