Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m very excited to announce the release of my debut novel The Forbidden Dæmon, which is the first in a series of fantasy books I’ve been working on for quite a while. The series is called The Entwined Spirits Saga. Outside of writing these novels, I’m a computer and data scientist, family man, and avid fan of ideas, as well as strategy and role playing games.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I started writing The Forbidden Dæmon after I left academia. It provides me with a wonderful creative outlet, and this way I can explore ideas and interesting areas of fantasy literature.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I really enjoy writing on trains and buses.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
One of the books that had an impact on me is How to Read a Book by Mortimer J. Adler. It taught me the difference between reading widely and reading well. However, I have read somewhat widely, and I keep partial list of books that have influenced me on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/108400004?shelf=read
What are you working on now?
Currently, I’m in the process of getting The Forbidden Dæmon ready for paperback and audio book publication, preparing to release the second book in the series, editing the third, drafting the fourth, and learning the ropes of the self-publishing industry.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
That’s a question best left for after I’ve better learned the ropes of the self-publishing industry 😉
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Step zero, choose a genre that you want to write in for a long time and that there is a proven market for. Step one, get feedback on your writing. Step two, improve it. Step three, go back to step one. Eventually break the loop and get yourself an ebook reader if you don’t already have one. Half a year before you are ready to go public with your book, read as much as you can about your publication form (traditional route or self-publication) then apply the best advice.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You get what you pay for.
What are you reading now?
Currently, I read as much as I can on being successful at self-publishing and marketing. I’m also reading classic literature.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Building up a readership for The Entwined Spirits Saga, and publishing the series.
Author Websites and Profiles
J. M. Blum Website
J. M. Blum Amazon Profile
J. M. Blum’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account