Joel Canfield

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been a ghostwriter since 2008 and have authored around twenty biographies and business books. In the past year, I decided to write novels under my own name – and have found it to be an amazing experience. So much so that I wrote two in under a year!

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My new book is BLUE FIRE, the second in my Max Bowman series. The plot was inspired by two very different things – (1) the comic book creators from the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s who were paid peanuts and came up with enduring characters that exist to this day and (2) a secret CIA mind control plot from the 50’s that, in part, was based on the work of former Nazi scientists (all true!). These two strands came together to form what I consider to be my best book. Of course, that’s an easy target to hit when you’ve only written two of this kind…

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t outline. I usually have a beginning and an end in mind, and some elements in between. When I’m writing one of these books, I find myself waking up at 4 in the morning with the details of the next chapter. This, of course, leaves me very tired, which in turns motivates me to finish the book so I can actually get some sleep.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
In this genre, Raymond Chandler.

What are you working on now?
Right now, ghostwriting two books and thinking about what I want the next Max Bowman book to be about.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use a variety of resources recommended by other writer friends to promote Kindle free days and countdown deals on the books. Still very much learning, as I’ve only been at it (book promoting) since last August.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Figure out a genre and a character and write. Build a memorable series that will keep readers interested in your next book.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
What I just wrote above. It’s easy to get lost in the shuffle when self-publishing, but if you create a great series of books, you have more of a shot of establishing a reputation and building sales.

What are you reading now?
A book by Frank Mankiewicz, former speechwriter for Robert and John F Kennedy, as well as some CIA books for research.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Want to continue the Max Bowman books for a few years. Really enjoy doing them.

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 really hate these questions. I would probably take collections of Marvel comics from the early 60’s. I can read those over and over again.

Author Websites and Profiles
Joel Canfield Website
Joel Canfield Amazon Profile

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