Darkness Falls By A. E. Faulkner

4/3/2020

Multi-volume author, April E. Faulkner introduces us to her first novel in the Nature’s Fury series, “Darkness Falls”:
As Nature tires of human destruction, two sisters must face a changing environment that stands between them and survival. When Quinn and Riley set out on a family vacation with their parents, the trip ends before it begins. Mother Nature interferes with their plans, setting off a sequence of events that thrusts the teens into a hostile landscape. Stranded, with limited supplies, struggling to figure out who they can trust along the way, they must determine how to survive Nature’s evolving fury.

This is a really good story. The author really knows how to spin a tale. Writing in First Person point of view is something I really like. As long as the author avoids head-hopping, I hate head-hopping, everything gets so confused. This author does a very good job of maintaining the POV, nice and clean.
Faulkner also balances the story so well with action and dialogue. The dialogue is so funny at times, I found myself laughing quite a bit.
The characters are very believable, all of the major players are developed very well, they are real individuals, not cardboard cutouts.
The scene-setting and action help the story to move along at a good pace, the flow is smooth and varies from scene to scene. Just like it should.
“Darkness Falls” is quite well written and gets a score of 4.9 stars.

You can buy this book:
https://smile.amazon.com/Darkness-Falls-Natures-Fury-Book-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-darkness-falls
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/darkness-falls-a-e-faulkner

You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/AuthAEFaulkner
http://authoraefaulkner.com
https://www.facebook.com/authaefaulkner
https://www.instagram.com/authoraefaulkner

I have also reviewed the third book in the series:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/devastation-erupts-natures-fury-book-3

Tags: Dystopian, fiction, coming of age, science fiction, YA, climate, catastrophe, family, relationship

Copyright © 2020 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction

74 Comments

AE Faulkner link

4/5/2020 11:05:06 am

Thanks so much for reading and reviewing Darkness Falls! I am so glad you enjoyed it.

Mark

4/5/2020 11:26:08 am

I enjoyed your book a great deal.
First question.
Please, tell us more about yourself. Perhaps something a little bit beyond your bio.

Author AE Faulkner link

4/5/2020 01:05:13 pm

Sure! My husband and I have two sons - one a full-fledged teenager and the other just beginning his teenage years. They like to help me name characters. Also, we have two cats. I am a complete cat nut - I would love to have a house full of them!! I work full-time in the healthcare marketing/communications field and write books in my free time. I would love to become a full-time writer some day.

Mark

4/5/2020 01:40:25 pm

Very nice. That is wonderful that your kids help in the creative process.
Our fur babies can be an important part of a family.
New questions.
Does your work have any influence on your writing?
What inspired you to write this book?
Why did you choose this genre, or do you feel the genre chose you?

AE Faulkner link

4/5/2020 02:09:02 pm

The experience I've gained from work has definitely improved my writing. I've spent the past 20+ years writing and editing, not quite the most interesting topics, but every bit of practice helps.

I've always had a concern for how we (humans) treat the environment. I've been a member of, and volunteer with, the Sierra Club since before my teenager was born. I still edit and format my local group's newsletter. Over the years, my concerns have skyrocketed. I decided to pour my frustrations, helplessness and hopelessness into words and Darkness Falls was the result.

As a kid, I was an avid reader. I kind of lost that interest, or maybe didn't carve out time for it, after college. A work friend had told me about The Hunger Games series back before it was turned into movies and loaned me her copies. I could not put that series down. Since then, I was hooked on dystopian books and movies. I do read other genres but by far dystopian is my fave, so that is what I feel most compelled to write.

Mark

4/5/2020 02:27:04 pm

I think most writers would agree, any kind of writing and editing will improve your writing. A newsletter sounds like another good way to improve writing.
I have heard some authors recommend short story competitions as a way to learn to tighten up a story to its essentials.
There are a lot of books I haven't read, The Hunger Games is on that list. I did enjoy the movies. How did the movies stack up to the books for you? I have found that most movies don't measure up.
New questions.
Who designed the cover of your book? Feel free to drop a link if appropriate.
What do the elements on the cover represent?
Was it hard to come up with the title? What was the process?

AE Faulkner link

4/5/2020 03:09:42 pm

I loved The Hunger Games movies. I know there were inconsistencies between them and the books, but I was just so captivated by seeing my favorite characters come to life on the screen that it doesn't bother me. Same with The Darkest Minds - I absolutely loved that movie because I enjoyed seeing the book come to life.

My book covers are all designed by Michelle Preast - her website is https://www.michelle-preast.com/ - she is fabulous! I'm not sure where it came from, but Darkness Falls popped into my mind as a title very early in the process. I remember hoping that it would not be mistaken for a vampire book! There are no vampires in the story ;)

I wanted the cover to convey that my two main characters had an uncertain road ahead of them. That darkness was going to prevail, for the most part internally for them. I love birds almost as much as I love cats, so I wanted to have birds swirling around on the cover too. I think that adds to the ominous tone.

Mark

4/6/2020 10:06:30 am

Your title, "Darkness Falls", is quite popular, there are many different books using that title.
Thanks for sharing your cover maker, I am sure Michelle appreciates the shout out.
Your cover does provide an ominous tone. Quinn and Riley do have a dark road ahead of them. No question.
New questions.
Were the character names difficult to develop? How did you choose them?
What other books and genres have you written?
Have you entered any writing contests?
Have you won awards of any kind for your writing?

AE Faulkner link

4/6/2020 10:35:57 am

The main character names were pretty easy to choose. I absolutely love the name Quinn, and knew I wanted to make that my main character's name. I asked my sons what names they would suggest and my younger son was adamant that there should be an Aidan and a Jeff! Two characters are named for cats - Jasmine and Benny. Some others are based on friends and family names.

Darkness Falls is my first book. Since releasing it last year, I've written book 2 in the series, Anguish Unfolds. That is a novella from Riley's perspective. Book 3 in the series is Devastation Erupts and that is with beta readers right now. I am planning to release that May 31. And, I'm about 20% of the way through writing book 4 in the series, Allegiance Unravels. That is a novella from Sergeant Bowen's perspective.

I have not entered any writing contents - I find them intimidating! Perhaps as my confidence grows, I will enter one some day.

Mark

4/6/2020 11:18:46 am

That's nice that your two-legged and four-legged kids helped come up with character names.
I am sure your fans are happy to know that more of the story is in progress.
A lot of people are reluctant to enter contests for a variety of reasons. It's important to be careful because some of them are scams. One of my favorite bloggers, Anne R. Allen, has a list of verified contests on each blog. I have links to many of her recent blogs on my Highly Regarded Blogs page.
Entering contests can help improve writing skill, forcing one to tighten up the writing to meet word count requirements.
New questions.
I noticed that your book is in Kindle Unlimited. How is that working out for you?
How many books have you put in KU?
Have you ever gone through the query process, seeking an agent or submitting directly to publishers or did you go straight to indie publishing or self-publishing, and why?

