Interview With Author Rusty Blackwood
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I became a serious writer in 2001, and published my first title, a collection of traditional and contemporary poetry in 2009, titled Feelings, no longer available but was later released with new content under the title, Impressions. In 2010,I released my first children’s shorts collection, later followed with a second, titled Through the Eyes of Innocence. I followed this with the release of my 2-part Passion in Paris: Connections to the Past and Directions of the Heart. The first four titles, Feelings, Young Minds, and the 2-part Passion in Paris is no longer available. In 2012, I released the first in my Derwood Comedy Series, titled The Misadventures of Derwood Tugbottom, an eccentric English character gifted to me by my late bother, Rick. In 2013, I released my grand scale novel, Passions in Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary, based on the original Passion in Paris but totally revised with new content. I followed this in 2015 with my first 5-star-awarded novel, Willow’s Walk. In 2017, I released my second in the Derwood Comedy Series, titled Derwood Returns followed in 2019 with the 3rd instalment, Derwood Goes Caribbean. In 2019 I also released the first part of my 5-star-multi-award-winning Autumn Trilogy, The Perils of Autumn, followed in 2022 with Return to Autumn, and Return to Autumn: Part2 in 2023.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Before the Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster, is my 15th title, and is the prequel to my multi-award-winning Autumn Trilogy of books. This 5-star-awarded novel was just released in June, 2026. The inspiration for this novel came to me as I was nearing the end of writing Return to Autumn: Part 2. I simply adore my character Cyril Landon, the celebrated English Horsemaster throughout the Autumn Trilogy. I was not yet done with him, and decided to write a prequel to the series centering on Cyril’s early life and the troubled road he travels in becoming the applauded Horsemaster readers meet in The Perils of Autumn.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I used to write mostly in the wee hours of the morning, mainly because it was my only free time as I worked throughout the day, but following retirement in 2025, I changed my writing hours to daytime working hours as my writing had then become my fulltime job.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The classics, such as Wuthering Heights, Gone With the Wind, To Killa Mockingbird, Little Women, Black Beauty, etc., etc. I enjoy expressive writing, where the words create scenes that simply steal you into the pages and not release you until the final word.
What are you working on now?
I am presently taking a break. I am involved and immersed in promotion for Before the Grandeur and it will stay that way for quite some time. I began a new novel, yet untitled, a while ago, and have written a few chapters. All I can say at this point is the novel is set in a fictional Niagara vineyard. It is also a bit out of my normal genre of romantic fiction, leaning more to the thriller genre, possibly horror, I shall see as it progresses.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use as many media sites as I can with daily networking. I also work closely with my long-time Rep, Publicist, and Producer, Don McCauley. When an Indie author finds an excellent Advisor and Rep, one stays with them, which I have done since 2011.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
The first I would advise is to write what you know, and don’t be hesitant to research, even if you are familiar with your subject, for there is always something new to learn to make your manuscript as legible, and believable as you can. My second advice, do not let anyone discourage you, or tell you it can’t be done. Trust in your ability, and enjoy what you write. If it entertains you, chances are it will eneteratin a reader. Shoot for the stars, but be realistic, it is not an easy road; be prepared for setbacks, as well as critique, and be sure to arrange your budget to accomodate your expenditures, for they are endless, and all on your shoulders.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
When I started in this field I was a true novice, I knew nothing about what I was embarking upon or what I was doing until I met Don, who then took me under his wing and lit the road ahead with knowledge, and understanding. The sooner you can find this solid ground, the better your chances.
What are you reading now?
I am presently reading, Love and Betrayal, by Gina Iafrate, a good friend, and a local Niagara Indie romance novelist. I enjoy her work immensley, have read her entire libray and highly recommend her work. You can find her on Amazon.
What’s next for you as a writer?
That is a question that never seems to present an immediate answer. After 15 titles I find myself wondering what is next, but I know there will always be something. It helps to have a huge and wild imagination, and I was blessed with both. No doubt it will be the continuation of the new novel I mentioned above.
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?
I believe they would be a self-help, a huge photo album of my children, grandchildren, and great grandchildrens’ photographs, and the Holy Bible: King James version.
Author Websites and Profiles
Rusty Blackwood Amazon Profile
Rusty Blackwood’s Social Media Links
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