Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been writing since I was a teen but officially, I’ve published two novels. How many have I written? I really have no idea since they are still in the “works in progress” stage. I have many tales to tell but there is still work to be done.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Second Chances: A New Star”
It came about after I had written a Fan Fic and started playing the “what if” game. What if the fan fic was really an original story and the author’s best friend got her a publishing deal (that became a huge success).
I love movies and I love the behind the scenes stuff even more. With “Second Chances: A New Star” I got to take my characters into the movie making world. A world where the main character gets to meet her Hollywood crush and finds herself falling for him
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t call anything unusual. Most of my stories are written on legal pads with a fountain pen. I keep a Word file of plot points, outline and character outlines because those are easier to edit if something ends up getting changed.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Everything seems to influence me. I can not say one (or several) books or authors have influenced me because I try to read as much as possible and see a many movies as possible. A good story is a good story and I am glad that the e-publishing world has become a place where any author can upload a book to be read. You don’t need to have a multi-million dollar book deal to be a great author. (Although, if there is anyone who wants to offer me a multi-million dollar book deal, I will be happy to have my attorney look over the contract.)
What are you working on now?
I’m not sure. I have a few ideas brewing but I think I’m going to take a few days or weeks and do some knitting. It’s really hard to knit and write at the same time.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
There are so many ways to get the word out on book promotion. I like to take the approach of not putting all my eggs in one basket. Facebook, Twitter and my personal site (www.sarchix.com) has really helped, but just talking to people and having a tiny promo item has also helped. I am willing to tell anyone about what I’ve written on what ever platform I can figure out. (I still have no idea what this Tumblr thing is. My kids tried to explain it but it’s just not sticking.)
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write as much as you can, as often as you can and read everything you can.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write as much as you can, as often as you can and read everything you can.
What are you reading now?
“The Bad Luck Wedding Dress” by Emily March. I’m 45% done and should be onto something new in the next day or two. I can read during my commute to work so I really seems to tear through a good story.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Either “Fire and Ice 2”, “Second Chances 2”, or something new. All three are good contenders but I’m not sure what one is going to win. I need to take a bit of time to figure that out.
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 read so much that I really don’t have a favorite. If I could bring 300-400 books that might be an easier choice.
Author Websites and Profiles
Karen Maneely Website
Karen Maneely Amazon Profile
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