Interview with Riley Amos Westbrook
Published 2014-09-15.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Truthfully, it comes even before a single letter hits the page. As the scene unfolds before me, almost like a movie in my head. It's wonderful and awe inspiring to behold, as if I'm watching it happen, not just creating it.
What do your fans mean to you?
....truthfully, I don't have many. So they mean a lot to me. At least as much as any stranger can. Sara, my co-author and wife, she may disagree....
What are you working on next?
I'm actually working on two stories. One is a continuation of the Breath of the Titans series, and another is a book inspired by watching my wife play GTA online.
Who are your favorite authors?
1. Raymond E. Feist
2. Anne Mccaffery
3. Robert E. Heinlein
4. Robert Jordan
5. Robin Hobb
6. Mercedes Lackey
7. Lois McMaster Bujold
8. Larry Niven
9. Orson Scott Card
10. Frank Herbert
And not necessarily in that order!
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
Myself! I tend to wake up bright eyed and bushy tailed in the mornings. Drives Sara insane some days.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
Working to lose weight, watching Netflix/youtube, reading books. I have a lot of free time, so I do just about anything to keep myself occupied.
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
Honestly? I look for what catches my eye. I know you shouldn't judge a book by the cover, but....something about it needs to grab my attention.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
Yes, because my teacher asked if I was suicidal. I told her, no, I was just considering what it would be like to be in that position. Still ended up with six months counselling. >.>
What is your writing process?
Sit at the computer and put words to paper. Remember to just write. Even if it's crap. You can fix crap, but you can't fix nothing.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish. You tell me!
How do you approach cover design?
Very carefully, asking my more artistic friends to help me! I can't even draw a stick figure!
What do you read for pleasure?
Anything and everything! From fashion blogs to science daily. If it's words I'll read it.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
Android tablet, but only because I broke my kindle *Sad face*
Describe your desk
In one word. Cluttered.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up everywhere. I traveled the world as an army brat growing up, spending from sixth to graduation in a small town called Buckley. As for how it influenced my writing...I learned it's much easier to write in a small town than in the middle of a city.
When did you first start writing?
Seriously? About a year ago. Otherwise it was always just short stories I shared with friends. And by short, I mean less than 300 words.
What's the story behind your latest book?
My main character, a halfelf/dragon Lovonian, has his homeland ripped away from him. This first book in the trilogy follows him as he connects with his dragon powers and attempts to bring the might of an orc army to back him.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
I like the idea of working for myself!
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
I'll let you know in a month or two, lol.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
Starship Troopers- Just a good read.
Stranger in a Strangeland- First book to make me question my surroundings.
Dragon Riders of Pern- First book to introduce me to dragons.
Dragons of Winter's Night- First book to show me that who you think is the hero can die.
Ender's Game Trilogy- Very deep books, if you read the subtext.
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
I'll let you know in a few months, lol!
Smashwords Interviews are created by the profiled author or publisher.
