Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I write from near Houston, Texas. I just released my fourth novel, Fake News, which is the second book in my Sam Flatt series. When I’m not writing, I serve as an expert witness in digital forensics. Hobbies I enjoy are 3D design and printing, any and all things techno, reading, and enjoying great storytelling in any other venue, from TV to movies to plays to campfires. I’ve also done tech consulting on major TV shows like The Blacklist, CSI, Blind Spot, and more.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Fake News. Our current polarized environment was the germ from which this one grew. I also have a particular love of writing about unique and fascinating locations as settings. For example, the first book in this series is set inside the world’s most futuristic casino. Fake News goes in a different direction but also presents a really interesting location in which much of the action takes place.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure how unusual it is among writers, but I tend to do my best work late at night. Really late. As in getting started around midnight and trying to get to bed before the sun comes up.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
John Grisham, for his ability to relentlessly push the story forward. James Patterson, for his short chapters. Nelson DeMille for his creation of compelling characters and story. Vince Flynn’s Mitch Rapp series, now continued by Kyle Mills since Flynn’s untimely passing, was an important influence in the creation of my primary character Sam Flatt.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on two books at the same time: The third book in the Sam Flatt series, and a quirky tale that’s way outside my normal wheelhouse, called PROJECTIONIST. I started the latter as a serial novel, posting chapters to my blog as they were written, but eventually decided to abandon that approach and release it in whole. We’ll see how my readers receive something so different from my normal work.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
BookBub rules and I’ve had tremendous success with their promotions in the past. Unfortunately, their featured deals are terribly difficult to land. I’ve also had success using Facebook, along with a variety of other sites when running promos. (Including Awesome Gang!)
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Slow down. Really study the craft of writing first. Read STEIN ON WRITING until it’s embedded in your brain and soul. Read successful books in your genre. Pay attention to the things that draw you into those books and keep you reading. Most of all? Seek out absolutely candid feedback and take it to heart. This won’t come from your friends and family. Find experienced writers who are willing to give you truth. This will require rhino-like skin, but it’s the only way to learn to write at a professional level.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Start over, because what you’ve done so far really sucks.” That was then followed by much of the advice I just gave above. I licked my wounds for a few days, then admitted that they were right. It was then that I vowed to hone my craft until I was writing at a pro level, and I’ll be forever grateful to those fellow writers who cared enough to give me brutal feedback.
What are you reading now?
My primary read at the moment is a sci-fi book called AFTERSHOCKS by Marko Kloos. It’s the first in a series called THE PALLADIUM WARS and I’m really enjoying it.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I continually try to improve my craft so I can write great stories that my readers enjoy, so that practice will go on forever. I’ll release at least two more books this year, and focus on developing the Sam Flatt series, and also bringing back Matt Decker, the protagonist of Seven Unholy Days, by expanding that into a second series.
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, Watchers by Dean Koontz, and a couple omnibus editions with a bunch of books in each one.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jerry Hatchett Website
Jerry Hatchett Amazon Profile
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