The 7Q Interview: Justin M. Woodward
AUTHOR BIO
Justin M. Woodward is the author of many works of dark fiction, including his most acclaimed novel, TAMER ANIMALS, which received a 5 star review in SCREAM Magazine. He lives in Alabama with his wife and two small boys.
QUESTIONS
#1. Looking back, what’s one fiction book that you feel truly made an impact on your writing? Do you still gravitate towards that author?
#1. I guess it all goes back to Fight Club—only in the sense that it was my introduction to Chuck Palahniuk and his style of unapologetic writing. There was something badass about the way he wrote what he wanted without caring what anyone thought which really spoke to me as a teen. Although it would be much later before I wrote my first novel, (26). I don’t read Chuck like I used to, but then again, he doesn’t write like he used to, either.
#2. How do you feel about the use of sub-genres in the industry? How do you describe your work overall?
#2. I don’t worry too much about sub-genres. When I write a book, I don’t sit down and think, ‘okay, this is going to be extreme horror, or bizarre, etc.’ I just write the story that comes to mind, and more often than not, it’s other people who tell me what genre it falls into. For my writing, I’ve come to simply call it dark fiction, though I’m currently dabbling in something special that doesn’t fall under that umbrella.
#3. What about your writing process do you think is unique or quirky? What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received?
#3. I’ve never known writing life without having small kids, so I have to write when I can. My first novel, THE VARIANT, was written mostly on my iphone from the back of an armored truck (my day job at the time). Currently, I do a lot of dictation while driving. My newest novella, ROTTEN LITTLE THINGS, was written almost entirely by voice.
The worst advice I ever received was to write what’s selling. Writing to market might work for some, but at the end of the day I have to be proud of what I’m doing. I’m all for making what I do a business, but only if it’s fun.
#4. How does music and media factor into your writing? Do you feel it plays as much an inspirational role as literature?
#4. For me, music plays an even bigger role in my writing inspiration than literature does. Sometimes I’ll be listening to an album and be struck with an idea for a story, sometimes the title of an album or song puts one in my head. I’ve always been heavily into music, so it makes sense.
#5. As an author, how much do you engage in social media? Do you feel it is more for your own entertainment, or for marketing and networking?
#5. I make it a point to talk to my readers as a friend, because without them it wouldn’t matter. What I DON’T do is spam groups with my books—I may use social media to announce news and new titles, but I don’t hammer people with them. Luckily, I’m fortunate enough to have a lot of people reading and sharing my work now, which is awesome. As for networking, I can’t say enough for the wonders of social media. I’m on a first name basis with tons of talented people who I’m glad to know!
#6. Where do you see the future of horror fiction heading? In turn, what changes would you love to see, either socially or technologically?
#6. I think horror is gradually heading in a more socially acceptable direction. Especially after recent films from the works of some of our peers, (Bird Box, The Silence, The Ritual).
#7. What can you tell us about any forthcoming projects? What titles would you like to promote now?
#7. I can’t say too much other than the fact that I flew across the country to visit another author/business partner a few months back, we’ve been VERY busy, and that’s going to be a huge part of the upcoming future of my writing. Announcements will be made as soon as possible!
My most recent release, ROTTEN LITTLE THINGS is the second in my TAMER ANIMALS series. Where TA was coming of age horror, RLT is more of a psychological horror novella (and I’d argue way scarier.) You can get both together for 5 bucks!
AUTHOR PIC
