Interview With Author Tamara Holub
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi! I’m an indie author and librarian. I recently self-published my first novel. For many years, I held various positions in higher education, including a stint as a managing editor of book reviews. Mid-career, I switched vocations, went to library school, and then began writing creative fiction. I live in Los Angeles with my family and our giant rescue dog, Blue.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Freak Bloodline is my debut novel. A while back, I had two unusual dreams: one about a headless cyborg and another about a half human, half alien named Ethan. These dreams were separated by a year. I keep a dream journal and reread my entries on these two figures. I thought they would make great characters for a science fiction novel. I went to work writing a first scene, and then I wrote a plot outline to figure out how to connect these characters.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Sometimes I combine art journaling with fiction writing. When I’m trying to work out my thoughts and feelings about a character or story, I use specialty paper, rubber stamps, metallic pens, spray paints, fountain pens, or just about any medium that inspires me. It’s like brainstorming an idea through art journaling.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Philip K. Dick–Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
Anne Rice– Interview with the Vampire novels
Octavia E. Butler–Kindred and Wild Seed
Isaac Asimov–Foundation series
Frank Herbert–Dune
Ursula K. Le Guin–Lathe of Heaven
John Steinbeck–East of Eden
What are you working on now?
I have a few novels in progress, including a contemporary romantic thriller and the sequel to Freak Bloodline.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am new to book marketing and learning as I go. The website, Kindlepreneur has a wealth of great articles on self-publishing. I recently opened an Instagram account (@authortamaraholub) to promote my book. Instagram has a fantastic book community to follow called Bookstagram.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Finish your first draft and don’t give up no matter what. Acknowledge your inner critic, but don’t let it block your creative output. Every time your mind says, “I shouldn’t write that” – do the opposite and write it anyway.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Persistence–It’s the one word that will get you through every step of the writing process.
What are you reading now?
A Secret History of Witches by Louisa Morgan
What’s next for you as a writer?
To finish the draft of my current work in progress!
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?
The Magus by John Fowles
Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami
Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen
Author Websites and Profiles
Tamara Holub’s Social Media Links