Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Holly Tierney-Bedord is the author of over a dozen books, from romantic comedies to thrillers. She lives in Madison, Wisconsin with her husband Bill and their dog Tyler.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My most recent book is a Choose Your Own Ending book for adults. Weekend Immune System is about a young woman named Juniper, who needs some direction in her life. That’s where the reader comes in. They get to steer Juniper in the direction of this job or that job, this boyfriend or that boyfriend. There are dozens of possible paths and endings. It all takes place over a three day weekend, showing that each little choice a person makes can completely affect the outcome of their life. That makes it sound heavy, but it’s a light, fun, silly book.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I usually have a lot going on at once, switching gears if inspiration strikes and takes me in a different direction.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Some of my favorite authors include Margaret Atwood, David Sedaris, Sophie Kinsella, Mark Twain, Curtis Sittenfeld, and too many more to count. As a kid, I read constantly. My favorite books were Pippi Longstocking books, Anne of Green Gables, Sweet Valley High books, and anything by Judy Blume, Lois Duncan, and Lois Lowry. These books had a huge influence on my life and writing.
What are you working on now?
I’ve got a few works in progress right now. The title usually comes last. One is a ghost story. Another is about parallel universes. Another is a romantic comedy told from the point of view of a dog.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
When I have a free promo going, I usually try to share it on my blog, my author Facebook and Twitter pages, and in my newsletter. The best is when bloggers and readers help spread the news about it on their own websites or social media.! Sometimes I also share it on promo sites like eReader News Today.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read books like On Writing by Stephen King and Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg. Read as much and often as you can. Read a variety of books in different genres, by different authors. Care about grammar. Be open to feedback and criticism.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I remember learning a long time ago to “Write what you know” and this advice has stuck with me, and given me confidence. It’s a reminder that a story doesn’t have to be about amazing people or extraordinary circumstances to be compelling and fascinating.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading a book called Never Give Up by Susan Spahn, an author who I just met at a Madison, Wisconsin book event.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Finish all my works in progress!
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?
Two blank notebooks and two really thick anthologies of assorted classic short stories.
Author Websites and Profiles
Holly Tierney-Bedord Website
Holly Tierney-Bedord Amazon Profile
Holly Tierney-Bedord’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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