Interview With Author Russell Carroll
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Russell Carroll and I’ve wanted to be an author for decades, but finally made it a reality in the past four years. I live in Sacramento, CA with my wife, two daughters, two German shepherds, an ackie monitor lizard, a ball python and a blue-tongue skink. We stay busy. I work as a Contract Manager for the State of CA, but my passion is writing.
My first official publication came in 2020 when my short story, The Purple Heart, was selected for inclusion in Nevada Necromance fanthology. This was very exciting, only cut short somewhat due to the COVID pandemic. My first published novel is Relentless Blades which just released on October 21, 2024.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Relentless Blades is my debut fantasy novel. It was inspired by my love of playing Dungeons and Dragons in my youth. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCWVJX7Q
Fun fact, twenty years ago, I entered a writing contest sponsored by Wizards of the Coast to write a novel in their Eberron campaign setting. Although I didn’t win, I made the short list and received invaluable feedback from the editor. This concept became the basis for Relentless Blades.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think so, other than the fact that I work full-time and juggle family responsibilities, so my writing happens pretty much whenever I can squeeze in time. Which means, there is no room for writer’s block or excuses. I need to utilize the time when I get it.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
It’s cliche to say Tolkien, but he’s an influence on almost every fantasy author, right? Getting him out of the way, my biggest influences were the D&D writers from the 80’s-mid 2000s. There were many I enjoyed, but the ones that really stand out are R.A. Salvatore and his Drizzt saga and Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman for the Dragonlance Chronicles and Legends.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on the sequel to Relentless Blades. I hope to have the first draft finished by the first half of 2025.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Good question. I’m still trying to figure that out. I promote mostly through Facebook, X and Amazon ads currently, as well as through my own blog.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Patience, patience, patience! Everything about writing and publishing a book takes time if you want to do it right. Nothing moves quickly, so settle in and relax for the long-haul.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I’ll keep this to writing and say: “If you can quit, quit, if not, you’re a writer” – paraphrased from R.A. Salvatore
What are you reading now?
I’m stepping out of the fantasy genre and reading Three-Inch Teeth by C.J. Box. So far it’s very entertaining.
What’s next for you as a writer?
The reviews for Relentless Blades have been great so far, but I’d like to push the marketing more to get it seen by more readers. Besides that, I’m working on the sequel.
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?
That’s a tough one.
Starless Night and The Silent Blade by R.A. Salvatore
A Game of Thrones by George RR Martin
Knight of the Black Rose by James Lowder
Author Websites and Profiles
Russell Carroll Amazon Profile
Russell Carroll’s Social Media Links
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