Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I love reading, always have, and in particular I enjoy historical fiction, mysteries, and fantasy. I write a blend of all three. I currently have published only one novel – Murder In Absentia. However I am working on the second novel now, and have published several short stories with the same protagonist.
I call my work Storied of Togas, Daggers, and Magic – for lovers of Ancient Rome, Detective Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy – as they draw on elements from all these genres.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Quite simply, Murder In Absentia is the story I always wanted to read. I loved historical fiction about ancient Rome since the first time I read Asterix. I’ve read a lot of classic sci-fi and fantasy in my youth, as well as classic detectives. Lately I’ve read a lot Roman detective mysteries, like those of Steven Saylor and Lindsey Davis. So when it came time to write, I knew exactly what I wanted.
The story itself is a classic noir detective. A young man dies, his powerful family wants to know why. Felix goes after the people responsible, and gets drawn into a little circle of nasty people. What makes this story unique – besides the very surprising plot twists – is the setting. The melding of Ancient Roman culture (I’ve done hours and hours of research into every aspect) together with the high-fantasy magical world.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have met many authors, so I would be hesitant to call any habit unusual. We authors are a weird bunch.
That said, I have cackled in evil glee as I was writing a few scenes in my novels…
Also, cats. I like it when they come sit with me when I write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
So many! On the Roman historical fiction side, probably Colleen McCullough, Steven Saylor and Ruth Downie stand out. The last two also cover historical mystery novels, and I will only add the amazing Boris Akunin for his incredible Erast Fandorin series.
On the fantasy side too many to mention, from classics like JRR Tolkein and Fritz Leiber, to modern authors like Neil Gaiman and Terry Prachett.
There are other historical fantasy detectives out there too… I’ll just mention Barry Hughart, with Bridge of Birds. One of my all-time favourite books!
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on the second full-length Felix mystery, titled In Numina. It is a tale of haunted housed and household gods – Felix is hired to deal with some highly unusual events, afflicting a rich landowner’s apartment blocks.
It will be published in 2017.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
As a first time indie author, my primary focus is on reviews. These for the basis of everything else, from Amazon and Goodreads recommendations, to selection into premium programs.
To get the initial reviews was a very personal and intensive process. Reaching out and connecting with potential readers, handing out review copies and following up. My book’s Amazon reviews and ranking are doing really well, so I am starting to ease up on this and hand it over to the more automated processes like BookBub. This in turn frees me to have more time to write the next novel – and having further novels is a key to long term success.
That said, I am always up for more reviews – If anyone is interested in my works, they can reach out to me through Twitter and Facebook.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Perseverance.
It just takes a lot of perseverance to finish the first draft. And then to edit it. And then edit again. And then publish. And then market. Just stick to it, do a little bit every day, and eventually good things happen.
I’ve also written an article for Lifehacker with some other tips, about how to write, edit, publish and market books (when going through the self-publishing route). While I have learned and grew since publishing that article, the essence remains the same:
• Writing: Just do it. A little bit, but every day. Keep at it, until you finish that draft.
• Publishing: Never skimp on a good editor and a professional cover art. The difference they make is huge.
• Marketing: Start with reviews, build up to automated processes as you grow. It’s a job for the long haul, not overnight fame.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Keep writing.
Don’t skimp on cover and a good editor.
And keep writing more.
What are you reading now?
Alternating between Ruth Downie’s Medicus series (an unlikely detective set in Roman Britain of the 2nd century CE), and the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher (because so many files said that Felix reminds them of Harry Dresden in a Toga, I figured I should get around to checking it out).
What’s next for you as a writer?
Write more books!
It’s really that simple. I enjoy the process, I write the stories I want to read, so I write more.
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 assume you don’t mean “desert island survival guide for dummies” and “how to build a viable aircraft from coconut fronds”, because otherwise those should top the list.
Assuming you mean what three books I would take with me to while away the time on that island – I would be at a loss. So many books I’ve read and enjoyed over the years. So many books still on my to-read list.
Some of the very top (and they are series)
– Barry Hughart’s Bridge of Birds and the rest of the series
– Asterix (it’s my comfort reading for the soul)
– Cambridge Ancient History (will take a few years to get through it all – might as well learn something new)
Author Websites and Profiles
Assaph Mehr Website
Assaph Mehr Amazon Profile
Assaph Mehr’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account