Interview With Author Joan De La Haye
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a South African caffeine-fueled author of dark and twisted fiction. I’ve written over twenty books, predominantly thrillers, horror, and dark fantasy. I live with my two cats in South Africa’s capital city – Pretoria, where most of my stories are set.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest stand-alone thriller release is called The Fluttering Cage. I got the idea for the story while I was walking along the road, heading home, one sunny afternoon when a car revved its engine at me, completely freaking me out. I had one of those aha moments that most writers know pretty well. The next thing I know, I’m at home, in front of my laptop, and the words are flowing onto the blank page.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure how unusual it is, but I have a YouTube Ambience playlist consisting of various typing, raining, and storm soundtracks. So, when I’m ready to write every morning, I put my headphones on and listen to the ambience soundtrack. It helps me focus completely on my writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Like most authors who write dark fiction, I have to say Stephen King, but I also have to add Karin Slaughter, Dennis Wheatley, and Anne Rice. I think every book I read, to some extent, influences and teaches me something new about writing.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on the second book in my Holiday Quick Kills series of novelettes, Deadly Little Valentine. It’s about a sharp-tongued hitwoman, Marin, who enjoys her job, especially around the holidays.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook is still the best place for me to promote books; it’s where most of my readers seem to be. And, of course, my newsletter.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Have your own website and get your newsletter started as soon as possible. Social media platforms come and go. The rules on all the platforms can change in an instant, but your website and newsletter are places you control.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up, and keep writing.
What are you reading now?
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m focusing on writing my Holiday Quick Kills series and growing my newsletter and my direct store.
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 Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas and Jayne Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.
The rest would be non-fiction books on how to survive on a desert island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Joan De La Haye Amazon Profile
Joan De La Haye’s Social Media Links
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