Interview with Deanna Anderson
Published 2015-09-30.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in a small town, in dairy country, and because of the simpler life we played "pretend" a lot and made up our own games. This helped to develop my sense of imagination. I used to read a lot too, and would walk to the library for books every week to every two weeks.
When did you first start writing?
My first story--which I still have--was written when I was eight years old. I wrote it because I had nothing new to read.
What are you working on next?
My last book, published through Create Space, is a short story anthology and my next book will be the same. I am probably going to work on "Mirror, rorriM" which is a short story collection in which mirrors are all the source of evil.
Who are your favorite authors?
Too many to name, really, and I like a broad range of genres but some faves are Stephen King, Dean Koontz, VC Andrews, Barbara Cartland, Victoria Holt, Hannah Howell and a whole list of others.
What do you read for pleasure?
A lot of different books...my faves are the gothic romances mostly written in the 70's. I also love horror, ghost stories, historical romances...really, anything that just catches my eye.
What is your writing process?
I don't think I have one...I just write when I have time or the inspiration strikes me, I don't really have a process. If ideas come to me I will write them on any piece of paper or writable surface handy.
How do you approach cover design?
I look for something that is appealing and that gives a slight indication as to the story or stories inside.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
The sylph series by LJ McDonald because I love her writing style and the stories within those covers--
The Secret by Julie Garwood because the romance is so real and sweet, and the story tugs at both my humor and heart-strings--
Elfking's Lady by Hannah Howell just because I love the story and the characters--
Amber Flame by Hannah Howell and for the same reason as above--
The Megolodon series by Steve Alten just because its so epic and terrifying in its own way.
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
Word of mouth and Facebook
What's the story behind your latest book?
Retorta Mundis: twisted worlds is a compilation of short stories where things aren't always what they seem or there are unexpected twists. I love writing short stories more than anything and decided it was time to get those out to the public.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
The freedom to do what I want and not having that wait time of the editors, agents, etc. Its so much quicker to self-publish and I control all aspects of it.
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