Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a self-published author from Wyoming, where I currently work as a behavior specialist for a local school district. Prior to this, I have experience in management, law enforcement, and security.
I use my experience to help create stories and ideas I can share.
Although “The Monster” is the first published book, there are more on the way that are bigger and even better. I really look forward to sharing those with the world.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“The Monster” is a psychological crime thriller, it follows a college student who lives with a strained relationship with his mother, ex-girlfriend, and best friend. When he sees his ex and best friend together at a college Halloween mixer, he becomes very enraged. However, when a mysterious puppet-themed student attacks the couple, our protagonist is seemingly to blame.
This is only the start of his misfortune, as he quickly finds himself framed for murder on the puppet man’s account.
He goes on the run and struggles to clear his name before he winds up in jail, or worse.
There was so much inspiration for this book, people in my life have influenced me in ways I cannot begin to describe. However, “The Monster” will always symbolize the unfinished first attempt at writing I made years ago, because I did not have the skills or drive to finish.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
The more I talk to people, the more I realize that everyone has a unique style and strange habits that help them. I most commonly read that people typically write in a quiet work space or office… I got most of my writing done on the couch, while taking frequent breaks to play with the kids or pick up a dinosaur that wandered too close to me and make it roar and chase them around the house.
My family really was the motivation to complete any work, so I found it much less stressful to work with them by my side.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Again, there are too many to mention or thank. I have read so many great books over the years from so many great authors. To name a few: John Grisham, Stephen King, Agatha Christie, Jack Higgins, Tom Clancy.
The more I read, the more I want to write- and I cannot thank those authors enough.
What are you working on now?
My next project coming out is a book entitled “Into the Woods”. It is the story of three men, who were childhood friends, that reunite to solve the mystery of a mysterious animal that has been brutally attacking local livestock.
However, the animal seems to reside in nearby woods that were a place of legend and folklore throughout their childhood. Inside the woods, they find much worse than they feared.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I try avidly to direct people to my website www.joshsoulebooks.com for information and purchasing options. My books are available on many different platforms; Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Powell’s, Books-A-Million, and MANY different local bookstores.
Information and promotions can also be found on my Facebook page – www.facebook.com/joshsoulebooks
However, for Kindle and Audiobook options – I really need to refer people to Amazon.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just write.
If you want to write, then do it. Don’t write to impress anybody, or follow their specific guidelines. Just do what feels right, and the story will come out.
Naturally, it will be in pretty rough shape – but with some TLC and editing, it will finally be what you hoped for.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
In regards to writing, the best advice I have heard is to read.
If you were a professional athlete, you would watch videos of the competitor team – to study their habits an learn from them, both successes and mistakes.
Writing is no different. There are millions of books out there that can teach you things you will not find anywhere else.
What are you reading now?
I just finished “The Eagle Has Landed” by Jack Higgins. It was incredible to say the least. Very well written, and from a unique perspective that we typically do not get.
You know it was a good book when you are thinking about it days and weeks after you have finished. Kudos on this one!
What’s next for you as a writer?
“Into the Woods” is all but finished, while it undergoes the lengthy editing and shaping process, I have already begun my next project. I will continue to write so long as I can find the inspiration and ideas.
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 would have to bring some of the Tom Clancy and Stephen King that has been sitting on my shelf and I have not gotten to yet. I would definitely bring a Bible with me on the island, and maybe something a little light-hearted to help keep me in good spirits.
Author Websites and Profiles
Josh Soule Website
Josh Soule Amazon Profile
Josh Soule’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile