Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I work with children, schools, parents, foster carers and other childcare professionals to help them to learn more about staying safe online. I have written six books in total, but my most recent forthcoming titles, Lucy’s Web and Steve’s Web – Operation: Stay Safe Online are my first foray into the world of children’s fiction.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I have two books of short stories due to be published on the same date. They are called Lucy’s Web, and Steve’s Web Operation: Stay Safe Online. both books were inspired by true stories relayed to me by children and their carers about the issues young people can run into when using the Internet.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
As a busy Dad and Foster Carer I spend a lot of time waiting around in Dad’s Taxi, so I write while I’m waiting for my children to come out of their TaeKwonDo lessons, or Girl Guide groups or any of the other activities they happen to be doing. My car is a bit like my office!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read a LOT! My taste in books spans the full range of genres, from historical non-fiction, through to suspense/thrillers and everything in-between. As such it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact influence.
What are you working on now?
Without giving away anything from my new books, one of my characters has a friend called Mickey, a computer genius who’s currently getting himself into all sorts of bother. His story is already breaking out of the realm of the short story and into a novel!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m currently working on publicity for Lucy and Steve, and focussing on getting mentioned on as many book blogs as possible!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just tell your story! Write whatever comes naturally and worry about editing/redrafting later.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Make sure that your timelines, characters and geography are consistent throughout your story. You may not think it’s important, but your readers will notice and call you out on it if your character changes eye colour, or the newsagent is on the wrong street in the next story!
What are you reading now?
End of Watch by Stephen King. It’s the second sequel to Mr Mercedes, and it’s a riveting read.
What’s next for you as a writer?
As I mentioned earlier, Mickey’s story is turning into an epic, so a breakout from short stories into a novel seems to be on the cards!
What is your favorite book of all time?
It’s a tossup between Chronicles of Narnia and Lord of the Rings.
Author Websites and Profiles
Charles Conway Amazon Profile
Charles Conway’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Seren says
Mr Conway came to our school to talk about internet safety and he was BRILLIANT!!!!!!! can’t wait to read his new books
Charles Conway says
Thanks Seren, it would be good to see you all again. I hope you enjoy the books when you get your hands on a copy!