AE Faulkner link

4/6/2020 11:39:42 am

Thanks for that tip about verified contests! I'll check out that blog. If I do build up the nerve to enter one, I definitely want to avoid a scam!

Kindle Unlimited has been great for me! I just added my first two books to it about two months ago. What I love about it is that people can really dig into a story without having to purchase the entire book. I know I'm disappointed when I buy a book and find that it really wasn't what I was expecting. I feel like KU takes the risk out of it. I want readers to enjoy my book, and I don't want anyone to feel "stuck" with a story that just isn't holding their attention.

I went directly to self-publishing. I'm rather thin-skinned and I know that most writers face many rejections before a publisher picks them up. I believe I would have given up completely after a few rejections. And, I am rather impatient - as soon as my book was written, I wanted it out there. I didn't want to take the time to try and "shop it" around either.

Mark

4/6/2020 04:13:44 pm

Glad to hear KU is working for you. Some authors make a lot of money there and many don't. One of the down sides is that an author is locked into the Amazon environment, they can't place their book elsewhere. There are a good number of people who don't shop on Amazon, they go to other platforms, Bookbub, Kobo, Barnes & Noble to name a few.
The query process is full of rejection for authors, no doubt about that. That can be laid at the feet of Amazon also. Opening up publishing has reduced the profit margins for the few remaining publishers, they are very leery of taking a chance anymore. The upside is that anyone can publish a book on Amazon.
Some authors write several books and with a fan base and a record of sales over time, they try to query a new book or series. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. Some publishers won't even consider an author unless the author has a mailing list of several thousand fans. The publisher sees this as guaranteed sales.
New questions.
Did you have a favorite book as a child?
Do you ever read a book more than once? If so, which one?
Does writing have a spiritual or healing component for you, does it energize you or make you feel tired?

AE Faulkner link

4/6/2020 04:24:31 pm

I loved Beverly Cleary and Judy Blume books as a kid - I couldn't read those fast enough!

In recent years I've reread several series - Penryn & The End of Days series by Susan Ee, the Under the Never Sky series by Veronica Rossi and the Planet Urth series by Jennifer Martucci come to mind. I plan on rereading Allie Condie's Matched series again soon too. They were all SOOOOO good!

I find writing therapeutic. I have definitely used writing as an outlet for feelings of hopelessness and helplessness when it comes to the way our environment is treated.

Mark

4/7/2020 09:52:23 am

You have read a lot! That is excellent. Reading can bring such joy and excitement to our lives.
I learned to read from a retired school teacher when I was a little boy, before I entered the first grade. My mom loved to read and relatives sent me books. We had a multi-volume series called The Happy Hollisters, five kids who solved neighborhood mysteries. I loved it and read many of the books several times.
New questions.
Why is it important for writers to tap into the emotions of the characters?
Have you ever done NaNoWriMo?
Are you an under-writer or an over-writer? When the first draft is done, do you need to add more to flesh it out or do you have to cut material because there is too much?

AE Faulkner link

4/7/2020 10:40:53 am

I think characters are more believable and relatable if you can understand what they are feeling. As a reader, if I can relate to the characters, I am more invested in their journey and want to continue on it with them for as long as possible.

I have never done NaNoWriMo but I admire all those who have won it! Anytime during the school year (NaNoWriMo takes place in November), it is hard for me to commit to solid word count goals. Both of my kids are in sports and that eats up a lot of time, but I thoroughly enjoy watching them play and practice.

I lean more on the "under-writer" side. I write scenes out of order and then when I do a final read-through, I piece them together with details and transitions, which always adds at least 2,000 words to the final count.

Mark

4/7/2020 11:09:47 am

That investment into the characters is very important. I tend to get very deep into a story, if it's well written. If the characters are shallow or weak, that undercuts the enjoyment of the story quite a bit.
Waiting on NaNoWriMo is a good idea while your boys are in school. It will be there later.
You just answered a question that is coming up, about being a non-linear writer. Some writers only write in a straight line. If they get stuck at some point, they can have a hard time getting past the writer's block. We will come back to that later.
New questions.
Are you talking about sentences, paragraphs or a chapter that didn't survive the final cut?
Did you cut mostly descriptions, action, dialogue or whole chapters?
Do you save the parts that didn't make it into the final version?

AE Faulkner link

4/7/2020 01:00:26 pm

There are some scenes that do not make the final cut. Those are typically scenes that come to me randomly. I quickly add them to my manuscript when I think of them, and if I am able to work them in somewhere, I do. But if they just don't make sense anywhere in the story, I remove them and save them in a separate file so that I can refer to them for a future book if it would work to recycle what I've written.

Beta reader feedback has been especially helpful in knowing what to add to the story. They never tell me to cut from it, but they often suggest that I add more details about the environment or characters' feelings. That feedback has been very helpful in understanding what additional information readers might need to truly "see" the story in their minds.

Mark

4/7/2020 02:12:18 pm

It sounds like you have some great beta readers. They have helped you quite a bit.
I think saving the scenes is a good idea. They certainly might come in handy in the future for a followup volume or a novella side story.
New questions.
Do you prefer dialogue tags or action beats in your books?
What do you do to flesh out the characters for your stories?
Do you base your characters on people you know or have met, or is it easier to just invent them completely?

AE Faulkner link

4/7/2020 02:24:18 pm

Dialogue is my favorite part to write. It's the most fun! I do have to remind myself quite often to take a break from the dialogue!! Action scenes are fun too - but I find them more challenging because I try to balance "just enough" details/information without weighing down any drama. If I am trying to create suspense, I don't want to slow the reader down with mundane details. Yet I want to include enough details that the reader can picture him/herself right there, on the edge of their seat!

I have a character development journal where I keep track of physical and emotional aspects of my characters. Early in the process, I found myself not always ensuring that a character would react in a way that was consistent with the personality I was painting for them. I've really tried to think through each character's reactions to make sure they are staying "in character" throughout the story.

Almost all of my characters are based on people I know. It is so fun to imagine what their reactions would be to the situations they are (fictionally) in.

Mark

4/7/2020 03:33:25 pm

I did enjoy a lot of the dialogue, i laughed quite a few times. Quinn and Riley had many snarky moments, but they cared deeply for each other.
Many authors use one means or another to keep track of characters and events. Some find pictures that are close to how they see the characters in their mind, others sketch or draw the characters they see in their mind.
Rick Hall has taken the idea of keeping your characters true to themselves to a new level. He has created a character psychological profile generator and it is marvelous! He posted a guest blog about it elsewhere on my website. It's free to use and quite extensive.
New questions.
Have you ever used yourself or other acquaintances as a character for a starting point in a story? Would they recognize you or themselves in the story?
If you used a close friend or family member in a book, would you tell them or make sure that they wouldn't recognize themselves in the story?
Which is more fun to write, the protagonist or the antagonist, and why?

