Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
“a child of lily ames is” is my first series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The lily series is divided into 5 parts, all available on Amazon. The series was inspired by the accounts of family and friends – so many divorces, so many toxic relationships.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I prefer to write early in the morning, when the house is quiet. With 5 children, it can get pretty noisy. I can get blocked – but for the most part, I write quickly. The lily series was finished in less than 2 weeks.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I adore Joyce Carol Oates, Kurt Vonnegut, and Susan Vreeland. It’s hard to narrow influences to a short list. I find it curious that people have burned books throughout our recent history, when books themselves are such an all-consuming fire.
What are you working on now?
I am about halfway done with a story based loosely on acquaintances from my home town. It’s sort of a plains-style novel, it its drudging simplicity.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m new to this! Any support and/or feedback would be deeply appreciated.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Since I’m new, too, I’d enjoy feedback from more experienced authors. For those still working to finish a book, I’d suggest putting pen to paper. Get your ideas on the page, and clean it up later.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Life is short…false. It’s the longest thing you will ever do.” -Dwight Shrute (The Office)
“I wish there was a way to know you were in the good old days before you actually left them.” -Andy Bernard (The Office)
What are you reading now?
I’m re-reading “The Forest Lover” by Susan Vreeland. It’s one of my favorites. Of course, this is often interrupted by chapters of “Frog & Toad” with the kids.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m not expecting big things. I want to write, and I want to put my work out there. So often, we create and hoard our own creations. That’s not healthy, and it does nothing for the world.
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?
Mary Lamb’s “Tales from Shakespeare”
Douglas Adams’ “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”
…and of course, “Harry Potter”, just in case the kids show up
Author Websites and Profiles
Katie Herndon Amazon Profile