Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello! I’m a Young Adult author from Oklahoma. I currently have one book out titled UNDER THE TREES. When I’m not writing, I love spending time with my family, playing guitar, and interacting with all the animals in the Maker Zoo (we have 4 dogs, 1 cat, and 9 reptiles).
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
UNDER THE TREES. I was inspired by classic fairy tales, like Cinderella, and decided I wanted to write one of my own. Elements of the Regency Era are also subtly intertwined in the mannerisms of the royalty.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not too unusual. I like to have complete privacy, something to snack on and drink, and some music to listen to while I write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Oh, several! Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Cinderella, Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine, Beauty by Robin McKinley. There are definitely more, but those are some of the standouts.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a prequel to UNDER THE TREES that tells the broken love story between Prince Silas and Princess Maddy. And I have another book titled SEER that is also in the revision stages.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m not sure I’ve found a best method yet, but I do most of my promotion through my author Facebook, personal Instagram, and author Twitter accounts.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write what you want. Your books are part of your legacy as a human being. There are so many things writers are told not to write or not to incorporate into their stories. But if you think it’s important, go for it anyway! Don’t chase trends; write something that has meaning for you. That will translate to the reader.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up. I know, I know. It’s cliche advice, and it’s used a lot, but it’s so true. There are so many times I’ve felt like giving up, but I’m so glad I didn’t.
What are you reading now?
Confession time. I’ve been de-stressing by reading a lot of fanfiction lately. But as far as actual, physical books go, I’m about to start reading Teach Like a Pirate by Dave Burgess.
What’s next for you as a writer?
In the next six months, I’d really like to finish the UNDER THE TREES prequel and get it prepped for publication.
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?
The Bible, Pride and Prejudice, and a very detailed, inclusive survival guide book.
Author Websites and Profiles
Ashley Maker Website
Ashley Maker Amazon Profile
Ashley Maker’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account