About Eric J. Gates:
Eric J. Gates has had a curious life filled with the stuff of thriller novels. Writing Operating Systems for Supercomputers, cracking cryptographic codes under extreme pressure using only paper and pen and teaching cyberwarfare to spies are just a few of the moments he’s willing to recall. He is an ex-International Consultant who has travelled extensively worldwide, speaks several languages, and has had articles and papers published in technical magazines in six different countries, as well as radio and TV spots. His specialty, Information Technology Security, has brought him into contact with the Military and Intelligence communities on numerous occasions.
He is also an expert martial artist, holding 14 black belt degrees in distinct disciplines. He has taught his skills to Police and Military personnel, as well as to the public.
He now writes thriller novels, drawing on his experiences with the confidential and secret worlds that surround us.
What inspires you to write?
Have written all my life – so many tales to tell, experiences to share.
Tell us about your writing process.
I have evolved a ‘Plantser’ methodology for writing my suspense thrillers; it’s neither a plotter approach nor writing by the seat of my pants. I always have the ending clear before starting anything else, then I’ll work on the beginning. Finally the road to connect the two will be planned in small steps, always with a view to entertaining the reader with an original, fast-paced tale.
For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
I both listen and talk to them; how else can they come alive on the page and tell me (and the reader) their secrets?
What advice would you give other writers?
Perserverance and patience. Ask other writer working in your genre; many are willing to share their experience and help you realise your dream.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
The publishing paradigm is a moving target at the moment, with petty battles as resistence to progress is fought. I would advise any new writer to examine all the options and choose the one they feel most comfortable with. Never sign a contract unless you undestand every word in plain English and exactly what this means for YOUR novels.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
If Guttenberg had not invented the printing press, a select few would still be dictating what everyone reads. Back then it was the Church and the Government that halted social progress for the masses… through fear! Now the advent of digital technology allows anyone, anywhere to read anything whenever they wish – you can’t get more freedom than that!
What do you use?: Professional Editor, Professional Cover Designer, Beta Readers
What genres do you write?: Suspense Thrillers (with a touch of Strange)
What formats are your books in?: Both eBook and Print
Website(s)
Eric J. Gates Home Page Link
Link To Eric J. Gates Page On Amazon
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