Ask the Author: Richard L. Mabry

“Sean, thanks for your question. I practiced otolaryngology (with an emphasis on rhinology and allergy).
You can find out more about me at my website: http://rmabry.com.
” Richard L. Mabry

Answered Questions (7)

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SIr, I have read many books, my daughter gave me your book Cabaret of Flowers for Christmas. Awesome, does not cut the mustard never have I read so much beautiful writing. I have signed it covered it in a hand made cover linen covered in bees a fitting tribute. Gave it to my Grandson Jacob when he became 1 year of age. If I want it signed by you as a gift for Jacob how can I do this?. Thank you for this. Michael
Richard L. Mabry Sorry, Michael. I didn't write that book.
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I'm an aspiring writer, but I'm dealing with two things: I get discouraged every single day because 96% of manuscripts are rejected, and I haven't had an idea for years, literally. There's too many people wanting to be writers, and knowing there's so much competition just kills me a little every day. When I get motivated, immediatly something appears about the industry that kills it. Any tips on how to deal with this?
Richard L. Mabry Cintia, this problem affects most writers. I've heard the figure bandied about that 2000 books are published every year--no wonder writers find it hard to break into the business. That may be why indie-publishing is becoming so popular. If you're truly meant to be a writer, just keep it up every day--persistence sometimes beats talent. The industry seems determined to kill itself, but then again, I don't have an answer either. But hang in there.
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Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?
Richard L. Mabry I've answered this on several blogs. The idea for Fatal Trauma came to me when a colleague and I were discussing a doctor I helped train who faced down a gunman in the emergency room. From there, I let me imagination take over, using the question Alton Gansky taught me: What if?
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What are you currently working on?
Richard L. Mabry The way my contracts run, I've got two books already written, edited, and ready for publication (Sept '15 and spring '16). I plan to self-publish a Christmas novella (I hope), and I'm working on the next book after that.
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What’s your advice for aspiring writers?
Richard L. Mabry It sounds so easy. "You ought to write a book." The way publishing is changing, I'm not certain I'd even encourage an aspiring writer to continue. But if you're determined, then read books on the craft, attend every conference you can afford, read good and bad examples of what you want to write, then write--have it read and critiqued by someone who knows what they're talking about. Then write some more. Lather, rinse, and repeat. It's a tough profession, but sometimes your writing only reaches one person...you. And sometimes, that's enough.
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What’s the best thing about being a writer?
Richard L. Mabry Getting to be around some of the other writers I've been privileged to meet.
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How do you deal with writer’s block?
Richard L. Mabry If I can't figure out where a book is going, I do what Stephen King suggests--I put the problem aside for a day or so and let "the boys in the basement" give me the answer. So far, it has worked.
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Richard L. Mabry
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