Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m the author of two non-fiction books published by Lyons Press: Iconic Spirits: An Intoxicating History (2012) and Moonshine Nation (2014). Friend of the Devil is my first novel.
My second novel, a political thriller set during the invasion of Iraq, is due out in Spring 2019.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Friend of the Devil tells the story of America’s most famous chef, who has cut a deal with Satan for fame and fortune. Much of it was based on a true story—enough said.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I get up early, usually around 4:30 or 5 a.m., and get most of my work done then. I write intermittently throughout the day.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have a degree in literature, so I’ve read many of the classics. Hemingway was my childhood idol. Joyce, Melville, Nabokov and Borges invaded my psyche at different times.
What are you working on now?
As mentioned, my second novel is due out next spring. I noticed an uncanny resemblance between the Fourth Crusade and the war in Iraq, and that relationship is explored in the book against the steamy background of Washington politics. I’m currently putting the finishing touches on a sequel, tentatively titled Impeachment.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Promotion and marketing is still a work in progress for me. I’ve tried many different methods, and can’t honestly say that any of them have worked as well as I’d hoped. I’m currently trying to decode the Amazon algorithm.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Plain and simple: Don’t give up. It takes a long time to learn how to tell a story that other people will want to read, but the struggle is worth it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best writing advice is not to reach for the accessible phrase. In terms of general advice, don’t take yourself too seriously.
What are you reading now?
I don’t read a great deal of contemporary fiction for a number of reasons. I’m more likely to go back to some of the classics mentioned above.
What’s next for you as a writer?
The never-ending process of seeing how far I can push myself.
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?
Moby Dick, definitely; Pale Fire, by Nabokov; Ulysses (I’d finally have enough time to get through it).
Author Websites and Profiles
Mark Spivak Website
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