Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My “proper” name is James Ward and I’ve written 14 books in all.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called “Our Woman in Jamaica”. I wrote it in October and November last year to serve as a free giveaway on my author website, www.talesofmi7.com. My hope is that that it’ll act as an enticement for potential readers to sign up to my mailing list.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
No, I’m afraid I’m pretty boring in that respect! *Hangs head in shame*
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I always think the basics of novel-writing are the same across genres: good writing, good characterisation, original storytelling. I don’t really have any “favourite” authors, but I do like Jennifer Egan, Jonathan Franzen, Magnus Mills, and Paul Auster.
What are you working on now?
Publicising my last few novels. Then I’ll write another Tales of MI7 novel. That’s what my series is called, incidentally.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I try to advertise on as many different websites as possible. I made the first novel in my series – “The Kramski Case” – free a couple of weeks ago, so I’m looking to promote that mostly. My own website is meant to be a bit of fun as well as a typical author’s site. I’ve devised games people can download, for example.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t expect anything at all.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
What are you reading now?
Lies, Inc. by Philip K Dick.
What’s next for you as a writer?
World domination (without tanks or guns).
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 Collected Ghost Stories of MR James
The Book of Common Prayer
The Collected Plays of William Shakespeare
The Oxford Book of English Verse
Author Websites and Profiles
J. J. Ward Website
J. J. Ward Amazon Profile
J. J. Ward Author Profile on Smashwords
J. J. Ward’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile