Interview With Author LJ Smith
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a Scottish writer living in Perthshire. I took early retirement in 2019 after a 34 year career in education to write seriously. My first novel, ‘Listen To Mother’, was published on 16.01.25 by Blossom Spring Publishing. I have completed a second novel, a family saga examining the power of the family to influence life choices, and am currently completing a third novel, a dystopian thriller.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The inspiration for this first novel, ‘Listen To Mother’, came initially from a trip to Florence in 2011. However, the main inspiration was a desire for others to experience the world from the viewpoint of someone with high functioning autism whose struggles with the reality of life result in his joining a world in the shadows.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really although I do like to splurge write. I will spend a few days considering the plot, how the characters are going to react to events and then sit down and write. Not sure it’s that unusual but it suits me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have a very broad taste in literature and it would be hard to say that one author or one book has influenced me. However, the books I enjoy most are those where the characters interest me and their actions drive the plot.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a dystopian thriller entitled ‘Alone’.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Good Reads or X
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Persevere even when you feel your book may never be published. There will be someone out there who will like it. Believe in what you are doing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never give advice!
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading ‘Trustee From the Toolroom’ by Nevil Shute.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Publicising this my first novel and getting the next two published!
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?
A Prayer for Owen Meaney; John Irving
Treasure Island: Robert Louis Stevenson
Burial Rites; Hannah Kent
Five Quarters of The Orange; Joanne Harris
Author Websites and Profiles
LJ Smith’s Social Media Links
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