Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Raymond was born and raised in England in a small village in Essex. The Witchfinder General, Matthew Hopkins, once owned the village inn and ‘tested’ many witches in the area from 1645-1647. The village is situated just 7 miles from Colchester, the oldest town in England, hence his interest in historical fiction of that era.
The first book entitled “The Witchfinder” is based on that area and covers two time zones, both the present day and the 17th century, switching between ties as the story unfolds.
The genre changed with the second offering entitled “The Importance of being Roger” This book follows the trials and tribulations of Roger Sidebottom as he stumbles through life with often hilarious results.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest book about to be published is “The Witch Pond” where Raymond returns to his favourite topic. The book once again switches between time zones where it follows the saga of Clare as she mysteriously disappears into an old ducking pond close to her home. She emerges in the time of the Witchfinders where she discovers she has lived before, but in a very different lifestyle. With no prospects of any decent life she relies on her feminine wiles and quick wits to secure herself a future in those turbulent times.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I find it difficult to comprehensively plan out a book. Rather, I formulate a topic and begin writing, allowing the story to lead me on an adventure. Usually I have no inkling of the ending until I find myself instinctively tying up loose ends and heading for the climax.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Diana Gabalden, Barbara Erskine and Graham Follett mainly. I only hope I might aspire to some of their greatness.
What are you working on now?
At present I am writing a ghost story set in Lincolnshire, England. It is based on the occasion I visited an old bakery in the middle of nowhere which was vacant and on the market for sale. My experience inside the old property was nothing short of ‘hair raising’ and later, on recalling the incident, I decided to write a book detailing perhaps how the building became to be full of something sinister.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Currently relying on amazon ad campaigns.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Allow your mind the freedom to explore the possibilities you may not yet know you possess.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t grow up. It’s a trap!
What are you reading now?
Too busy writing myself at present and don’t want to cloud my mind with the brilliance of others.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I cannot see myself ever stopping now.
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?
Charles Dickens which can be read and re-read over and over. Plus of course J.R.R. Tolkien, the master craftsman of the imagination.
Author Websites and Profiles
Raymond M Hall Amazon Profile
Raymond M Hall’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account