Interview with J E Bamford
Published 2014-11-04.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
I remember writing a play in the school holidays.
What is your writing process?
I'm an early riser so one of the first things I do is head for the laptop. I try to pack in as much writing as I can during the day and feel I'm cheating myself if I don't write even one sentence.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
As a child I was - and still am - a massive fan of Enid Blyton. Five Go Off to Camp absolutely fascinated me. I imagined my nana's house belonged to George and the study was under the stairs. I still think about that book. I could go on and on about how The Famous Five influenced me...
How do you approach cover design?
I have to admit my present cover came by absolute accident. In fact, it was only taken last week. We were driving along at dusk when I clicked away. I didn't even bother to look at the photograph until I got home. It seemed perfect for my book. I couldn't believe how natural and haunting the photograph is. Everything on the cover is natural and has not been enhanced in any way, and to think I was giving myself brain ache trying to find the perfect cover. The colours, motion, and lighting fit hand in glove. I reckon my next book won't have such a head start.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
Ooh, this is difficult. Silas Marner by George Eliot. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. To KIll a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, and Five Go Off to Camp by Enid Blyton.
What do you read for pleasure?
Anything that takes my fancy. I can't even sit on the toilet without reading something - even the bleach bottle.Yes, I'll even read labels. I really shouldn't admit to that. Even when I'm eating I have to read. My mother thinks it is rude, but I can't help it. If I can choose at the time then I like to read true ghost stories and strange encounters.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
I have a Kindle, but the family have a variety.
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
I'm just starting out so this is all new to me. I never knew this site gave so much choice for the author. I have just started to blog and setting out on an author's journey on social networking.
Describe your desk
My lap! I used to have a desk and plan to have one very soon. For now it's my lap.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in the Midlands and there is some of the most beautiful countryside in the world here. When I was younger I imagined all writers sat in the middle of a field writing. I get a lot of inspiration by visiting the countryside and walking around lakes. I love lakes.
When did you first start writing?
As soon as my mum left the crayons lying around. Seriously, I was very young.
What's the story behind your latest book?
It's inspired by actual events...
What motivated you to become an indie author?
For me it's the complete control over everything. It isn't easy so don't let anyone tell you it is. As the author you do everything from the writing to the publicity. However, when it's all out there and you get to talk to people who buy your books then I can definitely say it is all worth it. I have to admit to being scared - I still am. It isn't just about sales, I want to make people feel emotion when reading what I've written. That is very important.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
Smashwords allows previously unpublished authors to go where they couldn't go before - unless one has a swelling bank account. It has opened so many doors.
What do your fans mean to you?
Everything. It sounds corny but it's true.
Who are your favorite authors?
The Bronte sisters.
What are you working on next?
I'm penning a ghost story based on true events. It's great that I know the family personally. I can't say too much, but who's to say imaginary friends aren't real?
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Knowing I'm making other people thrilled. I also love the feeling when you I an idea and scramble around for a pen.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
Life itself.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
I have lots of hobbies and other stuff going on in my life. I have three children; one is young. I love spending time with my family. It will come as no surprise I'm into astronomy. I also love horror films. Saturday night is reserved for curry and horror night. I'm a very picky eater and will only eat a bright red curry that tastes sweet. I'm a vegetarian and so far I've only found one curry house that matches my taste buds. Late at night I will also listen to Podcasts that delve into the dark and unknown.
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
I tend to do searches on the stuff I'm into rather than just find out what's popular. I think it's important to give new indie authors a chance to have their own following. It's always nice to know you were one of their first followers.
Are you planning on writing another book?
I'm actually in the process of completing my second book as we speak. There's a lot of loose ends to tie up but it should be available to download on Smashwords very soon. I will keep on writing until I drop.
What is the new book about?
Ruby and the Lycanthrope is a sinister, adult-themed horror, with a twist of Little Red Riding Hood thrown in the mix. Read it and find out what happens when Daryl claims he is a werewolf and Ruby is his She-Wolf.
Are you on Facebook?
Yes. I have my own profile page as well as a page you can like. Please feel free to add me as a friend. You can find me by typing in my name, JE Bamford.
Smashwords Interviews are created by the profiled author or publisher.
Books by This Author
Ruby and the Lycanthrope
by J E Bamford
'He called me like a dog and I liked it.' Ruby is infatuated with a tall, dark stranger that visits the shop where she works. She wants to get to know Daryl but there is more to him than meets the eye. He claims to be a werewolf and what's more alarming is he also claims Ruby is his She-Wolf and he has his own plans for their future. Contains adult themes and scenes of violence.
An Alien Encounter: Inspired by Actual Events
by J E Bamford
When Jess and Tanner are attacked by strange beings, their only source of help comes from ufologist, Jack McGuire, who tells them they aren't the only ones to have encountered what appears to be aliens. However, even he seems unable to protect the young couple from a group of black-clad government officials intent on silencing the victims at any cost.
