Post date: May 24, 2016 12:47:25 PM
J.M. Leduc (pen name of Mark Adduci) interview with David Alan Binder
Partial Bio from his website: Mark Adduci, writing as J. M. LeDuc is a native Bostonian, who transplanted to South Florida in 1985.
J.M. LeDuc’s first novel, “Cursed Blessing,” won a Royal Palm Literary Award in 2008 as an unpublished manuscript in the thriller category. It was published in 2010. He has subsequently written “Cursed Presence" and “Cursed Days, books two and three of the Trilogy of The Chosen, as well as a novella, “Phantom Squad.” His latest thriller, "Cornerstone," a continuation of the Phantom Squad Series, was released to critical acclaim in June of 2013.
He is a proud member of the Florida Writers Association (FWA) and the prestigious International Thriller Writers (ITW)
Website: www.jmleduc.com
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/J.M.-LeDuc/e/B0096DTNOQ/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1463412234&sr=1-2-ent
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/J-M-LeDuc-259333374080003/
1. How do you pronounce your name (only answer if appropriate)?
Le Duke
2. Where are you currently living (at least the state or if outside US then Country)?
West Palm Beach, Florida
3. What is the most important thing that you have learned in your writing experience, so far?
There are so many exciting things I’ve learned and life lessons I never would have encountered if I was not a writer. One of the best of these is that all of the writers I look up to for their talent and inspiration are very laid back and down to earth. With my writing, per say, the greatest lesson has been to expect the unexpected. This path we walk as authors is a twisting trail full of uphill climbs accompanied by a few downhill thrills, but at all times, the view is spectacular. I’ve also learned to trust my characters. They know where they want to go. It’s up to us to listen to them.
4. What would you say is your most interesting writing, publishing, editing or illustrating quirk?
Interesting question. I suppose my most interesting quirk is that when I change my writing location, I change the outcome. There are times when solitude works best, but there are other times when I feed off the adrenaline of a coffee shop or library. The strangest place I wrote in was a crowded bar in the middle of the night. I always carry a note book with me and this particular bar drew my attention as I walked past. I ended up sitting at the bar, writing for 3-4 hours while people partied around me. Bizarre, but it worked.
5. Tell us your insights on self-publish or use a publisher?
I don’t have any personal insights on self-publishing. I have friends who self-publish and do so successfully. The one thing I tend to find is a lack of editing. No matter how great you grasp of the English language and the grammar rules that accompany it, you cannot successfully edit your own work. I have been blessed to have worked with my current publisher for seven years. They are advisors, partners and friends. I can’t imagine doing this without them.
a. Who is the name of your publisher and in what city are they? Suspense Publishing: Calabasas, CA
6. Any insights eBooks vs. print books and alternative vs. conventional publishing?
I love the feel of a print book, but prefer to read from an eBook. I think it’s just convenience. From an author standpoint, I sell a heck of a lot more eBooks than print.
7. Do you have any secret tips for writers on getting a book published?
Don’t give up and listen to every bit of constructive criticism that comes your way. My greatest piece of advice would be to find a local critique group and join. This is an invaluable tool to better writing.
8. How did you or would you suggest acquire an agent? Any tips for new writers on getting one?
I don’t really have any comment. I don’t have one, but my friends that do, can’t imagine not having one.
9. Do you have any suggestions or helps for new writers (please be specific and informational as possible)?
Read as much as you can. Not just “how to write” books, but books in general. Read in the genre you wish to write and in others as well. Reading has been my greatest teacher. My other suggestion is to join a critique group.
10. What was one of the most surprising things you learned your creative process with your books, editing, publishing or illustrating?
I think the most surprising thing I learned was that with every word I write, I leave a piece of myself on the page. It is an emotional process.
11. How many books have you written?
I have six novels and one novella published.
12. Do you have any tricks or tips to help others become a better writer (please be as specific and information as you possibly can)?
Wow. My answer is two-fold and both are opposite sides of the same coin. Every day when you start to write, reread your last 25-50 pages in order to put yourself back in the story. Edit as you reread if necessary. The other side of this coin is that you will never reach perfection and there will always be things you wish you could have written better. At some point, you need to have the courage to put it out there for others to read and judge.
13. Do you have any suggestions for providing twists in a good story?
First of all, I think all stories are made better by twists. Twists are not coincidences or surprises. A real twist must be foreshadowed in the book. It must be unexpected, but inevitable at the same time.
14. What makes your or any book stand out from the crowd?
So many answers to one question. LOL. I think the ultimate answer to my books and to others is the same: the reader must feel an emotional connection to characters. The need to care what happens to them, good or bad.
15. What are some ways in which you promote your work?
Social Media, Book Clubs, Personal appearances for readings and book signings.
16. What is the one thing you would do differently now (concerning writing or editing or publishing or illustrating) and why?
I have learned from every good and bad decision, so I don’t think I would change a thing.
17. What saying or mantra do you live by?
There is no exception for hard work.
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