Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live in a small ghost town in Montana. The last time I checked, we had a population of 12! I love going hiking in the great outdoors – especially in Big Sky Country. The views are amazing and a person never knows what kind of wildlife he might encounter.
I have written five books and have a sixth set to come out in mid-October. I write Christian books that are completely free of foul language and inappropriate scenes.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “Hidden in Harmony,” and it’s a Christian mystery scheduled to be released on October 14, 2017. It was inspired by a dream I had one night about a homeless man showing up on a family’s doorstep and having no place to go. The family, having no knowledge of accusations made against the man in the past, take him into their home and grow quite fond of him. Later, they discover the allegations that had been made against him and before they know it, they find themselves and their community is in serious danger. It’s amazing what can come from a dream, isn’t it?
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not unless falling in love with my characters counts as an unusual habit. I have been known to laugh or cry when my characters get themselves into different situations, but I don’t know how odd that is.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The number one book that has influenced me is the King James Bible. I love reading God’s Word and allowing His sweet holy spirit to speak to my heart.
What are you working on now?
Currently I’m working on a sequel to “Hidden in Harmony.” I’m not ready to release the name of the book quite yet, but I’m about 30,000 words into it thus far.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I believe word of mouth is the best method for promoting my books, but I also believe in heavy advertising. I advertise my new releases on approximately 15 to 20 different websites, seek out opportunities for author interviews, have book trailers created, and promote heavily on social media.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Writing that book is the easy part – getting people to find out about it, now that’s another story altogether.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Folks are just folks.” Sometimes it’s easy to find yourself afraid or nervous about what people are going to think about a book you have written, but people are people. Some will like it and some will hate it and that’s all just in our human nature. It’s nothing to fret about.
What are you reading now?
I’ve been reading Oliver Twist. Yes, I know that’s quite an old classic, but I’ve never actually read it before so I decided it was time for me to find out what made it so popular.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m highly considering turning “Hidden in Harmony” into a trilogy so that’s the goal I’m aiming for.
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 King James Bible is the only book I believe I would take. If I was stranded on that island, I would want to hear from my Heavenly Father as frequently as possible and if I stuck my nose in other books, I’m sure I would miss out on some important communication from Him.
Author Websites and Profiles
JR Thompson Website
JR Thompson Amazon Profile
JR Thompson’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Montana, wow! I hope you aren’t too affected by the fires up there this past summer! Dreams are cool! And your gift for choosing to write clean fiction is wonderful! The Bible truly is the best book ever written! Wishing you every success with your book release next month, and on your work as you write your sequel.