Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I first started writing seriously after I had backpacked over half the world. I wanted to share my experience of travelling Australia, New Zealand and Canada so I wrote two memoirs about my adventures. I wanted to entertain my readers and make them laugh. These two books aren’t Lonely Planet travel guides by any means. I enjoyed writing these books so much I was inspired to write a fiction novel.
I’ve settled down now so I write full time. I have the company of my two dogs on most days and we all sit by the fire when it’s cold.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
It is called: ‘A Step Too Far’ and it’s my first fiction novel. After the success of the ‘Secret Confessions of a Backpacker’ series I was inspired to take my writing further. A Step Too Far is a light hearted chick-lit with many humorous moments. It’s the story of a woman who is challenged to make the most of her life but faces many surprising twists along the way.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really I don’t think. I’m pretty boring like that. When I have an idea growing inside my mind I like to write a brief outline of the story. I outline chapter by chapter and often the framework is loose. This is done on purpose so when I actually write I am free to alter plotlines and ideas where I see fit. I don’t think I could sit down and start writing without doing any preparation first.
I usually spend my mornings on social media and then afternoons are spent writing. I work five days a week and promotional activities are done over the weekend.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There are many, many authors who have influenced me. When I first started writing, I admired Belle de Jour’s candid, humorous style. My style, like hers, has often been described as frank and witty.
I think Sophie Kinsella and Chris Manby have influenced me because I have read so many of their books.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently writing my fourth book which is another ‘Confessions’ story. But this time it’s fiction.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Like many, many other writers I still don’t feel experienced when it comes to promotion. All I can do is maintain a blog where my books are listed and try to sound interesting. I use social media sites like Facebook and Twitter but I can’t honestly say how effective they are at promoting my books. I’m constantly on the lookout for websites like this where I hope to reach more readers through advertising and newsletters. A lot of writers swear by mailing lists. So far, I’m hoping my luck lies in newsletters.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep on writing and don’t spend too much time trying to promote just one book.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
‘Keep on writing and don’t spend too much time trying to promote just one book.’
What are you reading now?
I got a Kindle for Christmas so I’m currently reading a very interesting story about a foster mother’s account. I like biographical books as well as chick-lit. A writer’s life can be lonely at times so these kind of books provide a connection with the outside world.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to finish my fourth book next year and I want to plan out my fifth and sixth book. The last two books are going to be chick-lit again. Maybe I’ll concoct a story about a woman whose lifetime goal is to have a baby. Then she has one and disasters ensue.
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?
Probably some memoirs which would provide a connection to the outside world. Or self help books that are aimed at getting off a desert island.
Author Websites and Profiles
L.K. Watts Website
L.K. Watts Amazon Profile
L.K. Watts Author Profile on Smashwords
L.K. Watts’s Social Media Links
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