Amberly Smith

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
The first book I completed was a reverse green card story. My heroine needed french citizenship and the hero needed a wife to protect him from a scandal. That was 2002. Wow, I can’t believe it was that long ago. My first published piece came out in 2009. Altogether I’ve published 1 novel, 3 novellas, and a short story since. This year I have two more novels coming out. Maybe that first tome, which would need serious software upgrades to bring it back to life, will get a chance one day.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Bravery Not Included has a unique journey. My mother was battling breast cancer when I came across a reference that stated the word Amazon meant ‘without breast.’ If that was true my Mom, a fierce fighter of cancer, was already an Amazon. As I researched further — ideas for stories percolating — I read scientific studies on Amazon burials, modern day accounts of adrenaline fueled strength. All through history, these amazing women, have stood up and said ‘enough.’ What if they banded together? How fiercely would they fight to protect those they loved? Who would threaten their new community?

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write out of order. Which isn’t totally unique, I’m sure. But often I don’t see the story until it’s on paper. I might even write whole chapters just exploring the origin of a character that I later viciously cut out. I also feel like my habits are still developing. I’ve been writing over fifteen years and spent the whole time learning as much as I can about the process.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Suzanne Brockmann and her Troubleshooter Series, Mary Calmes, Marie Sexton, and J.K. Rowling. I don’t particularly write like any of them. I think everyone you read, in the same or different genre, good or bad, should influence your own writing. But those four are some of my favorite authors. I also like Val Roberts, Stephanie Berget, and Judy Kiem.

What are you working on now?
I am working on the next book in the Amazon series as well as the second is a series for Dreamspinner Press. Waking Jamal, the first in a Sci-fi Romance, is about a military program that activates super soldiers. Based on Norse Mythology, when these Hamask go Berserk, they are forced into hibernation. Rum Walker refuses to let Jamal Zumati decay and die so he sets out to wake Jamal. It’s sequel is in a very early state but going well.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am developing my presence on GoodReads. I also think AwesomeGang and Facebook are excellent places to promote books. I made a list of places I find new authors and new books and I figure my readers will come from the same places.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Find a writers group. Yes, you should read a lot and write a lot but I think it is important to surround yourself with people who are on a similar journey and who are just as passionate about books and writing as you are. Then, when you get discouraged, as we all do, they can bolster you up.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Always ask questions. It’s how we engage in life, how we learn, and often where I get my best ideas.

What are you reading now?
I’m reading several books at the same time. Dwight V. Swain’s Techniques of the Selling Writer, a John Scalzi book, The Duchess War by Courtney Milan, and the Romance Writers Report (magazine).

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d love to hear from readers on what they’d like to see from me next. I have the third Amazon book, a stand alone contemporary novella, and maybe a third book in my Hamra series. So many things, it can be hard to decide what’s next, so feel free to send input!

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?
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Hot Target by Brockmann, Change of Heart by Mary Calmes and a very thick, empty notebook. I’m sure I can find something on the island I can write with, once the pencil is used up.

Author Websites and Profiles
Amberly Smith Website
Amberly Smith Amazon Profile

Amberly Smith’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account