Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m from Northern Ireland and I write science fiction and fantasy. I have three books released to date with two more due out in the next year.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Sunset Over Abendau, the second in my Space Opera trilogy. It takes inspiration from classic SF, and explores the trope of the ‘chosen one’, asking what it would be to be that person and how a life could be ruined by that destiny.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I can write in utter chaos! I run a consultancy, have kids, write at my kitchen table with a bouncy dog for company.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Lots, and often not genre books. But Dune is an old influence, as is AC Clarke. More recently, I enjoy Neil Gaiman and Carlos Ruiz Zafon.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on completing Abendau’s Legacy, the last book of my trilogy, and my first fantasy book, due for release next summer. (2017) I have a couple of standalones I’m reworking and hoping to find a home for, before I embark on a fantasy duology.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Bookbub was hard to beat, but short lived. Networking is the biggest one for me. Also, my blog at www.jozebwrites.blogspot.co.uk is well followed and a key point for people to find me.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t expect overnight miracles! It’s mostly just a long slog. Enjoy the writing for itself and not the rewards.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Get your stuff out there! Don’t wait for the perfect moment or deal, start getting polished work out to readers.
What are you reading now?
I’ve just finished The Martian by Andy Weir. Very funny.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have short work coming out in four anthologies this year, and some exciting opportunities for longer work, too. Tonight, my first audio book hits the shelves, which is exciting!
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?
Hard question.
The Stand by Stephen King – enough in it to keep me going.
Maps in a Mirror by Scott Card – a fantastic collection of short stories
The Time Traveller’s Wife because I just love it.