Author Interview and Book Giveaway with LM Preston!

In the past, I’ve interviewed published authors, and it is time to welcome another: LM Preston!  I’ve known her for many years and she is an amazing critique partner, full of insight and imagination.  Her newest book, THE PACK: RETRIBUTION, is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  You might also remember her from the writing contest, where she gave the winning fantasy critique.   

In your own words, how would you describe THE PACK: RETRIBUTION?

Full throttle action teen mystery with the tightest group of friends led by a reluctant hero, Shamira who is willing to give up the one person she's allowed herself to love to save his life.

Where did you come up with the idea for the story?

My daughter wanted me to write about a female hero, and Shamira was a kick-butt hero that was needed to fulfill the diversity in the Young Adult scifi hero void.

Who is your favorite character and why?

Hedi is a fun character to write, she's been through a lot and is just as needy for a friend as Shamira is. When Hedi comes on the scene she brings out the best in Shamira that only a girlfriend can do for another girl.

What did you learn while writing the novel?

I learned that I enjoyed writing females just as much as I do male characters - only they have to have a little tomboy in them like I did at that age.

Many of my readers are aspiring professional writers.  Tell us about your publishing process? 

The publishing process is a long process because it takes a while to build visibility for a book. So expect your book to take a year to get out, not because publishers are slow, but because your work gets edited over 10 times after you get a Literary Agent who then sells your book to editors. After and during your editing process, the publisher is trying to sell your work and it takes time to tell everyone a new book is coming out. It's a process that works. Be patient.

What is your best advice for writers?

You must like writing and you must write many books. Don't just finish one series but write the first book in many series so you have more product to sell. And lastly, think big, there are many options available to authors now, so do your homework and learn the publishing business like the back of your hand. When you do all of the above, make-it-happen.

LM Preston has agreed to give away a copy of her book.  To qualify for a chance to win, you need to leave your name, email address (or she can’t contact you!), and a comment.  Questions for her about the book and writing are eagerly welcomed.  On July 1^st, she will choose a winner.  Good luck!