Book: Blind Horizons
Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hello, my name is Duane Windell Phillips. When I was little, I didn’t like my middle name even though it is my father’s name. As I grew older, I realized what a privilege it is to have that name. There are few Windells in the world. I proudly use my father’s name for my writings. I am married and my wife and I have 4 kids. All are grown and live on their own. My oldest daughter is pregnant with our first grandchild.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Blind Horizons’ book?
The biggest challenge in writing Blind Horizons was telling a story about things I knew little about. While not specifically stated in the story, the setting is in Lebanon. I’ve never been to Lebanon and there were cultural differences I had to learn. I have posted most of my stories on my blog and this one is no different. A blog follower who liked the first few chapters and gave me positive feedback offered to help with cultural issues. I would like to give them praise for their kind assistance but they wish to remain nameless. I wish them my heartfelt thanks.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I’ve never considered who has influenced my writing since I’ve never tried to emulate anyone. After publishing Blind Horizons I read A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini and I was amazed at how it was told simply but with great emotional depth. I discussed this with a friend and he commented that is how my stories are written. If this is true, I consider it an honor to write like Mr. Hosseini.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I am blessed to have traveled to many places. I have so many more places I hope to visit someday. If you visit the US, and you like nature and being outdoors, you must visit Yellowstone National Park. It is an amazing and diverse place on our beautiful planet.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
I suppose I am not a typical author. I like writing and I write what is in my heart. In the case of Blind Horizons, I told the stories of Ali and Amal. Actually, they told their stories through me. I had no outline and, other than knowing they had to meet again after many years, didn’t exactly know how the story would be resolved. I got to a point where I wanted to write the story in one direction but that way wasn’t true to who the characters are. Therefore, the story went in the way that was true to Ali and Amal.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Blind Horizons’ book?
I wrote the first chapter in my mind as I drove home on Christmas Eve. I actually started typing out the story and posted it to my blog on Christmas Day. The final post was completed May 3rd the following year. So that is about 5 months.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Blind Horizons’ book to buy?
Blind Horizons is available in paperback and Kindle on Amazon. It is also available on most bookstore websites.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Blind Horizons’?
Since sunsets are prominent in the story I knew a sunset needed to be on the book cover. I worked with Rick Holland at Vision Press to make the book cover. He was gracious enough to consider a photo of my own for the cover but we ultimately went a different direction. For the book title, I must again offer thanks to the online friend for helping me with a catchy title.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I feel it is important to write about things that interest you. If it is something you love you will be excited about it. Also, I find you can keep things fresh when you purposely write about things you don’t fully know. This forces you to stretch yourself. It may be awkward at first but keep at it. Writing is a muscle that must be exercised or it will wither.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Secrets from the book? All the names mean something. Also, while this is a romance novel, can you guess how many kisses are in the story. You might be surprised.
Book Is Available On Amazon
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