Interview With Author Lois Melbourne
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve written two kids books about exploring careers and one sci-fi. I’m an entrepreneur who built a software company with my husband. After selling the global business I turned my focus to non-profits and writing. I’ve been an avid Formula One fan for over a decade. I love kayaking, pilates and my dogs.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Moral Code” brings you an impressive engineer, Keira, who creates the most ethical artificial intelligence and an operating system to create ethical boundaries for all AI’s. Keira and her AI, Elly, determine that the most ethical thing they can do, is protect kids from abuse and trafficking. That would be the artificial intelligence I would build if I could.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
The majority of my creative writing is done away from my desk. I have comfortable outdoor chairs on both my front and back porch. Those are my favorite places to write. When the weather doesn’t support outdoor writing I’m often curled up on the couch to write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
When I was a teenager I read “The Stand” by Stephen King. That was the first book that opened my eyes to the ability of creating any world and any activity between the covers of a book. I’m inspired by Ted Chiang and Erin Morgenstern for their creativity. There are so many other inspirations across many genres which inspire me create better work.
What are you working on now?
I’m writing about a young woman in Chicago’s 1920’s. She’s finding her voice while she helps others do better in the ultimate man’s world.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Bookbub has been fantastic. Instagram has helped reach people I don’t think I’d find any other way.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
After you write your book, hire an editor to help you clean it up before pitching the manuscript. Spend the money.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write the story you need to tell
What are you reading now?
I just finished the incredible “The Once and Future Witches” by Alix E. Harrow. I loved the touch of history, alternate history, magical realism, feminism and straight up exploration of fairy and wives tales. I haven’t started a novel because I’m buried in reading business cases for a Harvard class I have in January.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to explore writing in varied genres. I’m looking for a long engagement writing course or coaching program. I feel I write my best with a little structure.
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?
Ted Chiang’s “Exhale”, a book of my grandmother’s collection of quotes, and “The Art of Happiness” by the Dalai Lama
Author Websites and Profiles
Lois Melbourne’s Social Media Links
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