Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
After spending over 33 years in the computer and information technology industry, Richard decided to take an early retirement to pursue his dreams of becoming a professional writer and published author. Richard is a leader in the computer industry, serving as Vice President of Consulting at Software Techniques and Beck Computer Systems before settling down as Director of Computer Operations at Trader Joe’s. During his twenty-year tenure at that esteemed company, he focused on computer security and preparing for the possibility of disaster.
In addition to creating hundreds of articles for the web and blogs, Richard actively works as a professional ghostwriter. In that role, he has completed books on a wide variety of subjects including memoirs, business volumes, and novels. Because of his in-depth background in software management and computer security, Richard has ghostwritten a number of major books in those areas.
Additionally, Richard has published books of his own. His first two volumes, Safe Computing is Like Safe Sex and Real World Survival Tips and Survival Guide, respectively touch on the subjects of computer security and how to survive emergencies and disasters. Richard has also written and published a series of short eBooks on the aspects of freelance writing, including blogging and ghostwriting. Other published books include How to Plan a Party and How to Surround Yourself with Beautiful Women without Being a Sleazeball.
An avid adventurer, Richard has been a photographer for much of his life, with a focus on nature, scenic, performance and event photography. He has done everything from hiking in dozens of national parks throughout the country, to photographing various unique festivals and events, such as the Labyrinth of Jareth Masquerade Ball and the World Mermaid Awards Convention. He is well known in the Renaissance Festival and Belly Dance communities, having photographed over 1,200 dance events and 400 festivals. For several years, he photographed the Tournament of Roses parade in Pasadena, California.
Richard is currently working on a large number of short Kindle eBooks on a wide variety of subjects. Beginning in 2016, the first of a ten volume series of Science Fiction novels will be published.
One of Richard’s passions is to use the power of words to educate people on human rights. He believes the world will be a better place when human beings are treated with the full respect and dignity they are due.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Help! I’ve Lost My Job: Tips on What to do When You’re Unexpectedly Unemployed (Business Professional Series Book 5)
I wanted to help people who have recently lost their jobs. I went through that experience two years ago, and although I left voluntarily, there were many things I learned that others could find of benefit.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I set a timer for 45 minutes, write for that long, then take a 15 minute break. I do this 3 times before lunch, 3 times after, and 3 times after dinner.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
L Ron Hubbard was a huge influence because he could write on so many subjects. I also enjoyed Stranger and a Strange land and any book by Mike Resnick.
Shelley Hitz books on writing and marketing have been a fantastic influence and helped me get my writing career started.
What are you working on now?
My second novel, a space opera called “Peacekeeper”.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve been using LinkedIn very successfully to market my books and my ghostwriting services.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. Write. Write. Don’t give up and don’t listen to the naysayers. Also, learn to market and sell.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Believe in myself and my abilities.
What are you reading now?
Scam Proof your Life
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m writing a 10 volume novel series, a space opera set 1 million years in the future, another novel involving a cat from her point of view, and a long series of short Kindle eBooks on various subjects.
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?
Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert Heinlein
Santiago by Mike Resnick
Lord of the Rings by J R R Tolkein
Author Websites and Profiles
Richard Lowe jr Website
Richard Lowe jr Amazon Profile
Richard Lowe jr’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account