An Interview with Frank Dravis: Author of The Citadel

An author with a flair for era-blending science fiction, Frank lives along the Mississippi River in Wisconsin, where he writes the Dianis, A World In Turmoil chronicles. He was born in Detroit, Michigan, and spent six years in the US Navy. His love of the sea is reflected in chronicles, a love he has shared with his wife and two daughters.

He has two degrees, a Bachelor of Computer Science and a Master of Business Administration. His careers include writer, software engineer, marketing executive, and chief information officer. Over twenty years his writing has tread many paths, from blogging, industry white papers, marketing copy, trade journal articles, and, his passion, science fiction.

Tell us about your book.

The Citadel, according to many reviewers, defies the classic sci-fi categorization. Instead, they often steer it to sci-fi fantasy. I believe they say that because of the paranormal elements. The plotlines of The Citadel certainly qualify it as commercial fiction, while the strong emotional and goal-driven characters propel the novel into the literary space. Combined, they equal gripping upmarket science fiction.

Why did you want to write a book?

I am driven to create, to build. That, coupled with an avid imagination and a desire to tell a good story, compels me to write. I love writing the Dianis novels. Few things give me more pleasure.

Why did you choose to self-publish?

No one will put as much care and feeding into marketing and selling a novel as a committed author.

What tools or companies did you use, and what experience did you have?

The answer list to both questions is long, and gets longer with each new release, especially on the experience side.

Would you self-publish again?

Yes.

What do you think are the main pitfalls for indie writers?

Marketing first, then distribution second.

What tips can you give other authors looking to self-publish?

Everyone will try to sell you some tool, class, or advice to help you write and sell your books. Before you punch in your credit card number, be very certain that the next new shiny writing “must have” is really a must have. There is a whole industry targeting indie authors. Beware.

What was your steepest learning curve during the publishing process?

How to gain market traction.

As a writer, what is your schedule? How do you get the job done?

Be obsessive. First thing in the morning, have your cup of coffee and then get to work. It may not be writing, but all those other things the come with the writer’s life.

How do you deal with writer’s block?

I don’t have it. Never did. My problem is throwing out ideas, not having them.

Tell us about the genre you wrote in, and why you chose to write this sort of book.

Science fiction, because you can envision, looking at the past, how the future may unfold. Being technologically savvy (aware) adds the spice and nuance of writing about the future. However, all good stories are about people. Science fiction frames the human subject in a technically possible future setting.

Why did you write about this particular subject?

You never know where your muse will wander, or when a solar flare will trigger your synapses.

Who are your biggest writing inspirations and why?

All the famous writers that are dead today. Their words are like immortal ghosts that linger on pages just waiting to be read, and when you find them, they speak from the grave, unarguable, blessed by the author’s dying devotion. Witness the Gettysburg Address.

How do your friends and family get involved with your writing? What do they think of your book?

Beta readers! OMG. The subtle pressure from friends and family for the next book is not so subtle to the writer. Their fandom is so rewarding.

What are your plans now your book is published?

Finish The Loch Norim, the next in the chronicles

What did you learn on your journey as an author?

That writing is very entrepreneurial. You are the sole proprietor.