Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have written one book and am working on a second. I am a single parent of a 17-year old daughter. When I am not writing I work as a civil litigation paralegal and also have a separate business conducting research. I love researching, genealogy, visiting new places, hiking, reading books of all genres, watching movies, and spending quality time with friends, family and my pets.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book is called The Drummer’s Call. The book was inspired by my interest in genealogy. I discovered a few of my ancestors were in the Civil War, and at least one was a Civil War drummer. Very little has been written about the Civil War drummers, yet they were called the heartbeat of the military. I thought it would be interesting to write a book about a boy from the present who travels back in time and finds himself enlisting in the Civil War as a Union drummer.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to write portions of the beginning, middle and end as they come to me, and continue adding to each until I am able to join them together.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Taylor Caldwell, Jane Austin, Jack London, Wayne Dyer and Don Miguel Ruiz.
What are you working on now?
A fictional (and hopefully inspiring) novel about a woman’s struggle to overcome the emotional aftermath of having endured both an abusive childhood and abusive marriage
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I believe a website is important, so are good recommendations about your book on high traffic websites such as Amazon.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes! Write your book from beginning to end mainly to get your story on paper (or word processor) without stressing out too much about the fact that your grammar or sentence structure may not be perfect. After you have completed the story, re-read it, one sentence at a time, and make improvements using some type of editing software (I use White Smoke). After you have done this, hire someone to edit it for you and be open to their suggestions and criticisms. Make the changes recommended by the editor (if you agree with them). Next, have friends or family members read the book. You will be surprised what they find that both you and your editor have missed. When it comes to writing, what often takes the longest amount of time is the editing process. By the time your novel is completed you may have read it 10 times or more, and made changes with each reading. Also, writing is the most important job for a writer. I leave the publishing and promotion to my Publisher, Shanti Publishing. http://www.ShantiPublishing.com
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Try to find a good way to use bad experiences (liking making lemons out of lemonade).
What are you reading now?
Daring Greatly by Brene Brown.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Although I loved The Drummer’s Call and became very attached to my characters, I am challenging myself to find the courage to write about subjects that are in my heart, such as overcoming emotional, physical and sexual abuse. I struggle with my reluctance to expose myself to the criticism I will more than likely receive. My belief that I will help other women by writing about these subjects gives me the strength to continue.
What is your favorite book of all time?
I love many books and do not have a favorite.
Author Websites and Profiles
Patricia Leppo Website
Patricia Leppo Amazon Profile