Interview with Fantasy Author Bruce Skye

A former technical writer, detail is important to Bruce Skye. His research for the Deathsong Chronicles included medieval armor and fortresses, as well as Celtic names and magic. "If you create a world, it must be consistent. And that's what I strive for Grayrider's world to be. I've built a database of material for each of the Deathsong Chronicles. Those databases aid me in keeping the world the same from book to book. "When I wrote Grayrider, I followed the advice of Stephen King. I did not write the book following any sort of outline. I have no more idea than my readers do when I write a novel what will happen in the midst of the story. It makes it more exciting for both the readers and myself." You can visit his website at www.bruceskye.com.

Welcome to Pump Up Your Online Book Promotion, Bruce. Can we begin by having you tell us what Grayrider is about?

Grayrider is a fantasy.

Did you choose it or did it choose you?

The story which is inherently of the fantasy genre chose me.

In regards to promotion, what have you been doing to promote your book online?

Press releases; my own website (including my blog on fantasy writing) http://www.bruceskye.com; and a blog supposedly written by the hero of Grayrider http://bruces1225.blogspot.com/.

Of all the promotional items (bookmarks, press kits, etc…) you have used to promote your book, which one was used most effectively?

Probably my website, which continues to get more and more visitors every month.

Do you feel that the Internet has opened doors for authors who never dreamed they’d ever see a publishing contract and how has it influenced you in regards to your own publishing journey?

I think the Internet has indeed opened up publishing to far more authors. I found my agent through the Net and at her suggestion, applied online to my publisher.

If you were in the middle of Manhattan (or any busy thoroughfare) and you wanted to call attention to your book, what would you do and what would you say?

Good question! All I can think of is something not very original. Hold up a copy of my book and yell “Hey! Want a great book to read?”

If you could trade places with any author just for a day, who would it be and why?

Ted Bell. He is a best-selling suspense author. I’ve always wanted to succeed in writing suspense.

Lastly, how do you determine your book’s success?

Keep at it and always be open to using new ways of marketing your book.

Thank you for coming, Bruce! Can you tell us where everyone can pick up a copy of Grayrider?

Any bookstore can order it for you. It’s also available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble’s website and Powell’s Books website.