AE Faulkner link

4/7/2020 04:21:02 pm

I have got to check out that character psychological profile generator - that sounds fascinating!!

Well, my main character, Quinn, is actually a combination of me and my niece. And I did tell her that - she loves it! This particular niece and I are very similar - and very snarky ;)

I have told or asked permission to use family members' and friends' names and personality traits in the book. So far they have all loved being asked - they get quite a kick out of seeing how I develop their "alter egos."

I love writing the protagonist. I love being in her head and seeing this fictional world from her point of view.

Mark

4/7/2020 06:47:23 pm

You and your niece must have had a lot of fun with the book.
One of my 11-year-old granddaughters has written a fan fiction based in the world of Harry Potter. She has been reading it to me and we have been line-editing it together. I was surprised how good of a writer she is. The story is quite good.
I bet your family and friends do enjoy that a small portion of them is in the books. An author friend of mine asked to use me and Grizz, my 6-lb. Chihuahua, in one of her books. I was a bad guy, but I died a noble death, repenting of my deeds. Grizz was the real hit of the book. Readers comment about the dog in the story quite a bit.
New questions.
What is one thing you hate about your protagonist and one thing you love about the antagonist?
What is your writing routine when you sit down to write?
Which is more important to a story pace or flow?
How do you control it?

AE Faulkner link

4/8/2020 08:03:42 am

That is awesome your granddaughter is writing a story! She is certainly lucky to have your help in editing!

So Grizz upstaged you in the book your friend wrote! I love that you got be a bad guy in the story - it's definitely fun when a real person's personality traits are embellished for a character!

One thing I hate about Quinn, my protagonist, is that she makes bad decisions. Without revealing any spoilers, she takes some chances that I think she shouldn't have. Although I can recall now, with a cringe, times when I was a teenager that I took chances that very easily could have turned dangerous. So I felt like those decisions made sense for her character.

One thing I love about the antagonist, Jim, is that he truly does want to protect and take care of the people he cares about. Unfortunately, he takes many selfish turns and if he doesn't care about you, you don't mean anything to him. But I do appreciate that he feels a strong loyalty to the few people that mean anything to him.

I try to spend some quiet time each day [usually a walk] thinking about my story and then that evening, I sit on my couch and write. I try to focus on the current scene - reviewing what happened right before it and what will happen next before focusing on what is happening at the moment. Then I dig into that moment and [ideally] type away!!

I find pace and flow to be equally important. I strive to maintain a pace that will make readers have a hard time putting the story down, but I am not satisfied until I feel each chapter flows into the next. I try to end almost every chapter on a "mini-cliffhanger" to keep the reader engaged. But once I have the whole story written, I conduct a thorough read-through to make sure that the story flows and I add in transitions and details wherever necessary.

Mark

4/8/2020 09:49:42 am

Quinn and Jim are acting true to form. Almost every teenager makes bad decisions at one time or another. While Jim may not be a narcissist or a psychopath, he is very self-centered and narrow-focused. Every antagonist worth their salt thinks they are the hero in their own story.
That is a nice method you use. I heard a tip that you might already be doing, stop writing in the middle of a chapter, even if you have the chapter ready to write. This will give you a solid starting point to write and the muse will be flowing.
I found it hard to put your book down at times, the mini-cliffhangers are working.
New questions.
Now that your book is published, is there anything about it you would like to change?
How do you think your book relates to the world we live in today?
What is the one thing you hope readers will remember from your book?

AE Faulkner link

4/8/2020 10:58:51 am

I recently did a read-through of my first two books [both published] and there are things I would change if it would not cause a spiral effect on the story. But, I also feel that unless I give myself a hard stop on making changes, this circle of wanting to add and change details will continue forever! So, unless I find an error, I leave the stories as is and keep moving forward. It can be a struggle to avoid getting bogged down with all the "what if this happened?" or "what if that didn't happen?"

Sadly, I feel like my book relates a little too true to today. I tried to focus on a pattern of unusual weather events - either something happening in an area not typical or sort of a domino effect of weather patterns building off of each other.

I hope readers remember from my story that we are all responsible for treating nature with respect in order to preserve it, not for ourselves but for future generations. And no one knows what will happen if nature decides to exert her force. I'd rather stay on Mother Nature's good side ;)

Mark

4/8/2020 11:24:11 am

At some point, it's necessary to say enough. A few writers use the rewriting as an excuse to not publish and risk rejection. Good on you.
Unusual weather is an interesting plot mechanism, you can go almost anywhere with that.
In 1974, there were a series of commercials for margarine that Mother Nature declared must be butter, her tag line was "It's not nice to fool Mother Nature!" We do need to care for what we have.
New questions.
Do you have a classical author or poet, you admire?
What popular modern authors have influenced you?
What software do you use to write and publish your books, and why do you use those?

AE link

4/8/2020 01:15:26 pm

I actually remember that commercial! I had forgotten all about it.

One of my favorite poets is Dylan Thomas. I just love "Do not go gentle into that good night." I remember enjoying Mark Twain and Willa Cather books as a child.

I have sooooo many favorite modern authors! They've all influenced me because I hope to some day write a story that I can love as much as I love theirs! Suzanne Collins, Julie Kagawa, Alexandra Bracken, Theresa Shaver, Lauren Oliver, oh I could just go on and on ;)

Everything I write is in Word - it's simple enough for me. I find technology intimidating, so I work with an indie author editor/publisher and she masterfully formats my books for e-versions and paperbacks. I do not want to even imagine what my books would look like if I tried to format them ;)

Mark

4/8/2020 02:04:00 pm

Almost everything, including commercials, is on YouTube or Google.
A lot of authors use Word, it has a huge installed user base around the world.
When I first started my website I considered doing formatting for the various e-book platforms. Then I realized that it would take time away from my core business of promoting and proofreading. Two years ago I considered bringing other people into my business, because I had so much proofreading. I ran into the same wall of straying from what I love into a supervisory position, and decided against it.
New questions.
Have you ever had the experience of the story swerving in a different direction than planned, as if a character was driving it?
I know there are many ways to build the outline. Do you do it all on the computer or do you get analog at some point with post-its or note cards?
Of the five senses which is the easiest to write and which is the hardest?

AE Faulkner link

4/8/2020 03:54:19 pm

I've had some nice surprises where it felt like a character influenced a twist in the story. For the most part though, my characters let me stick to the outline I create of the major events that happen in the story.

For my outline, I make a list - on paper - of everything I want to happen in the book. Once I'm satisfied with that, I write each "event" on its own slip of paper - brightly colored, so it doesn't get lost in any shuffle of papers! I just move the slips around on a plain sheet of paper until I have an order I like and then I tape all of the slips onto the paper. It helps me to see the options I've created and move them around to find the best order. And, since they're only taped on, I can shuffle them again if it makes more sense once I start writing.

