Interview with Ashley Greathouse

Author of The Schatten

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

I was born and raised in Indianapolis, In. Currently, I live in a small town in southern Indiana.

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

My parents were divorced when I was young. My father continued to live in the northern parts where my mother moved back to her hometown. I bounced back and forth a lot growing up, but my heart always felt at home here.

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

Depression? Too much free time? That burning desire that has consumed my mind for years? I really don’t feel like there is a one-shot answer – at least not for why I decided to write. Now, what made me finally decide to publish? Fear and my need to overcome it.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

Amateur writing, at best, but captivating stories brought to life through a dark and twisted imagination.

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

People who have always cheered on the hero, but also found themselves intrigued by the villain.

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

There are more people who want to see you succeed than fail.

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

Market your book before you publish!

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

As many who wants to read them.

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

Formatting. Oh my, is that a nightmare on its own! Thankfully, there are so many support groups that will help guide you.

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

a) I’m extremely insecure and a tad bit morbid, which seems to do wonders for horror fiction.
b) I refuse to give up and I embrace any mistakes as a way to become better.
c) I look at marketing as a way to connect and engage with my supporters. I feel like that mindset has allowed me to grow as much as I have.

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

Following a strict business plan can easily be my downfall with each.

When I started out I had no budget to spend on an editor or marketing assistance. The only thing I had was the ability to publish my work for free with KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing).

Thankfully, I found some affordable assistance with my marketing issues from Colin Can Help! From there I was able to expand my connections and find a support system that is there to help strengthen any weaknesses I may have.

When do you think you will write your next book?

‘Lily’, an eerie tale about a man who has made it his mission in life to rehabilitate serial killers, will release in 2020! The exact release date is pending.

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

I am currently with Bedlamite Publishing, a hybrid publisher.