Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I grew up in Surrey, B.C. Canada and served in the military as a Morse code operator, paratrooper and UN peace keeper (former Yugoslavia 1993). I hold a Bachelor of Human Ecology (Nutrition). I have competed in kick-boxing in Canada and Hong Kong and at age 40, won a welter weight championship. I have worked as a crime reporter, wrote over 100 articles and six books, including Reduce Your Alcohol Craving, One Less Victim: a crime prevention manual, Train Her Confident: Women’s Kick-Boxing, Stomach Flattening and Selo (award winning fiction novel).
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Simple Secrets to Handle Your Alcohol Better: Student’s Edition. I was inspired to publish my research about drinking in college so that people can enjoy their alcohol without addiction or the side effects. During the writing of Reduce Your Alcohol Craving, my own sister died of alcohol poisoning. It was at this point, I pushed my doubt as a writer aside and just kept writing.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I set up a schedule to write at least a page at a time and then pay myself a dollar an hour or a dollar a page. On the weekend I spend the money on something fun, like a movie, a trip up Grouse Mountain or an exotic meal.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Authors who have influenced me have been Andrew H. Vachss, Louis L’Amour, David Liss and Stephen King.
The most influential books: Strega by Andrew Vachss, Breaking Writer’s Block Now! by Jerry Mundis, On Writing by Stephen King, Will by G. Gordon Liddy.
What are you working on now?
Fitness/Body Shaping book for women based on 1920 to 1970 actresses and models. It is the return of the hourglass shape that was so popular in the Miss America and Playboy models in the early 20th century.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Public speaking and word of mouth have been the most successful methods. Otherwise articles linking to my website are also effective.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
1. Write what people are interested in.
2. Write like you are working, exercising or studying. Put aside the time, but do not over do it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Keep training and working towards something. You are going to get old anyway.
What are you reading now?
No Angel: My Harrowing Undercover Journey to the Inner Circle of the Hell’s Angels
by Jay Dobyns
What’s next for you as a writer?
How-to videos
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 Lives of Great Men by Plutarch
The Bible
The Koran
Author Websites and Profiles
Doug Setter Website
Doug Setter Amazon Profile