I find visuals easiest to write - I try to add lots of details so the reader can see what is happening in their mind. I find taste difficult to describe - I've largely avoided even attempting it!!

Mark

4/8/2020 04:46:29 pm

Many authors report being surprised by the characters they have created, so your experience matches that of many.
Some authors arrange their plot in a similar way. Others use an outline in Word or some other software. One name that has popped up several times is Scrivener. It's supposed to be a very powerful software program that lets an author keep all their notes, character bios, plot and sub-plots in the same program. I have also heard it has a steep learning curve, but seasoned users love it.
We are very visual beings, so I am not surprised you picked that.
New questions.
Have you ever done any theater, written a play or any screenwriting?
What kind of marketing are you doing or planning on doing for your book?
What kind of marketing has worked the best and the least for you for your books?
Speaking of marketing, why did you pick me to help promote your book?

AE Faulkner link

4/9/2020 07:51:41 am

Yes, I've heard of Scrivener quite a bit, but it intimidates me! Software program with a steep learning curve, no thank you ;)

No, I've never written any plays or attempted screenwriting. Now that I've written three books, that's truly where my heart is. In between my first and second books, I had decided to give myself a little break from writing, but that didn't work. I was so eager to get back to the next part of my story that I didn't take any "time off" from writing. And now I enjoy it so much that it feels strange if I have a day of no writing.

Marketing is definitely my weakness! I have done some advertising, attended book signings and bookstore events, actively maintain a presence on social media, and distribute an author e-newsletter.

I wanted to work with you on promoting my book for a few reasons. For one, you come across (and I believe it) as a genuinely good person on Twitter and I appreciate that. Your interactions and posts are positive, kind, and supportive to others. Also, your posts are so fun! I love how you incorporate Grizz into your book review process!

Mark

4/9/2020 09:43:13 am

When working in your passion, it's hard to not do it. I am not surprised that it was hard to take a break.
Marketing is hard for every author, you never get to put a "the end" on those efforts. With a million new books published each year, a lot of work is required to raise anyone book above the tide so it can be seen. Writing the first draft is a solitary adventure also, after that, people are slowly brought onto the team as necessary, beta readers, critique partners, cover, formatting, editor, proofreader and more. Marketing means taking off the artistic hat and wearing a business hat. Reaching out to others over and over, whether virtually or literally, is hard to do for almost everyone.
Thanks, I appreciate your kind words. I try to make my posts entertaining.
New questions.
How long does the research process take before you start to write a book or do you do the research as you write the book?
How much time passed from when you got the idea to write your book; then actually starting to write the book?
How long did it take you to write the first draft?

AE Faulkner link

4/9/2020 11:01:44 am

I prefer to research topics as they arise in the story. I have a terrible memory, so I keep lots of notes. And research can be overwhelming - I often find myself falling down a rabbit hole of information. It's a constant struggle to weed out the information to include in the story versus what may become too tedious in details.

For Darkness Falls, I tossed the idea of the story around in my head in the summer of 2017 and then officially started writing it in January 2018. It was a new year's resolution! I finished up my manuscript in December of 2018 and it was published March 31, 2019. I've gotten faster though, the more I've written.

For a full-length novel, it takes me about 9 months to write the 1st draft. But, I scrutinize as I go, so I edit that draft and spend a lot of time finding the exact words I want to use. Then when that draft is done, I do a complete read-through and add in transitions and more details. So I spend a lot of time upfront on the writing process, and try to leave minimal edits for after my first draft is done.

Mark

4/9/2020 12:05:53 pm

I know what you mean about going down the rabbit hole. Growing up, quite isolated on a small non-working farm, I did a lot of reading. When ever I found a word I didn't know, I grabbed the dictionary. It was huge, about 5" thick. I could easily send an hour or more in the dictionary. If I had to grab the encyclopedia, more time was spent.
Avoiding info dumps is important for most genres and hard, especially for beginning authors. Giving just enough to keep the story moving forward is necessary to keep the reader on the page.
One year, is pretty good, knowing you work quite a bit. I think you did well.
New questions.
A lot of new authors struggle with finding beta readers. Because, after the first draft is done, fresh eyes and feedback become very important.
Do you have alpha-readers and/or beta-readers to help you smooth out a lot of wrinkles before publishing?
If you don’t, why?
If you do, how did you find them?

AE Faulkner link

4/9/2020 01:02:16 pm

Thank you!!

I have 3 trusted beta readers and they are AMAZING! They have helped me improve the final story by leaps and bounds. One is a friend from college who has been working in the publishing industry for several years. She has worked with many indie authors and she is a master at developmental editing.

Another is a family friend - she is a twenty-something young adult and she provides wonderful feedback on what she would like to know more about [areas that may be lacking descriptions, details] as well as terminology that might not be quite right for my audience [young adult].

And my other beta reader is one of my sisters. She loves to read and she offers a TON of input - she basically just notes anything and everything that comes to mind when she reviews my stories. It's helpful to get those knee-jerk reactions because I don't realize when my words may be coming across in a different tone than I intended.

When I got their feedback on Darkness Falls, that was a little rough - it was a lot to digest and they made a lot of suggestions for changes. However, I know that their edits were necessary. Some were painful in the short-term, but definitely worth it in the long-term. I will never publish a book that hasn't been scrutinized by beta readers.

Mark

4/9/2020 01:38:02 pm

You have a great beta reading crew! I have no doubt you will be hanging on to them. They have served you so well.
New questions.
At what stage in your writing process do you bring in the readers?
Do you give them an e-version like a PDF or a hard copy you printed?
What kind of questions did you ask them to get the feedback you wanted or do you let them provide feedback without particular questions?

AE Faulkner link

4/9/2020 03:44:09 pm

Once I have my draft "final," I send a Word file of it to my beta readers. They add comments. In fact, I am working through their comments for book 3 in my series at this time! Just as an example, one beta reader had 74 comments in the file for me! I have worked through all but 5 at this point. It takes me a few weeks to review and decide what to do with their suggestions, but I am always glad that I did it.

I do not ask specific questions of them when I send them the file to review - although I have considered doing that many times. Ultimately, I thought I might bias their opinions if I called out specific areas that I was questioning.

It's funny because now, as I'm writing a new story, I try to keep their usual feedback in the back of my mind - with my first book, one beta reader always suggested that I add more emotions - what each character was feeling at an intense moment, etc.. Since then, I've tried to do that more proactively.

