Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
This is my first novel in the Infinity Engines series, but I have worked on a number of scripts for TV before this. One of which actually got picked up by the BBC!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The book is called Anachronist, it was inspired by the TV shows I used to watch in the 70s. Doctor Who, Blakes 7, The Tomorrow People. Classic SciFi has always been a great love of mine. I wanted to write my own version of a time travel story, and all started with the idea of an old guy (the colonel) who hoards crazy old objects in his house, each one a link to a different part of the past. It all really developed from that one scene.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to write on the train (because I still have a day job!). For some reason, the motion of the journey seems to help me concentrate.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My favourite authors are Asimov and Iain M Banks. The foundation series has stuck with me since I was a kid, and I tend to have to re-read it every three or four years. I also liked the Void books by Peter F. Hamilton and there’s always time for a little Tolkein.
What are you working on now?
The follow up to the Anachronist. Book 2 is going to take the story into some very interesting places.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Definitely get on Goodreads and start building your readers. I also have hooked up with the team over at drwho-online.co.uk, as well as using a few promo sites like Awesomegang. It seems to work well when the books are free, but there is no magic bullet unfortunately, marketing my book takes just as much time as writing the next!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Since I really am one myself I’m not sure I qualify as a giver of advice yet. I would definitely suggest you research your marketing plan carefully, check out what others have done and learn from their mistakes. Some people are very kind in their sharing of failures.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up – and never, ever, ever respond to negative reviews…
What are you reading now?
Just finished the Clockwork Angel, by Cassandra Clare – just checking out the competition… but I’m also trying to get through the Terror by Dan Simmons.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to write a short story about one of the main characters for NaNoWriMo in November – 15,000 words in one month should be an interesting challenge.
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?
Asimov’s Foundation, Foundaiton and Empire, Second Foundation and Dune by Frank Herbert
Author Websites and Profiles
Andrew Hastie Website
Andrew Hastie Amazon Profile
Andrew Hastie’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account