Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Michelle E. Lowe and I’m the author of seven published books, The Warning, Atlantic Pyramid, Cherished Thief, and Legacy. Children’s books, Poe’s Haunted House Tour, and The Hex Hunt series. I keep myself busy raising two girls and being a momma to October, my eighteen year old calico cat. I’m a nerd at heart who enjoys watching science fiction, fantasy and classic horror movies. I do a little oil painting too. Currently, I’m living in Lake Forest, California with my husband, Ben.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I have just released a steampunk/fantasy story titled Legacy, a rollicking adventure that takes place in Victorian England during the rise of the Industrial Revolution.
What inspired me to write Legacy is basically what inspired me to write all my other books, they’re simply the kind of stories that I enjoy reading.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t really call it unusual, but perhaps it’s not a common practice nowadays. I write my books in longhand before I type it in my computer. By jotting it down first, I feel that I’m writing better when I type it in because I’m pretty much writing the story all out for a second time. After the initial draft is done, I have a better grasp on the characters and the plot.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Neil Gaiman is one author. I find him to be a wonderful in depth storyteller. I also enjoy Chris Wooding’s works. His writing is that face-pace yet well-written storytelling style that I love. I’m also partial to Dean Koontz, who, in my personal opinion has a outstanding knack for suspense writing.
What are you working on now?
Even though only the first book of the Legacy series has been published, the entire series has already been written out, which frees me up to expand on it. I’m in the process of writing a standalone book for Legacy, titled Boom Time.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook is a good way to spread the word. I’ve even opened a twitter account just for Legacy, @LegacySeries_6. Goodreads is another great resource for writers. I’ll be holding a contest very soon for Legacy on Goodreads as a means to bring more attention to the book. My website is also a great way to promote and share loads of information about my books.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
First and foremost, write what you love, don’t follow trends, write for yourself, and write your first draft with as much passion as you can muster. Letting yourself go completely in that first draft, without worrying so much about perfection, will set your imagine and the story free. There’s plenty of time during the dreaded ‘editing stage’ to fret about making it pretty. First drafts ought to be free spirits, but they’re also supposed to look ugly. And never rush through your writing just to get something out there. Take your time and polish your work until it shines like the gold you want it to be. Even if takes a year or more, it’s best to present your best work rather than publishing some subpar, clutter junk. And take constructive criticism with a grain of salt. You’d be amazed how far your writing will progress and flourish if you’re willing to listen to others and learn from your mistakes.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Have the courage to live a life true to yourself, not the life others expect of you.”
It’s good advice, especially that it can be harder than it sounds for some.
What are you reading now?
The Aeronaut’s Windlass (The Cinder Spires, #1) by Jim Butcher. I’ve just started on it and already I’m excited about the story.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have many plans, actually. I’m going to finish writing Boom Time and then turn three of my novels into TV series screenplays to pitch around to studios. Dream big, right? I’m also going to launch a Kickstarter campaign to work on raising funds to make Legacy into an audio book. Loads to do.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
That’s such a tough question. I don’t even know if I’d take books I haven’t read yet or not. I mean, what if I don’t like them and now stuck with them? Ugh, I s’pose that if I had to choose, I’d go with Chris Wooding’s the Tale of the Ketty Jay series.
Author Websites and Profiles
Michelle Lowe Website
Michelle Lowe Amazon Profile
Michelle Lowe’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account