Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve written two fiction novels and prior to that had only written non-fiction. Fiction has always been my first love and I can’t wait to write more!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “The Atlantis Twins” (and the prequel is “Alabaster Island”). They are both part of the Mermaid Curse Series. I find mermaids enigmatic and fascinating. But I have a slightly different viewpoint than I’ve seen represented elsewhere. I was also inspired to tell a story that spanned several generations. Genetics and the topic of what aspects of our personalities (and in some ways destinies) are inherited and what gets chosen is a fascinating area of debate.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I use my nose on the keyboard instead of my fingers. When people say that I’m a “hunt and peck” typist, they are not joking. I developed this habit after a severe case of writer’s cramp that left me unable to work for several days. And yes I am joking. 🙂 My writing habits are woefully boring. I get up early and write first thing before I get upset by something I read in the news or distracted by social media or email. I often light a candle when I start a new project…not sure if that counts as unusual.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Neil Gaiman, JRR Tolkien, Suzanne Collins, J.K. Rowling, Judy Blume, C.S. Lewis, Roald Dahl, Madeleine L’Engle, Ray Bradbury, J. D. Salinger…there are many!
What are you working on now?
I’m working on the third book in the Mermaid Curse Series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m relatively new to this so I’m still figuring that out!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write even when you don’t feel like it. It’s a great lesson to learn that you don’t always need to feel inspired to still produce quality material.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Forget your excuses and do the work. Be stubborn.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading “House of Leaves” by Mark Danielewski. I buy nearly all of my books for Kindle, but this one I have as a paperback. It has some wild formatting!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have many fiction ideas in the pipeline that I’m extremely excited about. But I’ll also continue to write non-fiction. To date I’ve concentrated on YA fiction and I will stay in that genre for the foreseeable future. However, once I’ve built up a bit of a back-list I’d love to write a conventional thriller novel.
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?
I could never choose just 3 or 4! I would bring a solar charger and a Kindle with hundreds of my favorite books loaded…and maybe a backup Kindle just in case.
Author Websites and Profiles
M.S. Kaminsky Website
M.S. Kaminsky Amazon Profile
M.S. Kaminsky Author Profile on Smashwords
M.S. Kaminsky’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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