Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have always been fascinated with the “what-ifs”, sometimes to the point of distraction. I’m now well into adulthood and I still can’t stop asking that question. I was born and educated in the state of Nebraska and currently reside there where I’m employed at the university. My second book Corryn’s Stone is the long awaited sequel to The Crystal Key, my first book. I say long awaited, because those who read the first persistently emailed me asking when the next book was coming out. When not writing, which is seldom as demonstrated by my bad housekeeping, I enjoy needlework, walking, and a good movie.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Corryn’s Stone. Inspiration came from the usual place for me, I found myself asking ‘what-if’ a rather nasty book mentioned in my first book really existed and had a mind of its own. The next thing I knew, I’d written Corryn’s Stone.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes and no. I find I write best in the basement while eating a large bowl of buttered popcorn.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Being a fantasy writer, there is, of course, Tolkien. I am also in love with the books of David and Leigh Eddings, Terry Pratchett, Stephen King, Issac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, H. G. Wells, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, to name a few.
What are you working on now?
What will be book 3 in the series. That is, the characters from the first two are central in this one and it continues to build on their relationships.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Twitter, Facebook, Independent Author Network and sites like Awesomegang. For indie writers, these are invaluable resources especially when you’re on a very tight budget.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t expect fame and fortune. Write because that is what you love to do, not because your goal is to see your book on the New York Times Bestsellers list.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write every day, even if you end up deleting it the following day.
What are you reading now?
In between books at the moment. Searching the indie book sites for my next read. Always find the best books there.
What’s next for you as a writer?
To continue writing. Can’t stop actually. Afraid if I do, all those characters and voices in my head will revolt and take over.
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?
An excellent question and one I have asked myself a million times since first reading H.G. Wells, The Time Machine. I still don’t have a definitive answer.
Author Websites and Profiles
Toni Howard Website
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