Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I published my second book this year. By the grace of God, I am a stroke survivor of ten years. The past few years I have committed myself to encouraging my readers and giving them hope with my writing. My initial book on the power of prayer earned awards in 2017 and 18. i am excited to see the impact of this book on people’s lives.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is titled, The Furnace of Affliction: How God Uses Our Pain and Suffering for His Purpose. My inspiration for this book is to give hope and encouragement to my readers. I have received so many emails and messages after my first book from people who are hurting or someone they love was in pain. Whether that be physical, emotional or spiritual pain. I write to give people hope because at some point in your life, you are either heading for adversity, stuck in the middle of a painful crisis, or just coming out of a trying situation. Understanding God’s purpose during these excruciating difficulties will give you hope.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I do. Unfortunately, due to some residual issues from the stoke. I spend a lot of time on my left side writing at my laptop. I also enjoy listening to classical music sometimes when I write-especially when writing about my late father who passed away this year.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Max Lucado is a favorite of mine. His words and insights always make me feel good and give me encouragement. I love reading Dr. Charles F. Stanley’s books. He is a tremendous Bible teacher who is so easy to understand. I’m a huge fan of Sheila Walsh and Anne Graham Lotz’s. Lysa TerKuerst too. I love books with heart and authors who are not afraid to share theirs. Books I can learn things relating to my genre interest me as well.
What are you working on now?
Right now, I’m focusing on getting the word out about this book. In these unprecedented times, I feel everyone could us a large dose of hope. I’m wanting to write about the power of faith in Jesus Christ next, but we will see how the Lord leads.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Gospel Ebooks and Faithful Reads have been effective in promoting books in my genre of Christian Inspiration Non-fiction. Identifying book bloggers that are willing to read and review Christian books can be helpful too. However, with both of my books, working with Christian influencers has been a boon to my credibility as an author. To me personally, it is all about relationships. If you treat people with respect and appreciate what they do, they will be more than willing to help you get the word out and share about your work.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Have a plan. Do your research. Don’t give up. Write about things you are passionate about. Your love will come through in your writing and should help you connect and reach your readers.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Be Prepared. Work hard. If you are going to do something, do your best. I always (with the Lord’s help) want to provide my readers with a quality product. Have your book professionally edited, formatted and designed with a professional cover. If people are going to invest their money and time to read my books, I want to give them not only something enjoyable, but of high quality as well.
What are you reading now?
A variety of books. I am always looking to improve myself as an author, and a person. So, reading anything that can help me in that way, I’m interested. I thoroughly enjoy reading my bible religiously every day. Nothing fills up my reservoir of knowledge, hope, and encouragement like the Word of God. In fact, my inspiration for my next book may come from the quality time spent in bible study and prayer. (That is where these first two books came from.)
What’s next for you as a writer?
Honestly, I have no idea at this point. This new book has been almost three years in the making. Right now I am current creating content for my website based on this new book. I feel it is such a necessary book for people to read. Then we will see where the Lord leads. I refuse to write anything without His blessing and inspiration.
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?
A Bible for sure. If I have God’s living Word with me, I have everything. After that, could I get a book on how to build a boat?
Author Websites and Profiles
Horace Williams Jr. Website
Horace Williams Jr. Amazon Profile
Horace Williams Jr.’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
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