Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
In the past, I have written a couple novels, several short stories, and dozens of songs.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
DARKNESS ON THE HORIZON. I had the idea many years ago but initiated the writing process only two years ago. The seed of the story was inspired by the genre and my desire to create a story that didn’t necessarily follow genre rules.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think I have any unusual writing habits. My stories unfold in a natural way, because I don’t use outlines. So, I like to create a wall of visuals for characters, settings, locations, and other important elements of the story. I also create a soundtrack to accompany scenes. During the creation process, sometimes I sit, close my eyes, and let the scene play out in my mind as I take notes. But I think many authors probably incorporate the same tools and methods.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m not really influenced by an author’s body of work. But there are certain books that spark my writing fire. WATCHERS by Dean Koontz. THE SAVAGES by Matt Whyman. THE HOUSE OF THE SCORPION by Nancy Farmer. And books that have stayed with me forever: THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK, THE BOXCAR CHILDREN, and HEAVEN by V.C. Andrews.
What are you working on now?
I recently set aside two stand-alone novels, so I could focus on the sequel to DARKNESS. I’m enjoying myself as I write and experience the story of the characters. BEFORE THE SUN RISES will be released in August or September of this year.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I suppose Instagram and Facebook have been relatively successful promoting my book. But, as a self-published author, I detest the daily routine of posting and checking those sites. (Plus, how many damn selfies do I have to take and share?) I’m much more satisfied and appreciative of outlets such as Awesome Gang that provide a wider audience for my work.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Writing advice: just write. Edit, edit, edit. Then revise and polish. Edit again. Polish again. Read the novels you love and read the novels you force yourself to finish reading. Learn from the work of others.
New self-published author advice: be prepared to work your butt off. Unless you have a couple friends helping out, you are a team of ONE. Research every topic that comes to mind. Do everything you can to make your book a success.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Shut the door. When writing, focus on your story and tune-out everything else.
What are you reading now?
I’m writing, so I’m not reading a lot. But I recently started SPEAK by Laurie Halse Anderson. And I’d like to get to GIRL IN PIECES by Kathleen Glasgow and THE ATROCITIES by Jeremy Shipp.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Work on BEFORE THE SUN RISES. After its release, I can concentrate on two other novels. I also have two writers that I’m mentoring and an author that I’m going to walk through the self-publishing process.
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 Diary of Anne Frank, The Boxcar Children, and Heaven (all mentioned above.)
Author Websites and Profiles
Christopher Renna Website
Christopher Renna Amazon Profile
Christopher Renna’s Social Media Links
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