Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I love to read and create worlds of my own. It’s been a passion of mine for more than half of my life.
I also find solitude in music, art and nature. I have written many short stories over the years, but have shared very little of them. I currently have two Self Published novels. The Dancing Abyss and Intelligence. I am currently working on a third.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Intelligence, I have been a music fan my entire life. I keep up with Music News frequently and over the last few years there has been much talk and speculation over the years of conspiracy within the industry. I thought such a plot would make a good story.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have many unusual writing habits, some of which have forced me into seclusion and solitude of the country! I often read my work out loud to myself to catch errors I would otherwise miss. There have been times Neighbors have thought I was talking to myself during these times.
When I get in the zone, I also tend to laugh excessively or cry out loud.
I also sometimes outline my stories, with postits all over my walls, and sometimes write out of order.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve always loved classics. Such as Mark Twain, Charles Dickens and Poe. More modernly, I’ve read books by Stephanie Meyers, J.K. Rowling, Veronica Roth, Anne Rice and Stephen King. I think that Roths Divergent my have had some influence with Intelligence, with the way the world was formed, and how it will continue to flesh out in later books.
What are you working on now?
As a creative person, I find I tend to bore very easily, so I try not to stick with one thing too long. After recently finishing Intelligence instead of jumping right into the second novel, I decided to work on something else. It’s a murder mystery, based on a true crime that took place over 14 years ago in my home town. The story has always facinated me, as there is a local ghost story surrounding it and it took place on Halloween night. The spookiest night of the year and also my favorite day.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I find Twitter is my most reliable method of promotion.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Writing is a struggle, and not always rewarding. There is going to be rejections and bad reviews. Learn from it and move on. Don’t let it bring you down.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never give up, no matter what life throws your way.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading a book called, The Black River Road Tragedy. It is mainly for research for my latest project.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m still in the early stages of my murder mystery. After that I may write the follow up to either Intelligence of The Dancing Abyss. If not, I may write something new. I’m always writing though. Even if it doesn’t become anything.
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 certainly bring Tom Sawyer, Anne of Green Gables, Anne of Avonlea and Anne of the Island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Clara Cook Website
Clara Cook’s Social Media Link
Facebook Profile
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