iUniverse.com talks with T. L. Gray, author of Object Of His Affection
Object Of His Affection by T. L. Gray
Q:Which do you consider more important in your writing, a sense of place, your experiences, or something else altogether? Why is this important to you?
My experiences, definitely, especially with this book. Being married to a cop, naturally I was going to be affected by experiences he had on the street.
Q:What are your influences and inspirations? What makes you write?
I cut my teeth on Harlequins, then moved on to single titles. My inspiration comes mostly from reading, in all genres. For me, reading gets the juices and the ideas flowing. People who have influenced me, and I'm not afraid to admit it, are the women who write Romance.
As for what makes me write--when a story hits my brain and nags the *(&$# out of me, I have to sit down and put in on paper or I won't get any peace. A writer writes because they have to. Because if they don't, they'll go insane.
Q:Is there a particular aspect of your book (or books) that you are most proud of?
Yes. The attention to detail as pertains to the crime scenes, not to mention the overall "feel" of what it's like to be a cop. I hang out with these guys, so I think I have a basic understanding of what goes on behind the scenes.
Q:What is unique about your book, what differentiates it from other books in the same category? What about it will reach out and grab the reader?
Unique? It's set in my hometown, Louisville, Ky., with a serial killer making his mark just before the onset of Derby--anybody from here can tell what a mess that would be. Also, I think I educate the reader on what and how a serial killer is and how he evolves as opposed to simply saying "he does this", "he does that". They travel through the killers mind along with the detective.
Q:Are you working on something now? In what ways is it a departure from what you've done in the past?
I'm working on several things actually. Recently, I signed a contract for a historical romantic suspense. I'm also shopping around several contemprary single titles (romance), and an espionage thriller. So, yeah, I'm busy.
Q:iUniverse.com offers an Author Toolkit. Have you used any of the tips there? If so, tell us about some of your successes. If you haven't used it, would you share any tips or suggestions that other authors might find useful in promoting their books?
Oh my. yes! The press release and sell sheet examples have been essential in marketing my book to local booksellers and the local media. As for suggestions on how to promote yourself and your book, I recently posted an article on this subject both at my website (http://www.authorsden.com/tlgray) and on iUniverse--"Promoting yourself to local bookesellers" and "Your website: what it should do for you", and "Pre-promtion: How Far Should You Go."
Book Four in Belinda Lawrence mystery series. Confirming the Professor was murdered proves to be a challenge and, gradually, as they get to know those associated with the Manor House, Belinda and Hazel discover another murder and an intricate web of
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