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Author J. Carson Black is the guest in Session #11 of The Author Biz.
J. Carson Black
J. Carson Black is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling thriller author. Her latest book, HARD RETURN, is the second to feature Cyril Landry, and it’s being released September 9th.
Ms. Black takes an interesting approach to the business of being an author. She claims she doesn’t pay attention to the business details, but as you’ll hear in this interview, she pays a great deal of attention to her career.
Her partner in her writing business is her partner in life, longtime husband Glenn, and he watches over the business details so she can focus on her passion for writing.
In addition to her husband she’s assembled a team that includes a talented agent, gifted cover designers and skilled editors. J. Carson Black will admit to paying attention to what’s going on in the publishing business, and uses that insight to delegate tasks and direct her team.
In this interview, we’ll talk about HARD RETURN, the different series she’s currently writing, her life as a hybrid author, and how her team allows her to focus on what she does best. I’ve noted some interview highlights below for people looking for information on specific points. (The number in parentheses is the time in the interview where the discussion begins.)
An overview of HARD RETURN, J. Carson Black’s latest thriller. (4:30)
What are the benefits to having an agent, even if you are publishing your work as an indie author? (19:05)
Surrounding yourself with the right people, so you can focus on doing what you love. (22:30)
The value of diversification and the many ways authors can be their own “shop keeper.” (24:00)
Being a part of “The Twelve,” which was one of the most successful box sets of all time. (26:15)
The importance of having books available through multiple digital platforms. (27:10)
What’s the best thing she sees about having her work published by Thomas & Mercer, the Amazon mystery and thriller imprint? (32:40)
What is the timing of royalty payments from Thomas & Mercer? (39:45)
Are there any drawbacks to having your books published through Thomas & Mercer? (43:00)
How J. Carson Black continues to educate herself on the craft of writing, and how you can do the same thing. (46:20)
Interview Links
J. Carson Black’s website www.jcarsonblack.com
J. Carson Black’s Amazon Author Page
J. Carson Black’s Facebook Page
Grab a free Cyril Landry short story, THE BLUELIGHT SPECIAL, by subscribing up to JCB’s newsletter.
Thomas & Mercer website
Kealan Patrick Burke website
Christine DeMaio-Rice website
Clues Unlimited Bookstore website
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Before getting into the business of writing I spent twenty-five years in the technology business as a financial guy, and then as a serial entrepreneur. I know what it takes to start and run a successful business.