Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I completed my first novella at 13 years old and was mentored through the process by Sena Jeter Naslund, boosting my confidence. I never pushed to publish it after editing, even though I should have gone onward with it. Since then, I’ve written hundreds of short stories, always just shy of publishing them. Most recently, I had my fill of not following through, and I just finished writing Drachenara, my first full-length novel, and first I’ve pushed all the way to publishing. At 106k words and roughly 330 pages, Drachenara is my pride and joy, and I have every intention of putting sequels out just down the road.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Drachenara. I’ve always been a big fan of sword and sorcery stuff, mostly the adventuring aspect of it. I grew up reading books about big adventures, and playing games that were all about magic, knights, paladins, and hunters. I think it was coming up with personal character backstories that led me to create Drachenara. It exists in a world that I, alone, control, and the characters are these fanciful beings that I adore.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Music, but I don’t think it’s unusual. I like to sit down with a cup of coffee (especially in the morning) and turn on music from my favorite fantasy movies and games, and just pound out a couple thousand words.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
In a world where I might compare? Tolkien, Terry Goodkind, Christie Golden, and Troy Denning. Maybe a dash of RA Salvatore, and a little sprinkle of George R.R. Martin, but don’t let that scare you.
What are you working on now?
The sequel to Drachenara, as well as a couple of short stories from the universe.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
At this point, I’m sort of undecided. We’ll see how it plays out.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
You’re probably as new as I am, but just keep writing. Write, write, write. If someone tells you that you’re not good enough, you are. If you feel discouraged, put a few words down on the screen. Latch on to your inspirations, find a muse, and write. JUST WRITE!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
What I shared above. Just keep writing.
What are you reading now?
Before the Storm, by Christie Golden. I love her Warcraft books.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Continuing the saga in the world I’ve created.
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?
Where is Joe Merchant, by Jimmy Buffet. The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien. And the last one is a tough decision; maybe the Bible. There’s a lot of positive reading in there.
Author Websites and Profiles
T.G. Neal Website
T.G. Neal’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account