Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hey there! I’m a Toronto-based début author, originally from Moscow. I work in finance but I write on the side and the St. Isidore series is my first ever duology, with The Hell’s Half Acre Chase being the first.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Hell’s Half Acre Trade, and its prequel The Hell’s Half Acre Chase, is inspired by the hell’s half acre of Niagara Falls. It’s a short stretch of incredibly dangerous river rapids on the American side of the river, and that area is very central to the novel’s storyline. I won’t say why that spot exactly, because of spoilers, but Niagara at the very least is significant as the main antagonist is called the Niagara Company.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Who doesn’t? I sit in all sorts of weird positions on the floor, couch, and dining room table, because I refuse to sit at my work desk. That desk is associated too much with my day job. I also love writing outside by the lake.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Gosh, so many. If I had to limit myself to three, I would have to say Neil Gaiman, Dan Brown, and Anthony Horowitz. But as a Canadian I have to shout out Margaret Atwood and Daniel Kalla.
What are you working on now?
Book 3, of course! But I am taking a little break. Not to worry – book 2 doesn’t end on a cliff hanger.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Recently I’ve been engaging with the “BookTok” community on TikTok. Instagram is great too.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Not really, because I don’t think I’m doing anything particularly right. Just make sure you loving writing! It should always be for yourself and the love of the story, first and foremost.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Fight for your characters.”
What are you reading now?
The Martian by Andy Weir
What’s next for you as a writer?
I would love to reach a wider audience and get more eyes on my novels. But I also want to get more on the page for my next book!
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?
Wow, that’s tough. I’m not big on re-reading. Good Omens, because I can actually read that again. House of Leaves because that’s a behemoth of mysteries. Don Quixote because I haven’t gotten through it yet and would like to. And for my fourth, some kind of desert island survival guide, please.
Author Websites and Profiles
Daria Migounova Website
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I loved the St. Isidore series! I couldn’t believe you’re a first time author. Looking forward to reading more from you in the future and wish you all the best with your budding writing career!