Interview with Ezekiel Carsella
Published 2013-12-25.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
Actually I do. It was about a superhero who had an evil twin who wreaked havoc and he was blamed for his crimes. He eventually saved the day, but I wrote it in 4th grade so the story was a bit rough plot wise.
What is your writing process?
Wow, now that is a question I have to think about. For me I go about it hack n slash style. I layout the chapters, characters, the world they live in, and all the details, then I jump into writing the story. After I do a first draft then I'll edit it, then send it to an editor, read over it again, and publish it here on Smashwords!
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
Actually my first story I read was the Bible specifically the book of Ezekiel (my namesake!). Me and my mom read the Bible and I was about 4 or 5 so it really only introduced me to the great world of books.
How do you approach cover design?
I don't! Well actually I'll get someone else to do my cover because I have no artistic abilities whatsoever. My God given talents are for writing not cover creation.
What do you read for pleasure?
Science fiction, choice fantasy (no elves for me), historical fiction, war, crime, mystery, and sprinkle of western here and there. I run a book review site which basically gives me all the books I need to stay, "Happy, happy happy."
What is your e-reading device of choice?
Actually to be surprising I use the Asus Transformer book T100 a 10.1 inch device that has Kindle and can read ALL crazy formats I throw at it with apps like Book HD. Plus with SkyDrive integration I have my books everywhere. I like it because it's really light and has Office 2013 Home and Student so if I feel inspired I can start writing.
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
So far it's been the grassroots kind. Talking to people, making connections, and getting the word out. Since my book is undergoing some revamp to get it Smashwords Premium certified I've been trying to keep on the down and low until it's complete. After that I'll be doing radio shows, interviews, sending it to book reviewers, and other things. Hopefully next Christmas will be more relaxing.
Describe your desk
My desk? Well thanks to technology it's been digital and mobile. In reality its kinda clean but really I'm always busy.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up with a view of the Delaware river in NJ which I fondly remember especially when it was a little chilly or snowy because it was so beautiful. I think my small town of Roebling, NJ helps form my ability to be more real with people. Not view people from a cookie cutter aspect.
When did you first start writing?
When I was in 4th grade doing little comic book type stories.
What's the story behind your latest book?
What brave souls. Well it's my quest to show people the intergalactic fight/internal fight for Earth the best place in the Universe with the classic good vs. evil plot. I have no idea where I got the story idea from but I really like it.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
The ability to write my stories and collect a little off of them.
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