Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Lee Hutch. I’m a retired firefighter/arson investigator. After my career, I became a history instructor at a community college and recently finished my first novel entitled So Others May Live.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
As a firefighter, I always had an interest in the fire service during World War Two. While quite a bit is known about the London Fire Brigade during The Blitz, not much has been written about the German fire service during the War. I set out to interview wartime German firefighters intending it to be part of my Master’s Thesis only to have it wind up in a novel instead.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write (or rather, type) standing up. I suffered a severe injury to my lower spine in 2012 which necessitated my retirement from the fire department. I have many complications from that injury, including the inability to sit for more than around 30 minutes without suffering from severe pain. When I set out to write my book, I knew I couldn’t actually sit at a desk, so I built myself a standing work station. 96K words later, I had a novel.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m a huge fan of James Lee Burke, particularly his Dave Robicheaux series. With historical fiction, I enjoy reading James Holland, John Jakes, and Derek Robinson. My favorite novel is Quiet Flows the Don by Soviet author Mikhail Sholokhov. It’s the most remarkable thing I’ve ever read.
What are you working on now?
My current work in progress is Molly’s Song. It follows the fortunes of a young woman who immigrates to New York City in 1862, only to fall victim to sex trafficking. The story centers around her attempts to get out of her situation. It gives a bit of historical context to an issue a lot of people think is a recent phenomenon. The anticipated release is in the late summer or early fall of 2020.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Great question. As a new author, I think I’m often learning the hard way what works and what doesn’t work. Right now, I’m utilizing my website, targeted adds via my author Facebook/Instagram pages, and periodic Amazon adds. I’ve had the most success with Amazon adds.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing. I know that sounds like a cliche, but it is easy for new authors to get discouraged and give up. Don’t. Someone out there needs to read your book!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever received was to stop worrying about things I had no control over.
What are you reading now?
I’m presently reading a couple of books. First, I have delved into Rick Atkinson’s The British Are Coming, the first book in his American Revolution series. As far as fiction goes, I’m reading The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons. It’s a remarkable novel!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I hope to finish Molly’s Song, and when it goes off to the editor, I will turn my attention to my next novel, one set during the Russian Revolution. After that, I’ll come back to Molly as she’s getting a three book series.
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?
Quiet Flows the Don by Mikhail Sholokhov
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
The Burning Blue by James Holland
Piece of Cake by Derek Robinson
Author Websites and Profiles
Lee Hutch Website
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Goodreads Profile
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