Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Reid Templer. I’ve published only one book thus far, “Storytellers.”
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The closest book to have influenced “Storytellers” was “Inkheart” by Cornelia Funke, and I only realized the thin connection months after its completion. Cornelia’s whole Fantasy series gave me a love for books as a kid; it’s only fitting that my first novel would hold some semblance to it.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My unusual habit is that I never seem to have a sensible routine. One day, I’ll be listening to loud music–the next, I’ll require utter silence. Sometimes words flow through a keyboard, others times I pick up a pen and paper and pace the house as I write. I’m still unsure whether I function better with coffee or tea.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
As mentioned before, “Inkheart” by Cornelia Funke. “A Game of Thrones” by George R. R. Martin, any and all Stephen King Books, “Eragon” by Christopher Paolini, “The 48 Laws of Power” by Robert Greene, and, recently, Robin Hobb.
What are you working on now?
Right now I’m in the ever-so-strange state of waiting for my next novel idea. I’ll scribble a short story or form a clumsy poem, but my heart and soul’s always been with novels.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m in the process of promoting my first book right now, so I can’t really say.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
When I was starting out, I got carried away with the fantasy of publishing a story, as I believe many other aspiring novelists tend to do. I dedicated all my time and energy to writing, with little to no regard to reading. It was, in reflection, a slow crawl of maddening misadventure. To write, you must read. I hadn’t the necessary literary tools at my disposal until I began to read.
Side Note: Sometimes, a terrible, one-star rated book can benefit you more than a classic. Look for things the author did wrong, and resolve never to repeat their mistakes.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Oh, the classic Stephen King line from his amazing memoir, “On Writing”: “If you don’t have the time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.”
What are you reading now?
“Cell 58” by Dan Bauman. Great so far.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Eventually, I’d like to break into every form of media entertainment–film, music, comics–but for right now, probably another novel.
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?
The Bible, “Inkspell” by Cornelia Funke, “Harry Pottter and the Order of the Phoenix” by J. K. Rowling, and “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding.
Author Websites and Profiles
Reid Templer Amazon Profile
Reid Templer’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account