Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
What to say??? I find it easier to write a 600 or 700 page novel than complete a bio! So, about me. I’m British born, but have lived the expat life for many years, quiet a few of those in the south of Spain, but mostly I have been living in Africa: South Africa, Kenya and Uganda. So the dark continent tends to touch my writing a little.
Currently I have six books published, Traffik: The Stolen Girls (an Amazon UK bestseller) the story of four girls stolen from their homes and trafficked into Spain where they are forced onto the streets. A story of friendships through adversity, degradation and woe, faith and redemption.
Peninah’s Passion, is my first published book, and is an interracial action romance with a spicy twist.
The Fountain of Saba is my third novel, and although an African adventure type novel also explores the history of Ethiopia, the Solomonic line of emperors, myth and legend, a touch of romance, jeopardy and religion. This is the first book in a trilogy.
Tokoloshe, followed shortly, the second part. Set again in Africa (Zimbabwe mostly) it continues the exploration angle from book one but adds a super natural twist as the protagonists are stalked by the Tokoloshe, a mythical being from Zulu superstition (and a creature that many in southern Africa swear exists).
My fifth novel, The Red Trade, returns once more to Africa, but is more a tale based on fact. Again I travel down the path of human trafficking but highlight the growing trade in human organ trafficking, and the despicable trade in albino children for Muti Killings. If you want an insight into the real conditions and practices of rural Africa, then this is a book that will both shock and enlighten.
Gondell’s Quest is my departure from the path that I know best. A fantasy saga, and by far my longest book to date topping more than 200,000 words (well over 800 pages). The story of an unlikely and unwilling hero who is thrown by a long forgotten family heritage into the war to end all wars. Young Gondell is the Keeper, a title that he doesn’t want, but cannot escape. Destiny awaits him.
In the pipeline… so many works in progress, two books of historical fiction, Crusader, the story of the second crusade to the holy land, and Empire, following the rise of the Persian Empire from Cyrus to Xerxes.
Another fantasy offering, Non Plus Ultra.
The Third part of the trilogy to follow The Fountain of Saba and Tokoloshe… Cryptid (half written)
And finally, a book that is due to be published by the end of 2015: Harvester 7, the introduction to a science fiction trilogy.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Gondell’s Quest, and my inspiration I have to admit is The Lord of the Rings. I remember reading somewhere that Tolkien had commented that he felt the urge to write a ‘really long book’, I have also felt that urge.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not that I can think of, except that I usually write through the night rather than during the day.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Jeff Long – The Descent. I’ve seen some really dreadful reviews, but I think it is wonderful.
Wilbur Smith. An African writer, and one of my all time favs.
And of course, The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings.
What are you working on now?
Undecided at the moment… I will probably finish Non Plus Ultra next.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Amazon
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Believe in yourself, and never give up.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
As above, self belief and stubborness.
What are you reading now?
Dune
What’s next for you as a writer?
To finish all of my work in progress books, before I get sidetracked by new ideas.
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?
LOTR, The Descent and the Bible
Author Websites and Profiles
Andy Lang Website
Andy Lang Amazon Profile
Andy Lang’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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