Interview With Author Jo Alexander
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Jo Alexander is a mature author who only took up writing later in life after careers in the military, business, agriculture and management. In his own words: ‘I’ve always been an avid reader. Since childhood, I devoured books. Diverse genres, diverse authors. I loved it. And then, one night some years ago, I found myself with absolutely nothing to read. As I sat there, bored senseless, something happened. Slowly, an idea began to take shape in my head. I reached for a pen and paper and started making notes, then sentences, then paragraphs. I switched on my computer and began typing. And, eighteen months later, the first three books of the Random Destiny Series were done. It wasn’t plain sailing, not by any means. To research facts and background, I had to read about another hundred-and-fifty books. The Internet was still rather primitive in those days, so hard copy books had to do. But I kept on writing. Some days I had to re-write paragraphs, some days pages, as the characters developed wills of their own and ran away with the plot. In some places I applied artistic license quite liberally, and in others I went through mental anguish in order to keep the characters human and believable. It was quite a journey. But here it is now, the final product, ready for you to enjoy in e-book format – three novels, one epic adventure. And it is not yet over. I’m working on the next book of the series as well as two other separate books. So keep a lookout for that.’
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Actually, I’m working on three books. Yes, three – simultaneously. Strange, I know. I don’t have final titles for them as yet, but the more prominent one would be the fourth book in the Random Destiny Series. I left some threads hanging in the third book, so I guess I’m compelled to complete that with a fourth Sword book.
The second new book is my response to what I think is probably a universal question – what if the Universe gave Earth somebody that could sort out the mess we’re in. Someone, not in a religious sense, but with ‘abilities’, someone who could boldly take the steps needed because he had been ‘rendered immune from the consequence of his actions’? A Redeemer… This could probably turn into another series – it has to cover a lot of ground.
The third new book is about a privileged man with a death sentence hanging over his head. He has everything except a future. When he meets a girl in a dangerous and desperate situation, he decides to help her, but suddenly has the intelligence services of two governments trying to get their hooks into him at any cost. How will he, and the girl, survive?
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes, but probably not unusual in the broader sense. I do my best work at night. In the wee hours. Primarily for the peace and quiet when everybody else is asleep.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Lots of them, over the years. I grew up on Wilbur Smith novels, and later all the big names – Clive Cussler, Len Deighton, Robert Ludlum, Frederick Forsyth, Jeffrey Archer, to name but a few. However, in my view, two authors stand out for specific reasons. First, Tolkien, whose works inspired the whole Dungeons & Dragons genre. That man’s imagination and craftsmanship was beyond exceptional. And, secondly, Bernard Cornwell, who you might know as the author of the Sharpe series. His plethora of historical novels across various theaters displays exceptionally meticulous research and dedication. I stand in awe of these men.
What are you working on now?
Three more books.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
So far, Awesome Gang seems to be rather good.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you have the time and resources to write, go for it!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You have two ears and one mouth – listen twice and talk once.
What are you reading now?
Various books for research on my new novels.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Impossible to say! The creative mind takes one to unexpected places at unexpected times.
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 three or four books on how to survive on a desert island!
Jo Alexander’s Social Media Links
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