Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been writing novels since 2010. Being a Language Arts teacher to 7th graders, and a mommy to a precocious 6 year old does take up the majority of my time! So far, I’ve written five novels… one was published in 2012, one is in the editing stage to be published in 2016, and the other three are waiting in the wings!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest novel coming out in 2016 is titled THE RISE OF STURD and it is the direct sequel to my debut THE COAL ELF. It’s a dark and twisted take on the Christmas mythology, and the series was inspired by my love of all things horror and gothic married with my love of the holidays.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Unusual? I don’t know if I would call it that, but I am very OCD, so maybe QUIRKY is the better word. Every novel I write is outlined in a different colored leather bound notebook. I guess that’s a little odd.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love Clive Barker, Stephen King, Anne Rice… they truly are the masters of horror.
What are you working on now?
I will be delving into the worlds of angels and demons this summer as I begin writing the sequel to my angel novel.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook is great. Can’t ever go wrong with some good fan interaction there!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep. Writing. And. Never. Stop.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Always be professional. This is your business and treat is as such. Whenever you get harsh criticism, you have to take it with a grain of salt. YOU’RE NOT GOING TO PLEASE EVERYONE.
What are you reading now?
Nothing at the moment. When I’m in writing mode, I have to put down my reader brain.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Writing, promoting, searching for an agent…. ๐
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 Lord of the Flies, The Complete Book of Grimm’s Fairy Tales, The Hellbound Heart
Author Websites and Profiles
Maria DeVivo Website
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