Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I honestly can’t remember a time when I wasn’t creating characters and scenes in my head, even if not on paper. With twenty-one books out on Amazon, Smashwords, etc. some say I’m a prolific writer, but my books are the product of years of work. And I’m a genre hopper. I write in everything from classic fantasy to thrillers, suspense, romance, and even horror. *grins* As V.J. Devereaux, I also write erotic romance.
I’m also admin to a 2500 member writers group that I created so Indie writers wouldn’t make the same mistakes I did.
Happily married, I’m companion to two dogs, four cats and an African clawed frog named Hopper.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My last book was also my first horror novel – Shades. It was inspired by a recurring nightmare of being in a cellar, and by a corporate training session with one of my bosses. That was a different kind of nightmare.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I create soundtracks for each book, and I prefer to write late at night or early in the morning. If I’m in writing mode there’s a sign I put on the door of the house – Warning Novelist at Work – and woe betide the person who knocks.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I started out with Jules Verne, but the authors who most influenced me were J. R. R. Tolkien, Harper Lee and Anne McCaffrey. All of which changed the way we look at the world.
What are you working on now?
I have a WIP that’s part of my historical/paranormal Servant of the Gods series, but it doesn’t have a title yet.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
There are a number of websites – this one, Pixel of Ink, E Reader News Today, and Bookbub. However, the best promotion is to be present on genre sites. Don’t promote, get to know people
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Apply seat to chair and write. Don’t worry about how good or bad it is – fear is the biggest stumbling block for writers. That and trying to write ‘the perfect novel’. After you write the first one, write the next. Get professional cover art and professional editing for book one.
Keep writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
*grins* Stop listening to other people.
What are you reading now?
1491 – it’s about the time before Columbus. Fascinating stuff. Forget everything you learned in high school history class. (I’m researching for another book.)
What’s next for you as a writer?
A prequel to my The Coming Storm series, a sequel to Nike’s Wings and/or Song of the Fairy Queen. A short story for an anthology… And whatever the muse inspires. *laughing*
What is your favorite book of all time?
Pick ONE?! Not happening. There’s too many!
Author Websites and Profiles
Valerie Douglas Website
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