Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a twenty-something who currently lives in Southern California. I have written four books and am currently working on a fifth. My first book is an adventure-filled early chapter book, titled “The Enchanted River Race,”which follows a team of children as they compete in a river race. My second published book is the beautifully illustrated picture book, titled “The Boy Who Couldn’t Cry Wolf,” which revolves around a young werewolf who is self-conscious about his inability to howl.
My two most recent books are in the middle grade fantasy genre. The first book in the series (titled the Young Alchemist series,) is “The Missing Alchemist,” follows alchemy student Craig Pike and clever archer Audrey Clife as they travel across mysterious lands and battle other-worldly creatures in a quest to rescue a famous alchemist. The second book in the series, which was just released, is “The Sacred Artifact.” The book centers on Craig’s attempt to uncover the secrets of a mysterious artifact, which entails journeying to the birthplace of alchemy to seek the advice of a mysterious, ancient alchemist.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is a middle grade fantasy novel, titled “The Sacred Artifact. The story follows fourteen-year-old alchemy student Craig Pike, Cornelius (a famous alchemist), and Audrey, a witty archer, on an adventure to uncover the secrets of a sacred artifact. Their adventure takes them to a number of magical places, including the birthplace of alchemy itself. They soon discover their journey is more complicated than they anticipated, and they aren’t the only one looking to uncover the secrets of the sacred artifact.
The series was inspired by a fun idea that came to me while brainstorming ideas. Basically, I had this idea of a student alchemist who was struggling to learn the art … yet gets thrust into a situation that really tests his skills. Out of this idea, an entire world of alchemy and interesting characters grew.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t say they are unusual habits but maybe unique. For instance, while working on my latest middle grade fantasy novel, I would listen to entire albums from start to finish. It kind of brought a different vibe to the writing process from just using a random playlist.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
In general, I’m a big fan of Hemigway and Steinbeck. I’m not sure influenced is the correct word, though. I don’t try to emulate them…and I don’t think I ever could. But I’d like to think some of their brilliance, even if just a trace, makes its way into my writing somehow or another. In terms of the middle grade genre, which my two most recent books are a part of, I’m a big fan of Rick Riordan and Lemony Snicket.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently taking a break from the middle grade fantasy genre, now that the Young Alchemist series is complete. I’m working on a young adult book presently. It’s very different from my other projects, but I’m excited about it.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
For my newest middle grade fantasy book, “The Sacred Artifact,” I tried a new approach to promoting it. I wanted to focus on smaller blogs and sites rather than just the big ones. It’s a lot more work intensive reaching out to dozens of blogs, but I think it really connects my book to the readers who would enjoy it most.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Be persistent. Keep reading in your genre and keep writing no matter what. Don’t be afraid to revise for a year, if that’s what it takes.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up.
What are you reading now?
Currently am re-reading “The Sun Also Rises.” Feels like a good book to set the tone for the upcoming summer.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Right now most of my time is focused on promoting my middle grade fantasy novel, “The Sacred Artifact,” as it just came out! Once the promotion period dies down a bit, I’ll focus more on my upcoming YA novel. Currently, I’m just working on it in little increments of time, but I’ll be more dedicated to it once my schedule clears up.
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?
Good question! That’s hard. My answer probably changes from day to day. Today, though, I’ll say: “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “The Great Gatsby,” The Grand Meaulnes,” and “East of Eden.”
Author Websites and Profiles
Caldric Blackwell Website
Caldric Blackwell Amazon Profile
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