Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Simon Best. My writing name is S.W.Best. I am the author of the Eventide Vampire Series. I have been writing for a while now. (Started at 13) But I always wrote just for me. So I got on with my life, graduated from University with Hons and I thought about what to do with the rest of my life. After a football accident I had to have a shoulder operation. It was in that time I picked up my series of books I had written. Then I painstakingly typed 127,000 words with one finger or so into a word document. It took four years until I was happy with what I had achieved!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called Lost in Darkness. Its book one, of five, in my Eventide Vampire Series. I’ve always loved writing horror and vampires. Anything that could get your pulse racing! Lost in Darkness is full of Action & Adventure, with a Paranormal Urban Fantasy feel, equally suited for teen & young adult market.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have a bell on my desk I ring which gets me into writing. almost like a starting pistol! I write everyday when I can. And on other days I edit. A strong cup of filtered coffee and a keen sense of adventure is all you need!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read too many to mention. I know that may sound like I’m avoiding the question, but its true. If i had to pin a writer down who inspired me it would probably be William Blake. Although Stephen King’s On Writing is well worth the read.
What are you working on now?
Ahhh, well this is it you see. I’m writing my Eventide Series, but I’m also writing three of four other projects. (Keeps the mind form being bored) My new release is the second book in the Eventide Series, Crimson Darkness. I’m waiting from my editor. Once she has released it, I will reread what she has suggested and then hit “Publish”
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
It’s always been word of mouth, but I’ve been using Facebook and Twitter to put the word out. I am still experimenting with various sites. Yours being one if the chosen few!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
You HAVE to know what has gone before. When I was in University, my professor said the same. you have to know your target audience and know what has been produced so you don’t just rehash a weaker attempt. Try to write everyday and without letting the other side of your brain tell you its rubbish. Plus don’t tell anyone about your work until its past its first draft. Because you may end up writing someone else’s book not your own. NEVER GIVE UP!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Formula for success: 2nd Draft = 1st Draft – 10% (Stephen King On Writing) Seriously. This changed my life.
What are you reading now?
Napoleon Hill. I’m a self-help, get better at life/writing, junkie.
What’s next for you as a writer?
To release Eventide Crimson Darkness and write the third one.
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?
The art of happiness.
(Cant think of any other!)
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