Interview With Author Joni Swift
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a debut historical mystery author and am currently writing Book 3 of the Edward Tyrington Mysteries (Book 1 is out in February).
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My current book is called The Bones of Santorini it is Book 1 in the Edward Tyrington Mysteries. I love history, and I am fascinated by the construction of the Suez Canal in the 1860s. During my research, I discovered that an archaeological site in Santorini was discovered as they were mining rock from an area for the entrance to the canal. I loved the idea of having my archaeologist main character, Edward, solving mysteries in both places.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write all my novels in two passes. The first is place and dialogue, the second is description and emotion. I think I must use different sides of my brain for each and it is hard for me to add description while I’m initially moving them through the story.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Agatha Christie, of course. Deanna Raybourn, Louise Penny, Andrea Penrose and so many others.
What are you working on now?
Book 3 of the series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use as many places/options as I can to promote my books. Since this is my first one, it is hard to tell what works and what doesn’t because I don’t have a lot of data yet, but I love sites like Awesome Gang for promotion, my newsletter (sign up on my website), as well as facebook groups and instagram.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing and don’t ever let doubt stop you!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Keep writing!
What are you reading now?
Deanna Raybourn, Killers of a Certain Age.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m planning my next series that will be a spin off based on a character in the Edward Tyrington Mysteries.
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?
Ohhh, that’s tough. Probably something by Deanna Raybourn, Louise Penny, Anne Perry and possibly Ian Rankin. I have no idea which books of theirs I would choose though!
Author Websites and Profiles
Joni Swift’s Social Media Links