Interview with david winter

Author of Truth’s Turn

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

I am originally from Indianapolis, Indiana but currently live in Ohio.

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

My career as an FBI Agent got in the way. Numerous transfers including Washington D.C., Jacksonville Florida, Savannah Georgia, Cleveland, Ohio and finally Canton, Ohio were part of a 22 year Bureau adventure.

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

It was a bucket list sort of thing. I have done a lot of technical writing, but nothing so far as a novel. Upon retirement, I had the time and desire to write, plus a boatload of real life experiences that I felt were worth sharing.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

Truth’s Turn is my first book. It’s a work of fiction with a story line that has a mix of passion, adventure and mystery. An easy read with a plot that moves quickly, the characters blend well into the story. Those who reviewed the book often describe it as one that is difficult to put down.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

Anyone who enjoys a good mystery plus a little spice will connect with Truth’s Turn. It’s not something you would give to your 12-year old for Christmas, but you and your significant other definitely will find it a delightful stocking stuffer. If you are a history buff or enjoy the Gulf Coast, this book will be to your liking.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

Writing is not easy. It’s fun but challenging. The amount of time it took including rewrites was breathtaking. I also discovered that writers block is real and working through it can be a bummer!

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

Why did you wait so long to write a book! Capture your daily experiences in a journal for ready review as well as verbal snapshots of moving experiences in your life.

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

I really don’t have any expectations as to how many individuals I might reach through my writing. I write for the fun of it and as long as there is someone out there that I provide enjoyment to, that’s fine by me!

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

The cost of the total package is frustrating. Everyone wants a piece of the pie and when it’s all finished there’s not much left for the author. The cost to market a book is staggering with no guarantee that it’s effective. Adding up all the expenses can be head spinning.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Being able to put pen to paper is definitely my biggest strength. Anything that’s fun to do really isn’t work. That’s how it is with writing. Developing active voices for the characters in a book, or describing an ocean view for the reader that seems to put them there. That, I believe is my strength.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Marketing my book is unquestionably my Achilles heel. It’s expensive, loaded with minefields, and generally risky business. To top it off, I know very little about the marketing process. In a perfect world, if I had lots of money I would hire a marketing specialist, but that’s not practical or possible.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I have already developed an outline for my next story. It will be another mystery fiction with some of the same characters in my first book. No more spoilers! I hope to have it finished and published within a year.

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

My book is self-published. It was a valuable learning experience that puts the author in control of the publishing process.