David James Introduces Light of the Moon :)

You’ve recently published your first novel, Light of the Moon, can you tell us a little about it?
I did! I’m so thrilled that Light of the Moon is finally out in the world, and I’m excited to hear what people think about it! Light of the Moon is a dark story about curses and kissing and magic. When we first start off, we meet a boy named Calum who lives in the sleepy town of Lakewood Hollow. After a while, he meets Kate and things start to get dangerous. The two find themselves deep in a paranormal war filled with secrets. Worse, there is a destiny that binds them together, and no way to stop it. I loved showcasing the different magical elements in this story, so they are what really drive the plot forward.

Was there anything in particular that inspired you to write this book?
The stars. One night after a campfire, I was looking up at the stars and made a wish. I realized that so many people must do exactly that all the time. So I wrote about it. What would happen if we made a wish on a wishing star and then something actually happened?

You chose to self-publish. What influenced this decision?
I’ve really been impressed with both traditional and indie authors. To me, the lines are not divided, but blurred. With the introduction of so many talented people in the business, I knew my first concern was getting Light of the Moon out into the world, and this was my way of doing that. I love the people I’ve met, both traditional authors and not, and am so thankful of their support.

What’s the greatest advice you’ve ever received about writing?
The greatest advice I’ve ever received about writing is this: Go your own way. I think it’s important to remember that there is so much advice out there on writing, publishing, becoming an author, what to do, and what not to do, that it becomes redundant. I’ve learned that no one really does anything the same. We all have quirks that help us out along the way. If we simply be ourselves, find what works best for us, the rest is falls into place.

Is there a particular character that you identify with most in your novel?
Both my main characters, Calum and Kate, are very strong individuals. I wanted to showcase the idea that no matter who you are, boy or girl, that there aren’t really lines that define you. As for characters I relate to, I think that Calum’s best friend Tyler is most like me. Tyler is flawed, but he is aware of his flaws and he tries to fix them. He’s most certainly not perfect, but he tries to do what’s best. I love that Tyler is strong because he tries to be good, not because he always was.

What is the most difficult part of writing, for you?
Focusing. Sometimes I have a difficult time focusing. Also, I have this weird quirk where I can’t write if I don’t have background noise. So I listen to music and watch movies and have no idea what’s happening in them, but the noise helps.

What is the most rewarding?
The end result. When you get an email from a reader wanting to know more about your characters, or confessing how much they loved your story. I write for me, but I became an author for every reader out there. I love getting feedback.

Is there anything in particular you hope readers gain from reading Light of the Moon?
Hope. In fact, the last word of the story is “hoped” and that is what I hope they take from it. Throughout the story, there is this idea that love conquers all, but I want readers to see that love is nothing without hope. We should always be hopeful. There isn’t much we can do without things like love and hope.

If you could write anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I would love to spend time in the mountains somewhere. Recently, I had a chance to visit Colorado where Light of the Moon takes place, and absolutely loved the scenery. I love being in places surrounded by trees and nature. I think it helps me write.

What other activities do you enjoy, when you're not writing?
I love to read, of course. I also enjoy watching horrible movies and listening to great music. For whatever reason, I always have gummy worms on hand.

What’s your best writing advice for new authors?
Don’t be afraid to be who you are. So often we are held in silence because we are afraid of what might happen. Life is better when you take a leap. Have some hope. You are most definitely worth it, and we need your voice in the world.

Now, where can readers stalk you? Your web presence?
Haha. Stalk away! I’m found on Twitter @DJamesAuthor and on the links below.
http://djamesauthor.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/davidjamesauthor

Thank you, David, for coming by my blog today! I'm looking forward to reading Light of the Moon and posting a review for you!