Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a freelance journalist for magazines and newspapers, former humor columnist, joke writer and author of two books – How Not to Parent, based on my humor column, and Jon Caruso: Spy in the Making.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Jon Caruso: Spy in the Making. I’ve been an avid reader of suspense and thrillers since I was a kid and always wanted to write a suspense novel. I finally did, with a lot of humor thrown in.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I do my best writing on my iphone, while taking public transportation.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Dean Koontz, Stephen King, David Baldacci, James Patterson, to name just a few
What are you working on now?
The second book in the Jon Caruso series and a couple of short stories that, like Jon Caruso, are fun and combine humor and suspense.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Social media – Twitter and Facebook— and interviews.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Book marketing is difficult. Put as much effort into your marketing plan as your book. Also, don’t wait until your book is done to develop your marketing plan. Create it as you write your book.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
There’s a great quote about the writing process: “It is perfectly okay to write garbage—as long as you edit brilliantly.” C. J. Cherryh.
What are you reading now?
The Girl Who Played with Fire, Stieg Larsson
What’s next for you as a writer?
Complete my current projects and start outlining, planning book 3 in the Jon Caruso series.
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?
It’s tough to narrow it down to 3 or 4 but I’d go with a few I’ve never read: Big Trouble (Dave Barry), The Girl on The Train (Paula Hawkins), and The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest (Stieg Larsson)
Author Websites and Profiles
Brad Manzo Website
Brad Manzo Amazon Profile
Brad Manzo’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account