Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a native Texan and currently live here with my husband, daughter, two cats and a dog. I have one book published now, but have about 20 years of projects piled up and collecting dust that I have finally mustered the courage to edit and put out in the world.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest (and first) book is a dark fantasy titled Don’t Fear the Reaper. While the name was indeed inspired by the Blue Oyster Cult song, the theme of it was inspired by dealing with the death of my maternal grandfather of which I was very close to.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I actually do not draft my books in chronological order. I make a general outline of my story and write whatever scenes I’m most inspired by at the moment, then piece them all together at the end.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Neil Gaiman, C.S. Lewis, and Ernest Hemingway have probably inspired me the most stylistically. As for general storytelling and genres, I have been inspired by Laura Thalassa and writers of manga such as Sui Ishida, Hajime Isayama, and Tite Kubo (just to name a few).
What are you working on now?
Currently I am wrapping up a novella in the Don’t Fear Death series titled Dorianne Grey, which is a dark fantasy romance with steampunk elements.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I do a lot of promotion on Instagram (@j.c.murphey) and TikTok (@j_c_murphey) which is where I am most active and interactive with readers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I would say work hard to build your “brand” as an author in social media and newsletter building. I can only speak as an indie author, but a lot of my sales are driven by direct contact with readers on social media.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve heard is to not make writing my day job. While it’s a tough pill to swallow, there is a lot of stress that gets put on an author when writing becomes their only source of income.
What are you reading now?
Currently I’m re-reading the Monstrous series by Lily Mayne (love her)!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have my first conference coming up in Waco, Texas this fall I’m super excited about, and some other podcasts I’ve been invited to speak on. Really I’m just hoping to make some waves as an indie author.
What is your favorite book of all time?
This is such a cruel question to ask an author! I would say The Hobbit, and mainly because it took me so long to read at seven years old. I was so proud of myself for finishing that huge book!
Author Websites and Profiles
J.C. Murphey Website
J.C. Murphey Amazon Profile