Interview with Jay Harez

Published 2016-01-20.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in the south, Texas to be exact and that provides a person with a unique perspective regarding the rest of the world.
When did you first start writing?
I wrote my first short story in the sixth grade.
What's the story behind your latest book?
While traveling in Mexico and along the Texas border I met some interesting characters who told me some rather far fetched tales about 'shipping' across the Texas/Mexican border. Those stories along with the stories I've heard since childhood came together to create Wet Drive.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
It's more of a compulsion to write really. I'm fortunate in that I have stories to tell.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
When people who are currently reading my stuff come to me half-way and ask "Really?" "What the hell dude?" and "OMG I never saw that coming," I love those responses.
What do your fans mean to you?
My readers are the reason I write. A story unheard is just a thought so knowing that me writing and publishing a story may provide a moment of escape from reality for anyone is extremely satisfying.
Who are your favorite authors?
Wilbur Smith, Caleb Carr, Stephen King and Quentin Tarantino are some of my favorites.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
The theme to Shaft.
What is your writing process?
1. Outline 2. Drink some whiskey 3. Start writing
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
It was probably Where the Red Fern Grows or Flowers for Algernon. Both of those left a mark.
How do you approach cover design?
I hire someone.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
I will always love Graphic Novels. I also like historical fiction where relatable characters experience real life events vs. the kind where authors change history.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
Apple products.
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
Social media.
Describe your desk
Bosnia.
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Books by This Author

Imp
Price: Free! Words: 4,100. Language: English. Published: December 25, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Weird fiction
A brief story of a man in love with a woman and her spiteful child.
Abandoned
Price: $1.99 USD. Words: 22,390. Language: English. Published: February 9, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Weird fiction
Eleven miners on a routine survey learn the horrifying truth behind an urban legend.
A Month of Sundays
Price: $1.00 USD. Words: 19,410. Language: English. Published: April 2, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Weird fiction
As winter closes in a neighborhood is stalked by an evil as old as civilization. A mysterious group of people with a century old vendetta are in pursuit and one man is caught between being protector and pawn.
Sepulchre
Price: $1.00 USD. Words: 15,040. Language: English. Published: March 6, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Undead
A once in a lifetime chance, a crooked cop, millions of dollars in marijuana and a century old evil that will not die.
The Tangerine Merchant's Tale
Price: $1.00 USD. Words: 10,790. Language: English. Published: February 22, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Crime
In 1799 the Dutch East India Trading Company was the largest shipping company in the world and it was on the brink of collapse. Attorney Goodson Smythe has been retained to defend two men accused of stealing a company ship, a crime considered to be more serious than murder. The Tangerine Merchant’s Tale is a story of murder, slavery, and divine retribution.
Wet Drive
Price: $1.00 USD. Words: 19,870. Language: English. Published: January 19, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Supernatural
As a truck driver turned smuggler Charlie lives by one rule: DON'T OPEN THE TRUCK. Now he has a chance at the biggest payday of his life if he survives this wet drive.