Interview with EL DuBois

Author of NOLA Bound, RTX Book 2

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

A small town in Texas. My family moved to a larger city when I was a child but we all migrated back a few years ago. So I live in the tiny town I was born in. It is the kind of place where everyone knows you or your family. Makes for interesting visits to the grocery store lol.

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

My journey back home was a long, sometimes surreal, sometimes brutal story. My debut novel The Glass Mask: Monsters Lurk Beneath is based on my true story and gives insight into the mind of someone just trying to survive. It is told as a dark fairy tale and to say that my life had very dark moments is putting it mildly.

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

Hope, understanding, & healing, those were the main driving factors for writing that story. I wanted to give hope to anyone who had been or was in a situation of violence or abuse. Understanding to those that knew nothing about the situation and I needed to heal. Writing it all down was my way of letting go.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

Sassy: Southern, And Sexy, Sweet, Y’all! My novels are unapologetically Texan with LOL moments. The romance novels are chalked full of chemistry and relatable, emotionally flawed characters. Ransom TX, my paranormal horror series is a fun, action packed ride with a little bit of everything. NOLA Bound is book two in that series and it was released this year. I had a lot of fun with that book and got to introduce some new characters that are an intricatal part of the series. Book three Tennessee Whiskey is coming out next year and already has preorder links available.

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

I write for everyone, but if I had to pinpoint a particular audience I would say they are perfect for anyone looking for an escape.

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

I learn something new and unexpected all the time lol. I’m new to this author thing. I absolutely love it, but I’m totally winging it!

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

Never lose hope, and you got this!

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

Is “everyone, everywhere” too much of a lofty expectation lol

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

Building an audience. There is so much for readers to choose from.

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

I have a unique voice. I am pretty sure all writers probably say that but I genuinely believe my style is different so I embrace it.

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

Social Media, I am a total recluse creative and find myself having to force the “social media” aspect of being an author. I think social media is wonderful, an authors best friend, it is a great way to connect with readers and show appreciation for their support. And, that support is the main reason I do it. I appreciate every single reader and social media is the quickest way I can show that immense gratitude. But I’m also a very private person so if I wasn’t an author I would probably rarely use it.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I am always writing, and have several releases for 2020 in different stages. There is a lot in the works for my established characters/worlds and a few new ones I think the readers are going to love.

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

I have had experience with all three. But for me, because I do like to have a say in all creative aspects of the process, self publishing is the way to go.