Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live with my family in a suburb of Washington, DC and I’ve been writing since 2013. My 10th novel will be coming out October 2020. It is a Karina Cardinal mystery called Pharaoh’s Forgery. It’s another action-packed mystery adventure with Karina, her pal Rodrigo, and the Silverthorne gang all collecting in sunny Cancun, Mexico. My love of mystery capers such as The Thomas Crowne Affair and the Ocean’s movies inspired the Karina Cardinal series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My most recent novel is Diamonds & Deception, a Karina Cardinal mystery, book 3. Karina and Jillian dig into a diamond theft, but they unearth trouble—the kind that could make their next designer label a toe tag. The diamond theft takes place at a well-known shopping mall outside of DC called Tyson’s Corner and delves into organized crime, gangs, and a gambling ring.
It was inspired by a visit to the FBI museum in DC, in particular the section on organized crime and human trafficking.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. When I’m not writing, I’m thinking about writing. Work never goes away.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Authors who have influenced me include: Elizabeth Peters, Janet Evanovich, Mary Stewart, Barbara Michaels, Dan Brown, and Clive Cussler.
What are you working on now?
I’ve just finished the fourth Karina Cardinal novel, Pharaoh’s Forgery, which will be coming out in October 2020. Meanwhile, I’m working on a Karina Cardinal short story which I hoped to get published in a mystery magazine or an anthology.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I can’t say there is a “best” method. I use a number of avenues to get the word out. Ads on social media, newsletter promotions, and media articles are just a few ways I use to promote my novels.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
1) This isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. It’s going to take a while to develop an audience, and maybe even your own voice. Pace yourself.
2) Be ready to handle rejection because you’ll get it from agents, editors and readers. Remember, your book will not be for everyone. 1 and 2 star reviews may sting, but also provide legitimacy. Go look at your favorite authors, even NY Times bestsellers will have 1 and 2 stars in there.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Run your own race. Don’t compare yourself to other authors who, you think, may be doing better. Your career is not in competition with them. There will always be lesser and greater authors than yourself, if you continually compare yourself to them, you may become vain or bitter.
What are you reading now?
Nothing at the moment. I tend to stay away from books while I’m in the midst of writing a story. I don’t wish to be influenced by another’s writing style or voice. I need to stay focused on my characters and plot line. Once I’m finished, I have a Is Murder Past Due, by Miranda James to read for my book club.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I may be returning to historical fiction with Lily St. James who is an OSS spy during WWII.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Whoa! Too … many … books … overload … overload.
Seriously, I can’t answer this question. There are far too many dog eared books in my collection to pick a favorite. But, I will say, JK Rowling is brilliant. I love the Harry Potter series.
Author Websites and Profiles
Ellen Butler Website
Ellen Butler Amazon Profile
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