What are some of the best tools available today for writers, especially those just starting out? There’s so much information online for new writers. I’m a contributing author at the supremely helpful blog Indies Unlimited. Their entire raison d’être is to help new indie authors navigate the ever-changing publishing landscape. There are several other helpful blogs about writing, grammar, structure, scene and sequel, characterization, promotion, you name it. I have a list on dvberkom.com as well as on my blog, dvberkom.wordpress.com. They’re not exhaustive by any means, but a good place to start.
What contributes to making a writer successful? Persistence and a thick skin. Belief in yourself and your ideas. The ability to engage in complete and utter denial. And, you really have to enjoy making stuff up.
Do you have any advice for writers? Write. Revise. Write. Revise. Take a writing class. Identify your weaknesses. We all have them. Then, find out a way to turn it into a strength. Becoming a good writer never ends. You’ll always be learning. Don’t get complacent. Always try to find new ways to express your ideas. Be open to change. Don’t write when you’re drunk, because if you find out you’re a better writer after a few drinks, then you’ll have to stay drunk to have a career. That can get expensive.
Do you have any specific last thoughts that you want to say to your readers? Love what you write. If you don’t, neither will readers.
What do you do to unwind and relax? Reading, cooking, gardening, hiking and camping. I’m a photographer, so I also enjoy getting out and shooting pictures. Having dinner with friends is another activity that’s pretty high on my list. I’m also quite fond of hot tubs, massages and red wine—not necessarily in that order.
What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing? The ability to make a living doing what I love. That, and being able to write research trips off on my taxes.
Buy Now @ Amazon & Barnes and Noble
Genre – Romantic Suspense
Rating – PG13
More details about the author & the book
Connect with DV Berkom on Facebook & Twitter
Blog http://dvberkom.wordpress.com/
Website http://www.dvberkom.com/
Good morning, James! Thank you so much for the interview and book feature. I appreciate being able to connect with your readers and look forward to following your blog.
ReplyDeleteTake care,
DV