Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi, I’m Rita Chapman, writing as Rita Lee Chapman because there was someone writing vampire books under Rita Chapman.
I live in Australia and started to write when I retired to Queensland. I have a wonderful lifestyle here, swimming, playing tennis and socialising. On rainy days I write and my first book was a romantic travel mystery, Missing in Egypt and my second is one for horse lovers from teenagers upwards, Winston – A Horse’s Tale.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Winston – A Horse’s Tale was inspired by a lifelong love of horses. It was much easier to write than my first book and I am now in the process of promoting it – the hardest part!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think so!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I wouldn’t say I have been influenced by anyone but I do love Bryce Courtney and Kate Morton, both Australian authors. If only I could write like them!
What are you working on now?
I’ve started a crime thriller but I haven’t been working on it for the last couple of months as I edited and formatted Winston – A Horse’s Tale.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have my own website www.ritaleechapman.com and I really enjoy Goodreads. I opened a Facebook page but I’m struggling with it. I’m also on Savvy Authors, Library Thing, Booktalk.org plus a few others. My local bookshops have been very supportive too.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
With Amazon everyone can now publish their work and their CreateSpace division means you can hold a copy of your book in your hand s0- an amazing feeling. My advice is always edit, edit, edit then edit some more (and you will probably still find errors!).
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Treat other people as you would like to be treated yourself – not book related but still a great piece of advice for life.
What are you reading now?
The Lost Dog by Michelle de Kretser
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d like to publish my next book by the end of the year and continue hosting other authors on my website.
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?
Kate Morton’s Shifting Fog, Bryce Courtney’s The Persimmon Tree, Fiona Walker’s Tongue in Cheek.
Author Websites and Profiles
Rita Chapman Website
Rita Chapman Amazon Profile
Rita Chapman Author Profile on Smashwords
Rita Chapman’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile