We had the good fortune of connecting with Robert Gaines and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Robert, why did you pursue a creative career?
As long as I can remember, my mind was always thinking, searching, questioning … it never slowed down. Of course, when I told my dad I wanted to be an artist when I grew up, he answered without hesitation, “Son, artists starve.” Quietly, I turned to writing.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I am most creative – when the world is quiet – I write from one of the back rooms in my mind. Amazing what you can find back there behind the clutter. That said, the publishing business is so much different – yes, it is important to be unique, to write with depth. But how do you get the message to readers that you have a great book to sell? Today’s industry is a quagmire – millions of authors, billions of books. Don’t get me wrong, I still believe in great works, but my literary agent once told me that “unless your name is Lady Gaga, the big publishers aren’t interested.” We both agreed that today, they’d no doubt pass on Ernest Hemingway. Well, I would sign Hemingway after reading one chapter of his manuscript … and then try to figure a way “The Old Man and the Sea” would be noticed.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I retired early from Bucknell University 15 years ago. Before that, I spent most of my life in cities like San Diego, CA and Norfolk, VA. I love both those places, but I now live in a small mountain town with a gigantic lake. My friends and I take long hikes with the dogs.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When I started Hidden Shelf, I was determined to find brilliant authors with powerful and unique stories. I also realized that great books must have covers that will capture the imagination of every potential reader. Fortunately, when my daughter was about four years old, she told me she wanted to be an artist. “Wow, Megan, you’ve got the gift,” I said. Now, 35 years later, Megan Whitfield is married with three children and an internationally-acclaimed artist who also paints stunning covers for Hidden Shelf.

Website: https://www.hiddenshelfpublishinghouse.com

Instagram: Hidden_Shelf

Facebook: Hidden Shelf Publishing House, Fifties Friday

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.