Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m an Australian author who grew up in a small country town. I love thrillers and suspense stories as well as SciFi and Fantasy.
I have written two books, ‘Dark Horse’ and ‘Rigged Game.’ They are both thrillers set in a small country town in rural Australia. The stories showcase the setting and the lives of the people who live in these beautiful town right across Australia.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is ‘Rigged Game.’ I like listening to true crime podcasts, and a few episodes came on my feed that dealt with domestic violence, especially how the most dangerous time for a woman leaving an abusive relationship is when her partner realizes she is not coming back to the relationship.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write anywhere anytime! I like bicycle touring, so I often take me laptop with me on little adventures into the wilderness. Some of my best writing has been done under a tarp!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
So many! I’ve always enjoyed Stephen King and Roald Dahl. My favourite Australian author is probably Craig Silvey. Lately, I’ve been reading a lot of Neil Gaiman, Mark Dawson, and Brandon Sanderson.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on the third installment of the Brooksdale Series – the same town in which ‘Dark Horse’ and ‘Rigged Game’ take place in. I’m interested in how refugee populations interact with country towns. When I was growing up, I vividly remember having dinner at the local Chinese restaurant or lunch at a cafe owned and operated by a Greek family. In recent years, we’ve seen South Sudanese refugees move to country towns, so I want to explore their experiences of rural Australia, too.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My website: jdunderwood.net
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing and seek feedback!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Discipline beats motivation!
What are you reading now?
Malcolm Gladwell’s ‘Outliers.’
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m interested in experimenting with ScFi and Fantasy, and I’m tinkering with a few ideas in those genres.
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 collection of works by Roald Dahl, Neil Gaimen, Brandon Sanderson, and possibly something on philosophy.
Author Websites and Profiles
J.D. Underwood Website
J.D. Underwood Amazon Profile
J.D. Underwood’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile