Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a moviepreneur! It’s the next best thing next to reading for me! I’m also a self-made photographer which is easy living in Arkansas. I’m a proud mom of three beautiful and talented children. My daughter is an artist, and my two sons are ex-military and very talented writers. Their preferred genres are sci-fi and fantasy. Currently, I have one book, Willow Lake, published in both ebook and paperback formats.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book Willow Lake is a suspense novel. I think what inspired Willow Lake is the strong women I encountered in my life and the obstacles they faced. It’s witty, a slight bit humorous, somewhat poetic with a little romance.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes, I do. Write, pace, make coffee, write more and repeat!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Several have and to pull one single book or author out of influence would be difficult.
What are you working on now?
Right now I’m working on Journey Beyond The Moon. It’s a historical fiction based around the mid-1800s. Again, my lead character is a strong female role. She’s feisty, stubborn, determined and quite different from Sage, my lead character in Willow Lake. Heart -breaking circumstances puts her on a quest that’s literally out of this world!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Currently, I’m on Amazon. My paperback is through Createspace. I’m still narrowing down a combination that works best for me.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Take an account of what inspires you. Whether it is music, reading, or movies. Myself, I use all three and read as often as possible but don’t lose your own style of writing. Research before you publish your book and find what platform works best for you. Study your keywords and categories. These I found are very important.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
My father, who was an English major once told me. Write in a way your readers can see it in their mind’s eye. Let them feel what your characters are feeling bring the pages to life and just simply, keep writing!
What are you reading now?
Currently, I scan the new and upcoming author’s work. There are a lot a good, talented writers out there. When I’m not doing that I refer back to my library of Stephen King, Nora Roberts, Sandra Brown and others.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Getting my next (three) books published.
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 would have to bring John Grisham’s A Time To Kill, Stephen King’s Carrie and maybe something by Nora Roberts.
Author Websites and Profiles
Michelle Umland Website
Michelle Umland Amazon Profile
Michelle Umland’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
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