Fantasy Romance at It's Finest
Today I am changing things up a bit. I am honored to have Desiree Finkbeiner, author of Ethos Morning Star stopping by. She is on a long blog tour, and I was ecstatic to be asked if I would host one of her tour stops. So with out further adieu, Desiree Finkbeiner:
What did you enjoy most about writing Ethos Morning Star?
Getting to know my characters, and living inside their heads. Character development is so important to a reader, so becoming the character myself, allows me to make them more realistic. If I can relate them, then I know other people will too. Though, sometimes it makes likeable characters harder to hurt or kill in a story because the pain is so much more personal than with cookie cutter characters no one cares about.
You have created a very fresh and unique world with the Ethos series, what was your inspiration?
Inspiration comes from so many sources, but I mostly rely on God to plant the story in my mind. I believe the source of all good things comes from a higher power, so why not rely on that source to inspire? If relied on my own understanding to try and write a book, it would be a total flop. But if I allow myself to be a conduit through which God can speak, I know I will always be able to write something worth reading.
How do you prefer to write, on the fly freestyle? or structured outlines and word quotas?
What is a typical writing day for you like?
Everything I do is squeezed in between my duties as a mom. I have 4 very rowdy children so peace and quiet is a luxury I rarely experience in my home. I love my family, but writing generally only happens for me late at night or early in the morning while everyone sleeps.
Do you have any other projects in the works?
In addition to completing the Ethos series, I’m working on art for the special edition print version of the book. It will be a half-graphic novel of sorts. I’m also working on a steampunk YA series set for release next year.
I notice you work for Hydra publications, How did you find them?
Before I discovered publisher listing sites, I spent long hours on Google search trying to locate publishers with open submissions for fantasy.I think Hydra was about 30 pages into my search, a gem hidden in the rubble of small publishers. I love them!
Self Publish vs small press, your opinion.
It hard to choose for a lot of people. I am a very independent woman and love to do things for myself. But for new authors I really do recommend starting with a small press. (if you can find one that is good to you). Not only will they have experience in an area that is new territory for you, but the friendships that you will form with other authors on the press, is priceless. Building your network is vital for book sales and if you rely on your own small network, you’re not going to sell many books.
There is also sort of a stigma to being ‘self published’. Some people might view your book as unworthy of their time since a publisher wouldn’t even touch it. But there are some very successful self-published authors out there. If you’re lucky enough to find a hard working small press, they are awesome! Let them plow the way for your writing career, but always keep in mind that no matter what press you’re with, you will have to do your part to market or sell your book.
I’ve seen a lot of authors blame the press for poor book sales. But the fact is, there is a market for virtually every book. If you’re not out there actively trying to locate your readers, it doesn’t matter how good your book it. No one will buy it if no one knows about it. Since most presses have small budgets, they can’t really afford high tech marketing campaigns, but the very least they can do for you is give your image a boost and get you in touch with a network of authors, that hopefully, will be like extended family… a place to go to for encouragement and advice.
And lastly, is there anything else you would like people to know?
If you’re thinking about writing, quit thinking about it and just DO IT. Don’t worry about what others think. SOMEONE out there is bound to appreciate your creative effort, you just have to find them.
Bio : Desiree Finkbeiner attained a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from Missouri Southern State University (2006) with a heavy background in business, marketing, music and fine art– She was heavily involved in campus affairs and served actively in several committees focusing on campus entertainment and events. She performed with musical acts/bands in rock and electronic genres, released seven studio albums, performed in 11 states and has written hundreds of songs. Her band, Carbon Star, was a finalist for VH1′s “Bands on the Run” reality TV show in 2000. Then she performed with Pointy Teeth until finally leaving the music industry for the quiet life.
Continuing education is a constant adventure for Desiree with topics of interest ranging from civil and corporate law, history, political conspiracy, homeopathic medicine and spiritual healing. She prefers to read non-fiction, especially on topics that educate and broaden her perspectives on controversial issues.
With thousands of completed art works in her archives, most of which appear in private collections worldwide, Desiree hopes to focus more on publishing, marketing and licensing her work so she can leave a legacy behind.
Book Trailers
Twitter
Check out her new book and drop me a line, tell me what you think. Until next time, may your muse be at your side and your writing the light that guides you.
Book Trailers
Other Places You can Find
Desiree Finkbeiner and her Ethos book series:
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I hope you guys enjoyed your time here with Desiree.
Check out her new book and drop me a line, tell me what you think. Until next time, may your muse be at your side and your writing the light that guides you.
Dawn
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