Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live with my family in Florida and I have twenty-five books now–mostly Japanese instructional titles (for English speakers learning Japanese), but I am working on building several fiction series in the thriller, mystery, or sci-fi genres.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Peace Party Massacre!
It is the third book in the Agora mystery series. In each of these 10k word or so long short stories (or short novellas), Carl Brooke, the last surviving member of the esteemed Agora Society reflects on a particular case. This episode has Mr. Brooke and other members in search of a kidnapped man shortly after the Civil War.
If you like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes books or stories set in the 19th century with a touch of mystery, you will love Two Tocks before Midnight.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I try to write at least a paragraph a day. Of course, I hope for many more words, but if I can only manage a paragraph, I don’t feel too bad.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
In no particular order: Brad Thor; Preston & Child; G.K. Chesterton; C.S. Lewis; Bill Bryson; and Brandon Sanderson.
What are you working on now?
A non-fiction book on online business–I’ve been self-employed with 100% internet-based income since 2003 and I hope this book will help someone somehow.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
A newsletter list is the most powerful. Also, if you have spent time helping other authors, they will help you when it’s your turn.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
1) Write everyday–even if it is only a paragraph.
2) Connect with other authors in your genre.
3) Help promote other authors and they will help you later.
4) Build a newsletter list.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
For the youth: I read some economists searched the U.S. census records and discovered that 99% of the people in the middle class or above did three basic things. In other words, if you do these three things, you are all but guaranteed to be in the middle class or above:
1) Get a four-year degree in any subject (I’m not sure this is as important if you get good training / certification for the next requirement)
2) Get a full-time job (no matter how crappy at first)
3) Most importantly, wait until marriage to have children.
The instant gratification mentality will not help you in the real world. Not for writing, not for life.
Also, Milton Friedman’s “There’s no such thing as a free lunch.”
What are you reading now?
John Ringo’s Live Free or Die. I’m halfway through and I absolutely love it. I’ll be catching up on his back titles.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’ve spent the past year really focusing on creating, marketing, and selling physical products. For 2017, I will focus on writing. Can’t wait!
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?
My Bible. The thickest collection of Shakespeare plays I can find. The OED or I guess that won’t qualify as a single book… The ODE.
Author Websites and Profiles
Clay Boutwell Website
Clay Boutwell Amazon Profile
Clay Boutwell’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account