Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello, My name is Cindi Walton and I love life. I am a Northern Michigan native and love my neck of the woods even though I could do with a little less winter. I am married to a great guy Michael and have 2 grown daughters Candi and Kristy. I have the honor of being Nana to William Michael and Kaleigh Jean. Last but not least is my standard poodle, Maxwell House…I guess you have already figured out that I am a coffee lover. I believe that we all need a regular dose of nonsense and silliness in our lives…it helps to keep our inner child well fed. I am all about family and both of my books reflect that. I am also the founder of Sock Monkey Nation, a kindness and anti-bullying campaign where we believe “Bullies aren’t born, they are created. For more information please visit us at http://www.sockmonkeynation.com I am the author of 10 books and all book sales fund our cause.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My newest book, “Friendly Fire” is a comedy romance. I am curious about those who have chosen to “life off the grid” and have often wondered “What if you were suddenly thrown into the lifestyle?” One day while drinking a cup of coffee and researching the various degrees of living off the grid, I suddenly knew that I wanted to take a city girl who was working in a coffee house and build a story around her, and so it began… A journey from a Chicago coffee shop to an off the grid community in Northern Wisconsin…throw in two handsome journalist and a standard poodle and a romantic comedy of errors was born.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I love to write in my favorite fuzzy bathrobe with a cup of coffee at my side. I also keep a journal next to my bed where I jot down my thoughts and the beginnings of poems as they come to me throughout the night~
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I am in love with Dr. Suess, Shel Silverstein, Debbie Macomber and last, but not least, anything that Charles Dickens has written. Since most of my books are written for children and often written in a poetic style , Suess and Silverstein have always tickled my “writing fancy.”
What are you working on now?
I just finished up “Friendly Fire” and I’m mulling over a serious novel and another children’s book of poetry. My brain is a little frazzled, so I need to step back, take a moment, reflect on where I have been, AND, then figure out where I want to go.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
To be honest, as far as marketing my work, that is the hardest aspect of the entire process. I think it comes down to doing your research, being willing to roll up your sleeves and promote in whatever way you can, be it print, social media or word of mouth.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t write for the fame, recognition or money, but rather write for yourself. Life is too short and precious time is wasted when you wait for praise from others…My motto: “Dream it, try it, achieve it, baby steps along the way!”
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up or give in…instead, give it your all!
What are you reading now?
Actually, I am reading the Harry Potter Book for the first time.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I am thinking of writing something of a more personal and serious note. As a recovering bulimic, I am sickened by the body shaming of our culture today. I would like to write a novel that walks the reader through the life of a woman who struggles with her looks on a daily basis.
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?
Any of Dickens work, Where the sidewalk ends, My bible and a survival manual!
Author Websites and Profiles
Cindi Walton Website
Cindi Walton Amazon Profile
Cindi Walton’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account