Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a social scientist that has studied in the fields of criminal justice, sociology, and law. Having spent a number of years examining human behavior, societal issues, and political policies, I enjoy writing what I know—especially in storytelling.
I am passionate about community, women, and youth, and often spends time volunteering for causes in these realms. My other interests include spending time with family and friends, foreign travel, and a spectrum of arts and crafts.
I recently released my first novel and am currently working on my second.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Devil Is In The Details.
I am social scientist who reads an immense amount of non-fiction literature for my discipline. I also possess a love for all entertainment in the realm of thriller/suspense/mystery. Often, I find it difficult to free my mind and relax my brain in a challenging but thrilling read. So, I typically turn to classic literature for my reading entertainment. I started writing, and wrote the current published work, to offer readers like myself an engaging read that was not only thought provoking, but loosely educational. I love learning, I love reading, and I love being entertained. When the three are combined, I am in paradise.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I am an emotional writer. So, how I write, when I write, and where I write is often guided by how I am feeling in the moment. To that end, I have written scenes all over the place (almost like puzzle pieces that fell out of a box—they are scattered everywhere!!!). It’s fun writing this way, but a lot of content ends up deleted in the end because the pieces just “do not fit.”
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I enjoy reading suspense and crime thrillers. Although I do not have a current favorite author, I did enjoy reading R.L. Stine’s “Fear Street” series as a child. His series were the perfect balance of mystery and suspense that I sought as a young reader; they definitely encouraged my reading habit and influenced by writing style.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on my second novel that is slated for release the end of the year 2022 or the beginning of the year 2023. True to my professional discipline, this manuscript will also be among the law enforcement/judicial system realm; and true to my passion, it will be another crime thriller.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Word-of-mouth and social media are the best methods for promoting my book. I find that people are most influenced by people in their inner-circle. So, my goal is to target at least one person in each circle and eventually the buzz will spread.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write what you love or what you have the greatest interest in. To follow the advice to write what is trending will make the writing process less enjoyable. So, stay to true to your craft and your passion–this will not only ensure that your manuscript will be completed, but your readers will ultimately receive the authentic you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write your ending first. Though very good advice, I do not follow it, BUT, again, I do believe it is really good advice. So, I try to have an end in mind even if it is not written down. Following this blueprint for writing means that all roads will lead to your end, even if you take a few detours along the way.
What are you reading now?
To stave off boredom, I read at least 2 to 3 books at a time. So, I am currently reading: Jacquelin Jones’s Labor of Love, Labor of Sorrow, Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States, and Tosca Lee’s Demon A Memoir.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Definitely more writing. I am currently working on my second novel that is slated for release the end of the year 2022 or the beginning of the year 2023. I also plan to host a book discussion with as well as a book signing for my readers.
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?
Thinking along the lines of survival until I am rescued, I would bring: The Bible, Book on Herbs, The Complete Guide on Natural Vitamins, Book on Essential Oils,
Author Websites and Profiles
LaKeisha LaKay Amazon Profile
LaKeisha LaKay’s Social Media Links
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