Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Easily distracted by a good book or my dogs when I’m trying to write. Author of middle-grade fiction. For years, I read and taught books of this age group and now I’m so thrilled to be writing them! When I was young, I really loved books like Goosebumps, mysteries with a fantasy twist. As an adult I still do! I also love shows like Supernatural – good vs. evil, man vs. ghost or monster. Daniel Decker and the Banshee of Glynn Castle I hope will reach readers like me!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Daniel Decker and the Banshee of Glynn Castle was inspired by the sixth graders I used to teach. We all agreed nothing beats a good mystery novel! I also think that watching shows like Supernatural, featuring ghosts and folklore, was a big influence. It helped me decide on writing the story as a series, for sure. Goosebumps was a special favorite series of mine at that age, so I hoped to capture a little bit of that vibe. But instead of a new character and setting in each book, I wanted to write a series featuring one main character, like Harry Potter.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My most unusual writing habit involves reaching to type around my jealous dog as she sits on the desk in front of my computer. Some people have writer’s block… I have dog block!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Ray Bradbury, F. Scott Fitzgerald, R.L. Stine, J.K. Rowling, and Lois Lowry
What are you working on now?
Book two! At the end of Daniel Decker and the Banshee of Glynn Castle, the reader learns where he and his family are off to, next. I’m writing the next in the series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I haven’t found much traction with any website so much as word-of-mouth.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Go for it! Aim for the minimally viable product, then edit. Don’t obsess over every word, line, paragraph, scene, or chapter. Just get the story done! Then go back and shape it up. And be ready to hustle. Whether you want to stay independent or find a publisher, you’ll need the endurance to be so much more than a writer, only.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Write what you know and love.” I started so many books and short stories, but they would either turn out sounding forced or like nothing I would personally ever want to read. Now, I’m writing for me. (Write for yourself and you’ve got your first fan!)
What are you reading now?
Books like mine! Since reading my book “Daniel Decker and the Banshee of Glynn Castle” on Kindle, Amazon is recommending similar books. Currently, I’m enjoying “The Mystery of Craven Manor” by Joy Wodhams. Next up, “The Mystery of Three Quarters” by Agatha Christie and “The Red Pyramid” by Rick Riordan (which is kind of cool since my second book takes place in Egypt!)
What’s next for you as a writer?
Like a lot of writers in the era of Covid, I’m trying to find unique ways to promote my book 100% online until I can schedule in-person book reading and talks. I can’t wait to get in front of a group of kids again!
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?
That’s tough! “Dandelion Wine” by Ray Bradbury, “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, then either the first and last or two last Harry Potter books.
Author Websites and Profiles
R.E. Kent Amazon Profile
R.E. Kent’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account