Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I started writing about the age of 12. Most of that stuff has blessedly been swept away by the tides of time! In college I took every writing class offered–journalism, English lit. I didn’t care. That’s where I learned the basics of sentence structure and story structure. Since that time I’ve written about 15 books, some of which will never make it off my hard drive but many of which are available on Amazon.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “Wicked Little Things.” I’d be lying if I didn’t say it was inspired by Buffy the Vampire Slayer 🙂 It’s steam punk set in a 19th century London that never existed except in my imagination. Of course, there are monsters.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write everything longhand in journals I make myself. (I also blog about journaling)
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Terry Pratchett, Agatha Christie, John Steinbeck, Arthur C. Clark. The best book on writing I’ve ever read is “Story” by Robert McKee followed by “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron
What are you working on now?
The 4th volume in the Black Jade Dragon Series. This one will be called “Dragon Gold.” I’m especially pleased with the two opening lines: “Running from the police is how I keep fit. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise to you that on a muggy Tuesday afternoon I was engaging in my favorite sport.”
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have done very little promoting. I am just now getting started. I do like the Awesomegang website!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Take as many writing classes as you can. Read as many books on how to write as you can. Find a writer’s critique group and learn to diligently consider even stupid suggestions. Read, read, read. Read stuff you’d be embarrassed if someone compared you to them.
This is the most important advice of all:
Write every day like your life depended on it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write every day like your life depended on it.
What are you reading now?
“The Vessel” by Taylor Stevens
What’s next for you as a writer?
I write in many genres and I’ve been working on fantasy for a year. I think the next book will be an amateur sleuth mystery–an homage to Agatha Christie.
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?
A couple of Terry Pratchett novels chosen at random. Lord of the Rings (I insist that counts as one book!) And a blank book so I can write so I don’t go crazy.
Author Websites and Profiles
Susan Cogan Website
Susan Cogan Amazon Profile
Susan Cogan Author Profile on Smashwords
Susan Cogan’s Social Media Links
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