Mark

4/9/2020 05:22:33 pm

I use the commenting feature of MS Word also, for my proofreading. I don't like making changes to the actual document. I have some software I use as part of my proofreading that won't work if Track Changes is turned on in the document.
Your beta readers are quite thorough, that is nice for you. Going through their suggestions one at a time is a good idea.
You have a good crew and plan of action.
New questions.
Do you reward your beta readers in any way particular?
Do you belong to any writing groups?
Are there any writing groups for the genre you write in?
Going back in time, did you do any kind of creative writing, even back in grade school?

AE Faulkner link

4/9/2020 06:52:35 pm

Thanks, I am very lucky to have them in my corner!

As a thank you, I always send them a gift certificate when the book gets to its formatting stage. Also, when I have the first printed books in hand, I sign and mail them each a copy, along with any swag I have. And I am always sure to call them out in the Acknowledgements section of the book!

I do not belong to any writing groups. I'm very introverted and it's hard for me to integrate into groups. Also, my schedule feels so full as it is - when we aren't under quarantine, that is. Both of my kids are in sports, so their games and practices take time [that I thoroughly enjoy!], and I volunteer with a local animal rescue group, my local Sierra Club, and the PTO. Phew, I'm worn out just typing it ;)'

I remember reading a lot as a kid but I don't remember writing much. When I got to college, I do remember greatly enjoying creative writing classes.

Mark

4/9/2020 11:02:08 pm

You certainly treat your beta readers well. That is a lovely way to say thanks.
Your schedule is very full! You are doing well making the family a priority. Your volunteer work is pretty vital also. I am amazed you find time to write.
In high school English classes, there were modules about creative writing, I passed with a C. I was reading all the time and writing just didn't float my boat.
New questions.
How early was it that you realized how powerful words can be?
What is the most important thing you learned from publishing your latest book?
What are three things, that you wish you knew before you wrote your first book?

AE Faulkner link

4/10/2020 10:05:19 am

Thank you for your kind words :)

Now that you ask, I can remember writing quotes from books on fancy paper and re-reading them from time to time. That was probably around 5th or 6th grade. It would just be random sentences that really spoke to me and I didn't want to forget them. I have a terrible memory, but I can still recall that I found several quotes that just mesmerized me in Willa Cather's "My Antonia".

The most important thing I learned from publishing book 2 is that every part of this process becomes easier with time and practice. I had so much self-doubt writing Darkness Falls but that doubt really faded away when I wrote Anguish Unfolds.

Three things I wish I knew before I wrote Darkness Falls:

1. There is no rush. Don't get discouraged if it feels like the process is taking forever. Let each step happen as it should, in the timing that it should.

2. Marketing is a completely separate beast. Before you finish writing your book, you should have a plan to market it.

3. Invest in a professional editor and cover designer, if you don't have those skills. But even if you do have those skills, seek second opinions. Getting a few more eyes on your work before it's released into the world can greatly improve the final product!

Mark

4/10/2020 10:08:28 am

Everything gets easier with practice and experience. I have christened extreme self-doubt "The Inner Liar". TIL can be quite brutal at times, it would trap us into doing nothing to avoid the appearance of failure. One of the best way to defeat TIL is to remember past successes. We have succeeded so many times when learning a new skill or taking a chance.
All three things are true.
Your #2 is spot on. Some suggest that an author should build their website at least a year ahead of publishing and start building a fan base and mailing list immediately.
New questions.
Do you have a hero, real or fictional?
What has been the biggest surprise in your writing journey?
Do you think a strong ego is an asset or liability for a writer and why?

AE Faulkner link

4/10/2020 10:44:16 am

I guess the closest "person" I would consider to be my hero is Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games. She is brave but vulnerable. Also, she is relatable as she works through challenges. She uses her intelligence when she is "pitted against" President Snow. She makes mistakes and doesn't always know the answer, but she doesn't give up.

The biggest surprise I've come across in this journey is how hard it is to find readers. I know we've talked about marketing already, and that is definitely an area in which I am lacking. It's soooooo hard! And there are so many books out there, competing for readers' attention.

I think a writer needs a balanced ego - they must be willing to consider and accept feedback in the pre-publishing stages but having a thick-skin in preparation for reviews would be useful too. I am quite thin-skinned and that is definitely not an asset in this field.

Mark

4/10/2020 11:40:47 am

Finding readers is probably the biggest challenge for the indie author. With a million or more books published each year, on Amazon, it's really hard to raise a book above the choppy foam of that massive ocean.
There are guest posts and many Highly Regarded Blogs I have linked to elsewhere on my website.
You are right. The creative writer needs a sensitive spirit to hear their muse well, the savvy business owner needs a hardened spirit to endure all the rejection they will encounter. The hat you are wearing dictates the necessary requirements.
New questions.
Can you describe the demographic of your ideal reader? Who is the person most likely to buy your book?
Do you have anything you consider to be your writing lucky charm?
What is the biggest obstacle you face in writing?

AE Faulkner link

4/10/2020 01:09:09 pm

When I sit down to write, I envision my reader as a high school student. That is probably because my main character is a high school junior, so I would think that age group could relate best to her and understand her motivations. However, I've heard from readers who loved the book and they are completely outside of that age group. I've heard from middle-aged and older readers and they loved the story, so that makes me very happy that really any reader can enjoy it!

The only lucky charms I have are my cats! We have two - both females, all black. One is short-haired and the other is long-haired. One was adopted from a local SPCA and the other was adopted from a local animal rescue group. Sometimes they will sit near me or on my legs while I write and I LOVE when they do.

My biggest obstacle is finding time to write. If there were more hours in the day, I could write my books so much faster and I would love to be able to do that. Maybe some day ;)

Mark

4/10/2020 01:33:39 pm

That such a wide-ranging age group enjoys your writing is quite nice and a testament to your writing skill.
I had a hunch finding time would be your obstacle.
New questions.
Do you struggle with writer's block, if so, how do you overcome it?
Do you see an advantage of writing under a pseudonym, why or why not?
If you branch out into a different genre, will you use a pen name, why or why not?

AE Faulkne link

4/10/2020 03:43:41 pm

I do struggle with writer's block but that seems to happen less as time goes on. If I am stuck on a scene, I will leave it and skip to another part of the story. Then I come back to it after I've had sufficient time away from it. Eventually, I'll get that flow back and be able to tackle the scene.

Initially I wanted to maintain a level of privacy by not using my full name as my author name. It's so hard to put yourself out there when you publish a story, and by keeping my first name out of it, it helped me "separate" the author part me from all the other roles I've got - wife, parent, sibling,...

I would not use a pen name if I decided to write in another genre. To me it would just be simpler all around if I have one author name.

Mark

4/10/2020 11:20:05 pm

I think you have the right idea, move on and it will show up at some point. Some authors will work on a different project that the muse is bugging them about; a side story or maybe enter a short story contest. There are many different solutions to deal with writer's block. Personally, I got some of my best ideas when I was raking leaves or mowing the lawn.
Using a pen name seems like a good idea to me.
New questions.
Are there any issues that are peculiar to writing this genre that might not apply to other genres?
Are there any writing styles or genres that you disliked at first but soon came to like?
Do you think reading, watching movies or listening to music help you be a better writer?

