Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi, I am a thirty-five-year-old copywriter from Stamford, Lincolnshire, England. The Priory is my debut horror novel and the sequel, Vermin, is at the editing stage. The final part of the trilogy is still in progress.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Priory – When I was younger I always had a weird thought about the man-made lake near where I live and what if it was flooded to cover something up. Until now, I didn’t have the confidence to write what I love – Horror – thinking people would find it silly or stupid.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I listen to really loud, really heavy music when writing, switching between metal, classic rock and classical music.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen King, James Herbert, H. P. Lovecraft, J. R. R. Tolkien
I love horror and fantasy, especially the Dark Tower series, The Stand, The Rats, and Lord of the Rings – not so much the Hobbit though!!!
What are you working on now?
I am editing the sequel to the Priory and writing the final book in the trilogy.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Having my own website is a huge help, however, Facebook and the free groups you can join are fantastic. I also have a healthy following on Instagram.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Finish your first book and throw it away. Move onto your real first book after – the first-ever book you finish will be terrible (I don’t just mean the first draft) but will teach you so much ready to write your true first book.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
‘Read, read, read,’ and ‘You can’t edit an empty page.’
What are you reading now?
The Witcher, The Dark Tower series, The Fellowship of the Ring and the Talisman – I always read multiple books at the same time…
What’s next for you as a writer?
Releasing Vermin within 3 months of the Priory and then finally the final novel by the end of the year. I aim to be a full-time writer by the end of next year, 2021.
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 Stand by Stephen King.
The Road by Cormac McCarthy.
11/22/63 by Stephen King.
The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jonathan Wheatley Website
Jonathan Wheatley Amazon Profile
Jonathan Wheatley’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile