Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Like most authors, I’ve written several short stories and books that are essentially “trunk novels.” I’ve been writing my whole life, starting with creating drama-filled stories for my Barbies to act out. I seriously put pen to paper as a teen, and it’s been my dream to be a published author for over ten years. Aside from writing, I enjoy reading, baking, weight lifting, and seeking out the best donut in every town I visit.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My first published novel, To Astera, With Love was inspired by a lot of things. I’ve always been a fantasy lover, and witches and vampires are my favorite types of characters. So I decided to take the tales of witches coming into their power and meld it with the political climate of America post-2016. My main character, Mercury, is a Black witch trying to find his way in a world similar to ours, only with all drugs being legal, witches no longer hiding their magic but being persecuted for it, and a literal vampire for President.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I work best with a timer, so I use the Pomodoro method and write in 25-minute sprints. I also outline my work beforehand, and if I ever get stuck in a certain section I’ll do a rough outline of what is supposed to happen in that section.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Tomi Adeyemi, Grady Hendrix, Holly Black, and journalists like Michael Harriot and Anne Branigin of The Root.
What are you working on now?
To Astera, With Love is the first book in my Witchkind series. I am currently working on the second book now.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I enjoy Instagram the most because I love creating imagery with quotes and characters from my book. I also love connecting with other writers on the platform, so it’s my go-to medium.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep the 5 W’s in mind – who are you writing for? What is the purpose of your piece? Where is your piece set? When is your piece set? Why is writing important to you? I think asking and answering these questions regularly will help you keep the right perspective when you get stuck or doubt yourself.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Comparison is the thief of joy. It’s easy, especially with social media, to compare yourself to another writer who you perceive is doing better/ more successful than you. You don’t know their journey, and yours is completely different. It might take you more time to get the same amount of reviews/ recognition/status and that’s ok. The more time you focus on what they are doing, you’re not focusing on what you need to do for you.
What are you reading now?
Catherine House by Elisabeth Thomas.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I plan to finish my Witchkind series. I have several other books in mind after that, but they will all likely be urban fantasy featuring Black characters.
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?
Slay by Brittney Morris
Dread Nation by Justina Ireland
The Fifth Season by NK Jemisin
Horrorstor by Grady Hendrix
Author Websites and Profiles
Amanda Ross Website
Amanda Ross Amazon Profile
Amanda Ross’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account