Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been a reader my entire life, always eagerly waiting for a trip to the library or Santa to leave a book in my stocking. It’s only natural then that my love for reading would turn to a passion for writing. I write multi-genre and just released my ninth book. I look forward to writing for many more years.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I just released Fight for the Kingdom, which is my third children’s book and first fantasy story. The Fight tells the story of two young boys on a camping adventure with their father. When the youngest brother wakes in the middle of the night to a voice calling to him, his curiosity won’t let him ignore it. Following the voice into a waterfall, the young boys are transported to another world, where someone has stolen a dragon’s egg and unless it is returned, the kingdom will disintegrate into a ball of fire. I wanted to write this story because I have a children’s mystery series which features my granddaughters as lead characters. My grandsons are lovers of fantasy, so I wanted them to have an adventure.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Nothing unusual here. I write an expanded outline as my first draft, then numerous re-writes until I get the story just the right way. Then it’s off to the editors and beta readers in my circle.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Well, I’ve been compared to Nora Roberts, so I guess perhaps there was a little influence there, but honestly, I think I have my own writing style, and I can’t credit any one particular author. I have such a varied interest in genres that I get inspiration from several writers.
What are you working on now?
Right now, I’m working on book three in my Crime Solver’s series, Carnival Caper. It’s nearing completion of the first draft, so I expect to release it in the spring of 2018.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I like to promote my website. There’s so much information there with links to buying options, links to read reviews, even a daily crossword. Check it out. http://www.victoriaschwimley.com/
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Study all you can and edit until you can’t possibly find another mistake. Errors in your book are distracting to the readers and diminishes the enjoyment of the story.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t reject any feedback, even if it’s hurtful. Honest reactions is the best way to grow as an author.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently doing a beta read for a fellow author, P.D Workman. She’s a great storyteller, and I’m engrossed in the story. Look for Endless Change to release soon.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My writing has gotten so busy that I’m retiring from my full-time job on March 21st and focusing strictly on my writing. My goal over the next two years is to see all of my books in audio format (I currently have three and just entered into contract for the fourth (my newest book, Fight for the Kingdom). After I finish Carnival Caper, I’ll turn my attention to the third book in my faith series, where Pastor David Owens encounters a teenager battling bipolar disorder.
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?
Something by Dean Koontz – hopefully something I haven’t read, a novel by an author I’ve never heard of–I’m trying to read as many new authors as I can, and something I’ve written, most likely Twisted Faith because that book is filled with hope and a promise that it’s possible to overcome any problem.
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