Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Since the pandemic really limited my ability to work, I decided to re-evaluate my life and my goals. The result was the completion and publication of my first novel. I spent my entire professional career in the IT field over the last thirty-three years and I realized that it wasn’t satisfying to me anymore. I have decided to retire and enjoy the rest of my life at a slower pace. Writing will definitely be part of my future.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I always assumed that my first novel would be science fiction because that is the genre that I most often read. “Friends of the Zek” was inspired by my habit of making up plausible stories during conversations with my family and friends. I decided to try to incorporate historically accurate events and places alongside fictional characters inside a science fiction story. At my wife’s suggestion, the name of the alien race was derived from the names of our three kids (Zachary, Elizabeth, and Kenneth).
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know if my habits are unusual since I haven’t really spoken to other writers about the process. I don’t outline my stories beforehand – I just sit at the computer and type away as ideas flow into my head. One thing that I do is probably spend way too much time researching real places and events so that I can make them as realistic as possible in my writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
As a child, I read all the classic science fiction by Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, and Ray Bradbury. As a young adult, I read some works by Jerry Pournelle. Eventually I read everything that David Weber has ever written.
What are you working on now?
I have an idea about a forbidden romance during the pandemic. There will be joy, heartache, and enough plot twists to play on the readers’ emotions. The characters will all be human this time.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I tried Facebook advertising – the results were disappointing. Advertising directly on Amazon is absolutely a requirement – I am still spending much more than I earn in sales so far. My friends and family have promoted my book on their social media with limited success. Awesome Gang seemed like a good opportunity for me.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Follow your dream! Don’t be discouraged when your book doesn’t sell as quickly as you would like. You are an author and nobody can take that away from you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Never give up. Never surrender.” – Galaxy Quest
What are you reading now?
Ryk Brown has a nice science fiction series called the Frontier Saga. I am currently reading Part 2, Episode 13, “Return of the Corinari.”
What’s next for you as a writer?
I am going to finish my romance novel, then write the second book of my “Zek Transformations” series.
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?
“Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens, “2001, A Space Odyssey” by Arthur C. Clarke, and “A Simple Plan” by Scott Smith.
Author Websites and Profiles
Robert Coraci Website
Robert Coraci Amazon Profile
Robert Coraci’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile