Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m an Indie Author in New York who spends his time writing and wrangling his 4-year-old son. I spent over a decade planning my fantasy series while working office and retail jobs. I decided that 2013 would be the year I take a risk and push for a career as an author. So far, I have published the first three volumes of my fantasy adventure series and I’m writing the sixth volume as we speak. I kept writing the series even when I wasn’t getting anywhere with query letters, so my writing progress is pretty far ahead of my publishing progress.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Legends of Windemere: Allure of the Gypsies. The entire series is based on a Dungeons & Dragons game that I was a part of in college. It’s been heavily changed to work with the writing medium. My books have been influenced by my love of comic books, fantasy novels, video games, and cartoons.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My most unusual writing habit is that I write in present tense third person. I’m not really sure when it started, but some of my high school friends remember that I did it back then. It was the style I used in college and nobody ever pointed it out to me. So, I was really surprised when I published my first book in February and people told me it was an uncommon writing style. The only other odd habit I have is that I need loud music while I’m writing. It helps me zone out.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Like many fantasy authors, I’m influenced by Tolkien. I feel obligated to say that because I’ve noticed people demand I say it if I don’t mention him. The biggest influence was Fred Saberhagen whose Books of Lost Swords series inspired me to become an author. To this day, I’m not sure why this series sparked my love of writing and the desire to share my stories. I remember the deep and realistic characters within the detailed world that never felt over the top.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on Legends of Windemere: Curse of the Dark Wind. This is the sixth book of my series. Books 4 and 5 are with my friend who does editing. We’re aiming to release the 4th book, Legends of Windemere: Family of the Tri-Rune, in later February/early March.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I couldn’t pick just one website because I use so many. I find new advertising websites every month, so I don’t think a single one is the best. It’s all of them combined. As an Indie Author, I need to gain as much exposure as I can. Using multiple websites at once creates a wider net of influence.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
1. Stay true to your style. People will give advice and you should listen, but never alter the core of your style to please other people.
2. Use blogging to promote your book and yourself. Reveal yourself to be a human being instead of the name on the bottom of your book’s cover.
3. Connect with other Indie Authors because it’s a tighter community than you realize. You will find an amazing level of support from people who are in the same boat you’re trying to get into.
4. Keep writing what you love.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“The success of one Indie Author is a success for all of us.”
A fellow author told me this when I had started and it rings very true. I try very hard to succeed and pass my experience on to other Indie Authors. There is a stigma on Indie Authors that we’re all of low quality and don’t take the trade seriously. When one of us succeeds, we break down that belief and open the door for those who are still trying to get into the business.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading Ranger’s Apprentice: The Kings of Clonmel. I hate to admit that I’ve been reading this book for the last few months. I keep getting distracted by my own books and helping other Indie Authors with end of the year releases.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to keep on writing and stay the course. My plan is to make 2014 bigger than 2013 and prove that I can make a living as an Indie Author.
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?
The Hobbit, Complete Works of Edgar Allan Poe, Ender’s Game, and How to Build a Canoe from a Palm Tree.
Author Websites and Profiles
Charles E Yallowitz Website
Charles E Yallowitz Amazon Profile
Charles E Yallowitz’s Social Media Links
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