Interview with Alberto Rios Arias, Author of A Death for Beauty or An Immortal

Joining us today is Alberto Rios Arias, author of A Death For Beauty or An Immortal.

Born in Jersey City and raised in Hoboken, New Jersey, Alberto filled his leisure time writing and illustrating short stories and took an interest in creative writing after reading J.D. Salinger’s, Catcher in the Rye in high school.

After a three-year stint in the Army, he pursued another obsession and enrolled in the popular School of Visual Arts in Manhattan under the G.I. Bill. Although he majored in Fine Arts, his creative writing class inspired him to continue writing.

His efforts eventually paid off and he found work as an advertising copywriter. His advertorials appeared weekly in The New York Post and The Daily News. Meanwhile he continued to hone his writing skills and upon early retirement, he decided to pursue creative writing in earnest, recently finishing two feature screenplays and his first novel

Welcome to The Book Connection, Alberto. We're thrilled to have you. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m a big fan of classic novels plus I enjoy reading popular screenplays.

Where did you grow up?

I’m from Hoboken, New Jersey.

What is your fondest childhood memory?

Moving nearby the Atlantic Ocean.

When did you begin writing?

During my high school years.

Do you write during the day, at night or whenever you can sneak a few moments?

Mostly during the day when my energy is at its highest.

What is this book about?

Thematically the book is about the uncertainties of life and the fear of death as seen through the eyes of a troubled young woman during the civil war.

What inspired you to write it?

 I’ve always been fascinated with the Civil War era and in particular the battles among soldiers and Indian tribes.

Who is your favorite author?

Tough question because it’s hard to choose, but I’d have to say Cormac McCarthy.

Do you have an agent or are you looking for one?

It doesn’t hurt to have a good agent, but I’ve yet to really shop for one.

Was the road to publication smooth sailing or a bumpy ride?

So far it’s been trial and error but enjoying the ride.

If you knew then, what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently?

Probably not for this particular book. As an independent, I like the freedom and control, especially in today’s digital marketplace.

Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?

Right now it’s available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble in paperback and digital format.

Do you have a website and/or blog where readers can find out more?

Readers can learn more about this story at: http://www.adeathforbeauty.com/

Do you have a video trailer to promote your book? If yes, where can readers find it?

I think I got a little carried away so readers will find about 10 different trailers for this book on my homepage. (Yes, I love making trailers.)

What is the best investment you have made in promoting your book?

Just getting started so not sure yet, but PUYB is a good bet.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with aspiring authors everywhere?

Dive in head first, but be diligent with the craft because there’s always a lot to learn about writing and publishing and it’s all about story concept and story structure. Nothing but great stories populated with fascinating characters will do, but that’s just the beginning. Fact is, everything has to be just right so it’s never easy to get to that point, but it’s fun getting there.

What is up next for you?

I’ve got a lot of writing to finish (short stories and another novel) and even more to start so it’s a lifetime deal and I’m looking forward to it all.


Thanks for spending time with us today, Alberto. We wish you much success.