Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a native of Atlanta, Georgia. I graduated from the University of Georgia (accounting degree, like all aspiring writers) and received an MBA from the University of Tampa. I spent three years as an artillery officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, and then had a 30+ year career in business. I have written four novels and two eBooks. My wife and I continue to reside in the greater Atlanta area.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
That Deadly Space. It is a Civil War historical novel. I grew up in the Deep South and became interested in the Civil War at an early age. That Deadly Space was the most enjoyable project I have completed to date. It was inspired by my interest in keeping this critically important time in our nation’s history within reach of today’s readers of all ages.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I still write and edit in longhand. While I am generally computer literate, and while I believe the development of word processing is right up there with sliced bread, there is still a need in me to have pen in hand.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Herman Wouk with Winds of War and War and Remembrance gave me an appreciation for, and partiality to, the historical novel. Shelby Foote made the Civil War all the more vital and important to me. Pat Conroy pushed me to think outside the box. And William F. Buckley, Jr gave me many examples of how the skillful use of humor can enrich and sharpen a writer’s words.
What are you working on now?
I have just completed How to Become a Successful, Effective Communicator. It is an eBook collection of twenty-two articles I have written over the past several years about written and verbal communications.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Social media and posting blogs on my website.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up. There can be lots of rejection and an impersonal nature to the writing life. Develop a thick skin. Keep improving and don’t stop believing in yourself. Just don’t give up.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
A close friend told me years ago in high school that it seemed the only way I ever learned anything was the hard way. I’ve kept that in mind since, and by doing so, I have no doubt avoided many “hard ways.” I still thank him for that advice.
What are you reading now?
The American Spirit by David McCullough.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Perhaps a sequel to That Deadly Space.
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?
1. The Complete Works of Shakespeare
2. Baseball: An Illustrated History
3. The Bible
4. How to Build a Raft
Author Websites and Profiles
Gerald Gillis Website
Gerald Gillis Amazon Profil
Gerald Gillis’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
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