Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
So far I have written 3 books, and am currently working on a 5th.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
It is called “Chaos Calls” and will hopefully be the 1st in a series.
I’ve always wanted to write fantasy (not erotic, though I have written an erotic fiction before) fiction and I have always had a deep love of fairy tales, theology and “what would happen…” scenarios.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to much on nuts, popcorn or something crunchy when I write. It’s a weird habit, but I tend to forget to eat meals when I’m in the zone. Munching keeps me from crashing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Harper Lee, Anne McCaffrey, Neil Gaiman, Jane Austen, Stephen King, Mark Twain, Maya Angelou, Haffiz… we could be here all day. I’ve always had an intense love for the written word since around the 7th grade. I had an amazing English teacher.
What are you working on now?
I’ve been working on “Chaos Calls” for some time now. I’ve had (much like the rest of the world this past year) a several upheavals that kept me from writing consistently. Recently though, I’ve gotten most of my ducks in order and can pick up my work again.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I don’t suppose I really have one as of yet. I think interviews are important, and social media. Having a webpage is also beneficial.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
You are going to get rejected. That doesn’t necessary mean your work is bad, just unfinished. I’ve been writing for years and used to get so upset when I’d get rejected. It took taking some English classes, hard work and realizing that I just wasn’t ready at the time.
Keep writing, polish your style and don’t give up.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
All knowledge is worth having. I have some pretty annoying insomnia and have learned that on those nights when I can’t sleep, I can just learn something new. I’ve learned how to make soap, bath bombs, use just about everything in my tool box in the garage, watched a bunch of gardening videos and learned new recipes for people with food allergies. There is a ton of free education out there for those that really want to learn.
What are you reading now?
Master Harper of Pern by Anne McCaffrey for about the 100th time. Last week I was pouring through graphic novels and after this book I will be reading cookbooks I just acquired recently. I like a variety.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Continuing the series for “Chaos Calls” hopefully.
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?
To Kill a Mockingbird, An unadapted version of Grimm’s Fairytales, nearly any of the “Pern” series, and Hero and the Crown.
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Toni Verticelli Website
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