Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a writer, editor, and publisher in Coral Springs, Florida. I have written thirteen novels and four middle-grade chapter books.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book, The Bear, The Werewolf, and The Blogger, is the fifth book of my Wolf Boy series. The books are about the trials of a sixteen-year-old nerd as he tries to deal with being a werewolf in Loxahatchee, Florida. The books tend toward humor and sweet romance rather than sex and violence. No werewolves were harmed in the making of The Bear, The Werewolf, and The Blogger.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I get up at 5:00 each morning so I can write in peace and quiet for at least three hours before the rest of the household wakes. I outline the entire book then write the first draft in longhand. I expand and enhance the second draft as I type it on the computer.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
J.K. Rowling is my favorite author. She is an inspiration both as a writer and as a woman.
What are you working on now?
I am currently writing the sixth and probably final installment of my Wolf Boy series, which is loosely titled The Amazing Super Wolf.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The best way to sell books is to write more books, because if a reader likes one, they may go back to buy others. That said, I find that Instagram has a strong writing community and is a good way to get the word out.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Every single sentence must do one of two things–either further the plot or define the characters. No exceptions.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Everyone’s first pages are awful. Just hold your nose and write. Today’s sh*t is tomorrow’s compost.
What are you reading now?
I am currently reading No Time Like the Past, which is the fifth book in The Chronicles of St. Mary’s by Jodi Taylor.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I think after this next werewolf book I might go back to science fiction. But who knows? The important thing is that I will still be writing novels and taking readers to places they haven’t been before.
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?
Harry Potter. I never tire of reading Harry.
Author Websites and Profiles
Roxanne Smolen Website
Roxanne Smolen Amazon Profile
Roxanne Smolen’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account