Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Well, ever since I was a little kid I’ve had my nose stuffed in a book. Now that I’m an adult, not much has changed! Reading has always been one of my favorite things to do, so I’ve always had a fascination with writing stories and building worlds. As of now, I’ve only released my short novella to draw attention as I finish my full-length novel.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Knight’s Gauntlet: From Slayer to Shephard just released a few days ago. I would say my perception of the world and how harsh it can be has shaped the plot and overall theme of the series to come, but a lifetime of reading fantastical stories wrought with magic and danger have influenced the world design and lore of my series.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t really think so, but I don’t believe many people realize how strange they can be. For example, sometimes I enjoy coffee and a small breakfast before getting started. At other times, I’ll push myself to stay up into the wee hours of the night until I’m about to pass out, then start plotting out and tough spots I’ve been stuck on. You’d be amazed at what you come up with when you’re half asleep, it’s like digging up diamonds then being the one to cut them down the next day.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I remember reading books like Harry Potter and Eragon as a child and dreaming about how much better the world could be if we actually had the ability to impact it in a tangible way. I think that’s why I love writing Fantasy stories so much, I’ve always thought that magic was an allegory for change and hope. Which, to me, is something we all desire desperately.
What are you working on now?
I am currently finishing the second part of my Knight’s Gauntlet series, The Trail of Cinders. It takes place where the introductory novella leaves off. Fun fact, my first book was actually the prologue for this novel. It just sort of took on a life of its own!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Ha, I’m far from qualified to answer this question. I CAN tell you what Google has to say about it, however! Network, network, network! Even if it’s just a Facebook fan page or a Twitter… page? I’m not sure, I don’t really use social media very much. There are quite a few sites like this one, however, that are amazing for getting more eyes on your new book.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just write. It’s so easy to get stuck trying to craft the perfect line just to lose your momentum as you stop to fix a small typo. Just focus on getting your message on paper and telling your story to the world, then worry about the prose. That’s what editing is for!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Not to be cheesy, but don’t be afraid of trying. It’s scary as hell putting yourself out there. I’ve been told that there is no shame in failure, only in accepting that failure as reality. To me, that means you should let your creativity flourish, and treat every bump along the road as a rainstorm to help it grow.
What are you reading now?
I’ve been rereading The Hellequin series, and The Kingfountain Series. Two of my favorite stories! And an unhealthy amount of writing workshop books, the vegetable of the reading world. It’s good for you, but is generally bland if not prepared correctly.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More writing! While obvious on the surface, that’s the extent of my plans so far. I want to keep writing and improving with each book and every series that I finish, until I can look back and be proud of what I did with the time I had here.
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 hollow out a dictionary and stuff my Kindle in it. What, that’s cheating you say? Fine, that’s fine. Probably The Brilliance Trilogy, and The Foot Book. It was my favorite as a kid, and I think that in this situation I could use a little comfort..
Author Websites and Profiles
Cody Knight Amazon Profile