Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello! I live in Chicago with my husband and cat, who occasionally keeps me company while I write. I’ve only written one novel so far but I have shorts available in anthologies and online. I like pie.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Edge of Sundown is a suspense novel about an aging author who pens a conspiracy theory as a way to recapture his glory days, but discovers his fictional world turns out to be true.
I love reading about older protagonists, and this story illustrates how people can be influenced by time and lost opportunity. When you look back and see the road you covered is shorter than the one that lies ahead, what choices do you make?
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I do not have much restraint when it comes to food. But when I get into the groove of writing I sometimes forget to eat, or drink anything other than coffee. My husband has often come in to ask, “Have you even gotten up today?” I’ve also taken notes while driving, which is less than ideal. Don’t tell my husband I said that.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Almost everything I read influences me in some way. I aspire to earn a spot on the shelves next to my favorites. Atticus by Ron Hansen and The Diaries of Jane Somers by Doris Lessing are two that have stuck with me for this project, and I’m completely jealous of Jeanette Winterson’s and Tana French’s talents.
What are you working on now?
I’m outlining a sci-fi novel about drug abuse and time travel that involves a radio ad salesman. And two picture books that may or may not be for kids. And on the rare chance I’m brave enough to look at my old stories, I’m culling pieces for a collection.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m a noob at all this so unfortunately right now it’s Facebook and Twitter. But I’m open to ideas!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t listen to arbitrary rules like “write every day or you’re not legit.” That’s hooey, as long as you continue to devote yourself to the craft and you don’t allow too much time to pass between sessions. Sometimes you need a little time off, and that’s fine. Maybe you write best during a 24-hour marathon on weekends. It counts. Just don’t forget to eat/drink/stretch.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Have others read your work before you submit, and embrace the edit. It’s terrifying, but when you find people you can trust, they’ll help your story go from good to great. They’re that lovely middle ground between writer and reader, and can help you bridge the gap.
What are you reading now?
A ton of picture books, in part for research but also because they’re fun; Roxane Gay’s Bad Feminist; and Jesmyn Ward’s Salvage the Bones.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Adoration from legions of fans? Or so I assume. Twitter said so.
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?
Ha! Notebooks. Cheap ugly ones (with lots of pens!). No better ass-in-chair method than that!
Author Websites and Profiles
Jennifer Worrell Website
Jennifer Worrell Amazon Profile
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