Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am 35 years old and live in Nottinghamshire, England with my wife Jo and two boys Jacob and Isaac. Writing is just one of my passions as well as surfing which may seem bizarre for someone who is landlocked and couldn’t be further than the coast but I also enjoy travelling which is just as well. I have just finished my debut piece of fiction ‘Wizard Science’ which is being sold on Amazon.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
‘Wizard Science’ is my latest book. I was inspired to write it after reading an article on Dark Energy and Dark Matter. Many scientists believe these two phenomena make up the majority of what makes up the Universe and yet they can’t prove it and know so little about them. What can be more exciting to write about than something so mysterious!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Most of my ideas come to me when I have been exercising. I like to think that since I took up writing my running speeds have increased as I race home in order to write the ideas down before I forget them (my memory has never been up to much). Also if the wife wants me to do chores round the house it comes in useful as an excuse that I just need to write this down before I forget. Although that excuse will probably no longer wash after she has read this article.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love science fantasy books and ‘Lord of the Rings’ is my all time favourite book and made me fall in love with the world of magic. I have also been influenced by Mo Hayder who is a brilliant writer. Her stories leave you cursing the characters as you feel physically angry that they can get away with the crimes they have committed. It is rare that a book can draw you in and have such a physical effect on you.
What are you working on now?
I am working on promoting my ebook at the moment but will be working on the sequel to Wizard Science as my next project.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am new to this game so would appreciate any advice from any authors with more experience. So far this site seems a really good promotional tool for new authors.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep going. Who knows one day with a bit of luck and a lot of effort you will make it. At least that’s the hope I’m clinging too ha ha!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Gandhi said ‘Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. I just want to clarify I wasn’t actually there when Gandhi said these words!
What are you reading now?
I am currently reading ‘Hybrid’ by Justin Anderson. It is a good adrenalin fast paced read of a dystopian society in the future.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I am hoping to get my book reviewed by some independent people so if there is any would be reviewers out there, please give my book ago and let me know what you think.
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?
I would bring a book on surfboard construction because if I make it as a writer I am hoping to move to a desert island of my own anyway 😉 and maybe a survival book written by Ray Mears or Bear Grylls because I am a big fan of staying alive as well and of course Wizard Science by Alan Mackie (sorry had to get that in again ha ha)
Author Websites and Profiles
Alan Mackie Amazon Profile