Interview with Udo Robin Gardner
What’s your novel about?
After a less than stellar career as an actor, and a brief interlude in Danish porn, Rante’s zigzag path lands him a successful gig in real estate. The young, good looking guy has finally taken the elevator straight to the top. But there is a price for his new-found success: an empty marriage, an empty life. Until his former love, Amina, reappears and their undying passion once again takes over…
The journey of a charismatic social climber, a charming lady-killer; a story fraught with power, corruption, sex—in the ever fascinating game of love and chance.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
The technical possibilities, curiosity, hope.
How has Smahwords contributed to your success?
By making it possible to publish my book, being the master of my own success.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
To create my own world, mixing reality with fantasy. To open up to life’s alternatives, experiencing more than my own small existence by giving over to my visions.
What do your fans mean to you?
They say they like my writing, my sensitiveness and humor, it makes them laugh and cry–sometimes at the same time.
What are you working on next?
Two novels: a sequel (of sorts) to this novel, set in the next generation, including some of the same characters. Rich men and thieves, all seeking the same bliss. And a second: A Moon like Blood: a shorter novel dealing with the confrontation with the political right wing in Germany, background to a great love between an earnest young lawyer and a very spoiled lady.
Who are your favorite authors?
Harper Lee, Patricia Cornwell, Jeffrey Archer, Jonathan Frantzen, John Irving
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
Hunger for life, passionate discussion, affection, human company. When you’re dead you’ll be on your own long enough.
When you’re not writing, how do you spend your time?
I like to travel, to get to know different cultures. I lived several years in Vienna, in New York, in Beirut. I thrive sitting in coffeehouses, reading newspapers, watching people; most importantly: spending as much time as possible with friends and family. Family is the most important thing for me.
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
Studying publication lists, and reading up on books and authors. Recommendations!
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
Yes, a novel with the title Clouds Over the Horizon, at the age of seventeen. Great feelings, very romantic, celebrating love and life.
What is your writing process?
Exposé, outlines – then writing the first draft, then work it all over and, of course, focus and tighten.
Published 2016-04-06.
Books by This Author
Paradise To Go by Udo Robin Gardner
The journey of a charismatic social climber, a charming lady-killer. A story fraught with power, corruption, sex—and the ever fascinating game of love and chance.