Post date: Jul 27, 2017 11:20:14 PM
Debra Lee interview with David Alan Binder
Bio from her website:
If I'm in a murderous mood, I might write a murder mystery or chilling thriller. When there's romance in the air, I've been known to pen a love story. I also wrote a young adult fantasy with plans to write more.
On a more personal note, I've been married to the same guy for forty years. I'm the mother of two grown sons and grandmother to one grandson and one granddaughter. I share my home in Pennsylvania with my husband and two felines. It's an interesting life.
About those books I write. They are available as ebooks. Deadly Arrows, See Dick Run and Taken are available in trade paperback.
Website: http://www.debralee.net
Blog: http://debralee.blogspot.com/
Good Reads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1092450.Debra_Lee
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/DebraLee/e/B0035CSXAE/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
1. Where are you currently living?
In the central part of Pennsylvania.
2. What is the most important thing that you have learned in your writing experience, so far?
To pay attention to what my readers are saying. I’ve learned a lot that way.
3. What would you say is your most interesting writing, publishing, editing or illustrating quirk?
That I talk to myself sometimes about those characters that take over my thoughts.
4. Tell us your insights on self-publish or use a publisher?
I prefer to self-publish because I like total control of my work.
5. Any insights eBooks vs. print books and alternative vs. conventional publishing?
I don’t think most readers pay attention to how the book was published. They just want a satisfying read.
6. Do you have any secret tips for writers on getting a book published?
You can spend years trying to get an agent and a New York publisher. Or you can self-publish without wasting years trying to get published the traditional way. If you do go the self-publishing route, don’t publish before your book is ready. You need early readers or critique partners to give you feedback. Editors and proofreaders are just as important. If you publish before the book is ready, you will receive negative reviews and that hurts sales and your reputation as a writer. It needs to be the best book you can make it.
7. How did you or would you suggest acquire an agent? Any tips for new writers on getting one?
When I first started writing I wrote screenplays and had two different agents. Neither managed to sell my work. I came close but was unable to find an agent for my books until I self-published. My book Taken, which I self-published, hit the US Today Bestseller list and agents called me offering representation. I did sign with Trident Media and immediately seemed to get writers block. Now that I no longer have a contract with them, I am writing again. I hate to say it but think it’s a self-control issue with me. I like being in total control of my work.
8. Do you have any suggestions or helps for new writers (please be specific and informational as possible)?
Don’t follow trends. What’s popular today might not be by the time you finish your book. Start a new trend by writing something different from what everyone else is writing.
9. How many books have you written?
I‘m not sure because some are packed away in the attic and will never see the light of day. But, I do have eight novels published and two novellas.
10. Do you have any tricks or tips to help others become a better writer (please be as specific and information as you possibly can)?
How many times have you heard it before? Show, don’t tell. Show your characters emotions. Don’t tell me he’s angry; show me. Also, I don’t need to know what each one of your characters is wearing or a detailed description of their looks.
11. What makes your or any book stand out from the crowd?
Likeable characters.
12. What are some ways in which you promote your work?
Social Media-Facebook, twitter and a Bookbub ad when I can get one.