Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live in Egypt. I’ve been travelling the world for the past seven years, mostly the Mediterranean region. I started my book series to describe a character I was playing in a RPG with my friends, but the stories took a new life of their own. I have two books published, working on the third.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My current work in progress is called “Blowing Smoke,” and it’s inspired by the wild west and Colorado Mining history.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure what the usual writing habits are. I guess I try to visit the locations where my books are set, to get a realistic image of the setting. My previous book was set in rural France, and I took a trip to Strasbourg to get a feel for the area.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Michael Crichton, for his impeccable research. Lemony Snicket, for his wit and clever twists. Lee Child, for his relateable protagonist and plot.
What are you working on now?
A western. I mean, all of my books fit the loose “western” trope – that is, a stranger arrives in town and solves everyone’s problems. But this book actually takes place in western Colorado in the 19th century, and my protagonist carries a revolver.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m in several writing communities, like Prose and Wattpad. I also participate heavily in Reddit forums for writers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
READ. You should be reading about three times as much as you should be writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I don’t know if it’s the best I’ve ever heard, but Pixar’s Rules for Storytelling are pretty great.
What are you reading now?
Books written by my friends and other new authors. Check out Huw Steer and Eddie Patin on Amazon.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m thinking about writing a spy novel with a Broadway actor friend of mine.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Ender’s Game, probably. Most empathetic character I’ve ever read.
Author Websites and Profiles
E.L. Haines Website
E.L. Haines Amazon Profile
E.L. Haines’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile