Interview With Author A. N. Horton
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Alisha Horton, though I go by A. N. Horton as my pen name. When I’m not writing, I spend my time with my husband and toddler, my corgi, and the non-profit organization I co-founded. As a lifelong writer, I have won two Watty awards and have a series of four published mystery/historical fiction novels to my credit as well as the first book in a YA Fantasy series and now I have published the first book in an adult Dark Fantasy series as well. I run a freelance writing and editing business and am active on social media with thousands of interactive followers.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called All That Falls and it was inspired by my desire to craft a dark romance in a fantasy world. I wanted a flawed character to face moral dilemmas and an anti-hero that my readers could fall in love with. Hence, Seren and Lark.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Most people think it’s unusual that I have time to write at all given that I have a toddler. But while most people seem to need silence to focus while they write, I thrive in chaos and noise. Usually, I have plenty of that from my son playing with his toys or watching his cartoons but even when he’s not around I find myself playing music or putting on the news just so there is some sound in my writing environment.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Too many to count. I would credit Victoria Aveyard and her Red Queen series for getting me interested in the fantasy genre in the first place. Then I would credit Leigh Bardugo for showing me that flawed characters and morally gray plots sometimes hold more sway than light hearted heroism. Finally, I would credit Sarah J. Maas for teaching me that, even in those dark places, love can find a way and that story is even more beautiful because of it.
What are you working on now?
It is the curse of the overly prolific writer to always be balancing far too many projects at once. For now, I’m hard at work on book 2 of the Immortal Plane series, the one that will follow All That Falls. I am also busy working with my editor on the second book in my published YA Fantasy series, Broken But Unburnt, as well as querying a third book in the science fiction realm to agents in the industry.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I do most of my promotion via Instagram and Wattpad where I seem to have the most active following. I do a lot of giveaways and a lot of Q&A sessions as well.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Always be open to constructive criticism. I see too many authors who never improve upon their writing or are able to properly advertise their work because they wouldn’t take anyone’s friendly advice. No matter how great you become, you can always grow from the perspectives of your peers.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
From a literary agent once, I heard “Wherever you think your book starts, you’re probably three chapters too early.” That helps me in my writing and as I prepare for publication because it reminds me not to start with too much exposition or world building. Jump right into the action and let it all be explained organically throughout the telling of the story.
What are you reading now?
I am currently reading Sarah J. Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses series and absolutely loving it.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More writing! It’s hard to believe I’ll ever stop with all of the ideas swimming around in my head. But I’m hoping to find some success with the self-published All That Falls and I’m looking forward to completing both of my fantasy series.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Six of Crows, The Cruel Prince, A Court of Mist and Fury, and the Bible
Author Websites and Profiles
A. N. Horton’s Social Media Links