Interview with The Writer -RL ANDREW

It is my great pleasure to introduce several writers to you in a course of twelve fellow-writers who have agreed to be interviewed by me.

The aim is, to have a short introduction to a writer’s life, the honest Q and A which might interest readers in their books and to support internet presence for the authors.

Second in the line today will be: R.L. Andrew.

Introduction:

Hello all. I'm R.L. Andrew - aka Robyn, a chronically ill Australian author. I live in a regional town in Shepparton, Victoria, Australia. We just started spring! yay. I hate winter.

Please, first tell us about yourself as a writer and a person:

My quirky sarcastic personality comes out in my writing, I have a dark sense of humour. I began writing seriously several years ago after becoming chronically ill and forced to leave a successful legal career. I've got several short stories published internationally.

What was your last book and what genre is it listed under?

My first book 'A Lunatic's Guide to Interplanetary Relationships' has been published by JaCol Publishing - an American publisher. It’s currently an ebook but the paperbacks are coming. It’s taken a lot of learning, challenges, determination, blood sweat and tears to get here.

How do you determine what genre your story is listed under?

A Lunatic’s Guide includes other planets and beings, as well as space travel and wormholes. Even though it’s character driven and the focus isn’t on the science fiction aspect it’s definitely science fiction.

What made you decide to become a writer and who (or what) inspired you?

After working as a Legal Executive for several years and studying a law degree, getting sicker and sicker for some time I had to give up work which was a huge part of my self-identity. I’d always written short stories and poems but never submitted many. All of a sudden, I still had my mind but my body failed me and so I rediscovered my love of writing. It’s greatly enhanced my mental health and I’ve met some amazing people. I’ve been able to live a life online while being bed ridden quite often.

Are you self-publishing or going the traditional way?

I’m published by a smaller American publishing firm and wouldn’t change it. It suits me perfectly.

Who would you name as your literary inspiration?

Edgar Allan Poe, Janet Evanovich, Joss Wheldon, Danielle Trussoni,The Soska Sisters, Nicholas Gyeney

Are you reading the same genre as you are writing under?

Yes, I am but mostly non-fiction at the moment for both research and fun.

Is writing your main income or do you have a different day job?

Because I’m chronically ill I’m unemployable and with my first book being published I hope to make that and my future books my source of income.

How do you fit writing into your everyday life?

I make time everyday for it. Usually first thing in the morning when I am most awake and switched on but if I can’t I’ll still fit it in during the day. It’s a must for me.

How do you deal with ‘Writer’s block’?

I don’t believe in writer’s block. For me it means I’m unprepared for the scene I’m about to write and I haven’t put myself there properly. I use speech cards to remind me what they are meant to be doing and where etc. I find once I’ve done that and I’m with them - I’m good to go.

What do you find easy about writing and what do you find the hardest?

The only thing I find easy about writing is I can touch type. The rest of it challenges me which I love and I’ve had to learn a lot about the craft from grammar to POV’s and structure to all manner of things.

Who are your favourite writers and which books are your favourite ones?

The ones I mentioned above and I have many favourite books. I can’t pick just one.

Do you think advertising on social media as a self-published writer is effective?

I think you’ve really got to put the time and money into it, it can work. That means presenting the best edited version of your book for publication and be willing to put yourself out there and grab every opportunity that comes up. I think that even counts for traditionally published authors too these days. You’ve got to be your own best sales person. Everywhere you go hand your your cards or flyers etc, don’t miss a chance to tout yourself. Online you can do so much but putting yourself into your community is always a great way to advertise yourself.

If you have received any, how do you deal with negative reviews?

I haven’t as yet but when I do and there’s a lesson to learn from it I’ll take it. But good or bad you can’t focus solely on what other’s think. You’ve got to pick yourself up and keep going. You're only as good as your last book.

If you would have to spend an entire evening with a group of people, who would you like to spend it with?

My special people - the family my husband and I have with our friends, daughters and extended family.

What are your activities besides writing?

Cooking, reading, watching scary movies and gardening.

Do you have a passion?

My family and friends first of all, then writing.

How would your friends describe your character?

I’m not sure I’d ask them to find out. Just kidding, but probably crazy, determined, stubborn, honest and left of centre.

Do you think writers (as other celebrities in public life) have a responsibility to comment on subjects like war, religion and human/animal rights?

Always. I think those have important places in literature and media in general despite them being intertwined in fantasy. In fiction we can truly explore and push the limits of social issues. It can serve as a warning or premonition at times.

What is your favourite colour? Teal.

What/who would you take with you to live on a remote island?

My husband for sure. All the kids are adults now so it can be just me and him for a while.

What are you writing on at the moment and can you tell us about future projects?

I’m editing the sequel to ‘A Lunatic’s Guide’ - ‘A Demigoddesses Guide to Interplanetary Parenting’ and story boarding the third in the series - ‘A Demigoddesses Guide to Inter-dimensional In Laws’ before I start writing it. I’m focusing solely on those right now and for the foreseeable future.

Thank you very much for answering the questions. For all your future projects I wish you much success and pleasure in your work.

Thank you so much for interviewing me! It’s been a pleasure.

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