"BOOKS ARE THE QUIETEST AND MOST CONSTANT OF FRIENDS; THEY ARE THE MOST ACCESSIBLE AND WISEST OF COUNSELORS, AND THE MOST PATIENT OF TEACHERS."
-Charles William Elliot
"BOOKS ARE THE QUIETEST AND MOST CONSTANT OF FRIENDS; THEY ARE THE MOST ACCESSIBLE AND WISEST OF COUNSELORS, AND THE MOST PATIENT OF TEACHERS."
-Charles William Elliot
I JUST ADDED A FAQ PAGE TO MY WEBSITE. AND HERE IT IS.
WHAT IS IT YOU WRITE?
I write books. Novels! They range from fantasy without magic, and fantasy with magic, to historical novels, some that are set in fictional European cities, or that are historical merged with fantasy. There is a contemporary or two in the mix also.
I have a cadre of characters who often like to speak with me at inconvenient times. They show up wherever, expecting good and well to be given their due, to relate what it is they have to share. I do my best to oblige, always having a paper and pen on hand. I think they get together and despair of me, as when I try to copy out what they are saying to me or each other, I usually am less witty, or less poignant, than they are. Alas, they did come to me, so I will do my best to get their story where they want it to be. And I hope they feel somewhat represented.
WHY DO YOU WRITE FICTION?
Well. I mean. There's so much to be said on the topic, but I'll start with this: I believe in fiction. In the power of fiction. As a teenager, when I saw a character that I had come to know, with their flaws and strengths and difficult situations, I watched them. I saw them try to stand against their impossible task with courage. I always translated this into my own life. That I too could stand against what was impossible. That I could have courage. That I could struggle, and still choose to keep going. I also think that sometimes we confront things in fiction that, although quite removed from the reality of our own lives, inspire us to understand our challenges with equal passion and grace.
WHO DO YOU WRITE FOR?
For my readers. Whoever you are. You are who I am trying to find. I write my books so that an astute 14 year old could pick them up and love them, but that they would be enjoyed by any age up to 93. I love a book that breaks down the age barriers and just is. Waiting to be discovered. By anybody.
WHY WRITING?
Because nothing else burns me up on the inside like writing does. I couldn't leave it alone if I tried. More on that later...
WHY ARE YOU RELEASING THE FIRST THREE BOOKS OF IMIRILLIA IN SIX MONTHS TIME?
I wrote The Queen's Gambit, The Ruby Prince, and The Wanderer's Mark together, all at once, as one journey. The books compliment and complicate one another in a way to create a particular experience for the reader, one where they will have journeyed as well. And hopefully, at the end, have an assortment of feelings and thoughts that are their own to smile about or wrestle with, just as each character does. I felt passionate about this. This was important to me. I wanted my early readers to be able to have the same experience as my readers who will pick the books up four years after they are all released.
So, dear reader, you get all three books come January, April, and June/July of 2016. I wouldn't want to keep you waiting.
WHAT ARE YOU WRITING NOW?
Well. Along with getting the first Imirillia books out the door, I also have another novel, a historical novel set in a fictional European city in the 1890's called THE Q, that I will be published later this year. I will let you know what it's about in a few months time, when It's closer to being released.
I am also working on a book called THE BEAST OF TEN.
And several others that I will keep you posted on...
WHAT IF I FIND AN ERROR IN YOUR BOOK?
Yes! Errors. Heaven forbid. No matter how attentive, a few times they do sneak past the copy edits, and try to disguise themselves on the page. But, I have usually found them out. Luckily, on the EBOOKS they are corrected immediately. The print book has to wait until the next edition, but then they are remedied. Hurrah! If you find one in the EBOOK, feel free to e-mail me and it will be resolved!
WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE WRITERS?
Well, if you go to my library, you can see some of my favorite books from childhood. That often correlates. I have yet to discuss those writers that have influenced me greatly as an adolescent and adult. I will, though. I will write a blog post, and/or update the library. I have some books so dear, and some poetry so precise in how it fits against my heart, that I am quite emotional about the works that have made such a difference to me. Keep tabs on me and they will all spill out in time.
CAN YOU READ MY MANUSCRIPT?
I'm sorry, but I am not the best one to do it. The best advice I have to give is to look around at who is in your life. Who you would trust as an alpha reader or beta reader? Work your hardest, and start with them. Also. The writing angels, or fates, or whatever forces that help us writers along, will respond to your efforts. As you write your drafts and look around, you will find the right people to read and advise and critique. This is a wonderful, custom experience for each writer. Be courageous. And keep going. You will find your trusted few who give you the advice and encouragement you need.
CHEERS!
With just two weeks until The Queen's Gambit is released, it's time for the cover reveal! This stunning cover was designed by none other than the incomparable Kevin Cantrell...and I can stare at it for hours on end. It's not every day you get a beautiful designed book cover, with two custom typographies, wrapped in spun gold. I'm completely in love with it. There is so much intricate detail that holding the book in your hands is enchanting. And in two weeks, you can get it on Amazon!
Also...when the design is THIS LOVELY how can you not show off the back cover as well? It's just as swoon worthy.
Sigh. And swoon.
What do you think? Let me know!
Finishing a good year is like finishing a great book. And 2015, you were a pretty great read. A bit unexpected at times, and not how a book usually should end. But, I think it was great. And as it's the prequel to 2016...it was just right.
And, that being said, today we picked up a new one. A fresh book. 365 days for the characters to be introduced, the plot to be revealed, and the situations to play themselves out. I hope to bend over the corners of several days that were extra special, and mark a few moments of beauty here and there. Or take a mental picture of a perfect dialogue exchange. I'm looking forward to you, 2016. I'm expecting you to be a year of changes, and working hard, and getting excited about doing the things I've always wanted to do. And enjoying the wonder that is life. I'm also excited for flowers. I hope to plant a lot of flowers.
You?
"Wear the old coat and buy the new book."
Austin Phelps