Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
An American abroad for years and years who has lived or worked in six countries on three continents, the longest in Germany, where I currently live. I’m a communications professional with 25 years of expertise in a variety of corporate roles, including a broad range of communications disciplines, technical writing and translation, and corporate strategy. Reading and writing are my passions, when I’m not hiking one of the amazing trails in Germany or elsewhere. My motto is “fight the hype” and I enjoy taking a unique, perhaps unorthodox, view of the current topics and trends.
I published my first (business) book this year in June “The Accidental Change Agent” on Amazon in paperback and ebook. I still can’t believe I’m an author!
I’ve also written a LGBT+ historical fiction novel (ready for pitching), a detective story (editing), a thriller/horror screenplay (editing) and numerous short stories. Some of the short stories have been published on Reedsy.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book that is in editing mode is a detective story set in the Ozarks in Arkansas. I love reading detective stories and decided to write my own! I chose the location because I was there in 2015 and just loved it. For me it was a mysterious area with a delicious small-town feeling.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think so. When writing a novel, I always set myself a daily goal of 1-3 pages. It may not seem like a lot, but you really make progress when you work this way. When I was in the process of writing the first draft of my detective story, I was really surprised when one day, only about a month after I started, I was done (well done with the first draft)
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My favorite authors are W. Somerset Maugham, David Leavitt, Agatha Christie, Gladys Mitchell and many others. I love reading all kinds of books, thought usually they are historic fiction, non-fiction biographies, or detective stories.
What are you working on now?
I’m taking a deep look at my screenplay and will be starting a complete rework soon. Otherwise, I’ve been doing a detailed marketing plan for my business book “The Accidental Change Agent” and been trying to write a short story once a week. I also just started a blog on Living Abroad (https://erikmey.wordpress.com/), which has gotten so much great feedback and questions.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m just starting promoting my business book and just trying channels and content out. I’ve been focusing on Twitter and LinkedIn for the moment because they are more business-focused channels, but there’s lots more to do!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My first goal in writing was always to be able to show that I could complete a work (even if just a first draft). Don’t make your goal to become a bestselling author or who you will be gravely disappointed.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t worry what other people think. Be yourself!
What are you reading now?
I’m reading “Deep Work” by Cal Newport, “Fascism” by Madeleine Albright, and “Death in White Pyjamas” by John Bude.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’ll be starting the editing process for my detective story soon and let’s see where that takes me. I’m going to continue writing short stories. And when I’ve revamped the screenplay, I’ll be in touch with Hollywood to pitch it. Lots going on for me at the moment and it’s wonderful!
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?
Agatha Christie “4:50 from Paddington”; an Atlas; The Complete Works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Author Websites and Profiles
Erik Meyers Amazon Profile
Erik Meyers’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account