Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born and raised in Fredericton, New Brunswick. For years I had worked in the customer service and support industry. Recently I’ve has decided to pursue a career as an author, as there was always a writing seed within me. But it has only been in the past few years that this seed sprouted. Since then, I’ve nurtured and maintained it’s growth daily.
In my debut novel “Hummingbird”, I bring to life a believable narrative, with a protagonist that almost literally sings off the page. I love creating vivid and well defined characters you’re sure to fall in love with.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Hummingbird is the title of my debut novel. Honestly the idea just kind of pop out of nowhere. To quote Fred Allan Wolf the idea popped the quiff. The title was originally “How to Catch A Hummingbird” but that’s way to close to a classic. There is a strong hummingbird theme in the story so it had to be called Hummingbird. From the character being petite, her tattoos, her Hummingbird guitar, it just fit.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I become inundated in my characters, which are all first person pov. For every protagonist I’ve created unique music playlist to match the characters personality. And I use that music, which constantly grows, to write the book. I always have to listen to music when I write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The Catcher in the Rye, which is funny because I can’t stand the story, or the character Holden. I think that’s because I read the book 20 years too late. But I LOVE the writing style of J. D. Salinger.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a couple of books. Both of which are genre fiction. One is Sifi and the other is Fantasy. It’s a bit out of my forte but I’m really enjoying the use of my imagination. In particular with the fantasy world building. I do have a Dungeons & Dragons RPG background. I played it daily as a child both as a player and a Dungeon Master.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
At first my Facebook account helped a lot. But I’m not finding social media as a useful tool in the long run. I think the best method is to offer free promotions. Always a nice boost.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Self publishing is a great option you should really consider, with great royalty plans. Often time even a signed contract with a publisher you are forced to promote your book yourself. I suggest you do your research but keep writing, never stop writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
My book was hard to read because it was originally written phonetically. That was a huge blow to me. The book was essentially done and I was devastated, but soon realized how valuable the feedback was. I spent hours searching and changing words. So it turns out feedback has been the best advice to date.
What are you reading now?
Dragonlance Chronicles by Margaret Wise and Tracy Hickman. It’s a re-read from my youth.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Publishing two “book ones” from two trilogies.
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?
Bhagavad-Gita
One of my many Zen books (so many to choose)
Conversations with God (one of them)
How to survive on an island (I’m sure there’s one out there)
The moon is a harsh mistress
Author Websites and Profiles
Gavin Phillips Website
Gavin Phillips Amazon Profile
Gavin Phillips’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account