Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve always been someone who wanted to do more, be creative and find interesting ways to explore things, even as a kid. I started writing for several reasons but I remember the bug hit me hard in middle school. I’d read books like The Babysitters Club or Sweet Valley High and imagine what they would be like with me and my friends in them, and then started writing similar stories. I’d pass them around to my friends, who’d pass it to theirs, so I got in a lot of “Stay after class” situations because of it lol.
I’ve written one novel so far.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of the book is “Crashing Into Me’, and it was inspired by my need to read about more complex characters where they both have flaws and issues, and see how it played out. I didn’t want one person to be “perfect” and prompt an “I have to save him/her scenario”.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I try to watch the story first. I write screenplays too and I have the same process. I can see it first, then I outline about six different ideas, and borrow from all of them until I narrow it down in stages. It can be quite consuming. I also have very detailed character maps for all characters. I can tell you their favorite foods, and colors etc because I want them to fly off the pages and be very well rounded.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
No one has really influenced my writing, and I say that to say, I don’t read something and say I want to write like that. That’s their individual voice and I have my own. I do have some favorites though and they are Laurel K Hamilton and Audrey Niffenegger
What are you working on now?
I’m working on Book 2 of the series as well as a Young Adult Fantasy Romance set to release later this year.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
So far Goodreads, and Twitter, as well as my own website, has been the only form of promotion I’ve used on the web.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t talk yourself out of it. No matter how scary it is, if you feel in your heart of hearts that you did your best, and did the manuscript it’s due diligence, do it. If you’ve made sure you have with proper editors and grammar, typo and spelling on point, take a leap of faith on yourself, and hit publish, or submit to that publisher. You never know if you don’t try.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Just Do It”- Nike
What are you reading now?
Reading has been a bit of a struggle, as I’m working on finishing my own projects at the moment, but my “To Be Read” list is massive lol
What’s next for you as a writer?
To keep writing, and to keep getting better. I have film projects I’m working on as well, so my schedule is booked.
What is your favorite book of all time?
The Bible, seriously.
Author Websites and Profiles
R.L Jackson Website
R.L Jackson Amazon Profile
R.L Jackson’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account