Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My family and I live in Arizona. I’ve been married for fifteen years and have two children; a boy, 8 and a girl, 10. My husband was born and raised in England so we have lots of relatives that we visit over there every couple of years. I’m grateful that my kids have an opportunity to travel. It certainly has broadened my horizons.
I am currently working on my fifth novel. It is the third book in my Redwood Violet mystery series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest novel is Landslide. The inspiration for this story has actually evolved over the past several years. It started out as a completely different type of story that I eventually shelved for a number of years. I took it up again in early 2014, where I gave it a good overhaul and turned it into the story it is today, a corporate/suspense novel that I am really proud of.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not particularly unusual, no. Although, I suppose I do prefer to write in the mornings. My mind is much clearer and more focused.
As for my habits after I finish for the day, I do tend to jump on the old treadmill for a half hour or so to free my mind of the story so that I can focus on tending to the kids when they come home from school. Homework, soccer, etc.. takes of the rest of my day.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I can’t say I’ve read any one book that I felt was life-changing, however I do have my favorites that I felt absolutely allowed me to hone in on my own writing style. And, I can say with certainty that the single biggest influence on me as an author is Stephen King. I have been reading his novels since I was sixteen years old. I know he is the reason why I chose to write in the suspense genre. However, I do so very much admire JK Rowling. I am definitely a huge Harry Potter fan. Those books…well, they speak for themselves, don’t they?
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on the third book in my Redwood Violet series, the title of which is Law of Five. I’m really excited about revisiting these characters after taking about a year off to focus on a few other stories that had been floating around in my mind.
That book should be released around mid-November 2014.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Ahh, the million dollar question. This is something I do struggle with. It is increasingly difficult to get noticed amongst the millions of other books available either online or in brick and mortar stores. I suppose I don’t promote my books insomuch as I try to develop relationships through social media to let people get to know who I am. If they like me, maybe they’ll read my work. I’m pretty active on Goodreads, which I truly enjoy. Of course, there’s Twitter, but I rarely promote my books there. Again, I try to put myself out there so people can get to know me as an author and a person. I do have a blog, which, sadly, I only post to about once a month. And of course, a Facebook fan page. It’s something that’s constantly evolving and I hope to gain a better grasp of as I publish more novels.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
As I am still a relative newbie, I can only say to listen to the ones that came before us. They’ve been through it. I am a big advocate on learning from others and I would recommend that to fellow newbie authors.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I have come across to date is that one should not write for others, but for one’s own self. It is tempting to want to follow fans’ suggestions or that of betareaders, etc. And while they can provide useful information, the writing must still come from the writer’s heart.
What are you reading now?
I have just begun a book called Autumn in Carthage. It is a departure from my usual crime/mystery/thriller novels that I tend towards and so far it is very good and a nice change of pace.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Well, I am working very hard at getting my name out there. I’ll be attending some wonderful events, book signings and festivals. It’s exciting and scary at the same time, but if I want to take my career to the next level, it is something I must do. I’m an introvert by nature.
I will continue to write and hone my skills and hopefully, continue to entertain people with my stories.
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?
Only three or four? Won’t be taking the entire Harry Potter series then. Maybe just books five and six, they’re my favorite. Then, of course, I’d have to take something by Michael Connelly and Stephen King.
Author Websites and Profiles
Robin Mahle Website
Robin Mahle Amazon Profile
Robin Mahle’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account