Interview with Linda Williams

Author of Excuse You! The Benefits of Living Courteously

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

Originally from Medina, NY. I now reside in Westbury, NY

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

I was born in Orlando, Florida. My parents and I moved to Medina,NY when I was 2 years old.

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

My first book, Church Etiquette: A Handbook For Manners and Appropriate Behavior in Church” was written at the suggestion of the pastor at my church at the time. He was talking about people’s behavior in church. He knew that I was a certified etiquette consultant and said “You should write a book on church etiquette.”

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

My books focus on the importance of following the rules of etiquette and being courteous. The first two books were on the subject of church etiquette. My latest book, “Excuse You! The Benefits of Living Courteously” is more about benefits of being courteous to the giver and recipient of courtesy. It also provides a plan to become more courteous.

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

Christians and other religious groups would benefit, but this book can help anyone to become more courteous if they are serious about changing and follow the plan provided.

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

I found out that when I found my passion, teaching the importance of courtesy, I found my written voice and my physical. Finding my passion allowed a shy person to become more vocal.

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

Don’t be so yuck to give up on your dream. Pursue and persevere until you reach your goal. Don’t give up!!

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

Millions!

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

Finding opportunities to market the book.

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

My biggest strength is my love for what I do. I believe very strongly in the power of courtesy and share it freely with anyone I come in contact with.

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

Marketing myself. Although I like to talk about my passion I do not like to talk about myself and my accomplishments. That takes effort for me.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I am working on it now.

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

Self-published (all three books).