Interview with Harold Lloyd

Author of Crooked Timber

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

I am from Philadelphia, PA; I still reside in Philly.

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

As a student of criminology and a police officer I have an interest in the dark side of humanity and its effect on morality. I wanted to explore the blurry line that separates good from evil and whether evil doing can result in good.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

Those interested in hard-boiled crime fiction.

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

Those with a realistic view of a pessimistic time in our country.

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

The most unexpected and surprising thing I encountered with the publication of Crooked Timber was the willingness of bookstores to shelve the novel. No store turned me down.

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

Edit. Seek and find a professional editor. I found so many simple mistakes after printing.

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

I would like to reach all who enjoy crime fiction, police procedurals and the like.

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

I published my book eighteen years ago. The biggest challenge for me is making the time to devote writing and marketing. I work 12 to 16 hours a day, so it is virtually impossible to do the thing necessary to accomplish my goals.

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

The biggest strength I possess when it comes to writing is the sheer joy I get out of the craft. As far as marketing goes, I have much to learn.

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

The biggest weakness for me is the inability make time. Distribution and marketing can be a full time job which at present I cannot perform.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I have a finished manuscript for a second novel. I also have working outlines for sequels to that book. I plan to retire in two years, at which time I plan to devote myself to writing full time.

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

I used a company by the name of First Books; it has changed its name to Author House.