Interview With Author Joan Peck
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I grew up in a family of readers. Every Sunday afternoon you would find my parents, me, and my siblings with a book. There’s nothing better than a good book in my opinion.
To date, I have completed 13 books and am writing my 14th to go out next year. After the death of my son, I wrote 4 spiritual books and then decided to have fun writing mystery books, beginning with my 6-book Death Card series about a tarot card reader.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest book due out June 21st (summer solstice) is about three women from very different backgrounds who meet in a waiting room of a doctor’s office and become life-long besties. Allison’s roommate is found dead and they become entwined in that. The book is a delightful romp about the glory of girlfriends, inspiring you to share this story with all you consider as a girlfriend. I also just finished Santa Baby, a light romance.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Good and bad, I’m a “pantser” writing by the seat of my pants. This is not the easiest way to write but the storyline expands on its own as I write. I also go back and edit as I’m writing which ensures that the storyline is in order. I wouldn’t recommend either for a new writer especially since most say just write your story and embellish later.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There are too many to name from romance writer to women’s fiction to mystery – both female and male authors.
What are you working on now?
I’m writing The Cousins, a mystery waiting to be solved by two neighbor girls who called themselves sisters until Emily’s older brother insisted he didn’t need another sister. Her Emily suggested the girls call themselves cousins and the name stuck.
As middle-aged women, they are called to help Emily’s ex-husband who is accused of murdering his girlfriend (ex-girlfriend insists Emily).
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I guess it would have to be my own website www.joanspeck.com. I’m trying out new marketing groups. BookBub is the most successful, although I have yet to be approved since it is reserved for successful books.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Editing is so important to ensure you present yourself and your story in the best light. Keep the storyline flowing so that you don’t give the reader an excuse to put the book down. Keep writing and don’t give up!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Read, read, read!
(Make sure you edit your book properly and have a great cover to catch a reader’s eye.)
What are you reading now?
I just downloaded Bloom Bay Beginnings by Lilly Beckett
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m increasing my exposure as Editor in Chief of Chic Compass magazine – an international magazine located in Las Vegas and as an individual columnist.
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?
I’ve always wanted to read “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho and “A Brief History of Time” by Stephen Hawkins and any of Ken Follett’s books, including “Pillars of the Earth.”
Author Websites and Profiles
Joan Peck’s Social Media Links