Time We Discuss: Become a Self Published Sci-Fi Author

Watch/Listen to this Episode Become a Self Published Sci-Fi Author

ALIENS!; Host of Time We Discuss is looking stressed. To the side is a picture of guest Aaron Ryan.

This segment of Time We Discuss, features science-fiction author Aaron Ryan. He shares insights about his journey, work habits, and the challenges of balancing family life with a writing career. Ryan discusses his extensive background, including various jobs before settling into writing, and emphasizes the discipline required to work from home. He describes the importance of setting a strict schedule, similar to a traditional office job, to manage his time effectively.

Ryan mentions his multiple roles, including voiceover artist and author, and the necessity of being constantly available to respond to opportunities. He compares his role to that of a doctor on call, highlighting the unpredictable nature of freelance work. Despite the challenges, Ryan values the flexibility of working from home, which allows him to spend time with his family.

The conversation touches on the difficulties of maintaining focus when working from home, especially with children present. Ryan shares how he manages interruptions from his kids while working, demonstrating his commitment to both his family and his work. He has created a dedicated workspace within his home to help maintain this balance.

Ryan draws inspiration for his writing from movies, particularly visual storytelling, which influences his approach to creating vivid and engaging narratives. He mentions his favorite movies, such as Aliens and Lord of the Rings, which have significantly influenced his sci-fi writing. He explains how these visual experiences inspire his creativity and shape his fictional worlds.

His current project is a sci-fi alien invasion quadrilogy called Dissonance inspired by his love for the movie Aliens. Ryan elaborates on the creative process behind the quadrilogy, including the development of terrifying creatures called Gorgons, inspired by mythological figures like Medusa. He describes how his personal experiences and family life influence the characters and storylines in his books.

Promotion is another key topic in the interview. Ryan explains his strategies for marketing his books, which include online promotions, social media engagement, and participating in various events such as trade shows and festivals. He prefers these interactive settings over traditional book fairs, as they allow for more personal connections with potential readers.

The target audience for Ryan's recent works is young adults, but he notes that his books are suitable for readers aged 13 and up. The stories contain some intense scenes, reflecting the dramatic and often terrifying nature of alien invasions.

In this conversation with Aaron Ryan, we get a glimpse into the life of a prolific author that balances creative work with family responsibilities. His disciplined approach to work, combined with a deep passion for storytelling inspired by visual media, underscores his success in the competitive world of writing. Ryan's dedication to his craft and his innovative marketing strategies further highlight his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to reaching a broad audience.

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