Interview With Author Travis Tougaw
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a writer and editor from Denver, Colorado. I’m an Air Force veteran, and I’ve worked in a number of roles, including education, communications/PR, and health care administration. I have one book out currently, with two more books in the series coming later this year.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My first book is Foxholes. It was inspired by my time in Afghanistan while I was on active duty. I combined military/combat action with political intrigue and a murder mystery.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write a lot in my head before I sit down to put it on the page. When I’m walking the dog or swimming laps in the pool, I’m thinking about my plot and characters, trying to figure out what comes next. Then, when I do sit down to write, I’ve already worked out the plot holes and can be a lot more productive.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The first book I read that made me want to be a writer was Son of Interflux, by Gordon Korman, when I was in the 6th grade. His characters were so memorable, I still find myself quoting them many years later. Currently, I read a lot of Harlan Coben, Ruth Ware, Lee Child, and Robert Galbraith.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on an adventure/thriller set on a remote island in the Caribbean. It involves a pair of brothers, a cult, and a daring escape plan.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve found word of mouth is very important. I see more impact from reviews and from people posting about my book on social media than if I post myself.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep grinding! Writing a book can be a daunting task, but it’s the best education for a writer. The more you write, the more you’ll develop your craft.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I went to a writing seminar featuring Andrew Peterson years ago, and he talked about the importance of community. Writing is a solitary task, but it’s essential to have a community of supporters you can lean on during the work.
What are you reading now?
I’ve been reading a lot of advanced review copies for other authors, but I’m also mixing that up by going old school…The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to keep writing and keep working with my agent and publisher to sell books, develop a community of readers, and keep trying to make each book better than the last.
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?
Given my current writing about a remote island, this question makes me nervous! Seriously, though, I’d bring Wise Blood by Flannery O’Connor, The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway, and The Real Inspector Hound by Tom Stoppard.
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