Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Although this is my debut novel, it’s by no means my first manuscript. In the past 17 years, I’ve finished around 10 and probably started 30. It was a learning process as I improved my craft to the point where I landed an agent in 2013. After four years of ups and downs and close calls, I broke things off with her and signed with a small publisher for my first book. It’s gone better than I could have expected, being named 2018 “Book of the Year” by the Maxy Awards (for books from small publishers).
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I wrote this story as a way to deal with and process my grief after my dad died.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m streaky. One week I need to be out and about in a coffeeshop. The next I need a dark, quiet basement with no one around. The trick is figuring out which one I need at the time.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Mitch Albom is one of my favorites, and many readers (as well as agents and editors) have said my work has a similar feel. Also Ben Sherwood’s The Death and Life of Charlie St. Cloud. But don’t watch that movie…read the book!
What are you working on now?
I’ve just signed the contract with Black Rose Writing for my second novel, called The Town with No Roads. It’s scheduled to release on Valentines Day, 2019. I’m working on polishing that now.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I don’t have a ton of Facebook friends, but I have good Facebook friends. I don’t post a lot, but when I do, most people respond. That and my website (www.joesiple.com) have been my best tools.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t chase fads. Don’t write what agents and editors say they want. Those things change quicker than you can write a book. Write what’s in your heart and it will be your best writing. Eventually the fads will come to you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I’ve received a ton of great advice in my life, but the one thing that has stuck to me recently is from Wonder. Simply, “Choose Kind.”
What are you reading now?
The Book Thief and a book on meditation.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Keep polishing that new manuscript and hang on for Valentines Day, 2019!!!
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 Death and Life of Charlie St. Cloud by Ben Sherwood
Meditation by Eknath Easwaran
Lost on a Page by David E. Sharp
Author Websites and Profiles
Joe Siple Website
Joe Siple Amazon Profile
Joe Siple’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account