Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
From Brisbane Australia
First time author of Single Rider.
Currently working on Britta, From a Small Town (coming soon).
I’ve always had a book or two floating around my head with the plotlines fully or not quite formed. I was never able to finish a story though until last year… cue Single Rider. It has been through a series of edits and sometimes entire re-writes since then, most of these instigated by myself, however I’ve finally managed to polish it up enough, my very first novel, to be something that I am proud to have my name on.
I’m a book lover lifer and I have to pinch myself every day to stay convinced I’ve actually achieved a lifetime goal of publishing my own novel.
I’d love to hear from you if you’ve managed to make it through Single Rider, feel free to drop me a line anytime at any of my various social media locations!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I’ve just started plotting out the details for my first paranormal themed story. My editor’s favourite genre is supernatural and after proofing another book I’ve been working on she told me she’d love to see me write something spookly cause she loves the way I right female lead characters.. it’s early stages but the main character is young lady con artist turned accidental vessel for the dead.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes! I recently had family stay with me for a week and towards the end of their stay, inspiration hit and my cousin couldn’t believe it when she went to the bathroom at 5am and I was sat up in bed typing furiously. I snoozed for about two hours after that and then when I woke went straight back to writing until later the same afternoon.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Oh wow, what a question. Such a hard one to answer briefly. I was a huge Stephen King and Dean Koontz fan in highschool, but I’ve had so many favorite books and authors since then. I do adore Stacia Kane and the Downside Ghosts series, I love how she can completely embody the edgiest and coolest female lead through her character development. If you haven’t picked up a Downside Ghost book yet, you should. You won’t be sorry you did. Two books that changed my life (among so so many), Eat Pray Love – Elizabeth Gilbert and Of Bees and Mist – Erick Setiawan. Scariest book I’ve ever read – The Shining.
What are you working on now?
I’m finalising the first draft for edit on Britta, From a Small Town, its a murder mystery in Brisbane with a few twists and turns and a romance or two. Then I think I’m going to focus my attention on the paranormal one. I also have a great thread for an Aussie Outback thriller/romance that I could throw myself into depending on what sparks my motivation first.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m and infant when it comes to the whole self-publishing, independantly driven publicity scene so you probably shouldn’t listen to me at all, but what I will say is that I’ve been overwhelmed by the resources out there offering genuine advice that really helps. Thats how I found Awesomegang!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Never ever stop believing you can do it. Even on your worst day, just take a break, even if its for a little longer than you intended and go back and try again. I nearly gave up so many times, but I tell you, that feeling of publishing your first book, it’s worth it all.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Things always seem not quite so bad after a good nights sleep.
What are you reading now?
High Fidelity by Nick Hornby. It’s been on my reading list for ever and I never saw the film because I decided to read the book first. I’m almost finished, so I guess it’s time to watch the movie finally. I adore books about music.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Hopefully an incredibly lucrative publishing deal!
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’d love to give the Virginia Andrews Casteel Series another read, and I was sorting through some old books the other day and I was reminded how much I loved Patricia Cornwells Kay Scarpetta novels, especially the early stuff. Bridget Jones is always a great re-read and my guiltiest pleasure of all The Baby Sitters Club, especially the Super Specials!
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Skye Leah Collett Website
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