Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a 26 year young professor at the University of Houston and even though I majored in science and teach science majors, I am secretly a huge fan of the fine arts. I enjoy everything from painting to poetry and could never imagine living in a world where art majors and naturally creative people did not have a means to express themselves and enrich our lives with their vast imaginations.
Animus is my debut novel. I currently have a novella (The Tip of Eternity) in the process of editing and a sci-fi novel (Hellecon) in the works with an estimated release of mid 2014. If I dig up my past far enough, I’d have to say I wrote my first book when i was in the 3rd grade. It was my own childish take on a graphic novel which became a series my fourth grade teacher adopted into her class to share with my peers. I was something of a super star author in my school, I suppose, as ridiculous as it sounds. 😛
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The title of my debut novel is Animus. I once read in an article that the inspiration for a story should come from the place “where dreams are made.” Strangely enough, the short stories within my novel were heavily inspired by Greek mythology, but the overlaying plot was a fantasy I flirted with in my dreams. I often woke up with ideas so surreal and unbelievably imaginative that I knew I had to jump out of bed and write them down immediately if I was going to successfully incorporate them into my world. I eventually found myself looking forward to bed every night, hoping the powerful landscapes of my dreams and nightmares would guide my creativity when I woke the next day to write.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
When I am writing, I am lost in the world of my novel. This essentially means that I will typically stare into space as I think and completely ignore the people around me with a sort of “look of wonder” lingering in my eyes. I’ve been called out for it oh so many times.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There are countless authors and books that have influences my writing everywhere from classical authors like Oscar Wilde to modern day authors like Veronica Roth and Suzanne Collins. But to credit writers and books and fail to recognize the classical musicians, painters, film directors, and illustrators that have stirred my imagination as I colored the world of my novel through language would be unjust. I find my influence comes not only from books, but from every form of art.
What are you working on now?
Now–as in just this moment? The most I’ll tell you is that I’m DEFINITELY not stuck at home in my pajamas with an unkind case of the flu.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My favorite method of promotion is applying for featured spots on some of my favorite e-book websites. I also love to give out free copies to interested readers! Anyone who would like to enter to win a free copy of Animus can email their name and reason for wanting to read the book to ksrafiquebooks@gmail.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read every day. Write every day and indulge your every sense in the fine arts when searching for inspiration.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Be the person your dog thinks you are.
What are you reading now?
Allegiant by Veronica Roth
What’s next for you as a writer?
To release my novella, The Tip of Eternity, and finish working on my sci-fi, Hellecon.
Author Websites and Profiles
Kiran Rafique Website
Kiran Rafique Amazon Profile
Kiran Rafique Author Profile on Smashwords
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