Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a stay at home mother wannabe writer who just took it into my own hands less than a year ago. I’ve had the idea for this one novel for years actually though. It spent a lot of time just percolating in my head when finally I decided I was going to give it a shot. I took a couple of online courses and went for it. Now I am self-published and fining some early success with my first novel Tent City. It’s no best-seller, but I am getting lots of great reviews and just had my first book signing.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Tent City. I was watching the news a few years back and they had an aerial shot of a Tent City that developed after a world disaster. It’s strange to me that the image is burned into my head and the idea that all of these homeless people had essentially formed their own community, but I couldn’t actually tell you which major disaster it was.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I ALWAYS write to music. I use alternative music to inspire me. I am always trolling around on itunes in search of my next “muse-ic.”
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen King, Gillian Flynn, John Greene, and Suzanne Collins.
What are you working on now?
The sequel to Tent City. I don’t know how many times I have been asked when the next one is coming out. It’s safe to say that I left my readers hanging, but it a good way.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Amazon is really where it’s at for now. I have a personal website. Kellyvanhull.com I have used Facebook promotions that run for $5 a day or something like that.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read, read, and then read some more. Study your craft. Make it better. And then make it better again. There’s no such thing as final copy.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
READ READ READ by Stephen King in his book “On Writing.” It’s just so true.
What are you reading now?
Park Service and Imaginary Girls
What’s next for you as a writer?
Hopefully, I can continue to grow and actually make a living at writing. I’ve been hearing a lot of “not many writers can actually make a living doing it.” I want to be one of them.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Looking for Alaska or the Hunger Games
Author Websites and Profiles
Kelly Van Hull Website
Kelly Van Hull Amazon Profile
Kelly Van Hull ‘s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile