Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have written two novels. The first, “The Real Truth,” was a political satire/literary fiction work that is a new spin on the Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol,” featuring a talk show host who is visited by ghosts from history. It’s like the Dickens novel, except nobody learns any lessons and it doesn’t go where you’d expect. My second novel, “Murder, She Vaped: The Ironic T-Shirt Caper,” is a humorous mystery, and hopefully the start of a series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Murder, She Vaped: The Ironic T-Shirt Caper” actually came from a mistake. Two co-workers at an old job were talking behind my back, and I had headphones on. I thought they were talking about a TV show called “Murder, She Vaped,” but it turns out I was way off. But they told me I should write that, because it sounded funny. The rest is history.
I’ve always loved mysteries, ever since my mother introduced me to Poirot and Miss Marple when I was a kid. I decided to write “Murder, She Vaped” after reading “The Spy Who Came In From The Cold.” I loved how that novel manages to be about more than a spy tale, and how the twist at the end is related to the themes of the book, not just a clever hidden plot device. That drove me to work on something that inspired me artistically in addition to providing a fun whodunnit.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I am very boring when it comes to my writing habits. I write for 30 minutes a day, more if I’m lucky. I have a busy schedule, so I just sit down and do my work. I spend a couple months outlining the book, then go about writing it. I always order several proofs and go over them with a highlighter to make sure everything is in place properly.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Among my biggest influences are Philip Marlowe, Tobias Wolff, John Swartzwelder, T.C. Boyle, Ernest Hemingway, and Kurt Vonnegut. I think the best book ever written is “The Great Gatsby” and the funniest book ever written is “Will Not Attend” by Adam Resnick.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on the second novel in the “Murder, She Vaped” series, which will involve a much more complicated mystery and plenty of twists. After that, I think I’ll take a break and try another genre.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Goodreads can be a bit of a social media wormhole, but it’s free, so you really should give it a try.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
No one cares how many books you sell. Just write the thing, put it out, and work on the next one. Enjoy the day to day process.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Here’s my advice on women: Don’t give them nicknames like jumbo or boxcar & always get receipts. Makes you look like a business guy” – Homer Simpson
What are you reading now?
“The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.” My mom says it’s good.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m gonna keep writing books, and maybe make some more movies. We’ll see.
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 Time Machine Did It” by John Swartzwelder, “Will Not Attend” by Adam Resnick, “Brain Droppings” by George Carlin, and “Garfield Worldwide.” I figure I will need some laughs if I’m going to be stranded on an island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Gregg Maxwell Parker Website
Gregg Maxwell Parker Amazon Profile
Gregg Maxwell Parker’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile