Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m is an avid Harley-Davidson rider, as well as an Amateur Radio operator from Las Cruces, New Mexico. I attend New Mexico State University, where I’ve studied many different subjects including: Geography, GIS, Mechanical and Electronic Drafting, Architecture, Composition, Computer Science, and Astronomy. I teach at DACC part time, and work for the NMSU Facilities and Services department. I’ve written well over twenty novels, but only have 8 up for sale now.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The most recent one I published was called ‘Deepforge.’ It’s a prequel to the novel ‘The Legend of Vayrock.’ This takes place on the world of Ahl-Thoor-Hees (also called Altoris), which is 6 billion light years from in the Phoenix cluster of galaxies. I wanted to tell the story of how the Grognor Empire came to be, and also show how the world stage was set for the arrival of the Benevolent Dragon King.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Most nights I need lots of activity. When I’m writing, I have to have the television on and people around me talking to each other. It forms a shell, in a strange way, around me. When it’s quiet I can’t concentrate. I usually have a constant flow of beers too.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There are so many. Tolkien, Martin, King, Patterson, Heinlein, ERB, the list is seemingly endless.
What are you working on now?
I’ve got two books in the works now. One is called ‘Tepes,’ is the story of Vlad Dracula’s last few weeks of life and the atrocities he committed. The other is called ‘The Descendant,’ and is another story of the people of Ahl-Thoor-Hees. This one details the reasons for the 18k year dark ages, and the leads to the ultimate conclusion of the whole series. Dragons, gods, magic, etcetera.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook. I also use Linkedin, Google plus, and Twitter. By far the best one is Facebook. Simply posting links to my page or a specific book helps get people interested, plus I also post snippets and other teasers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
READ.
Before you put down one word of your novel, READ like crazy. Anything you can get your hands on, good or bad. If you read in your chosen genre, even better. It doesn’t hurt to go outside of that too. Just read as much as you can. Then find books on literature, and read them too. Find books on writing and grammar, read those too. You don’t have to have a degree in English, but you do need to follow [most] of the rules. It’s also a good idea is to experiment with different styles. Oh, and participate in NaNoWriMo. Good experience.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
See above. READ, READ, and then when you’re done, READ some more. Your writing will show it.
What are you reading now?
Am reading an in depth historical piece on Vlad Dracula, for research. When I’m done with that, probably the new Stephen King novel.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More reading, and more writing. I also write screenplays for fun, I may try my hand at developing one that will become a blockbuster. Hey, why not?
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?
Good question. Probably The Dark Tower series, or Lord of the Rings.
Author Websites and Profiles
Ron Washburn Website
Ron Washburn Amazon Profile
Ron Washburn’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account