Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m 55 years old and living with my wife in the bay area. I spent twenty years in the Us Navy and some time as a defense contractor before encountering a life altering layoff. I started writing just to see if I could complete a novel and now have written seven books. I love putting the plot down and filling out the skeleton with real life people and characters I have met.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called Quinru, California and is about an invasion of California by the Chinese. It started as a simple conversation with a friend who asked, “No country could invade us, right?” Well, maybe if the Chinese were desperate enough? What would that look like? The novel follows.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I try to write every single day for at least two hours. I usually have the discipline to do this every day, but I do have life intrude on occasion. I do find I can write just about any where. My process has been long hand and then onto the computer. That first draft is usually rough and the tying serves as the major edit.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read a little novel in the sixth grade from Frank Herbert called Dune. It blew my mind. The complexity the science, the world building! It was fantastic and still serves as an inspiration whenever I re read it.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on two projects. A follow up to my novel Thief in law, tentatively titled Thief in Need. My gang of high end thieves gets back together for a contract job! I’m also writing a closed set mystery with another author friend- John Lakenhurst. We are each taking a character and writing the mystery from their POV and letting the reader solve the killing.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
That has been very difficult. I’m not sure there is a best method. Several sites are very selective and won’t feature a book without reviews or paying a ton of money. The free or nearly free sites have the open slots but a much more limited reach and much more crowded emails. Vinny has been pretty good for me.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Go back and edit it again. Yes, it does need it!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Stop telling me the story and write it down!” My wife.
What are you reading now?
Red Rising and York, both are young adult novels and decent.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m just going to continue trying until someone tells me to stop.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Dune
Author Websites and Profiles
Michael Dirubio Website
Michael Dirubio Amazon Profil
Michael Dirubio’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account