Interview With Author Kevin A. Reynolds
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello there,
I was born just south of London, and have lived in Tokyo since 1989, where I now write novels focused on Japan past, present and future. Although I cover different genres, there is a core theme that lies at the heart of my work, along the lines of “There are more things in heaven and earth…”, with some obvious, some subtle and some hidden linkages across the stories. I also play guitar, though not particularly well.
I’ve written three novels: Mamoribito – The One Who Protects,
The Girl Who Fell Through Time: Book One – Beginnings, & Book Two – A Universe of Stars.
I’ve also published a couple of business books (please have a look at my webpage for details). So, that’s 5 in all, plus 2 more that I co-authored about 15 years ago – so 7 in total!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I recently published “A Universe of Stars,” Book Two in the “The Girl Who Fell Through Time” series. I think the inspiration for the overall storyline comes from living in Japan for 30 years and living the contrasts of east/west, destiny/determinism, science/faith, reality/illusion, Yin/Yang, etc., that exist here. I wanted to explore what happens when science and spirit meet (Peter & Nene), but are called upon to do something greater than themselves.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not particularly – although I also have a full time job as a consultant, so fitting in writing isn’t easy!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I grew up reading Alistair Maclean, Desmond Bagley and similar authors – and I think in my heart I want to write in that genre – which is why I wrote Mamoribito, and I expect why the third book of the Girl Who Fell Through Time series will be much more of of an “action” sci-fi/ romance than the first two books.
What are you working on now?
Now I’m working on Book Three of “The Girl Who Fell Through Time” series. After that I’ll write the sequel to Mamoribito.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Honestly, I’m not very good at this, which is why I’m now using Awesome Gang. I have done ads on Amazon and Facebook, but next I’m looking to use Instagram much more.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just keep going. Rewrite everything multiple times, then do a re-read after publication to find all the things missed on the pre-publishing edits! Your work is better than you think, but don’t expect everyone to like it. I’ve had 5 star and 1 star reviews for the same book. The negative reviews can help you to become a better writer, so even though they are so, so painful to read, they can also be helpful.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Who you’re going through hell, keep going.”
Winston Churchill.
What are you reading now?
The House in the Strand by Daphne du Maurier.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Get the next book done!
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?
Principia – Isaac Newton. It’s a huge book (I have a copy) and will take years to read.
Encylopedia Britannica. Ditto, although I don’t have a copy
Author Websites and Profiles
Kevin A. Reynolds Amazon Profile
Kevin A. Reynolds’s Social Media Links