Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
AJ Skelly is an author, blogger, and lover of all things fantasy, medieval, and fairy-tale-romance. And werewolves. She has a serious soft spot for them. As an avid life-long reader and a former high school English teacher, she’s always been fascinated with the written word. She lives with her husband, children, and many imaginary friends who often find their way into her stories. They all drink copious amounts of tea together and stay up reading far later than they should.
First Shift is her debut novel, but the sequel, Rogue Shift will be released October of 2021. Several other books are in the works!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
First Shift is my debut release–it’s YA paranormal romance. There are a few things that inspired me to write it. My first two years teaching were at the height of the Twilight craze. A handful of students started a rumor that I was a werewolf. It stuck. The next year, I had freshman come in and in all seriousness ask me, “Is it true that you’re a werewolf?”
First Shift is largely a nod to those special students. You can find more about them in the dedication of the book.
The other major thing that inspired the writing of The Wolves of Rock Falls series is my general love for shifter fiction. I think it’s such a cool concept–but I kept getting annoyed at the books I was finding. They had elements I wanted, but too many I didn’t. I couldn’t find the exact shifter fiction book I wanted to read, so I decided to write it myself.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Almost all my writing takes place in the late hours of the night after my kids are in bed. I turn on my epic battle music (because I am that nerd), and I write until I can’t stay awake anymore.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve been a reader all my life, and a store creator nearly as long. But I didn’t put the metaphorical pen to paper until much later. But some of my favorite authors who inspired me along the way are Shari L. Tapscott, Chanda Hahn, C. J. Redwine, Karen Hancock, C. S. Lewis, Brenda Pandos, April White…the list could go on for ages.
What are you working on now?
Right now I’m working on Book II of a trilogy. Currently, the trilogy is titled Tales of Sugar and Spice and it’s a loose YA retelling of The Nutcracker.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I love social media as a way to connect with readers and like-minded readers and writers. I also really love it when people sign up for my newsletter and then email me to tell them about themselves! I answer every email.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up! Writing and publishing is not for the faint of heart. But it’s massively rewarding. Tell the stories inside you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Some of the very best advice I’ve ever gotten can be summed up in a quote from my dad,” If it’s right, it’s right. If it’s wrong, it’s wrong. If it’s wrong, don’t do it.”
But as for writing advice, two of the most useful bits I’ve picked up along the way are, “The only method that works is the one you use.” And, “The magic happens in the edits.”
What are you reading now?
Right now I’m reading through my final galley (the last round of edits) for First Shift’s sequel, Rogue Shift, which will be released with The Wild Rose Press in October 2021!
What’s next for you as a writer?
At this point, I’ll be working on finishing up The Wolves of Rock Falls series, as well as working to finish the Tales of Sugar and Spice trilogy. After that…I have about half a dozen other story ideas floating around in my head that will need to get out at some point.
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?
Is it cheating to bring three or four series? My all-time favorite series is Karen Hancock’s Legends of the Guardian King series. I think Pippa of Lauramore by Shari L. Tapscott is up there pretty high on the list as well.
Author Websites and Profiles
AJ Skelly Website
AJ Skelly Amazon Profile
AJ Skelly’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile