Interview with Trevor Smith

Trevor Smith

Interview Date: 8/9/2012

Biography

Trevor Smith author of The Horror Quadrilogy.
Born in South-East London in 1982. Enjoys horror, romance and comedy literature.
His first published book was in July 2012 titled - The Halloween From Hell - available from the Kindle Store.
This is the first book of four (part of The Horror Quadrilogy).
The titles of the three remaining stories in the Quadrilogy and their estimated publising dates are:
The Summer to Die For (October 2012), The Rebirth (January 2013), and The Nightmare Returns (April 2013)
In addition, Trevor is writing a series of romantic comedy short stories which he will publish upon success of the Horror Quadrilogy.


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

I began writing when I was about 14, I was reading a lot more then and spending more time in the school library. My head was full of ideas and characters and once I put them on paper, the stories began to flow.

Kev's response: Aw, man, I hate when my pen leaks.


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

My answer will link with that below, my favourite superhero is Storm (Xmen), so teaming up with her would be great! Plus who wouldn't want the power to control the weather? I live in the UK and we don't get much sunshine so I think we need a superhero like that!

Kev's response: Mmmm, weather control. That would be a fun power.


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

Storm (Xmen)


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

Reading books, watching movies and life experiences influence and inspire me. Sometimes someone will say something and I'll have to make a mental or physical note to use in my books. I also like for friends and family to find themselves in my books, whether it be a name drop or a line of dialogue.

Kev's response: Interesting, I actively avoid putting any mention (or use in any way, shape or form) real people in my books. I don't want to have one of those issues a decade or two down the road where you get sued, and it's a "he said, she said" type thing. Even worse if one of the parties dies, and the family decides to sue. Bleck. Wish it weren't like that, however. I'd love to have people see their name in my books (unless I made them the nasty mutant who gets arrested, I suppose...).


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

I like to make a brief plan so I have a basis. But I like to write as if I'm reading the story myself. Anything can happen and sometimes I'll surprise myself with an idea that pops into my head.


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

I usually write when inspired, I don't think I can stick to a schedule as some days the words flow and others you can be preoccupied and not focused. I dont like wasting a day writing something I'm not happy with.

Kev's response: Ugh, I've had a lot of those "unfocused" days lately. I know what you mean.


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

I have written four short horror stories which I am currently publishing on Amazon. I also have a comedy planned that I will start to work on for publication in 2013.

Kev's response: Horror comedy! Do it! (Yes, I know that's not what you said, but I'm saying go for it.)


What do you enjoy the most about writing?

Suprising myself. I like escaping into a world you are writing about and creating characters. Some lovebale, some not so. It's nice to be in a place where you have complete control of everyone and their evey move.


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

Proof reading can be a nuisance. I find the more you read over your own work, you start to not notice mistakes. so always best to ask a fresh pair of eyes to proof read.


Can you tell me something odd about yourself?

I'm half Cyclops, can shapeshift and shoot lasers from my fingers... Or is that normal for you?

Kev's response: Sounds normal to me. (In all honesty, I do have a shield of medusa with a sword hanging behind it in my workout room, though...)


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

I have several ideas but always try to focus on one book at a time


For my evil plot to take over the world, do you think I should go for a grand, take-all-at-once type scheme, or spread my evil influence like mad, ravenous butterflies?

Slow but sure is the best approach...

Kev's response: My current issue is that the little buggers head over to the nearest field and just stop there. They aren't spreading well at all! Man, that is one evil-filled field, though!


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

I think e-books will grow due to the ease for indie authors and the community that grows from it. Paper items like comics will stay the same or grow I believe. I don't think e-comics have the same appeal as collection issues.


What are your current projects?

I have just released The Halloween From Hell (released July 2012)
My next books in the series are
The Summer to Die For (due to be released October 2012)
The Rebirth (due to be released January 2013)
and
The Nightmare Returns (due to be released April 2013)

In addition I will write my comedy book, Flatmates, which I hope to have published sometime in 2013.


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

Go for it! Never give up and don't be afraid. As long as you are happy with your work, embrace reviews and opinions. It's all constructive. Share your work with others, it's amazing who you will reach out to.

Kev's response: Oh, they will be afraid. Very, very afraid. Wait, we're talking about self-pubbing here? Let me rephrase... Oh, they will be depressed, very, very depressed...


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

I have a Twitter acct @thehorrorquad and a Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/groups/339404316144021/#!/pages/The-Horror-Quadrilogy/393436497382400
Thanks again for the opportunity to interview.

Trevor Smith - @TheHorrorQuad

Kev's response: Trevor, thank you for joining me! Good fortune on the series, and then on your break into comedy!



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