GREETINGS, BOOKWORMS! I’m Aisha Kandisha, Head Librarian at Kandisha Press. Join me in the dusty stacks of the library I will never leave again as I chat with some of my favorite Women in Horror. Today we feature author L.S. Murphy!
My name is L.S. Murphy. I’m a former YA author with two novels and collections of short stories. Why did I say former? Well, I’ve been dormant for a while and working on other things, but I miss writing poetry (good or bad) and sharing it. I miss writing short stories. I miss writing horror. I miss writing from my heart.
I’m also a freelance editor at Resilient Pen.
Follow me on Facebook where I post mostly memes that make me smile. https://www.facebook.com/L.S.MurphyAuthor
Follow Resilient Pen: https://www.facebook.com/resilientpen
What do you believe are your strengths in writing? And when you feel you need to improve on a particular writing skill, how do you go about it?
Dialogue is one of the strongest elements in my work. I’m always learning in some way. Whether it is through craft books, instructional videos, or simply reading the best-selling books in any genre, there is always the opportunity to learn. Sometimes it helps to have refresher courses in areas I feel confident in, too.
What are your thoughts on the book industry today, or more importantly, about the book community?
There are a million opportunities in the book industry these days, but that can be to the detriment of authors as well. With the number of free novels out there, it is harder than ever to earn a living as full-time author. The book community is amazing. It’s great to see authors supporting each other and same with the reviewers, readers, and fans.
Do you feel it is getting harder or easier to make it as an independent author these days?
Much harder. Independent authors are business owners who have to wear many hats. That can be overwhelming to even the most experienced author. Marketing trends change as quickly as we change our clothes. Platforms to sell rise and some fall. Managing the checkbooks, social media, and staying on top of everything is a full-time job on top of being an author, a parent, and, for most of us, also working full-time outside of writing.
Tell us about your work. What story are you most proud of?
I’ve been writing under a different pen name for several years, but I’m looking forward to getting back to my love of fantasy and horror as L.S. Murphy. I’m still most proud of my YA novel Pixelated. It is very close to my heart because the beginning of Chapter 2 has a moment from my own youth.
What are your upcoming works and plans for the future?
Currently, I am working on a horror novel titled Blood Stone. It’s about a woman who travels the US as a contract geologist hunting the demon who killed her mentor.
As for the future, I plan on exploring my love of horror more with two other books currently in the outlining stages. I’m also starting a freelance editing business so I can help other authors on their paths to publication!
KANDISHA PRESS 
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