Interview With Author Gip Roberts
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I work as a library aide in Oklahoma, USA and have always had an interest in both reading and writing. I live in a tiny house, which besides being low-maintenance and adequate for my needs also makes for a creativity-friendly environment. I’ve actually written three books in my 51-year life, but only had the courage to publish one of them so far.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“The Hedges at Alpine” is my latest book. Because I have social anxiety disorder, I found it very easy to create the protagonist and antagonist and build a story around them. I feel like despite the growing awareness of mental health issues in modern times, this particular disorder is still largely ignored and minimized, and it is my hope that stories like this will help change that.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m probably one of the slowest writers on the planet. Aside from Microsoft Word I don’t use any special tools to speed things up, as I prefer doing things as close to the old-fashioned way as possible. It takes longer, but it also gives me time to analyze every single word and edit as I progress. I don’t sit down and outline an entire story before I start, but I always have a solid idea about the plot before I begin and then I write as though I’m meeting the characters for the first time. As I get to know them, they evolve and grow into complex people complete with character arcs.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
They all have plenty to teach me about writing. Stephen King is a master at creating vivid imagery and atmosphere on the one hand, while some of the famous greats from the past (such as Mark Twain) have taught me a lot about keeping things clear and concise. I’m always on the lookout for ways to improve my writing, so every author I’ve read has influenced me in some way.
What are you working on now?
I’m not actively working on a new book yet, but I am brainstorming ideas for possibly either a historical fiction or suspense thriller as my next project.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve found social media to be an effective starting point. It immediately got my book noticed by everyone on my Facebook friend list, which resulted in a burst of sales. Especially for a new author like me, every little thing helps.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Never fall in love with your own words.” This came from a tough editor who once took the time to read a manuscript I’d submitted to his publishing house and gave me his honest feedback. What he had to say enraged me at first, but I eventually realized through trial and error that every single thing he said was right. “Never fall in love with your own words” meant: “Learn to let go of one’s ego and approach one’s own writing with an openness to criticism and a willingness to learn.”
What are you reading now?
“The Locked Door”, by Freida McFadden. I’m eighty pages into it and can already see she’s a master at suspense.
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