Author Q&A with David Lastinger

Author Q&A with David Lastinger 

1. Tell us about your writing/published books.

The first one,” How to do things your phone won’t”, was a passion project that I wanted to get done before 50. I saw a lot of things that seemed like they needed attention and didn’t see a book on it yet.

The second book, “ The Blow Off Letter and Other Fabulous Tales”, is a compilation of short stories. Some are real, some are based on real events, and some are completely fiction.

2. Where is your favourite place to write?

My favorite place to write is actually the kitchen table at 4 am with a good cup of coffee. The house is quiet and I have the whole place to myself.

3. Have you always wanted to write?

English was my favorite class in high school. I had a crazy teacher who encouraged us to just do it.  I wrote short stories in college as a stress reliever, and they are now making their way into my books.

4. How do you choose your books title(s)?

Currently, has been what the book was about or the title of a favorite short story inside. With the novel WIP, I have no idea what that one will be.  In due time, it will present itself I believe.

5. How do you handle criticism?

Constructive criticism from a peer or respected expert is taken seriously and I try to put that lesson to work by fixing the story or making the next one better. If it’s just a negative nelly, I instantly become deaf.

6. Tell me about your current work.

My current project is my first novel. The inspiration came from my Godmother who is an old southern storyteller. She said she wanted to see an outline before she is dead. The story so far is about how a regular guy bounces back from getting dropped at the altar.

7. How many books do I own?

Books that I bought on purpose because I liked them or I was trying to support another indie writer, probably around 30.

Short book or long books

I like short books.  It seems I don’t have the time to just sit down and pour into the long ones.

Romance or Fantasy 

Romance.

            Bright book covers or muted book covers

Bright ones are much better for me.  I can see them better and its easier for them to catch my eye.

Ebooks, paperbacks, or Audiobooks?

I prefer paperbacks over the others. There is nothing like the feel of paper and the smell of ink to add to a story.

Character driven or Plot driven?

Since my stories are generally short, they are most always plot driven.

Finally, what’s the best piece of advice someone has given you about writing, marketing, or just generally about life?

The best advice I have received as a writer was to just get it down on paper and you and your editor can discuss it later. You can’t edit a blank page.