Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
This is the first serious attempt at creating a lasting piece of work. I have been writing since I was a young boy, mainly poetry, but after joining the Scribophile writing group, I discovered I liked writing very short stories.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Shorts That Grab Attention!
I wanted to name my book Short shorts, but there is a book out there with that name already. I figured this title would generate interest.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I stare at the blank screen for about an hour, then decide to go on a walk along the canal. It is usually when I am walking or shopping or at the gym when ideas come to me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Raymond Carver, Haruki Murakami and Lydia Davis are my favourite authors. Raymond Carver’s ‘Little things’ is the sort of story I would love to be able to write someday.
What are you working on now?
Marketing this book. I’m writing the odd little story and putting it on instagram and facebook to help promote this book.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have used The Fussy Librarian and Bookrunes. But I have to find a more cost effective way of promoting my book.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Be creative. Be patient. Be thick-skinned.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Perservere..perservere..persevere.
My dad told me these words when I was about 7 or 8 and I didn’t know then or until recently what he meant. When you are writing a book, you’ve got to stick with it.
What are you reading now?
I’ve just finished Lydia Davis’ ‘Can’t and won’t.’ It was fantastic.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I would like to write a novella. I just have to think of a good plot.
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?
One book I would bring would be the book my brother bought me for my 40th. It was entitled something like ‘How to get out of worst case scenarios!’
Author Websites and Profiles
Robert Daley Website
Robert Daley’s Social Media Links
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