Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born and raised just north of Austin, Texas. At age 19, I moved to Oregon. A writer since a young boy, I have always aspired to be a full time novelist. My favorite authors, Charles Dickens and Dean Koontz, have powerfully influenced my own writing. “Falling Stars” is my debut book, a thriller-suspense novel he hopes will be the first of many to delight and entertain. Prior to publishing my first novel, I have written numerous thriller-suspense novels, learning my craft. These books include: Doorways, Shadows, The Assassin, Civil Strife and This Fiery War.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my latest book is “Falling Stars” and I wanted to write from a pre-teen’s perspective, particularly from a 12 year old’s eyes, but in the context of an adult suspense-thriller story. I thought this would give me a fun challenge as a writer, as well as present a unique story for the genre.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I will write a page, and then go over it 20, 30, 40 times before going to the next page. In this way I perfect my prose, while the characters and story percolate in my mind, and by the time I am ready to write the next page of story, I never have writer’s block. Also, by the time I finish my novel, I have very little editing left to do.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Dean Koontz and Charles Dickens have probably had the most powerful influence upon my writing. I love how they both paint the mind with colors using their words. Their rich portrait of scene, characters, time and place always attracted me.
What are you working on now?
I am working on a new suspense-thriller novel that will be the first in a series. The premise is:
Jack Firestone is a mild mannered courier in Portland, Oregon with a mysterious past he has tried to forget by embracing the mundane. But on what he thinks is a routine delivery, a package is thrust into his hands with a strange note: Go under the Fremont Bridge. Come alone. No police. Ignore these instructions and everyone you love will be dead in 3 days.
Jack is quickly pulled into what soon becomes an international wide conspiracy of the most dangerous terrorists in the world. And it becomes clear what the final endgame is: three American cities will be nuked in 3 days.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I love using the free promotional periods KDP Select offers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Your characters should drive the story. Your characters should surprise you. If you do not necessarily know where the story is going, and are surprised by the twists and turns the plot takes, that will ensure your readers will also be riveted.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Always keep writing. Never quit.
What are you reading now?
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I will be working on the Jack Firestone series mentioned above.
I also may tackle an end-times apocalyptic suspense thriller book.
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 Bible
David Copperfield
The Great Gastby
One Door Away From Heaven
From the Corner of His Eye
Author Websites and Profiles
Daniel Lee Amazon Profile