Interview With Author Stephanie May
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m an Australian cross-genre author, so I write books varying from horror to historical fiction. Four of my books are published, but I have written thirteen all up. I typically write and release one book per year (not the same book). Next on the agenda is a horror called Mr Hangman, so keep an eye out for that one in 2025!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I came up with Rumours and Repercussions much like most of my books: a simple idea forms in my noggin, and then I let the plot percolate for as long as I possibly can until it’s bursting to come out of me. That’s when I know I’m on to something good; when the storyline won’t leave my mind and I have to find out what happens in the plot. I do not plan my books well. Meaning, I am a proud panster; I sit in front of my laptop and let the story unfold naturally. I don’t have scene charts or mood boards or character family trees sitting in front of me. None of that matters to me; I loathe the thought of knowing the entire story before I even sit down to write it. I focus on the characters and what situations I will drop them into, and see how they worm their way out of it.
My latest book was inspired by the movie Now and Then, starring Christina Ricci. I love stories based around friendship and then lengths people will go to in order to help/save one of their friends. Common themes among my books include love, loss, death, friendship and fierce loyalty.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t say unusual per se, but I am not looking my best when I write a story. Typically, I wake up bright and early and have some brekkie, then I’ll head straight into my office, pyjamas and all, and sit in front of my laptop and write until the sun goes down. No make-up, no changing into jeans and a nice shirt. I also take little notice of what I eat – something quick and easy, with as little hassle as possible (mac and cheese, instant noodles etc.). But having a nice cup of tea throughout the day is a must!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen King has by far had the greatest influence on me as a writer. To me, he is the epitome of the word ‘storyteller’; I am never more engrossed in a book than in one written by Sai King. He effortlessly dances between genres; in fact, some of my favourite books written by him aren’t even horror at all. His metaphors and similes are also second to none, in my humble opinion. I devour anything written by that genius.
What are you working on now?
My fifth novel, Mr Hangman. It is due for release in 2025, so I am heavily into the editing stages. Again, this is another story about a group of teens, but this story revolves around a murderer terrorising the close-knit town of Windsor in 1985. Four high school mates set out to bring down the one newspapers have dubbed ‘Mr Hangman’ – given that the murderer leaves discarded body parts around town: a leg, an arm, a torso etc.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I run a lot of giveaways to attract new readers; I don’t mind handing out freebies at all. Goodreads and Instagram are my go-to sites for finding new readers and promoting my books.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Do as much research as you can before starting out. Watch a gazillion YouTube videos, read blogs, join Facebook groups etc. Don’t do what I did: jump in at the deep end without a clue what to do. It’ll save you a lot of time and a heck of a lot of money. Things in this industry are always changing. It is up to YOU to do the research and make sure you’re aware of how things should be done. And please hire an editor and a decent cover designer. Too many newbie authors have been shunned and given 1-star reviews because they haven’t taken the time to hire an editor. Don’t shoot yourself in the foot; spend the time and money necessary in order to come across as professional. You can do this!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
No-one is ever going to come knocking on your door, presenting you with everything you dream of on a silver platter. If you want something in life, then go out and get it! No excuses, no regrets. You have one shot at life. Make it count.
What are you reading now?
The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden. Now there’s an author who knows how to write a page-turner!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I always write one book per year, knowing that it won’t see the light of day for about four-five years after that. I’ve had an idea gnawing away at me, a mystery/thriller titled Down by the Blue. Amanda and Frankie (Francesca) are best friends, and they plan to run away together. But on the night they plan to leave, while at a raving party on the beach, Amanda falls off a cliff and plunges into the ocean. Never to be seen again.
Decades later, Frankie receives an anonymous letter stating that Amanda’s death was no accident. Frankie sets off to uncover the truth about how her best friend truly died, uncovering dark secrets and sinister motives along the way.
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?
11.22.63 by Stephen King
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J. K. Rowling
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
(Eclectic mix, I know!)
Author Websites and Profiles
Stephanie May’s Social Media Links
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