Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
“Mr. Leviticus” is the first novel of series of three. When not writing I enjoy painting and refinishing antique furniture. I am currently looking for an old sail boat to refurbish and sail the gulf coast.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Mr. Leviticus” is the name of my latest project. My wife returned to college and needed some help in her writing class. That is where three of the original stories came from, the rest came some time later. I tried marketing the book as a short story series, and was turned down by what seems like every publisher in North America. A few years passed, and I suffered two serious strokes. I remember lying on my back watching some New Age T.V. show about God being a fairy tale. After what I had just gone through, it made me really angry, and I thought what if God sent an angel to earth to investigate these fools who produce this crap? That is where the Leviticus character came from. I used Mr. Leviticus to tie all the stories together as part of a supernatural investigation.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I sleep during the day at times, and write from midnight until daylight.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
First, I would have to say Tennessee Williams, he was the king of the modern tragedy. Next, it would be Thomas Harris.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on the sequel to “Mr. Leviticus.” If you enjoyed “Duty” from the first book, you are going to love this one.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have found a variety to be helpful, they all reach out to a different audience therefore the interpretation of “Mr. Leviticus” has varied. Some say it’s a celestial crime drama, a Holocaust novel, a supernatural thriller, and so on. I wanted to put a face to the Holocaust, especially something young people could identify with. If you compare the political and social climates of the early 1930’s with those of the United States today, I really believe we’re closer to another world war now than ever before. If we forget our past, we’re going to relive it, and unfortunately it will be the young one’s who fight it.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Never give up. I have been turned down millions of times. It took over ten years to get “Mr. Leviticus” published. Always believe in yourself, and strive to improve your work.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Probably in High School. I have a vivid imagination, and always enjoyed writing. One of my High School English teachers said I was so bad at grammar I should move to France. So I used my writing ability to offset the grammar grades, and I haven’t stopped writing since.
What are you reading now?
“Sharp Objects” by Gillian Flynn.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I am currently working on the second novel of the trilogy, and hope to be writing for many years to come.
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?
Probably the entire collection of Tennessee Williams stories, as well as all of Thomas Harris’s books.
Author Websites and Profiles
J.D. Alexander Website
J.D. Alexander Amazon Profile