Hello everyone. I know it has been a while since I featured an author interview, and no excuse will I offer other than the fact that I have been super busy with everything going on in the writing world this year. To make up for this lapse in featuring new talent, I want to introduce you to a young author that I have featured many times on my blog but never a personal interview. This changes today as he finally takes the stage. He is, James Crawford.
“About the Author” – James Crawford lives in Horn Lake Mississippi with his partner of 7 years. He grew up in Foxburgh, Pa (a small town in the middle of nowhere.) He began writing the Leech series in 2007 after having a reoccurring dream about a young boy with skin whiter than a sheet. The story inspired a writing frenzy that is shaping into the Leech series.
How long have you been writing?
I began writing in 2007. I actually have no formal writing skills and when I started out it was just an attempt to get the story out of my head. At the time I had no intention of publishing it. It wasn’t until I became brave enough to share my story that I was told how good it was and convinced that I should get it published.
What was your life like before becoming an author?
Its actually strange to look back and see all the time I had and didn’t realize. I was a World of Warcraft junkie. I spent tons of mindless hours just playing that game and never really getting anywhere.
Who or what inspired you to write?
Although I was inspired to write by the series of dreams I had I have to give some credit to the late Perry Moore. He showed me that a story could have a gay main character without the stories focus being on his sexuality.
Hero by Perry Moore Link: http://amzn.com/1423101960
Do you have a specific writing style or genre?
I prefer to write YA paranormal. It’s always been my favorite genre to read so I guess it’s only natural for my brain to be programmed to write in that way.
Tell me about your latest book? What’s it about?
My latest book is actually the second book in the Leech series. It is called Jack. It picks up right where the story of Caleo left off. This books is told from Jack prospective as he is trying to wrap his head around living in a world without the one he loves. When he discovers that there is a chance his love is still alive he sets out on an adventure to find and bring them back home.
“Jack” (Leech Series – Book 2 http://amzn.com/B00C275OE6
What was your favorite part of the book to write?
I love writing the first draft of a story. It’s the part where all the characters are yelling at you at once. You know where you want the story to go, but the details of the journey take a life of their own and sometimes re-write the whole ending. It’s as close to reading as the story gets.
What was the hardest part to write?
Oh the hardest part is keeping the characters voices at bay when you have to perform real life tasks like driving, or working a daily job. When you are in writing mode you constantly hear from your characters, if they like a scene, if they don’t, or if they just want you to rewrite a whole chapter. It’s hard to function some days.
What do you find most rewarding in writing a book?
I would have to say all the great people I met along the way. Yeah there are some pretty rotten people who’s soul goal is to rain on any day you want to enjoy, but you know what, there are far more people out there who are so kind and so supportive that even though it might be raining you are still laughing and splashing in the puddles they created. The fellow authors who go out of their way to teach you some trick. The bloggers who help spread the word about my books for sometimes less than a thank you from the authors and most importantly the readers who send emails saying how much they loved our books and how it touch them. You guys are the most rewarding part.
Do you have any other books complete or in progress?
Right now I just have the two books out. Caleo Leech book 1 and Jack Leech book 2. I am working on the third and final book in the series right now. It is called Nolan. I am hoping to have its cover up in a few months but I don’t think it will be published until April 2014.
What are your future plans in regards to writing?
At the moment I have three stories on the back burner that I am hoping to get to after the Leech series is complete; A sky pirate series, a werewolf novel, and a superhero (actual capes and spandex) series.
Are you listed on the major social networks like facebook, twitter, goodreads, etc…
facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/james-crawford/155595507827813
Twitter: @Jamescrawford_7
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6485122.James_Crawford
What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?
If you have a story you think others would enjoy start writing. You don’t have to be great at grammar, you don’t even have to know what you’re doing. Just start writing, then write some more, go back read what you got, and don’t be afraid to ask others for help. If you are passionate about getting your story out there you will learn as you go.
Outside of writing, what is your most favorite thing to do and why?
I am a TV junkie. I love tv series. The longer they are running the better. Falling in love, falling for the characters, seeing them develop over the episodes. Yeah, I am just a story junkie I guess because it’s the same for book.
Anything else you would like to add for future fans and friends?
I am and will always be very approachable. Drop me an email, I love to talk about book & TV. If you are looking to self publish and need some help or advice, I will be glad to help you not make my mistakes. Or if you just want to say hey, I will always respond to an email.
Thanks James, for sharing your story. You are an excellent story-teller and I am looking forward to reading more of your series. Please keep in touch. Big hugs and best wishes to you always.