Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a writer living in rural New Zealand. I spend large parts of my day alone, but have found my chickens fantastic for offering feedback, although sometimes they exert unrealistic pressure, with their constant question of “book book book…”
Like many authors, I have a number of half finished novels rattling around in a drawer, or on a flash drive these days! Nefertiti’s Heart is my first published novel.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Nefertiti’s Heart was inspired by my love of steampunk, but I wanted to do something a little different. I studied Egyptology at university, and wanted to add a nod to my first love. Plus I am a big reader of true crime. So steampunk + Egypt + serial killer seemed to bring it all together in my mind.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have a container of fizzy fruits to suck while writing and music is a must, silence is intimidating.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Anne McCaffrey is a massive influence, I grew up with her stories set on Pern. James Herbert has likewise been terrifying me since a young age. Never read RATS at night, when you are only 10 years old and have large rodents living in your ceiling.
What are you working on now?
Hatshepsut’s Collar (the sequel to Nefertiti’s Heart) is currently going through edits and I am hoping to release prior to Christmas. The third installment, titled Nero’s Fiddle is currently being plotted. I also have a YA steampunk novel, Obsidian Eyes, set in a pre-Victorian England, which I am polishing up for publication.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I love Goodreads, twenty million readers all looking for their next book. There are so many groups and ways to interact with the community. Plus I am an avid reader, so my book shelf is burgeoning due to all the recommendations.
Apart from that I am trying to concentrate on writing and having more books available for readers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing, try not to obsess over your first book. It is very easy to spend all day hitting on your Amazon ranking, or to pull your hair out, trying to figure out HOW to make 1 book sell better. You need to let go at some point, and carry on writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Keep writing!
What are you reading now?
I’m reading Bec McMasters at the moment.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More books – there will be at least 2 more sequels to Nefertiti’s Heart and I am working on 2 YA projects.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Anne McCaffrey “Dragonrider”. Who doesn’t want a dragon?
Author Websites and Profiles
Anita Exley Website
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