Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Well, I’m basically a normal, red-blooded guy who happens to have a particularly interesting job. Life is good! I’ve written eleven books so far, but only the last four are on Amazon.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The newest one is Stop Chasing, Start Choosing. Basically, I’ve observed that people who struggle with dating and relationships do so largely because they perceive themselves not to have options, and therefore believe that MOTOS (members of the other sex) have all the power. This book turns the tables on that notion and empowers men everywhere to meet and attract the woman of their dreams.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’d say that I definitely have my own unique writing style. For example, I can’t help but accentuate a perfectly serious, deeply important truth with something utterly silly. I’ve tried to stop, but it would appear that I cannot.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve kicked and screamed, but finally arrived at the conclusion that it’s much more productive to write in simple, plain English than in some convoluted, complicate way that requires one to reach for a dictionary every other sentence. So in other words, I do my level best to write more like Hemmingway than say, Salman Rushdie. There’s a place in the world for Rushdie’s over-the-top erudite style, don’t get me wrong. I just happen to believe that the dating advice segment isn’t it.
In terms of format, Harvey Mackay’s business books have always engaged me. Each chapter is about four or five pages and conveys a very specific and powerful point. Then he groups those unique points into a larger theme and voila…you’ve got a great book that’s both a pleasure to read and really drives home its meaning. I’ll freely admit I’ve copied that style directly, and though it disarms a few readers the overall feedback has been quite positive.
What are you working on now?
Well, at the existential level I’m working on getting more sleep on a regular basis. But if you’re referring to work, I’ve recently embarked on my first foray into sex advice and the multi-media program should be done by the end of October. I have yet to announce it so that’s a secret for now, however. Shhh…don’t tell anyone.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve done due diligence, and I have to admit that Amazon.com is one of the most amazing channels on Earth. One your book finds their good graces they keep on doing the “heavy lifting” for you from there. It rocks!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
1) Write from the heart about what you’re passionate about.
2) Give long, hard thought to the title of your book, because it matters immensely.
3) Definitely hire someone terrific to do your cover, and go ahead and make it colorful!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Always be proud that you’re a man, and live unashamed to be masculine. And for the love of all that’s good in the universe, stop chickening out and go TALK to women.
What are you reading now?
I just finished a book called Travel As A Political Act by Rick Steves. We’re building an adventure travel website, and of course Steves is one of the Mack Daddies of the travel genre. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and as a pretty well-traveled guy myself agreed with nearly 100% of what he said. I have to admit that I’m jealous that he’s been to Iran…what a rush!
What’s next for you as a writer?
Oh, I have at least one more book already written…and the title is a REALLY good one.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Well, I’m going to go “off the board” and cite a work of fiction: Things My Girlfriend And I Have Argued About by Mil Millington. His blog of the same name from years ago inspired me to read it and it exceeded expectations. It’s wildly, hysterically funny from cover to cover. I’m a huge fan of British humor, and this is a top-notch example of England’s finest.
Author Websites and Profiles
Scot McKay Website
Scot McKay Amazon Profile
Scot McKay’s Social Media Links
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