Featured Author: Richard LaPlante

[Tawdra Kandle]

Tell us about your latest book.

Last Day is a paranormal thriller based upon my interest in the NDE, near death experience, and altered states of consciousness. It uses a traditional cops and robbers set-up to take off into another place entirely.

Where did the idea for the book come from?

The time I spent with members the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club in London, England. They were suspicious that I was an undercover cop. 

Who and what inspire you to write?

Thomas Harris with his book, Red Dragon. I loved his style and economy of words while creating some indelible characters. 

Each author has his or her own inspiring journey. How did you begin writing?

As a rock’n'roll performer.  My first book, a fantasy-fiction novel, Tegne, Warlord Of Zendow, began as an MTV video. The bank broke up, and I became a writer. 

What has been the most pleasant surprise about writing? How about an unexpected down side?

Seeing my first book in print. It was the utter sense of accomplishment. The downside was having to begin another, knowing the time and effort involved in the writing process.

Do you have any writing rituals?

Get out of bed. Set my digital timer. Write something. Anything. Don't quit till the bell.

Do you write your books in order?

No. I write what I want to, when I want to, according to what is happening in my life. 

What is on your writing playlist for this book?

 I’d rather my readers choose their own. And let me know.

Any favorite writing snacks?

Mate' and Argentinian tea, sipped from a gourd with a metal straw. Great buzz and still legal. 

What advice would you give writers who aspire to be published?

Write for yourself, not what you think will sell. The greatest ideas are original. The digital age, E-publishing, has opened doors and made traditional publishing take a real good look at themselves.

Are you working on anything new right now?

Yes. An Ear Movie, based on my memoir Hog Fever. Its a black comedy and features Terence Stamp playing my psychiatrist with original songs produced by Grammy winner Greg Penny. Think 21st Century radio play, something you can play in your car instead of an audio book.

Who is your favorite character in your current book?

Ray Sasso, president of the Sons Of Fire Motorcycle Club.

What is your favorite book of all time?

Breatheology by Stig Severinsen. It’s a book about breathing, written by a man who held his breath for twenty minutes. Essential for a writer, particularly when waiting for a publishing deal.

Tell us in one sentence why we should read your book.

You won't be able to put it down.

Stalk Richard here:

website - http://richardlaplantebooks.com
facebook - https://www.facebook.com/richard.laplante.1428
twitter - https://twitter.com/richlaplante