Interview With Author Athene Z. Adam
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live in the province of Alberta, Canada. By day, I work in the corporate world and by night and weekends, I’m actively pursuing my writing career. This is a recent development, though. I used to write as a hobby until about two years ago, when I decided to pursue formal publishing. My debut novel, Imperious Realm, was released in November 2022. It’s a science fiction novel and is the first in a series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Imperious Realm (Reign of the North Forest Book 1) is the first in a series. It’s a futuristic political, science fiction novel about a society on another planet, where the adults are dying off and the children are becoming “Antisenent”–not growing, confined to their childhood bodies. The story centres on the Antisenent Sergen, who is trapped in his home by his abusive father, and on the complexities of this un-aging and stagnant society. It’s as much of a relatable human story as it is a political one. I was inspired by social justice themes in general, but the story is reflective of these general themes adapted to this fictional world and not any one particular Earth leader, government, or conflict.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My writing style is organic. I’m a discovery writer, so I develop the plot details as I write. This means that my draft writing is not in sequential order, creating scenes as they come to me, to be ordered later. Honestly, it’s a bit chaotic but it maximizes my creativity. It’s a style that works for me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have read a variety of fiction and now tend to focus more on reading science fiction and fantasy as I enjoy this genre the most. But when I was younger I used to read a lot of mystery and in particular, Mary Higgins Clark. Mystery novels tend to have intricate plots. I don’t remember all the books I read, but I think this genre in particular influenced how I write.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently in the editing phase of Book 2 in the Reign of the North Forest series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
www.athenezadam.com
My author website houses everything–book information, social media, and media links. People can sign up for my newsletter and updates on my books on my website. I try to be widely accessible so whatever works for you! I am on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Goodreads, Reedsy, and Reedsy Discovery. I also have an Amazon Author page.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Two years ago, I had no idea what this journey would be like. I had a steep learning curve and I continue to learn and grow. Be prepared for a hard journey and don’t give up.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t ask questions unless you’re prepared to hear the answer.
What are you reading now?
Tonight I’ll be starting The Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E. Schwab.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have so much to learn about this industry so much of my focus is on growth in general in this industry.
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?
There are so many to choose from, I can’t even answer this question! I guess Harry Potter? I’ll just combine all seven books into a megabook. That’s not cheating, right?
Can I bring a solar powered laptop instead?
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