Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
While I have several novels that will not see the light of day, Leah’s Perfect Christmas is my first published novella. Previous work has appeared under the name R. Rozakis in Cast of Wonders, Daily Science Fiction, Andromeda Spaceways Inflight Magazine, Allegory, Liquid Imagination, Bards & Sages, Weirdbook, Every Day Fiction, and the anthologies Substitution Cipher, Clockwork Chaos, and Baker Street Irregulars II. I was nominated for a Pushcart Prize and won LUMINA’s 2018 Speculative Fiction contest.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Leah’s Perfect Christmas came from irritation at “Hanukkah” themed holiday specials that end with the Jewish character learning to appreciate Christmas. I wanted a character who dealt with Christmas (and romance) on her own terms, and learned a very special lesson that sometimes, Christmas can kind of suck. And that there’s something to be said for your own traditions.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Like a lot of working parent writers, I cram in bits here and there wherever I can make them fit.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I actually usually write more fantasy, but I read a fair amount of romance. I love Courtney Milan and Alyssa Cole, and on the more fantastic side, Lois McMaster Bujold, Mercedes Lackey, and Gail Carriger are all huge influences.
What are you working on now?
I’ve got a fantasy farce my agent is shopping around at the moment. A guy wakes up in what’s very obviously an evil wizard’s lair, with no eyebrows and no memory. It only gradually dawns on him that he is, in fact, the evil wizard. He has a castle, minions, a kidnapped princess, and absolutely NO IDEA what his own evil plan used to be.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m new to this, so bring it on!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing. Last book sucked? Keep writing. Story was rejected? Keep writing. Waiting to hear back from someone? Keep writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Be kind.
What are you reading now?
Just finished Naomi Novik’s The Last Graduate. And now I have to wait for her to finish the trilogy!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’ve got another novel in progress I’m not ready to talk about. Remember the advice about keeping writing?
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’d like to bring some cozy favorites, but I’m too practical. Flora and fauna guides, and a survival manual.
Author Websites and Profiles
Catherine Beck Website
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