Interview with Greg Strandberg

Published 2013-08-22.
What's the story behind your latest book?
That would have to be China, if it's English Last you're referring to. Yes, I will admit it: I was a whore for the English language industry. I feel dirty, and the book was a cheaper alternative than therapy.
Do public bathrooms scare you?
Sometimes they do, yes, Mark. I'd say late at night in unlit areas, yes, public bathrooms can be a little scary.
When did you first start writing?
That may well have been in preschool, Mark. I can't recall the exact date, but I have a strong assumption it was either with a blue or a green crayon. Now hold on for one moment; it could have been a marker.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
Well, Mark, first I want you to know that it wasn't some seedy back alley dive, nor a glamorous mountain retreat. Has this hindered my writing? Well, in the former case, perhaps. I'm not a down and out alcoholic and that could be the reason for my low sales figures. In the latter case I think this has also hindered me. Without those mountainous views to lift my spirits I was forced to lift it myself, and let me tell you, it was heavy.
If you were a hotdog, and you were starving, would you eat yourself?
Mark, I'm glad you asked this question, for it's been one that I've been pondering for many years now. You see, I'm stuck on whether it would be possible to eat just half, or even a quarter of yourself. And also, do I have a bun, and would consuming it in any way hurt me? Furthermore, do I have any condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, or relish that may sustain me longer? Or have those already been eaten?
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
Mark, it's contributed very little. My Amazon sales are far and away higher than those on Smashwords, and as a matter of fact I haven't had a single sale all quarter. Where's the love, Mark, where's the love.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
That would be money, plain and simple. You see, Mark, I have none. By publishing my own books I saved money, and even made enough to buy some chewing gum. I'm a big fan of chewing gum and find that it works just as well as toothpaste, and is cheaper.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Hm, this is a tough one, Mark. For many writers the act of writing isn't a joy at all, but a burden that must endlessly be carried. I do enjoy the semicolon, however.
What is your writing process?
I begin with a rough outline, Mark, as I'm sure you yourself do. Then I'll try to develop characters, if I'm writing a novel, or chapters, if I'm writing non-fiction. After that I'll just dive in. Novels are easier, but non-fiction requires research. It's a long and arduous process and it gives me a headache even thinking about it.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
Why, yes, Mark, I do! That would have to be "Dum Ditty, Dum Ditty, Dum, Dum, Dum." It was one of those Dr. Seuss early readers and it really helped me find my rhythm. I attribute it with getting me into the Helena Middle School drum program for three years. Boy did we slack off!
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
I would have to say none of them have, Mark. Well, let me take that back. This interview is by far the best marketing I've had.

(Do I still get the $2 you promised me when we're done?)
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Books by This Author

Lightning
Price: Free! Words: 11,500. Language: English. Published: August 19, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Action & suspense, Fiction » Adventure » Men’s adventure
Sanders McGee is a man on the edge. When a lightning storm hits San Diego and his kids are threatened he pulls himself together. As Sanders tragically finds out, however, lightning doesn’t have feelings…or does it?
The Jongurian Mission
Series: The Jongurian Trilogy, Book I. Price: Free! Words: 114,480. Language: English. Published: March 25, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Epic, Fiction » Adventure » Action
In the West, a fragile peace has held the bickering provinces of Adjuria together for the past twenty years. In the East, the Empire of Jonguria has been bound together for generations by force. But now both countries are losing their grip. Will an Adjurian Royal Council offer up a solution, or will politics prevail? Can two ancient enemies bind their wounds, or is war on the horizon?