Interview With Author Joseph Hagen
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have three novels available, MOONRISE, WOLF HUNT, DARK REQUIEM, and a book of short stories, REASONS TO LEAVE A LIGHT ON
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
DARK REQUIEM – I and a co-writer wrote this story of vampire nuns. My co-author and my wife were involved at a local girl’s high school before it closed. We used the building in the story triggered by an incident while working in the basement of the school. Someone noted a collection of trunks in one of the rooms. One of the people stated that the older nuns were kept in the trunks. It is the first in a trilogy. DARKER HUNTS is awaiting a cover. DARKEST VENGEANCE is with out beta readers.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Only in that I don’t. I’ve written during my lunch hour at my desk, on loading docks, librarys, parks, and even in a mall. Once I focus in on my writing, the surroundings don’t disturb me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen King, his genre but also his character development. Anne Rice for the same reasons. I spend a lot of time on my characters, making them real.
What are you working on now?
About to get back to a book I was working on before taking on the Dark, Darker, and Darkest trilogy. The new book, STAKE OUT, involved vampire policemen.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My own, STLOUISAUTHORS.COM. We’ve also advertised through AMAZON but we are still testing methods and hoping to improve on our strategy
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read and write. Both will help you learn the craft and see what’s been done so you don’t end up recreating a story already out there. I can see how my writing has improved. While I’ve taken courses and read some books, simply writing has been the most helpful to my development.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Do what you love. If you love it you will expend the energy to get better at it.
What are you reading now?
TIME THIEF by Nella Warrent another local author trying to be noticed and read. I try to read and support other indie authors. I’m also rereading Stephen King’s Dark Tower series.
What’s next for you as a writer?
The next book. I’ve got a script that I want to novelize. The script got an honorable mention in a competition so I believe it’s worth adapting. I’m also building another collection of short stories and am getting involved with attending events where I can meet readers and show my books.
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?
That is tough. The Stand, Interview with a Vampire, The Power of One, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Not exactly my favorite books, maybe, but picked for their size and the variety.
Author Websites and Profiles
Joseph Hagen’s Social Media Links