Xlibris Publishing introduces Nancy De Beer, author of Choices.
Please briefly describe your book.
CHOICES, it’s about an awkward teenage boy Conner whose father is a general. Conner falls for a mysterious girl, but she has secrets that involve his Dad and his work.
Who is the author “behind” the book?
I’ve always loved reading and daydreamed a lot. I don’t write the way most authors do, typing. I first write in my own hand, I just feel as though I connect more with the story. I’m slow at typing so when I’m in the ‘zone’ I don’t want to have to search for keys and then go back and retype, cut, copy and paste. I just get frustrated and it just feels hollow, I don’t connect as I would when writing with my hand. Even though I have no background in literacy and work full time as an Admin Lady I love writing.
Do you have any particular literary influences that have helped you develop in your genre, subject and style?
I’ve always wrote short stories when I was younger about princes and princesses one always been rich and the other not and how they bring the kingdom together. I’ve always enjoyed science fiction. But it was not until I got older and started reading Stephan King and Stephanie Meyer that I got my passion back for writing. Their writing and imagination woke mine up.
What inspired you to write your book, and how long did it take you to finish it?
I was watching movies and just thought ‘wouldn’t it be nice to have something different as it’s always the women that are damsels in distress why not this time be the other way around for the guy to be weaker and the girl to be tough?’
It took a long time, 8 years, to finish because in the beginning I had no intention of publishing I just wanted to write and was encouraged by work colleagues to pursue writing and to publish. Years of having people ‘help edit’ I finally had a finished manuscript.
What is the one message you would like to convey to your readers?
I hope that they enjoy my story telling. My writing and imagination.
Are you working on a sequel to your book?
There might be in the future but nothing at this moment.
Are there any events, marketing ideas or promotions planned for your book? Please feel free to mention any accolades you have received.
Well I think like all first timers you get wrapped up in the excitement and your head is in a million different places and you don’t really know where to touch down. I have read a lot of articles on promoting yourself and how to handle the business. The main thing is to share on social media to get people interested. At this point I’m still trying to find my feet and plan what I need to do.
What was your favorite part of your publishing experience, overall and with Xlibris?
They had patience with me. After taking so long to finish my book they always just followed up and never pressured me into finishing. And they have been helpful, always answering my emails and calling.
Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring authors?
Just do it! Don’t worry about the book failing, the fact that you did it, to put yourself out there. That’s the true success and accomplishment.
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