Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am married to my wife, Charmine, and the father of three beautiful girls, Alexis, Cecilia, and Isabella. I am a fan of most genres of books from non-fiction historical and theological to fiction drama, action, fantasy, and comedy. I enjoy music and golf…Well…who really enjoys golf? I am currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and intend to continue my education in a PhD program at Grand Canyon University beginning in the Spring of 2016. I was born and raised near Atlantic City, New Jersey, and currently make my home in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey.
I have written three books which I self-published. I also have four more written and in various stages of editing and revision.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
All three of my published works are part of a Young Adult series: “A Quiver of Cobras”. My most recent is called “Worlds Collide” and is inspired by the world of pop music. The main character is a major female celebrity (think Taylor Swift) and she meets a nobody and falls for him. They come from two completely different worlds and the book is all about what happens when these two worlds collide.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to refrain from writing until I know the characters are real. By this, I mean they are real enough to me that I know them just as well as I know the people in my life.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love medieval literature and particularly enjoy Chaucer’s Canterbury tales for his lively characters.
More recently, my favorite authors are Robert Ludlum, Eric van Lustbader, and Matthew Reilly.
What are you working on now?
I currently have four books in the process of editing and revision. I am writing the second in a Supernatural series. The series is called “The Nico Scarlatti Novels.”
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Nothing beats word of mouth. I have an author website, christophermerlino.net, and an author page on Facebook: Christopher Merlino. Just recently I began seeking out interviews as a means of promoting my work.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. That’s rule number one. Don’t let anything stop you from writing, including “writer’s block.” No matter what, you have to write.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
If at first you don’t succeed, deny you ever tried.
What are you reading now?
Lately, I have been reading a lot of self-published books in the young adult genre.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I am continuing to write all the series I have started. I am also hoping to find a good publishing house to work with.
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 Matarese Circle – Robert Ludlum
Shibumi – Trevanian
Catch-22 – Joseph Heller
Seven Deadly Wonders – Matthew Reilly
Author Websites and Profiles
Christopher Merlino Website
Christopher Merlino Amazon Profile
Christopher Merlino’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile