1. First, introduce yourself a bit. What is your name (or pen name) and where are you from?
My name is Anthony Taylor, and I’m from Canton, OH aka the Hall of Fame City.
2. Next, tell us a bit about your most recent work. Is this your first published book? What is it about and what genre would you classify it as?
My most recent work is entitled She Wants To Play Again, which is the sequel to my first novel, She Wants To Play. It’s a slasher horror with an LGBT lead that surrounds the protagonist, Theo Rose.
3. Tell us a bit about your main character; what are they like, how did they come about, and what are some of their strengths and weaknesses?
Theo Rose is an average man that’s struggling with himself as well as carrying a horrible secret for over a decade. My idea behind this character was based upon myself and my struggles with myself throughout the years. More in the sequel, Theo battles himself to accept the inevitable between him and his partner while coping with the loss of his friends. Despite dealing with problems internally, he still gives a lot of himself to protect those he loves.
4. What was your hardest scene to write in this (or any) book?
The hardest scene to write was Theo’s final goodbye to a character he loved unconditionally. I place myself in scenes to get into the mind of characters and this scene broke my heart.
5. Did you go the traditional route when publishing your book or did you choose to self-publish?
I attempted the traditional route for publishing, but like most authors, I was denied. I decided upon going the independent route, yet I still try.
6. What would you say is the most difficult part of your writing journey and what advice would you give to other writers?
The most difficult part of the writing journey for me is getting those thoughts onto paper. I have a lot of ideas that I want to share with the world. My advice to authors is to always write with your heart. Anyone can write words onto paper or type them, but it’s the heart that allows you to make others feel.
7. Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book?
I would like most of my books to stand on their own; however, my current works will be as a trilogy.
8. What are some of your favourite authors and books and what inspired you to become a writer in the first place?
My mother has always been an avid reader and her favorite author is Stephen King. I began reading his work at a younger age and wanted to be like him. I do enjoy Dean Koontz as well as Agatha Christie.
9. What would you say has been the best way to market your books?
Surprisingly, TikTok has been beneficial for me. There are a lot of readers on that platform (authors, too) that are searching for their next book. I’ve also made some author friends from TikTok. Hey, Harriet!
10. Are there any tropes, clichés, or writing styles that you dislike and, if so, what are they and why?
There aren’t many tropes/clichés that I avoid when reading a book (or writing). I do dislike the “woman can’t do anything until a man arrives in her life” trope.
11. Do you read reviews of your book and, if so, how do you handle negative feedback?
I would be lying if I said I didn’t! When it comes to negative reviews, I listen to what the reviewer states they didn’t like and try fixing it the next time around, but I also tell myself that not everyone is going to enjoy your book. Well-known authors have one-star reviews, too. Just keep writing.
12. What are some of your quirks as a writer? Do you like to plot everything out or do you prefer to just “wing it” and see where the story takes you? Do you listen to music when writing and, if so, what do you listen to?
I’m an extremely chaotic writer and “wing it.” I admire those who plot out their books (and sometimes I do toward the end). Whenever I’m writing, I get myself some coffee (or wine at night) and begin the process with some classical music in the background. I have a Spotify playlist for the occasion.
13. What is the best advice you’ve ever had when it comes to writing and what advice would you give to new writers?
A teacher once told me, “Write what’s in your heart.” She knew I had a gift when I was in her eighth-grade class and it help inspire me to continue what I loved doing. My advice to new writers: “Take. Your. Time.” There isn’t a deadline nor do you have to rush, especially if you’re publishing independently. Also, always edit. If you think you’re done editing, you’re not.
14. What’s next for you? Are you currently working on any new books or stories?
After my second book was published, I decided to take a small break and think of new ideas for future work. I’m currently creating characters for a short story compendium.
15. Finally, feel free to plug your social media, website, and links to Amazon, GoodReads, and other relevant sites below, and detail any current offers available for your book/s:
If you’d like to be featured in an interview, please check out the interview submissions page to submit your answers.
Dr. K's Waiting Room 