Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was shamed into direct-submitting a manuscript (one I had written 20 years earlier!) to a publisher, by a cable television host. That would be my debut novel, “the thing with feathers,” which released by Tate Publishing in September of 2012.
I’ve won awards for editorials, I’ve won multiple honors for short stories, and now I write historical fiction adventure novels. My next book, “BODIE,” will release on September 17, 2013; it is a “paranormal” adventure, it is historical, and it is based on a true story… my own. Yes, I am an unabashed, albeit mediocre, psychic–how do you think I knew you wanted to interview me? (smile) I am presently putting the finishing touches on my WIP, “Grog Wars,” set in 1850 Portland, Oregon–Shanghai capital of the world. The WIP recently took a 1st Place win in WritersType.com’s March 2013 “First Chapter” international competition.
I geek out over my daughter, Bend Oregon model Laura Kulju, Pit Bulls (I have rescued three: Indy, Sadie, and Leah; they stand at attention when the boss, our 15 year old Pomeranian, speaks) and Wounded Warriors.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Getting “BODIE” published was my dream come true… literally. My sister and I each had a recurring dream which spanned decades–and neither of us knew the other was having such a dream; the same dream. Research told us that sharing such a dream was rare–really rare. I was never actually regressed, as occurs in the story. I didn’t need to, because it turns out life really is stranger than fiction: I happened upon the ghost town, Bodie State Park, in California, accidentally while on vacation. Within minutes of arrival I was able to tell my husband where certain buildings and homes stood, including my own (by the way, the structure on the book cover is The Swazey Hotel–weird, right?)
So, just how much of the story is true history and how much is fiction? I don’t even know that answer, myself. Much of what I thought was creative invention has turned out to be factual. The town was famous for bad whiskey, bad weather, and bad men. It owns the distinction of having been the most violent town in our nation’s history, averaging a murder a day. I have a whole different take on those deaths, but I don’t want to spoil it for you!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Nope. I turn on loud music or television, I get my Pit Bulls playing with their tug-o-war toy, I pour my champagne with orange/peach/mango juice at precisely 4:30 p.m., and I type–often until 2 in the morning. Sometimes I cry when I type, if I have to kill someone who I don’t want to die, and I often laugh out loud at the things my characters do… pretty much as any other author does. Nothing weird.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love “writing the West.” I have to give a nod to McMurty (Lonesome Dove), and L’Amour. I learned how to “show, don’t tell,” by studying the works of Flannery O’Connor, Twain and Conan-Doyle. I learned how to develop rich characters with depth by reading the works of screenwriter Linda Seger and others.
What are you working on now?
My current WIP is (working title) “Grog Wars.” Before there was a Civil War… They called them Brew Wars, in Milwaukee; they were the feared River Wars, in Chicago. But in Portland, Oregon, Shanghai Capital of the world, they were the notorious Grog Wars. Brewing there can be murder. From embezzlement and daring ocean-running’s of prime winter hops, to Shanghai kidnappings through Portland’s underground tunnels and attempted murder; one victimized businessman has had enough. He will have his revenge. But at what cost?
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Currently the lion’s share of my promotions are via social media. I am a member of an authors’ writing group who promote for each on Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and each other’s blogs and websites. I am still new to social media marketing. I am currently working on building my presence on GoodReads, since that’s where the readers are. In fact, I am having my first Giveaway (an autographed ARC hardcover), on GoodReads next week. Wish me luck!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read works from the greats: Twain, Steinbeck, London, Sweazy-Kulju; then put words on paper. You can work from there.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
When I was a young writer… and I mean young: Don’t leave your crayons in the sun.
What are you reading now?
“Redneck P.I.,” by Trish Jackson, “Last Stand at Bitter Creek,” by Tom Rizzo, and a mountain of research materials.
What’s next for you as a writer?
When “Grog Wars,” is finished, I intend to write the screenplay for “BODIE.” There was once a movie offer received for this book; it fell through, but I think I can attract interest again. When I do, I want to have a finished screenplay to offer.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Valley of the Dolls by J. Suzanne
Author Websites and Profiles
Anne Sweazy-Kulju Website
Anne Sweazy-Kulju Amazon Profile
Anne Sweazy-Kulju’s Social Media Links
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