Hello! This week we welcome Leon Stevens to the Author of the Week spotlight. Leon has released two books, shall we see what he's been up to?
Hi Leon, welcome to your interview, it's taken a while to get here! Let's start with learning a little about you.
I’m a pretty private person. I enjoy learning (I have a couple of degrees). A lot of who I am comes out in my writing and my music. I thought at one point I would be a performer (Rockstar!!), then I got into classical guitar and folk music. Performing wasn’t my forte, so I switched to teaching. I enjoy being active: running, cycling, and yoga.
You sound like a very talented person Leon, what got you into writing? Who encouraged you the most to write?
The voice inside me. I needed a way to put all my thoughts down as a way to make sense of the world around me. It started with songs/song lyrics, then progressed to poetry (which isn’t much of a stretch). Finally, I had story ideas, so I thought that I should write those down before I forgot them. I guess I’m my biggest fan…
What’s the main thing you love and dislike about writing?
I do enjoy the fact that what I write entertains and amuses. I began to write for myself but realized that it could help others if I put it out there. Writing is very personal, so it was a difficult decision to publish. It can be frustrating when the ideas are there, but the perfect words are not.
I agree writing is very personal. What’s the main thing you love and dislike about writing?
I do enjoy the fact that what I write entertains and amuses. I began to write for myself but realized that it could help others if I put it out there. Writing is very personal, so it was a difficult decision to publish. It can be frustrating when the ideas are there, but the perfect words are not.
Who is the worst villain you’ve ever written, and why?
I haven’t written a villain yet. I don’t know if I could, either.
What is next on your list to write/publish?
I am currently writing a series of short sci-fi stories and some post-apocalyptic tales/poems for my book called The Knot at the End of the Rope.
Branching out! Who is your favourite author, and why?
Such a difficult question! If I had to pick one, it would have to be Kurt Vonnegut. He has the same odd sense of humour as I do, and I like his satirical views on human nature and events.
Are you as avid a reader as a writer?
I read more that I write. My writing comes in waves. I wish that I could just sit and type away for hours…
It's a common theme, most authors read a lot. What’s your favourite genre?
I have always returned to classic science fiction. I do enjoy some of the newer writers of Sci-fi, but the pioneers of the craft are my favourites.
I love sci-fi too, do you listen to music when you write?
I listen to music all the time, usually adult contemporary, folk, and classical. I can usually write my blogs with music. But poetry and stories need a quiet environment. I plan a lot of my writing when I am out for a run/walk or if I’m cycling.
It makes sense that you do! If you could interview any famous author who would it be and why?
I really enjoyed Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential and his television series. I think that he would have been an interesting person to sit and chat with. He would probably take you to some pretty cool places to eat!
Tell me a secret that none of your fans know!
Now If I tell you, you’re just going to blab it all over…
Leon, you know our minds just went on a rampage! In that case, tell me what your main character would say about you!
This question reminds me of Vonnegut’s “Kilgore Trout” character, who finds out that he is just a character in a story. Mine would say that I have an odd sense of humour.
Finally, any words of advice?
Write from your heart and don’t forget to edit…
Thank you, Leon, for talking with me today, it was such a pleasure! Leon is offering a free sample book as part of the interview! To take part in this kind and generous offer, please contact Leon at:
Author Website: www.linesbyleon.com
Twitter: @linesbyleon
Instagram: @theminiscules
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/leon_stevens
Disclaimer. The opinions and views expressed in the article are the interviewees and may differ from the interviewer/general public. The works and images published here may be subject to the Authors copyright, please do not copy the images or claim them as your own.
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