AE Faulkner link

4/11/2020 10:17:58 am

I believe that when writing for this genre, you always have to have a "dark cloud" hanging over the storyline. What starts out as not good circumstances must continue to get worse as the story continues. I like to add small moments of humor or very small "victories" along the way, but I think the backbone of this type of story should be menace.

I've tried to read more indie author books since I self-published and before that, I never read fantasy books. Recently I've read a few fantasy books and I am really enjoying them! Now, my heart will always belong to dystopian stories, but I find it amazing how fantasy writers come up with such unusual names not only for characters but also for ceremonies, locations, and objects in their books. I am really glad I gave fantasy a try!

I believe reading helps me to be a better writer. As I'm enjoying a story, I can mentally note what methods work well and also note what might not work for the kind of stories I write. One thing I must do though is "forget" any lines that really jump out to me as outstanding - I do not want to copy from anything I read.

I don't watch too many movies these days but I do have a Darkness Falls playlist on Spotify and when I need inspiration, I will listen to it - it takes me right to the mood of the overall story and opens my mind to what might come next.

Mark

4/11/2020 11:09:25 am

You are certainly on the right track, keeping the pressure on and giving the characters a breather every once and a while. It's a no-fail formula.
I think Tolkien's LOTR was the first fantasy book I read, it's certainly the earliest one I remember. I loved it and read the series three times before graduating from high school.
That playlist is a great idea. You should put it in the back of the book. Or better yet, tie a song to one or more chapters. I bet some readers would like that.
New questions.
Have you ever read a book that changed the way you look at writing?
Would you agree or disagree with the statement: suffering is a requirement to be a good writer, and why?
What was the best money you ever spent as a writer to enhance your career?

AE Faulkner link

4/11/2020 12:33:09 pm

Thanks for the ideas on the songlist! I could easily have that added to the back of the book!! And there are definitely some songs that take me right back to specific chapters.

I may have said it before but The Hunger Games series was really a game-changer for me. I just thought it was so well-written and it captivated me so much that it still serves as an inspiration. Also, Julie Kagawa's Immortal Rules book did the same thing. At the time a friend suggested it to me, I was very hesitant - I had never read a vampire book before, but that book [the whole series actually] left a lasting impression on me. In my mind, both series are masterpieces.

I wouldn't say suffering is a requirement to be a good writer, but I do feel like suffering goes hand-in-hand with writing ;) It can be so hard to create just the right sequence of words to express your thought and perfectly explain your story. Chasing perfection certainly can weigh you down, and slow you in your tracks. But also, once your words are published and out there for the world to see, it can be very difficult to read negative reviews and not take them personally. I find a bit of suffering in that, although I do acknowledge that you set yourself up for it when you publish a story.

I believe the best way I've enhanced my writing aspirations has been to attend signing events. Talking with other readers is really fun and uplifting! There is expense involved - the travel, swag you hand out, and bringing a supply of books with you. I have a TON of books sitting in boxes in a closet that I had purchased for signing events that were cancelled due to the pandemic :( So it does cost unknown authors money to attend these kind of events, but in my experience, they have been completely worth it and I love attending them.

Mark

4/11/2020 01:41:45 pm

Nice about the vampire story. I had a similar experience not long ago. I proofed a story called Original Grace. It was extremely well written and a lot of fun. It was way out of the norm for the genre, in my opinion. I laughed quite a bit.
There is potential for a lot of suffering as a writer, bad reviews are only the start. I tell authors that a bad review or two is good, it validates all the good reviews and readers know it's not just your mom and her cats that are leaving reviews. Querying can be a major source of suffering also. An author has to wear the business hat a lot when submitting letters to agents and publishers.
Signing events are fun, I love attending them also. I have worked on the back side of a table in different circumstances earlier in my life. I get quite a bit of energy from a crowd.
New questions.
With the explosion of different streaming services, these companies are scrambling for content. Writers are going to be sitting on the top of the heap soon, because they are content providers. Have you considered shopping your content to these companies?
An ebook is only one form that writing can be consumed in. Have you considered licensing large print, graphic books, plays or audio books? Audio books, in English and translated, are exploding worldwide.
Have you looked into foreign markets? Many different countries use English as an official language or a second language. Big Bad Wolf is a company that sells English language books all over the world in the millions.

AE Faulkner link

4/11/2020 02:37:52 pm

I never considered shopping my story to a streaming service. I'm a bit behind in the times when it comes to the streaming market. I actually just checked out Netflix last night for the first time in at least six months, I'd say! You make a really good point though and it is definitely something I will check into. I really haven't given much thought to marketing my books other than directly to readers.

I did actually plan on having Darkness Falls made into an audio book, but the cost to have it recorded and assembled for that format was much higher than I had anticipated. If it wasn't for the prohibitive cost, I would be more open to that option. I sometimes toy with the idea of recording it myself [in recent months we have acquired recording software and a microphone in our household] and then working with someone to help me package it. I figure that would save a lot on the production cost. I'm still toying with this idea.

I never though to look into foreign markets to market my books! I appreciate that input and I'll check out Big Bad Wolf!!

Mark

4/11/2020 02:40:29 pm

There are links to some great blogs on my Highly Regarded Blogs page about audio books, translating and going wide and foreign. Joanna Penn has covered a lot of these topics.
Back in January, I reviewed an audio book, Heir To A Prophecy, by Mercedes Rochelle. The man who made the audio book joined us and I asked him quite a few questions. I think you might enjoy reading that interview.
I have no doubt that there are videos on YouTube about how to record and format an audio book. Good luck, let me know how it turns out.
New questions.
Do you subscribe to any magazines, newsletters, blogs or podcasts that enhance your writing career? Feel free to share as many as you would like.
What are your favorite reference books or websites for grammar and writing?
Have you ever created a throw-away character that developed into a major player?

AE Faulkner link

4/11/2020 03:39:47 pm

I do not subscribe to any magazines, blogs, podcasts. I do subscribe to author newsletters, but that is mostly for fun and not learning. I guess I sort of "go rogue" in my efforts. I have signed up for webinars here and there to learn more, but nothing consistent. I'm going to blame time limitations for that. By the end of the work day, after dinner is made and cleaned up, I usually just want to settle in for the evening and write. And that would really be the time when I would be reviewing educational info to build my skills.It's such a balance - taking away time from writing to put on your business hat. And I am so not motivated to do that. I know I should. I keep thinking "maybe when the kids are older" but who knows ;)

Anytime I write, I always have the Merriam-Webster website open in a browser. That is my go-to thesaurus, and I use it often. I usually have Google open too, just ready in case I have to research something. I sometimes reference Grammar Girl as well, especially if I have specific construct questions or issues.

