Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi everyone! My name is Ann, a typical rice-loving Asian and proud of it. I’m also an indie author with a passion for mixing fantasy and romance. My writing career started when I was five, when we were required to make picture books in kindergarten. I’ve loved writing ever since. I was part of our school publication in college, giving me the opportunity to improve my writing skills. Overtime I have come to prefer writing about female protagonists who are loyal, perceptive and resilient, even in the face of adversity. I don’t actually know the exact number of stories or books I’ve written (and I should probably get to that). I do know that six of those stories (After Eternity, Gallina, Nemesis, Nihilist, Tilula and Vintage Charm) are currently published. Aside from being a writer, I’m also a Biology graduate, an amateur line artist and a killer karaoke queen.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “After Eternity,” which was officially published only this November (even though I already finished it sometime in August). I was, am and will always be a fan of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales, and wanted to give homage through this story. It’s not a direct retelling of the “The Snow Queen,” but rather an alternative universe based roughly on its events. I was inspired by the fact that the Snow Queen – at least in the versions I’ve read – didn’t explicitly say why she lured Kai to her castle. I didn’t want her to be truly evil, only to look and act evil while actually doing noble deeds.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I guess I do. I have a record book brand that I prefer to jot into while writing first drafts. I also have a favorite pen that I use exclusively for writing. I actually prefer writing in the morning, while my mind is refreshed and bursting with ideas. I will repeat a scene I want to add into a story in my head, over and over again, before actually writing it down.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
As I always say, Hans Christian Andersen is life! I used to watch “The Fairytaler” when it was broadcasted on television. I was also raised on fairy tales, folk tales and children’s animated movies. Then high school came, and along with it the boom of the manga/anime industry in my country. I watched and read Inuyasha, and I remember completely falling in love with the plot and characters. That was when I realized magical realism was actually a thing.
What are you working on now?
I am working on an ebook called “Merry Winters,” which will be out this December 2018. It’s a romance story set in a small fictional contemporary town during the Christmas season. As with all my other stories, it will have a magical element to it. “Merry Winters” is currently in the second writing stage (full drafting), and will be finished just before the end of November. It’ll be released in the same stores as where “After Eternity” is available.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I haven’t actually tried seriously promoting my books before. I’ll occasionally post an announcement on Facebook, and that’s about it. However, I figured I’d try something different before the year ends. After all, it’s fun to hear from new readers and get feedback. I also joined a few groups to see and ask how they bring their books to the world.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice would be “Courage.” It wasn’t easy starting out. My folks weren’t opposed to my writing, but they also weren’t that encouraging. Coupled with the fact that, among the society I grew up in, authors are considered inferior to people like doctors, lawyers and high-salary professionals. I was forced to battle it out alone. I had hits and misses. I celebrated my hits and learned from my misses. I became my own writer, editor proofreader and cover artist, because I had no money to pay anyone. I constantly struggled with self-doubt, and I still do. But it’s all part of becoming a better writer and person in general. The important thing is to have courage, for courage will get you through any self-doubt and struggle.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
It’s not actually an advice that was given to me. It’s a phrase found in most movies and commercials: “Be happy.” I try to live by these two words every day, always trying to be optimistic, to find the silver lining of every cloud and to wait for the rainbow after the storm.
What are you reading now?
I am reading local folk literature in preparation for my other story that’s coming out next year. I’m reading up on ancient culture, as well as local mythology and traditions that are unique to my hometown. I’m mostly getting my material from online magazines and available electronic documents.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More writing, more editing and more improving. I might write some stories outside of fantasy romance in the future, but at this moment I’m enjoying being in this genre. I’m also going to try my hand at publishing traditional physical books, but I’m not sure exactly when this will be happening.
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?
A book on edible plants, and the Bible (Roman Catholic and also proud of it). And the record book where my draft of “Merry Winters” is, of course. That way I can get some editing done while waiting for the rescue team.
Author Websites and Profiles
Ann Sepino Website
Ann Sepino Author Profile on Smashwords
Ann Sepino’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile