Readers are curious! Frequently asked questions at live events

Part of what I enjoy most as a writer is to set up at events where I can share what I write with other readers. Recently, I drove down to Albany, Georgia with my sales force (my son Behr) and I set up at the Georgia Indie Book Faire. It was a fantastic event with vendors, food trucks, and panels. I even was offered a chance to read from my short story “Local Monsters”.

I was chatting with another vendor about the process of doing events and we both said how we love doing that so much, because it’s a wonderful opportunity to actually speak to your audience.

I love being face-to-face with people who love books, and I love to chat with readers. 

And when I do, I usually end up answering questions about my novels and questions about my writing process.

Here are the frequently asked questions that readers ask me when I meet them face to face.

1. How gross it your book?

   • A valid question. There really isn’t much of a rating system like movies when it comes to books. Reviewers will let readers know it’s level of gore, violence, or erotic material on their websites, but there is no M for Mature rating for a book. When I am asked this question I always tell them that I don’t write things that are too gross or too sexy. I think my characters have heat, but it’s not really erotic. I think my crime scenes are substantial, but I don’t makes them excessive or exploitive. I would say it’s no more gross than an average episode of Lenny Brisco-era Law and Order.

2. Why don’t you write books about Atlanta? 

   • I have a few ideas about stories that are based in Atlanta, primarily a band of crime-solving teens. However, right now I am in the middle of a run of Western Kentucky noir stories. I guess I am feeling a little nostalgic for the small towns I used to cover when I was a reporter a lifetime ago. 

3. Is this a true story?

   • No. I often get asked this question about all my books. When I wrote Mothers of the Missing Mermaid, readers would ask, “Are you the baby?” No! I am not the baby. And I am not Kate. I am me, and these are people I made up for my own entertainment. I have written non-fiction before, but right now I am focusing all my efforts on writing fiction. If you are interested in non-fiction, check out my digital short “In the Company of Liars”.

4. Okay, but was this based on someone else’s true story?

   • This is a tricker question to answer. I'm inspired by many things. I use many stories as source material, much like other writers. The way it works, or the theory I embrace, is the writer’s compost theory. I consume content all day, and then I will allow it to compost in my brain, turning over, and over, and over again until it comes out as something different. One of my readers at a recent event asked, “Is this based on the (name redacted) case? Because I already watched that true crime documentary and I already know how that one ends.” I assured them that while I might have been inspired by some elements of that case, it’s not the same because I put my own special sauce on it.

5. Are your books available as ebooks?

   • Yes! All my books are available in ebook form, and you can get your ebook directly from me! My website has both digital and print copies in the store. Now, if you are all heart eyes over one online service or device that means you must make all your purchases from that online service, I am available on all of those as well. Just search for Brandi Bradley.

6. Are your books available as audiobooks?

   • Sadly, no. But it is something I am considering for the future.

7. What’s your favorite book?

   • They might not love this answer, but it’s the absolute truth: I don’t have a favorite book. I mean, how on earth could I choose? I love books in all genres, and I love books from all types of writers. I will say I am back on a Michael Connolley kick, binging one audiobook and then also reading an old paperback while we flew cross country to San Francisco. I also love Ruth Ware, Julia Heaberlin, Janet Finch, Megan Abbott, Elmore Leonard, Tana French, Gillian Flynn, and so many, many more. 

8. Have you heard of (name redacted) book?

   • I rarely know about new things. It doesn’t matter which book you say, I probably haven’t read it yet. And not because I don’t read, because I read a lot, but because I don’t know many things that are new. Readers and influencers are always aware of the hottest book in the book community at the moment because they are always looking for the next great read. And God-bless them for it! But I am 100% focused on only one book right now, the one that’s in my head. So I’m a little preoccupied. I will usually, eventually, learn about the book you mentioned and will likely read it. If you have a recommendation for a book, audiobook, or podcast that you love, please tell me next time we meet so I can put it on my list.

9. Are you on social media?

   • Yes. I am working very hard to make sure I am posting more on Instagram and TikTok. But I would probably post more if I was hearing more from readers. Say hi, ask a question, leave a comment (as long as it’s not mean). 

10. Will you sign my book for me?

    • Of course I will, baby. It’s my favorite part!

If you missed me in Albany, or just jealous that you couldn’t go, check out my events page for all my upcoming events. 

Also, check out the brandibradleymysteries store! All my books and digital shorts are available, waiting for you to read!

Pretty Girls Get Away With Murder -- a southern noir by Brandi Bradley

$17.99

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