Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Compromise With Sin, to date my only published novel, started out as non-fiction, but my imagination kept getting ahead of the facts.
As I was writing it, I thought I was a one-trick pony. But that changed.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Compromise With Sin.
By law, almost anyone alive in America today received eyedrops to prevent possible infection at birth. Discovering that courageous people like Helen Keller dared to violate societal taboos in order to warn women of the risks of gonorrhea infections to themselves and newborn babies grabbed me. Their efforts brought about one of the greatest unknown public health triumphs of the 20th century.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Some of my best ideas come to me when I’m flossing my teeth, loading the dishwasher, or doing something else away from my computer. I have several rolls of Post-it correction and cover-up tape the house. I just tear off a piece of tape and scribble my thoughts, which would evaporate if I didn’t record them.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Ragtime, by E. L. Doctorow
Ordinary Grace, by William Kent Krueger
White Oleander, by Janet Fitch
What are you working on now?
A spin-off of Compromise. It’s called Candlelight Confessions. I’ve taken a minor character from Compromise, Irina Taylor, and built a story around why she had to leave Riverbend.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
LOL. I’m pathetic when it comes to promotion.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
The romantic notion of great books coming from the solitary soul toiling in a garret or Starbucks is part of the mystique around writing. Drafts are written in solitude. But polished work comes after scrutiny from friends, other writers, and editors. My first novel is 100,000 words, and I know I threw away another 100,000. So join or create a writing critique group. Or at least have one writing buddy you share work with.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You can’t edit a blank page.
What are you reading now?
This Tender Land, by William Kent Krueger
What’s next for you as a writer?
Putting one word after another.
Author Websites and Profiles
Leanna Englert Website
Leanna Englert’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account