Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am the author of ‘The Keeper’s Vow’, a young-adult paranormal story. I live in Japan with my husband and 7 month-old son. I teach at a high-school and absolutely love all of my jobs: mother, writer, school teacher. I originally live in Boise, Id, where my first published novel is set. When I’m not working, I”m day dreaming about my work or trying to stop my son from finding every inch of plastic in our house (it’s his obsession and I wouldn’t mind if I wasn’t absolutely sure he’d in hail the bags!)
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book, the first in the Guardian series, is called ‘The Keeper’s Vow’. I was inspired to write it starting four years ago when I had a thought: “what happens when we don’t tell the people we love the truth—what happens we create the monster inside of them?” In the book, Katie (the main character) slowly peels back her past and realizes that when we lie and hide from the truth, we hurt the people we love most.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think it’s unusual, but I have to day dream and listen to music that moves me emotionally. Also, I don’t write a single word until I know the scene and the emotions pushing each character through it. My best work comes from this process.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Hands down, J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter. I grew up on the series, and even today, I feel magic when I read her books. She writes with Truth and Magic. Another huge influence is Jaclyn Moriarty. The first time I read her books I absolutely knew I had to write. Her books mesmerized me and I knew that was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life: impact readers the way she impacted me.
What are you working on now?
Currently, I’m working Book Two in the Guardian series. It will main take place in or around Gray City as Tristan and Katie are swept up in a power vacuum. Tensions rise between werewolves, vampires, and (to Katie and Tristan’s astonishment) witches: a race the Guardians don’t even know exist.
I’m also working on another huge project that is an Epic fantasy. I can’t go into too much detail here because even I’m not sure how this world will play out.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’d have to say a little bit of everything. I try to support the young-adult contemporary/fantasy/paranormal community through Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter. I hope, in return they will support me.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Many say: Write. Write. Write. But, I believe in: Think. Think. Think.
For me, it’s important to think about the story and the characters. Not about the plot, or X’s hair color. Rather, what is the motivation behind all these seemingly random events or who is X and what are their honest motivations?
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I had a writing teacher in college, Alan Heathcock (author of Volt) and he once made us write down rules. These rules were supposed to be like a vow to ourselves: things we would or wouldn’t do as writers to make great stories. I think all writers should have their own rules. It keeps you honest.
What are you reading now?
I’m trying desperately to trim down the pile I’ve let build up after the birth of my son. but right now, I’m starting Days of Blood and Starlight by Laini Taylor.
What’s next for you as a writer?
NexT? Well after sorting through my epic fantasy I’m going to go one of two ways: YA Contemporary coming of age or a YA Space Cowboy series. I’m all over the place, I know. I can’t help what inspires me.
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?
First, I’d try to argue that my kindle is in fact one book and then take an additional 2-3. However, if I can only take 3-4 hard copies, I’d have to take my Harry Potter’s. I’d carry in the last four (4, 5, 6, and 7) and smother the first three (smallest) in my pants.
Happy Reading everyone!
Author Websites and Profiles
B.F. Simone Website
B.F. Simone Amazon Profile
B.F. Simone’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account