I actually did have a character, and I'd rather not name names [I hate spoilers!] that I wrote a death scene for in book 1 [Darkness Falls]. After mulling it over, I decided against that and now that person is going to live through the whole series! I don't want to say much more, but that was a big change from what I had originally intended. It's pretty neat when that happens! It was a surprise to me.

Mark

4/11/2020 04:13:15 pm

Reading those author newsletters, have they inspired you to start your own? A mailing list of a few thousand can go a long way with some publishers, that list represents guaranteed sales. Like every other part of the business, it takes away from writing time.
I think scheduling time for that among other activities can provide balance, allowing for writing time and other activities to build your brand. Maybe one evening every two weeks can be spent on marketing and newsletter stuff.
I rely upon Merriam-Webster a great deal also because it's the reference that the Chicago Manual of Style defers to. I use CMOS all the time for proofreading.
New questions.
Why do most authors write in 3rd person POV instead of first and second POV?
Do you think you were born to write or did you have to learn the craft?
What is the easiest part of writing a book in general?

AE Faulkner link

4/11/2020 05:16:38 pm

Yes! I enjoyed other authors' newsletters so much that I have created my own! I have a sign-up form here: https://tinyurl.com/sbq7ezm

I feel like 3rd person POV gives a clearer picture of everything that is happening in the story. It's not just one person's perspective, but an overall sensation of everything that's happening. I am reading a fantasy book right now. It's in 3rd person and I do like how I can get glimpses of what any character is thinking, not just the main character. When I started writing Darkness Falls, I tried writing in 3rd person but it just didn't feel right. I abandoned that perspective rather early in the process.

I do believe I was born to write. It's become so ingrained in me now and I enjoy it so much. It feels like a part of me is missing if I have to go a day without writing - even when we're on vacation [which doesn't exactly make my family happy]. I definitely had a late start, but I didn't know what I was missing before I started.

I'd say the easiest part of writing is just feeling free to put your words down on paper or a screen. The first draft is never the final draft, so that freedom of getting thoughts and emotions out of your head and onto paper is a great feeling. You don't ever have to share that initial writing with anyone. I love pouring frustrations or anger into my writing - it definitely makes confrontation scenes easier to write! :)

Mark

4/12/2020 09:19:11 am

There is a trade-off between writing in third person and first person, for the author as well as the reader. Personally, I enjoy the intimacy of first person POV, as long as it moves the story forward and the author doesn't engage in head-hopping.
I reviewed a YA dystopian novel several years ago, The Divinity Bureau, the author kept the plot moving forward quite well in first person by alternating the POV with each chapter. Except for a crucial scene, she repeated that scene from the two major characters' POV; unusual and it worked quite well.
The first draft is just that, telling yourself the story, pouring everything out onto the page. I can see how that might be the easiest draft to write. It's supposed to be a piece of garbage. It's in the rewriting and editing that a jewel emerges into the light.
New questions.
What did you buy with your first royalty check?
How did you celebrate when you published your first book?
How many times did you rewrite the first page, the first chapter of this book?

AE Faulkner link

4/12/2020 10:46:00 am

I'm rather boring in that I didn't really celebrate when I published my first book and I didn't really make any special purchase with my first royalty check. It was so small, I could have maybe splurged with a pizza ;) With the first book, I allowed myself to get too stressed out trying to get it out the door that when it was actually published, it didn't feel much like a celebration - it felt more like a struggle. I do regret that now. One of my friends wanted to hold a book launch party to celebrate when I published Darkness Falls but the introvert in me was not on board.

Since then I've tried to adopt more of an attitude of celebrating what I have accomplished rather than everything I have not yet accomplished. I'm getting better at that. I would be happy just going out to dinner to celebrate a new book being published, but it just hasn't worked out that way yet - even when I released book two in the series, it was in the midst of one of my kiddo's sports seasons and we were just tied up with that stuff. I would be happy just celebrating the release of the last book, to celebrate that I wrote a whole series.

I ended up rewriting that first chapter several times. It was funny, because I wrote it and felt very confident that it should stay exactly as is. Then I sent it to an editor, a friend, and a self-published author. They all suggested lots of changes! It was tough to swallow at the time but they were all right and I am so glad I took their input. It definitely improved the book!

Mark

4/12/2020 03:06:18 pm

More than one author has said they went to dinner or had a pizza.
Celebrating the successes is a much better attitude. When I find myself losing my focus on achievement, I read the comments on my Acclaim From Authors page. It reminds me of how much I have helped people with their books.
Celebrating a series is a wonderful idea! So many people never even write a book, except in their dreams; even fewer actually publish a book, much less a series!
First page and chapter are crucial to keep the reader engaged, I don't know any first-time author that has not rewritten those pages many times. Even seasoned authors labor over every word to get it just write.
New questions.
Do you have a “favorite” filler word or two that you have to keep taking out of a story, like “just” or like “like”? 😉
What was the earliest experience that made you realize that you could influence and change lives with the power of writing?
Do you have any Easter eggs hidden in your stories that only close friends or family members would recognize?

AE Faulkner link

4/12/2020 03:40:03 pm

I have waaay too many favorite filler words! I tend to use "after" quite a bit. "While" is probably my second runner up. It's funny you ask that though - one of my beta readers told me I use the word "splay" too many times in book three, Devastation Erupts!! So that was a change I made just last week to that story - replacing some "splays!" :)

I think way back in elementary school, when the teacher would read stories out loud, is when I first realized how powerful a book could be. I was amazed by how a string of words, made up of letters that we all know, could transport you to another place. I remember my 4th grade teacher reading The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to us and I probably could have just listened to the whole story being read from start to finish in one sitting.

Yes, I do hide Easter eggs in my stories! Friends and family members get such a kick out of little references to places, names, or situations that they instantly recognize in the story from our shared memories.

Mark

4/12/2020 09:26:28 pm

After and while, that is good that you are now aware of that. Splay is an unusual word, maybe that is why you were attracted to it and used it so much.
That is a great introduction to the power of words, I love Lewis's The LIon, The Witch and The Wardrobe. It's a favorite of our entire family.
So much fun for your family and friends. I love that sort of stuff.
New questions.
Do you believe that a good book will sell itself?
Do you think good marketing can overcome the limitations of a mediocre book?
What is the biggest myth about writing that would help aspiring authors?

AE Faulkner link

4/13/2020 07:55:35 am

Yes, I do believe a good book will sell itself. That is probably naive because readers first have to know it exists and find it, but I've received several book recommendations from friends - most of which I absolutely loved. So I do believe that word of mouth can have a large impact on a book finding the right readers. And I love that Amazon offers the option of previewing a book before you buy - I would much rather someone get a feel for my book before they invest in it.

