Interview With Author Stephen Byrd
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I work full-time as a paramedic, and I write in my off-time. Writing has become a way for me to cope with the stress of my job, and given me an outlet for my creativity. I’ve written three fiction novels so far. The first, “Silverwood Manor” is about a paranormal investigator and a haunted house, the second, “When Crazy Loves You” is a romantic thriller. I guess you could say that I have a varied interest among the sub-genres of fiction, and I haven’t quite found my preferred niche yet, although both of those books were fun to write.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called “Inner Demons.” It’s about a paramedic struggling with depression and post-traumatic stress. It was inspired by real-life, unfortunately. Seeing co-workers, friends, and even experiencing the symptoms myself, I decided to write about the constant exposure to traumatic events and the effects that has on a person’s mental health. The character in the book is experiencing the classic symptoms of depression and PTSD, and just like in real life, others notice the signs but either don’t know what to do or do the wrong thing until the situation becomes worse. It’s a sad story, and unfortunately one that repeats in real life all too often.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t say “unusual”. I am under treatment for depression and PTSD, so I think that contributes to my trouble focusing on what I’m writing sometimes.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Dan Brown. I took his Masterclass, and for me it was well worth it. I enjoyed learning about creating suspense and protecting your process. Also, I’m a big fan of screenwriter Aaron Sorkin. I like his characters and their interactions. I’m a huge fan of The West Wing and The Newsroom.
What are you working on now?
Oh my. I have so many projects open right now. The one I’m focusing on primarily is called “Obsession”, and it’s about a judge who is being stalked and a private detective tasked with protecting her. It’s another romantic thriller.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Probably either Facebook or Goodreads. I think I’ve reached more people using Facebook, to be honest.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Fiction is wonderful. You can do anything you want to. Literally anything. It’s amazing. There are no restrictions, no limits to your imagination. You can alter reality, you can create new beings, you can create new worlds. There is no limit.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
It’s your story. Don’t worry about whether someone else likes it or not. Not every story is going to be a match for every reader, so you write it the way you want to. Someone out there is going to like it, someone out there is going to hate it. Just write it the way you want to.
What are you reading now?
“The Street Lawyer” by John Grisham.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have no idea. I’m going to keep writing, and keep promoting, and see what happens!
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 would have to take “The DaVinci Code”, “The Street Lawyer”, and maybe a book on how to survive when stranded on a desert island.
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