Hello again, dear readers. Today I bring you the second in a series of talks on writing with various people in the industry. Just like the first post in this series, this one will do nothing but open your eyes to the various perspectives within the writing profession. The first one was from Tom McCormack, a former CEO of St. Martin’s Press.
This time, I’ve interviewed Douglas Wickard, who has made a great name for himself in the mystery/thriller genre with his book entitled A Perfect Husband. Needless to say, his writing has been getting stellar reviews and quite the positive reputation. Again, so as not to delay, take it away, Douglas!
Interview Questions and Answers
1. With the recent but undeniable rise of digital publishing, do you think that definite paradigms and models have shifted in the industry? Also, what does digital publishing represent to you as a writer?
Yes, it would be impossible not to think of the drastic shifts happening in the publishing industry these days. The rise of independent digital book publishing has given voice, choice and opportunity to many authors traditionally unable to gain access. The internet is chock-full of blog posts regarding the pros and cons of traditional publishing.
The invention of ebook readers and Amazon has changed all that — the door is now virtually open to anybody with a book and a dream. I love the virtual accessibility of the Internet. Also, the ability to chat with my readers. I am in awe daily of the strength and appetite of those who follow me.
As far as traditional publishing and myself? I will think about that when I finish my next book. I am on the fence.
2. Can you describe your writing routine?
I write every morning, 2-3 hours. I finish my first draft in about 3 months. I let it sit for a bit, then, dig in for the real work – rewriting and editing.
3. Do you have any tips and strategies for keeping the faith when writing something as long as a novel, i.e. any tips to build the endurance for such endeavors?
GO TO THE END!
The self-judging and critical mind will be the downfall and death of a project if you let it. I always go to the end. I don’t even print out the pages any longer. I used to like to see the pages accrue. Now, I have fun. I love the adventure of allowing my characters to tell me what to write. It’s always different from what I intended or expected.
In fact, it’s probably better!
4. How has the inclusion of social media affected your experience of being an author? Has it given you a sense of community in the face of writing being pegged as something of a solitary profession?
As mentioned earlier, social media allows me instant access to my readers. I can chat, share and suggest at a moment’s notice. I am very active on Twitter. As far as writing being a solitary profession – it’s perfect for me. I am a bit of a hermit! I love being alone in my home with my characters. Trust me, they are very active company. I also read voraciously, several books at a time.
5. Can you share something which inspires you when you write, i.e. a quote, a statement, a story or some other work that builds writing motivation?
Just do it!
I’ve read many authors write that their biggest motivational hamper is procrastination. I am also a writer who procrastinates. But, once my bum hits the seat and my writer’s light goes on – I’m in the zone.
6. What would you say to those who plan to become writers and to those who are already writers?
To those who plan – I don’t know if that’s the appropriate verb. I don’t think you can plan to become a writer, you either are or you aren’t. And, for those who already are writers, you know what I mean. Writing grows inside each of us differently, but the one thing I know we all have in common is that drive that compels us to get up early or stay up late and put fingers to the keyboard.
It’s a virtual FORCE.
7. Can you share some thoughts on what you’re working on right now, or even your thoughts on the success of your current work?
I am currently working on the sequel to A Perfect Husband, a Sami Saxton novel called A Perfect Setup. Sami has become quite a character and readers want more of her, so I put off my recently finished novel, Encounter, to write it. I’m about 100 pages in and it’s going to be a whirlwind thriller for Sami fans.
Spotlight on the Interviewee
Mystery/thriller author Douglas Wickard.
Nice-looking picture, right? Anyway, if you click it, it will take you straight to his author website, where you can find out more about his work, contact him or read his blog. Of course, you can also buy his books from the links below.
I very much enjoyed the interview. Douglas is a very generous person on twitter and I truly appreciate him. It was nice to get to know him a bit.
I am glad you liked this. Douglas has been very generous with his time regarding this interview, so I’m thankful too. I’m grateful for the comment!
Yes, Douglas is a fabulous writer and support of writers. Great interview!
Absolutely…in these changing times we need many allies!!! Lol.
Great interview, Douglas! Well said.
Thank you!! Appreciate your feedback on whatever I do. Solid!!!
Hi Doug! Nice to learn a bit more about your and your book I’ve heard so much about! I wish you only the best and may your sales help you climb the charts!
Thank you!!! I hope so too. Lol.
Another stellar QA with BEA! I love the way she digs into her interview. Of course it’s easy with such a wonderful author such as Douglas. His insight on writing is great advice for aspiring writers and readers. I love his interviews. Light on lights off Douglas! Thanks for sharing!!!
Hey, thanks for the compliment. I generally just like letting authors talk about their work. I believe they deserve this sort of attention, right? Plus, I want to let them show their perspectives on writing, publishing and most everything else under the sun.
As for the amazing-ness of Douglas Wickard, well, it’s undeniable. He’s a very talented author, very generous with his time and knowledge. I’m always thankful for such accommodations.
Thanks for reading!
Lights off!!! Hehe!!
Great interview! Best wishes to you Doug.
I agree with everything you say about digital publishing expanding the market and I think on the whole it’s a good thing. However, I do a lot of review work and I have to say that it has also allowed some appalling bad books on to the market. I think it’s getting harder to find the good authors.
A Perfect Husband stands out head and shoulders above the rest for sheer quality. I read it (and reviewed it) shortly after it was published and it remains the best book I’ve read this year.
Great Interview Doug! Love your comment: “GO TO THE END!” has lots of meaning….