Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a science fiction/fantasy writer combining fiction with a dash of spice. Candy Savant is my first published novel.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Candy Savant.
The source of inspiration for Elise, the crazed manic megalomaniac overlord who fancies Candy, came years ago. I often develop stories when listening to music. In Elise’s case, I was inspired from the rock band Garbage. This, mixed with one of my favorite novels, Frankenstein, spawned my own wicked creation.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
This a little embarrassing, but one of my favorite things I used to do a lot when I was younger was come up with stories in my head while listening to music. Sometimes the process of just listening to a favorite CD, just listening, and allowing imagination to complete a story when hearing an album from start to finish is pure, free flowing, and without thought. There’s no obstruction with syntax, back story, dialogue, or anything else. It’s pure. Many of my ideas have come from this process.
Other than that, I’m like other writers. I write when I wake up, when on break, during lunch, after dinner, then into the night. Then I write some more. It’s a bit of an obsession, really.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Hmm …
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, of course
American Psycho by Brett Easton Ellis
The Shining by Stephen King
Dune by Frank Herbert
The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley
And who can forget Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James?
What are you working on now?
A contemporary romantic fantasy involving a rather obnoxious Greek goddess and her struggle with mortal lovers. They just seem to keep dying on her.
And, very probably, a sequel to Candy Savant.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
How ‘bout you guys?
And, of course, my author website at alhawke.com.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
On one hand, it is very easy to publish in 2019 and get your idea out into the world. That makes writing an exciting time. It’s also one of the few art forms left where your ideas can remain your ideas in their purest form without outside influence. On the other hand, ease makes it possible to throw things together. Don’t do that.
Of course, with so many books, exposure can be rather daunting. But, if you have a passion for it, I say do it. It’s really cool to see your work out in the world. Super cool.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Live life to the fullest … but if not, write about it.
What are you reading now?
Twilight by Stephanie Meyer
Damned by Chuck Palahniuk
What’s next for you as a writer?
More books.
The contemporary fantasy romance I mentioned is in its final draft phase. After beta reading, editing, more editing, and polishing, it should be good to go. For y’all who liked Candy Savant, you’ll love it!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Fun question.
1) A how to book on surviving on a deserted island (sorry, I couldn’t resist, but I’m not very outdoorsy and otherwise wouldn’t survive very long).
2) The Complete Works of William Shakespeare. I need to read his stuff one day. (kidding aside, hats off to the master).
3) Candy Savant (shameless plug … but I probably would ‘cause I wrote it).
Author Websites and Profiles
A.L. Hawke Website
A.L. Hawke Amazon Profile