Homepage for Shane Maddon

About the Author. Shane Maddon

Shane Maddon grew up in the beautiful state of Washington with his family. He moved to Texas as a senior in high school and graduated there at the top of his class. He quickly became interested in art, where he made his own website and began selling his pictures. He had always enjoyed writing, and when he came up with the idea of the story in TEXAN HEAT, he wrote it down, and turned it in to the successful book that was published in 2008. Since then he has written several novels, and is in the process of writing a book series entitled The Destiny Series. The first book of that series. "Prelude to Destiny" is now available for purchase.

Currently, Shane lives with his fiancé Craig, where they enjoy trips to Seattle to go shopping, and visit the zoo and aquarium. They both enjoy healthy living, and try to take several hiking/camping trips a year to the many national forests that Washington has to offer.

When it comes to painting, Shane is entirely self taught. Having a natural talent for art early on, he utlized his skills on paper and then eventually canvas. Currently his paintings are popular around his home town, hanging in office buildings, restaraunts, the bookstore he is a manager at and also a very loyal fan base.

His paintings are for sale through his website and his bookstore.

Shane Maddon

Interview with the Author

1. When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?

I have always enjoyed writing, but I remember wanting to become an author, after checking out a really boring book from the library one day. I thought to myself, I wish someone would publish some neat books that I would like, and suddenly the idea of writing my own books blossomed. I had never looked in to it before, but the more I thought of it, the more I wanted it.

2. How long did it take you to complete your first book?

I started my first book, January 2008, and it was completed around March. I spent a lot of time editing, and reading it aloud, making sure it sounded just right. I had a good friend named Matty, who would read the chapters I sent him, and let me know what he thought. I think together, we made a pretty good team, and the book was completed in no time.

3. How did it feel to dot the last sentence of your book?

It was sigh of relief, but it didn't last long, as I suddenly became really nervous. I had no idea what the first step of publication was, and wasn't even sure if it was good enough to in the first place. I began to research online, different publishing methods, and was thrown in to a whole new world! As nervous as I was, it was really thrilling.

4. What was your reaction when you found out your book was going to be published?

I re-read the email several times, letting it sink in, because I didn't believe it was actually true. After that, I made sure to call all of my friends and family, sharing the exciting news. I pulled out the printed manuscript, and began editing all over again...just to make sure it was good enough to send in. I have found that you cannot edit something enough, as you will almost always find something to make better.

5. How has your publishing experience been?

Wow, it has been a very exciting adventure, and one that I have had the time of my life. It was very intimidating at first, but as soon as the process had began, it was over, and I was signing books at Borders. Publishing was the easiest part, but I found that advertising and marketing was the really important part of it all. It was a proud day for myself though, the day I got my first copy. I was able to hold it in my hand, and flip through it, and it was suddenly very real to me.

6. In your opinion what makes a book great?

Original characters, an exciting plot and a very smooth writing style, that doesn't confuse the reader. I have read many fantasy books, which involves an elf, or hobbit on an adventure to save the world from an unseen danger, and with each one, I want to write the author, and ask them what they were thinking. I became an author because I have ideas in my head, that I thought would make a great, unique novel. If I wanted to write about something that has already been covered a dozen times, I would have become a reporter. :P

7. What do you think is the most important tool in marketing your book?

A persistent attitude. I think that it is imperative that you never give up, and constantly look for exciting new ways to give yourself, and your novel exposure. Whether it is a public book signing, or an interview, I think that a persistent attitude is needed to be successful.

8. What tips would you give to new authors?

Take a deep breath and slow things down a bit. I know the prospect of publishing a book is exciting, and you want to jump forward and get to it already, but taking more time to see things clearly, and making sure that you are doing everything with 100% accuracy will save you time and embarrassment in the future. Also, it is never to early to begin promoting. Get yourself a domain (.com ) and buy some professional business cards. It never hurts to be flashy!

9. Is your book available for purchase yet?

It has already gone to print, but the official release date has not yet been released to me. I am hoping for May 2009. It is however, available online. My website has all of the details.

10. How can people learn more about you and your book?

The official website for myself and my books are Www.Smaddon.com, and I frequently update with important information. I encourage people to write me if they have any questions, and I love hearing from my fans.