Author Interview: A.D. Hurst
Author of "Key to the Game: Make it, Make Sense"
A number of my graphic design clients are currently serving or have served time in prison. People in those situations are every bit as creative and have worthwhile story ideas as those that have never done jail time. Hurst is one of those clients, and as of this interview has a Street Lit Crime novel available. Here are his thoughts on the writing and publishing process.
What inspires your writing?
I guess what inspires me is what I see in life and reflection of my past.
What is your process of developing characters?
My process of developing characters is inspired from people I see or may know from my past.
Did you Start with a story outline or did you make it up as you went along?
I'm very creative and I make up my stories as I continue to write a story from my mind.
How much research did you need for your latest story?
Not much, because most of the things I talk about in my stories I have lived through.
What researching methods did you use?
Reflection and memory.
What are some of your methods for handling worldbuilding and establishing a believable and immersive setting in you stories?
When it comes to the stories I tell, I believe in writing realist stories. I find that authentic stories holds my attention when I'm writing, which allows me to create believable characters and environments.
Did you draw on personal experience?
Yes.
How did your publish?
Self Publish.
Why did you do it that way?
I did it that way because I don't like someone else making more off of my books then me, and I'm the one who wrote the books.
What advice would you have for writers looking to publish the way you published?
Do your research first. You may find its really the only way to go, if you want more money in your pocket off of the work you done.
Who did your cover and marketing?
J.D. Williams, with my creative input as well did my covers. He also helps with marketing.
What are some of the methods you have used to generate interest in your book?
Word of mouth, Facebook, Amazon etc. all free promotion sites.
How many revisions did it take to get a publishable book?
It depends. I'll say once or twice because I will add something to a story that I feel needs to be in the story.
What aspect of the book writing process did you find the most challenging?
I guess it would be the start of the book because how you start a book is very important.
What methods do you use to ensure your crime scenes are authentic, accurate and believable?
I have been on real crime scenes as crimes happened and after. I use details from my past and information from news papers, tv, etc.
What are you writing now?
I'm writing "Sweetie," a book about an important character from Key To The Game, Make It, Make Sense. I'm also working on a book called "Death By Incarceration, Lies Around The Truth." This book is based on a true story.
What is your advice to other writers?
If you like writing, keep writing to release your thoughts and gift into the world. Especially, if you can find joy in what you are doing. If you keep writing, you will get better.
Be sure to get your copy of his book “Key to the Game: Make it, Make Sense”
And if this is helpful, Subscribe! I post author interviews monthly.
