Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a broadcaster/voice-artist and writer whose previous books are all non-fiction, however I’m working on a novel.
My previous books, in order of popularity, include:
The Naked Truth – the true story of a summer I spent working/living at a nudist camp.
Celebrity Tantrums – the explosions and implosions in celeb culture.
My Sepsis Story – how I nearly died because I was misdiagnosed and didn’t know what sepsis was. (If the word isn’t familiar to you, please look it up! It could save a life.)
Venus Rising – true stories of 20 famous women who started from nothing and built empires.
When I’m not writing for one of my freelance clients, or for myself, I have a daily blog at voiceoflisabrandt.com.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Make the Media Want You – An Insider’s Guide to Creating Persuasive Pitches.
I wrote it after being in broadcasting a long time and witnessing so many failed attempts to get an idea or guest on the air! People insulted us (hosts and producers) without realizing it, treated us poorly, had unrealistic expectations and social media fails. I wanted to help right those wrongs.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’ll write whenever, wherever. On my phone, on a road trip when my husband is driving, and whenever inspiration hits. However, my favourite time to write is in the early morning, before the sun comes up, with a hot cup of coffee at my side – while looking out at water.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Oh, there are so many! Even if I don’t write like them, I’ve taken great inspiration from Stephen King (his book, On Writing, is a must-read for any writer), Lauren Weisberger (The Devil Wears Prada), Janet Avanovich, Wayson Choy, John Irving – to name just a few.
What are you working on now?
I’m on a bit of a break from a novel I’m writing. It’s about two sisters who are estranged. They come back together under unusual circumstances. I felt I needed a little distance from it. It’s kind of intense! Sometimes you need to just live and breathe a while before going back to the world you’ve created. At least, I do.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m loving Awesome Gang! I also find that getting readers to post honest reviews is crucial. Often times, they don’t realize how important it is. It could be the difference between getting read and getting passed over. So, if you’ve read a book you love, please review it online! Even if you just click on a star rating. It matters.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read, read, read. Talk to people. Learn. Develop a great life and everything you know and experience will go into your writing somehow. The more interesting your life is, the better your writing. And support each other. There’s enough room for everyone to succeed. Don’t think someone else’s success will diminish your efforts. Don’t give into the green monster of jealousy.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t become a cynic. Remain open and don’t prejudge or assume.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading the first book in Carolyn Arnold’s wonderful Matthew Connor Adventure series. I started it backwards, with book two! Book one is called City of Gold. I’m loving it.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m waiting for inspiration to strike! It always does. And during the “lulls” I write for several magazines and some corporate clients.
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?
The Cider House Rules by John Irving. The Art of Racing in the Rain – Garth Stein. I’d need some Malcolm Gladwell or Seth Godin to keep my brain buzzing. And Mourning Has Broken, a beautiful memoir by my wickedly talented friend Erin Davis, whose daughter Lauren (also my friend) died in her sleep of unknown causes at the age of 24. I would read it again and again although it’s painful. It’s also got a lot of humour in it and it’s a story of coming through the worst thing that could happen to a parent, and finding some joy again.
Author Websites and Profiles
Lisa Brandt Website
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