Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live in England with my husband and two teenage sons. I work three days a week and write the other two week days, leaving the weekend free for family time (unless I have a writing deadline or am in the middle of writing a very big important scene).
I’ve written four books: Iniquity is my new release (25th October, 2016) and the first in a planned trilogy. And the other three are from my four book series, the Mine series, Sachael Dreams, Sachael Desires, Sachael Delusions, and Sachael Destiny. Sachael Delusions is with my editor at the moment and will be released in 2017, with the final book of the series released the following year.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is titled Iniquity. It was inspired by watching the world news. There seemed to be a time where there was a run of natural disasters: earthquakes, tsunamis, and ash spewing volcanoes, and I thought what if these aren’t actually natural occurrences? What if something is causing these things to happen? My overactive imagination ran with the idea that there was another force at work, one that would eventually break free from under the earth’s crust. That’s where the main thrust of INIQUITY came from.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really, although I will only ever drink from my special writing mug. It’s a large red and white spotted mug. I’m a massive tea drinker and get through far too many cups of tea whilst I’m writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The Twilight series was the main reason I started writing. I hated the ending of the series and decided that I’d write my own ending. After that, I decided to try writing something of my own. That’s when the idea for Sachael Dreams was first thought of, although it was another 2 years before I began to write it.
I also enjoyed the ‘Fallen’ series by Lauren Kate. I’m a great lover of YA fantasy, but also enjoy a slightly older read with NA, although I hate when NA is used just to sexualise a story (as I’ve read many times). I also enjoy a good mystery. Lindwood Barclay’s books always keep me up at night reading.
What are you working on now?
I’m having a little bit of a breather before heading into writing the second book in the Ascent Series. It has a working title of Adversity and will pick up exactly where we left Athena in Iniquity.
I’ll put that aside though when development edits of Sachael Delusions come through, and after working on them I may head into continuing with the last book in the Mines series, Sachael Destiny.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I think a good mix is the best way to promote your books AND yourself. I post on facebook and Twitter, and have my website and newsletter. But for assistance with cover reveals and blog tours I recommend Giselle form Xpresso Books. She is so professional and always provides an excellent service.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
You have to believe in yourself and your characters. There are plenty of people out there who will question you and your commitment, but you need to stay true to your dreams and keep writing. Ignore the doubters, and listen to the one who want to encourage you. Writing is hard, but once you have your book in your hands it’s worth every little bit of effort.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t take negative reviews to heart.
What are you reading now?
Fallen, by Lauren Kate. I’m rereading it in preparation of the film which is out very soon. The trailer looks AMAZING!
What’s next for you as a writer?
The release of ‘Sachael Delusions’, followed by lots of writing in preparation for the future release of ‘Adversity’, and ‘Sachael Destiny’.
I also have a 3 book series, ‘Love is . . .’ planned out. It’s a contemporary romance, no fantast in sight. And I have a stand alone novel planned, Glow, which is a dark fairytale retelling.
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’d definitely take a survival handbook as my first choice, probably one by the hunky Bear Grylls. I’d also have to take Twilight with me as I can read that book over and over again.
I’d also like to take Poison Study by Maria Snyder, another favourite book of mine.
Author Websites and Profiles
Melody Winter Website
Melody Winter Amazon Profile
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