Interview with Ross Caligiuri
Published 2017-02-27.
What are you working on next?
The second book in this series, titled 'Of the Rising Sun'. I am very excited to share the next section of this three part saga with my readers. Also, being a full-time musician I am working on releasing a new album later this year.
Describe your desk
Transportable? Because of my career in the music industry I am constantly moving around. On a bus, in a hotel room, backstage before the downbeat... If I'm lucky my dining room table with my dogs curled up under my feet.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
I only need one to answer this question! The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy series! Douglas Adams is truly a great writer. I also love to go outside of my comfort zone and read book genres that I normal wouldn't be attracted to. I have found that talent is talent, and even if I'm not a huge fan of the genre, a great story is a great story.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Finding that "super reader" that wants to dig deeper into my writing. I love getting the story out of my head and into the book pages, but for me the greatest reward is when a fan picks up on the "hidden" elements and easter eggs inside of my writing. I could have those conversations for hours.
How do you approach cover design?
I attempt to channel my inner artist. I come from the days of amazing movie posters and really love to see the art aspect introduced into a unique cover design.
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
Oh, marketing... Really the thing that works the best for me is an "in person" approach. I find it very easy to sell people on my book when they connect with me personally first.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
LIFE! It's all around us. I can never wait to get out and enjoy it. I'm a coffee drinkers worst nightmare in the morning.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
Performing, writing, and enjoying music. It's been my passion and release my entire life. I hope that one day fans of my writing will continue experiencing me through music as well, and vice versa.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
The world has changed, not just here in writer land but in the music world too. The major labels provide very little for the artist and the personal experience of being "signed" or "published" has gone out the window. Trust me, this new world is better.
What do you read for pleasure?
Comicstrip collections. I know, random answer. Growing up the Sunday Funnies were a staple in my house, and years later I can't get enough of them. I love kicking back and taking an adventure down memory lane with my friends Calvin and Hobbes.
What do your fans mean to you?
Everything. So much so that I desire to call them all "friends". In my head, if you like my writing or music, then we must connect on a deeper level. Thus, we shall become best friends :)
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