Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have been a writing professionally for a little over 20 years now and just recently have revived my passion for book writing. I have an incredible family that inspires me every day and are partially why I decided to give writing novels and short stories a try. I have within the last 3 years wrote 6 indie books. These include crime, horror and exotic genres.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book does not yet have a finished title but it is a collection of short stories. I mainly get the ideas from my kids and their friends. Playing pretend seems to light the creative side for all of us in one way or another.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t consider my habits unusual anymore but some might. I find it a little strange when I get on a roll the idea will only stay for a limited amount of time and I seem to try and get it all written out at once. This usually leaves a complete mess and I have to organize it later but the main idea at least gets written down once the thought is gone.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
It is really sad that I do not recall the titles or authors anymore but when I was really young I enjoyed the books that let you choose your own fate. The story would start and at the end of the paragraph it would give you options and tell you to turn to a certain page to continue. At the time the options seemed endless and to a young reader and future author, I loved the idea of being able to pick my adventure. Having an endless adventure was the best adventure in itself, but being able to take readers on this journey inspired me more.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I mainly use Amazon and Facebook for promoting my books.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice to new authors would be to keep it simple and short. Write a short story and pass it out to everybody you can possibly get ahold of. Feedback is absolutely crucial, do not only include sharing your work with family members and friends. Give out samples of your work of random people along with a link so that they can give you the feedback. You don’t want to spend your time writing a 400-page novel and then realize you have gaps or bad writing technique that should be addressed first.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I ever received was to take your time and pay attention. Following this advice helps you discover an endless world around you.
What are you reading now?
Currently, I don’t have a lot of free time to enjoy a good novel. Although there is something to be said about the time-honored classics of Dr. Seuss and Geoscience 101.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’,m currently planning on writing at least 4 children’s books by October and hopefully continuing the series of two other titles that I have published already.
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 first and most important book would be The boy scouts survival guide. Distilling water might be a very important tip to have. My second book would be anything by Edgar Allen Poe, and the last book would have to be a copy of War and Peace. I might finally have the time to finish it.
Author Websites and Profiles
Edward M. Clark Amazon Profile
Edward M. Clark’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile