Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Noah Fregger. I was born April 8th 1983 in Santa Clara, California. I feel like I’ve been a writer my whole life. Even when I was young, I’d sit at my desk and let my number 2 pencil lead the way to a new world. I had a great imagination (or so I was told) and would daydream often. I became fixated with Star Wars about as soon as I could say, “Lightsaber.” From then on I mainly enjoyed science fiction books. I also must admit my fascination with Greek mythology.
I aspired to be a writer very young, as well. It took a bit more maturing on my part to have the patience to actually sit down and do it. I’m so glad that I did. I can hardly describe a more rewarding experience.
So, officially, I’ve written and published two books and two short stories.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Gabriel’s Sacrifice. It is the second book in my Scrapman Trilogy. I suppose I gathered inspiration from all over for it. I say that a writer lives constantly half in and half out of his or her story at all time. It is essential to leave yourself open for inspiration and be able to recognize it when it comes. I get lots of inspiration from the people in my life, or odd scenarios I find myself in. Once I was on the roof of my work, saw a plane in the sky, and thought, “That’s it!” And “ta-da” it made it into my first book.
The story itself came from my love of post apocalyptic stories, but I wanted to write one I’d never heard before. It was a bit by the seat of my pants, but I’ll be damned if it didn’t work out just fine. This sequel stems from that.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Oh, geez, yes. I tend to pace, and I write practically everything on paper first. There’s something unnatural about a computer screen for me when it comes to writing. I find it very difficult to write directly into a computer. So instead I pace and talk to myself. Needless to say I’m usually alone for said activity.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I spent four years in Japan (US Navy) and ended up really enjoying Dean Koontz novels while I was underway. He was the first author I think I really grew attached to, although I loved Edgar Rice Burroughs when I was an early teen. I like to mix their two very different styles of writing. More recently than that I became a fan of Joe Schrieber, and dream of the day that I write a Star Wars book.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on wrapping up my Scrapman Trilogy, so I can get started on this other fun stuff I got floating around in my brain. Yes, I can’t wait to wrap this series up in a nice, little bow.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Still trying to figure this one out. I’ve been knocking down the door at BookBub like the big bad wolf, but they never let me in. I’ve seen moderate success here and there, like Book Daily. I’m really still waiting for that wider audience I dream about.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Hmmmm. Yes. Ponder your story, make it failsafe and something you love. Write for you, what you want to read, because you’ll never make everyone happy. I read somewhere, “God didn’t even write a book that everyone liked.” And that remains to be funny, yet entirely true. Don’t get caught up in dreams of fame and money, because your writing will surely suffer. Just write for you, for it’s one of the things you love the most.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Sheeesh…uh…buy low, sell high, don’t eat yellow snow, and…try McDonald’s french fries with ice cream. What a waste of advice. I’m so sorry.
What are you reading now?
I’ve got a legion of books to read. Right now I’m in the middle of an Ian M. Banks novel, The Player of Games.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m gonna finish this interview, hope that it earns me some new readers; and continue to lead my stride with the books I’ve written, and trust they’re worthy enough vehicles within this confusing and frustrating industry.
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?
Hmmm…I’d have to say Tarzan first, then a collaboration of Greek mythology, then How to Survive Whilst Being Stranded on a Desert Island…For Dummies.
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