Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am debut novelist Heather Manning. My first novel, Swept to Sea, an inspirational historical romance, was released by a traditional publisher late last year–while I was still 16 years old.
I adore writing and have been doing it since a young age. I am working hard on writing my next book right now and hope to get that one published in the near future.
When I am not writing, you can usually find me reading, acting in community theatre, or attending high school.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called Swept to Sea.
I really wanted to write a trilogy about three best friends who end up in the Caribbean. Then, Eden’s story came to me and I was determined to tell her story. She is a young lady in England who stows away on a pirate ship in order to escape her abusive fiance.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Well, when I am writing, I like to type VERY fast. The noise of my fingernails hitting the keyboard at such a rapid pace tends to annoy my family! Hahaha. 🙂
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I must say that my three favorite authors have really influenced me: MaryLu Tyndall, Deeanne Gist, and Mary Connealy.
What are you working on now?
Right now, I am almost done with Swept to Sea’s sequel, Carried Home. This story follows Lady Ivy Shaw, who is determined to get back home and take care of her little brother.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I think in person is actually best. It usually shocks people when they see me, a 17 year old, and I tell them that I traditionally published a book. They almost always go and look up the book and hopefully buy it.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I advice new authors to read, read, read, and write, write, write. Those are the only ways to improve your skills.
For authors yearning to get into the publishing industry, I advise attending writer’s conferences. These are valuable sources of information and connections in the publishing world.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Ahhhh….I have heard so much advice, I can’t just choose one piece!
What are you reading now?
I am reading “Caught in the Middle” by Regina Jennings. I am still on the first chapter, so I can’t tell you much about it!
What’s next for you as a writer?
Next? I am continuing on my trilogy! I hope for this to be one of the first steps in a long career of writing.
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 Bible, The Restitution by MaryLu Tyndall, and….Out of Control by Mary Connealy.
Author Websites and Profiles
Heather Manning Website
Heather Manning Amazon Profile
Heather Manning Author Profile on Smashwords
Heather Manning’s Social Media Links
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