Annie’s Book Stop of Worcester is happy to welcome Alberto Mercado to our author spotlight blog! He will be visiting the book store on February 22 from 2-5PM to sign books and meet with fans (long time and those who don’t know they’re fans yet!).
Whether you’re familiar with his books or if you want a good reason to check them out, here is an early chance to get to know the author and his work!
Thank you for taking time to have this interview, Alberto. Can you please tell us briefly a little about yourself and your writing? How would you like us to introduce you?
Although my full name is Alberto, I prefer everyone to call me Al. It’s a little more informal and makes the readers feel as if they are my friends. I moved to the states in the spring of 1985 after making a decision to leave my native Puerto Rico. I knew what I wanted to do with my life so I embarked on a journey of a lifetime. Winds of Fall is the latest of the six books I’ve written. My writing is very eclectic. I’ve written an autobiography, a romantic story, a medical mystery, a ghost story, as well as controversial stories dealing with racism and sexual orientation. I found that my readers enjoy the variety.
What has been the biggest challenge in writing? How did you overcome that challenge?
I think my biggest challenge as an author trying to make it into the business is to find that a story that the reader is going to love. For me to overcome this challenge, I put close attention to what I want to write. I don’t think of the plot itself. I have specific goals I want to accomplish with it. For example, I want a story that people can relate to and say, “This could be me.” A story that will touch their heart and most important, I want the reader to feel as if they have learned something by the time they finish reading.
What character did you love or hate the most while writing, And why?
Although every character in [Winds of Fall] has a purpose, I have to say that Cecile is the one I love the most because she is caring, compassionate and in spite of her struggles, she stayed loyal to her family and her friend until the end. Jacob was my least favorite although he was an important key element for the story to take its course.
What is your favorite part of being a writer? Of the whole writing and publishing process? What do you think has been your greatest lesson in the journey thus far?
This is a great question. My favorite part about being a writer is the people I meet along the way. People think that the best part about writing and selling a book is the money we make, but for me in particular, it’s the joy of meeting strangers for the first time and feeling as if I’ve known them for a long time. This has been a journey of a lifetime and one that will stay with me forever.
How important has the New England setting been to your writing?
The setting for all my books are set somewhere in New England. Although I was born in Puerto Rico, I consider myself a true New Englander. No matter where I go on vacation, at the end of the trip, I can’t wait to come home. So it’s no surprise that I want to include it in my stories.
Where can people find your work? (Besides ABSW ;)–though they should totally check here first!)
Winds of Fall is available at Annie’s bookstore-Worc , www.createspace.com , www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, and other locations.
How can we follow your work, share your awesomeness, or otherwise stalk you in a totally non-creepy way?
Those wishing to follow me and my work can check my website Author Alberto Mercado, or they can join my fan club on Facebook: Alberto Mercado
Thank you so much for the interview, Al, and we look forward to seeing you and Winds of Fall at Annie’s Book Stop of Worcester on 65 James Street on February 22 from 2-5PM! Best of luck!
Annie's Book Stop of Worcester 