Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have degrees in psychology, sociology, biology and education, all of which inspire my writing. I like to write stories that incorporate science and shift the perception of the reader. My first novel (The Conversationist) was badly self-published, but was fun to write. My second novel Incite Insight is available now through Tale Publishing. My third book – a collection of short stories called MoveMind will be out early next year (2018).
I’ve also compiled an anthology called View from the Hill for my writers group.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called Incite Insight. It was inspired by my short story that won a writing competition when I was at university. The main idea was that someone had created an intelligence raising program, but the story never said what the program involved. Over the years I kept coming across ideas that I thought could have been levels in the program and eventually I organised them into an actual program which became the feature of the book. You get to experience the program just as the main character does.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Reading science journals for ideas.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
George Orwell, Peter Hoeg, Jeffrey Archer, Donald E Westlake, Jack Dann.
What are you working on now?
A short story collection and a new novel.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Being tolerably persistent to get a sale when someone says they are interested in your book. Mailing list marketing has been successful for me. My publisher has a distributor, which has also really helped get into the ‘physical’ marketplace.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Join a writers group and get an editor. My first book (The Conversationist) was self-published and edited and it showed. A good editor makes your writing better without compromising your voice or story.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just keep writing. It is easier to edit words than no words.
What are you reading now?
Peter Hoeg’s latest book – The Susan Effect
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m currently finalising a short story collection called MoveMind. It will contain speculative short stories based around the theme of characters having their perspective changed.
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?
1984 – Orwell
Sherlock Holmes Anthology – Doyle
Miss Smilla’s Feeling for Snow – Hoeg
Author Websites and Profiles
Robert New Website
Robert New Amazon Profile
Robert New’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account