Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have been writing since I was a child, and began being published during college. I have a Ph.D. in ancient history and religion and a law degree. I write both nonfiction and fiction. The former are either academic works or studies for laypersons, about 15 books. The latter are novels: literary/contemporary fiction and historical fiction, of which I have published two.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
To and Fro Upon the Earth: A Novel was inspired by a reading of the book of Job, and how tragedy and suffering often leads to trite answers from those around us. I wondered if there were not some deeper lessons about life to be learned from exploring meaningless suffering.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. I just write. Mostly in the afternoons, but sometimes in the morning or at night. In my home office, at a coffee shop, riding in the car with my wife…it doesnt matter.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, James Michener, Orson Scott Card, J.R.R. Tolkien, Robert Heinlein, Isaac Asimov
What are you working on now?
An historical fiction novel that takes place in the First Century Roman Empire. It is based on a minor character found in an ancient letter in the New Testament—a pagan slave named Onesimus who steals from his master and runs away. His journey leads him on a path to rethink the meaning of his life as a slave, some terrifying adventures, and interaction with some of the most famous people in history.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
An author website and an author facebook page seem to have worked well, but word of mouth is by far the best promotion.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write every day (at least during the week), read other authors, and read about writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Control what you can, ignore the rest.
What are you reading now?
Faulkner’s The Sound and the Fury; Robert J. Sawyer’s Hominids’ Ryan Holiday’s The Obstacle is the Way.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Finishing this historical fiction novel, and then begin outlining and researching for the next one.
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?
Finnegan’s Wake, the Lord of the Rings Trilogy; the Bible, and a book about how to live on a desert island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Markus McDowell Website
Markus McDowell Amazon Profile
Markus McDowell’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account