Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
In 2011, I published the novel FAR AWAY HOME about a young woman who left New York City in 1868 to start a new life in Utah. Up to that time, most of my writing focused on professional journals and texts. When I ventured into fiction, I wrote short stories. One received honorable mention in a NOW short story contest and was published in Creative Woman.
The novel began as a chapter for a history book. I conducted my research in the American west for three years; I even drove a covered wagon (check out the Youtube video on the FAR AWAY HOME page at www.susandenningauthor.com). When the history book project dissolved, I used my research to write an historical novel.
As a self-published, unknown author, I never imagined anyone would read FAR AWAY HOME. But tens of thousands of readers did. For four years, it ranked among the Top 100 in the Historical- US and Romance Western categories. To my great surprise, many readers requested the next chapter of the story. In EMBRACE THE WIND, Aislynn’s journey continues.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is EMBRACE THE WIND, an Historical Novel of the American West: Aislynn’s Story- Book 2. It was inspired by the readers who wrote reviews and emails saying how much they enjoyed Aislynn’s story in FAR AWAY HOME, and asked to read the next chapter in her life. I never expected this reaction to my first, self-published novel. When it became apparent that many people wanted more, I started my research. I decided to have Aislynn leave her home in Utah and go to Wyoming. In 1870, the Wyoming Territory granted women rights they could not find anywhere else. It was the first place in the USA that allowed women to vote in a federal election, serve on juries and run for elective office. I felt very blessed to have the opportunity to write about this extraordinary place and this amazing period in American history.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think I have any unusual writing habits, although those who know me may see some! They may think it’s weird that I talk about my characters like they are real people with lives that spin out on their own accord. For me, the plot just comes with the characters already formed. I feel like the story belongs to them, and I’m just passing it on. OK, maybe my writing habits aren’t unusual- I am!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Like any other writer, I love to read. I enjoy classics. I read The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald regularly. He is such an inspiration. He doesn’t seem to waste a word. Every sentence is vital to the story.
What are you working on now?
Right now I am working with a producer/director who is interested in making Far Away Home and Embrace the Wind into a film or TV movie/series. It is a very exciting prospect. I can’t wait to see how this part of my story ends.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I think the best way to promote an e-book is to use an online advertiser; if readers are interested in a book, they can easily click it and purchase it. At first, I tried promoting my books at bookstores, libraries, book clubs and museum store at the historical sites mentioned in my book. I loved the interaction with my readers. It is fascinating to hear how they interpret my words. I have a clear vision of my characters and their actions, so always I enjoyed learning the readers’ perspective on them. However, selling paperback books myself became very costly with printing and shipping. Although I did not publish my books to make money, I could not afford to lose money. Now I use Awesome Gang. It’s a great resource and Vinny is very helpful. I have also used Bargainbooksy.com, TheFussyLibrarian.com and Justkindlebooks.com with strong results.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice to new authors is simply what most writers will tell- keep at it but now when to stop. My work involves a great deal of historical research. I tend to dig too deeply into reams of details, most of which are useless to my story, but will help me if I ever appear on Jeopardy! I would advise authors to get the information they need and start writing. Ultimately, authors need an editor who will tell them when to stop making corrections. I am hesitant to put my work out there, but there comes a time when I have to let go. I find a very good editor will let you know when it’s time.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Believe in yourself is probably the best advice I’ve heard for writing and for life. One of my favorite songwriters is Beth Nielsen Chapman. In her song, “The Color of Roses,” she writes:
Only the ones who believe
Ever see what they dream
Ever dream what comes true
I think that says it all.
What are you reading now?
I just finished Girl at War, by Sara Novic. I thought it was very well written. It is an intense story about a young woman who escaped war-torn Yugoslavia and returns to find the pieces of her former life. I just bought The Things We Do For Love, by Kristin Hanna, and I am looking forward to reading another one of her novels. I enjoyed The Nightingale very much.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I am considering learning screenwriting. It is a vast departure from novels, but I am always willing to try something new.
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?
As I mentioned earlier, The Great Gatsby. I think Pride and Prejudice, Gone with the Wind and mostly because it’s huge and would keep me occupied for years, my copy of The Complete Works of Shakespeare.
Author Websites and Profiles
Susan Denning Website
Susan Denning Amazon Profile