Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a multi-genre author based in northwest Montana. Along the winding trail, I’ve worked as a journalist, school bus driver, Good Humor ice cream girl, fishing boat mate, and race horse hot walker, among other things. This is my third published novel.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is entitled Bell-Bottom Gypsy: A Jessie Morgan Novel.
It’s a significant departure from my two previous novels, Spirited Away and Daring Passage, both of which are historical fiction set in the 1650s.
What inspired me to write Bell-Bottom Gypsy? My own 1970s experiences on the road. The novel is loosely based on those real life stories, with a loud emphasis on the word “loosely.” Much of Bell-Bottom Gypsy is pure fiction, embellishment, and wishful thinking.
It feels wonderful to get these stories written — to breathe new, vibrant life into them. They are the framework for my planned four-book Jessie Morgan Series.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure how unusual it is, but I write on a laptop computer in my recliner. Ha!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I think my favorite novel is Harper Lee’s TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. I just love how she told that story. Other authors who have influenced me are Toni Morrison, Barbara Kingsolver, and Anna Quinlen.
What are you working on now?
At the moment, I am working on launching Bell-Bottom Gypsy! Also I am already planning and researching book 2 of the Jessie Morgan Series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
This is definitely one of them! I need to get better at being organized when it comes to book promotion. Not an easy task, I find.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I would say make sure you have a well-edited book. I think that content is king. A good cover is important, too. But one of my pet peeves is a self-published author who doesn’t bother to proofread, fix mistakes, and/or hire a good editor.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I think it was Thoreau who said, “Our lives are frittered away by detail. Simplify! Simplify!” I try to live by these words.
What are you reading now?
Michelle Obama’s memoir, BECOMING. It’s great.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Book 2 of the Jessie Morgan Series. Then Book 3, then Book 4!
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?
To Kill a Mockingbird, A River Runs Through It, Sometimes a Great Notion, and Sula.
Author Websites and Profiles
Maggie Plummer Website
Maggie Plummer Amazon Profile
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