Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have written several books, but some of them aren’t published yet. My first book, At What Cost was published in 2012 by Clean Reads publishers. The Breeding Tree is from Brimstone Fiction, an imprint of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, and the second book in The Breeding Tree series is due out on Mar 7, 2017. Other than that, I have 2 contemporaries written and the 3rd book in the series completed. Other books are always brewing.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Breeding Tree was inspired by all the dystopian fiction I love to read. I’ve always wanted to write a dystopian, but never had a good idea. The story of The Breeding Tree fell into my mind in its entirety. I brainstormed the entire book in one day while sitting at my kitchen table.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. I like to go to cafes to write, but that’s because it’s hard to write with kids at home. I write when I can, where I can, how I can. (Pen/computer)
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love 1984 and The Giver. Those are my 2 favorite dystopian books. As for writers, I love Laurie Halse Anderson. And we almost have the same last name, so that’s cool too.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a contemporary story now. The rough draft is almost finished. Once it is, I have a post apocalyptic story brewing. I’m also in edits for the second book in The Breeding Tree series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use my Facebook author page the most: http://www.facebook.com/jandersenbooks, but I also use my website. http://www.jandersenbooks.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read. And write… a lot. You don’t really find your voice until you’ve written a few full manuscripts.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Remember whose you are and what you represent… by my mother.
What are you reading now?
I just started Taken by Erin Bowen. Just finished: On Writing– Stephen King, The Winter People– Rebekah Purdy, and The Remedy– Suzanne Young.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More writing! As I said above, I’m going to hop into a post apocalyptic story next.
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, 1984, The Giver
Author Websites and Profiles
J. Andersen Website
J. Andersen Amazon Profile
J. Andersen’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account