I do think marketing can overcome limitations of a mediocre book. I was asked to read a book several months ago and I tried very hard to give it a shot, but about 1/3 of the way through I knew I just couldn't finish it. It was riddled with errors and I found all of the characters unlikable and unbelievable. I had to stop reading the book and I did kindly alert the person who asked me to read it. I did see LOTS of promotions for that book. And, just out of curiosity, now and then I check that book's ranking on Amazon and I am shocked by the number of good reviews it has as well as its ranking. It just proves to me that there is a reader for every book. And the right promotions can help you find those readers.

I believe the biggest myth about writers is their personality type. There is no cookie cutter format required to be an author. If writing is in your soul, let it escape! Let those words flow and tell your story!

Mark

4/13/2020 10:35:35 am

That is the clinker, isn't it. Readers have to know the book is out there. Amazon has tried to expedite that with the review system.
Your experience with that mediocre book is interesting. I had a similar experience with a book. There were a minimum of 10 errors on every page, the story was an interesting premise, but the characters were flat. I couldn't finish the book.
No doubt about that, there is an audience for every book. I caution new authors that their book won't be loved by every reader, that book will never be written.
Every writer has different motivations for writing, each is unique like all the other writers.
New questions.
You are close to publishing the third book in the series, Darkness Falls is the first book. Can you tell us anything about the newest book?
Do you have any problems when writing about characters of the opposite sex, why or why not?
What type of scenes do you find hard to write and why?

AE Faulkner link

4/13/2020 11:33:21 am

Yes, books 1 and 2 in the series are already released, Darkness Falls and Anguish Unfolds. I'm wrapping up book 3 right now. That is a full-length novel and it's titled Devastation Erupts. I'm so excited that this one is almost done! It's scheduled to be released on May 31, 2020.

I am definitely most comfortable writing my protagonist's POV as I can relate best to her. I am currently writing book 4 in the series, and that is from a male character's perspective. It's definitely proving more difficult. I just try to stay hyper-aware when writing - constantly reminding myself to make word choices that align with his personality.

I find death scenes the hardest to write. They say that if you cry while you're writing a scene, the reader will cry too. Let's just say that I am going to need to develop that skill for this series very soon!!!

Mark

4/13/2020 12:18:22 pm

I can tell you are very excited about the new book. Congratulations.
Guys tend to talk in a different way than women, although it depends upon who they are talking to also.
Writing a death scene sounds like it will be difficult.
New questions.
What will you do differently with this next book, in terms of publishing, if anything?
Have you ever killed off a character unwillingly because it fit the plot?
With sequels, how do you handle the wishes of readers compared to your original ideas?

AE Faulkner link

4/13/2020 01:27:25 pm

I had actually planned to hold a launch party for book 3 at a local bookstore. The owner has read my first 2 books and offered to host it. I was very excited about that, but now I don't know if it will happen due to the pandemic. We shall see.

Otherwise, I am planning to market the release date, which I have not done with previous books. This will be the mid-point in my series, so it marks a special place for me.

I actually have the opposite problem of not wanting to kill off any characters! Before I started writing Darkness Falls, I knew that several characters would have to die - it's just the nature of the story I am telling. There are dangerous situations that arise and everyone can't come out unharmed. I had honestly planned on more death in book 3 but I couldn't go through with all that I had planned. I've got to toughen up for book 5!

I have a pretty clear idea of where the series will end, and what all will happen in the last book. Some reader comments I can't agree to or deny - "So-and-so better not die!" ;) But I do hear some nice feedback about bringing back and tying up loose ends for characters who were introduced earlier in the story. I appreciate knowing what is important to readers.

Mark

4/13/2020 02:29:10 pm

A lot of parties have been canceled or postponed. Including the major book fairs all around the world.
More death makes sense. The stakes have to be high for the characters, and there aren't much higher stakes than life and death.
New questions.
Is there any particular time of the day that ideas usually hit you?
Is it hard or easy to connect with your muse, why do you think it is that way?
Do you proofread and edit your own books or use a professional?

AE Faulkner link

4/13/2020 03:39:03 pm

Yes, ideas seem to hit me when I am away from my laptop :) Most of the time they strike when I am outside walking. I've learned that being in nature helps me focus. The back of our house faces woods, so lately I've been taking the laptop and sitting outside on our deck, so that I can still enjoy nature but am able to write as inspiration strikes. It's been working out well!

If I am surrounded by silence, it is easy to connect with my muse. Unfortunately, there isn't much silence around my home these days. But if I can grab a few minutes of quiet time with the laptop, I can pound out the words.

I do proofread my books but I also work with a professional editor. I find it so valuable, not just for picking up things my eyes have slipped over multiple times, but also to help re-word things that might not be coming across as intended.

Mark

4/13/2020 04:11:45 pm

Being outside works well for you and your muse. I know one author that wakes up almost every night about 2:30 in the morning with her muse providing insights. She wishes her muse lived in the same time zone.
Need quiet? Perhaps a good pair of earplugs or noise-canceling headphones would be helpful.
Last questions.
What marketing strategy has had an immediate impact on your daily sales?
What is your favorite motivational phrase that keeps you going?
Have you ever thought about speaking to a college or high school writing class?

AE Faulkner link

4/13/2020 04:38:16 pm

HA! That is so funny how that author's muse wakes her in the middle of the night!!! I do not envy her. I have been thinking about researching noise-cancelling headphones! That could make me much more productive.

I haven't quite found a strategy yet that has impacted my sales. I've tried advertising, but I ended up spending a lot more than I made in royalties. I am still on the learning curve of this one!

Not long before I attended my first book signing event, I got a fortune cookie and my fortune was "Believe in yourself and others will too." I love that and I've since taped it to my work desk and I read it every few days just to put that reminder in my head. It definitely keeps me going!

Actually, I has planned to speak to a college class on March 23 of this year - arrangements were made for it at the end of 2019. The event was cancelled due to the pandemic, but I am certainly open to those kind of opportunities.

Mark, thank you for the interview and for reading my book! It has been a fun week and I appreciate all of your kind words and insight. I look forward to digging into your site more!

Mark

4/13/2020 04:51:35 pm

I don't envy her either.
Another author told me she heard from her muse in the shower, and lamented that she lost many good ideas because she couldn't remember them all before getting out of the shower. I recommended she get a waterproof notepad and pen. The Space pen will write underwater. She thanked me for the advice.
I hope you have another chance to share your journey with people in college.
This has been fun for me also. I have enjoyed our chat. I have another promotion starting tomorrow.
I wish you the best of luck in writing and promoting your books. Your fans will be pleased that you are still writing.

AE Faulkner link

4/13/2020 07:53:11 pm

Thanks again, Mark! I look forward to your future reviews!

Darkness Falls By A. E. Faulkner

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