Interview with David Leadbeater

David Leadbeater

Interview Date: 5/7/2012

Biography

David Leadbeater is the author of the UK #1 bestselling thriller The Bones Of Odin. Look for the sequel coming in May! He is also the author of the #1 Occult supernatural thriller Chosen, and has just published a scary short story- Walking with Ghosts. He is married with two daughters and is currently writing the next two Matt Drake thrillers, set back-to-back.


When did you start writing, and was there a significant event that prompted you to do so?

I started writing at the age of fifteen after reading the horror stories of Graham Masterton and Stephen King. My first horror novel – written and submitted when I was 15 – was more than a rejection from the publishers as the rejection slip called my book by the wrong name!

Kev's response: I'm thinking you call that one a win. Apparently, you were stuck with the editor who failed at reading comprehension, wouldn't you say?


If you could have one superpower, what would it be? (Assuming said power would be reasonably "powerful.")

The power of flight! I can’t imagine anything better than soaring above cities and mountains and the vast oceans.


Do you have a favorite superhero from novels, comics, or movies?

Spiderman! I used to read about Peter Parker in the 70’s and one of my regrets is that I didn’t collect and keep the comics.

Kev's response: Ah, yes. Isn't that what many of us wish - that we had the foresight to know as a child what we now know as adults? (Like lottery ticket numbers!)


Where do you get your inspiration for writing? What motivates you?

I write about the things I enjoy – I write for me – my novel CHOSEN was completely self-indulgent and involves more aspiring superheroes than you can shake a stick at! I read widely, watch every kind of movie and play certain video games. My inspiration comes from the odd mix offered by them all.


Do you pre-plan your stories, or are you a by-the-seat-of-the-pants style writer?

Definitely pre-plan. The evolving story in planning stage. For me, is one of the best bits of writing. Of course, nothing’s written in stone and sometimes the characters do take over...

Kev's response: I love when they do that.


Do you write only when inspired, or do you have a set schedule where you sit down to write?

I have to have a set schedule unfortunately. I work all day and have two young children so I get to write for only a few hours at night.


Do you have a favorite genre to write in? To read?

No! I love action, thriller, superhero, crime, horror and mystery novels. I’d be happy to try my hand at anything.


What do you enjoy the most about writing?

The joy of getting lost in a story and living it with your characters.


Is there any part of writing that you don't enjoy?

Only the fact that I can’t do it full-time.


Can you tell me something odd about yourself?

I usually end up arguing with my 3 year old daughter about which kids programme we should watch...sometimes, I even win.

Kev's response: I'm officially adding you to my release list for when I finish "Duct Tape Babysitting Methodologies." It's going to be a how-to book! :)


Do you write one story at a time, or do you have several novels in the works at one time?

I write one story at a time, but have many in planning.


Where do you see the future as far as paper books versus digital e-books?

I see ebooks making further advances as the public at large begin to realise how good these e-readers actually are and figure out they don’t actually have to put up with one author releasing 10 books a year or other established authors suddenly finding a ‘cousin’ or ‘sister’ who miraculously can do the same thing as their better-known counterpart. The public can say no, and find content elsewhere. Extremely rich content, judging by what I have read so far.


What are your current projects?

I am about to publish the 2nd book in the Matt Drake series - the sequel to The Bones of Odin - called The Blood King Conspiracy. This leads straight into the 3rd novel which I will make a start on in June.

Kev's response: Well, that's a good thing. If it led directly into the fourth book of the series I'd be a bit confused!


Do you have any advice for others about self-publishing?

Write and polish and get your novel edited. Work on a great cover. Get yourself organised with a website, a social internet presence and, above all, understand that it’s not a one way street. #indie authors are flourishing because they support and offer help to each other. The network has every resource you will ever need, but in the end we all need each other.

Kev's response: Someone's been spending a lot of time on Twitter...!


Do you have any online sites where readers can find out more about you (and your books)?

Author Central: http://tinyurl.com/d4jk6sg
Check my blog at http://davidleadbeaternovels.blogspot.co.uk/
Website: http://www.davidleadbeaternovels.co.uk/


Kev's response: David, thank you much for your time. Good luck with The Blood King Conspiracy! (And the others, of course.)



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