Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a Black female writer who focuses on the woman’s experience. I am an engineer in the US Navy who is currently serving active duty. I have written for publications like Blavity and have also published my own work of prose titled A Compilation of Female Truth that can be found on Amazon as well as Barnes and Noble.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest work is actually in the editing phase and will be published this summer. It’s is titled Of Glitter, Honey & Gold. The inital inspiration behind the title and meaning was to show the journey of a woman from childhood which the Glitter represents to Honey which represents the experience as a young woman and Gold which is a nod to the future. As I was writing it began to take a more personal turn; I decided to be more specific about The Who and The Why. I decided to write about the Black girls experience and the Lil things I’ve seen coming up. It’s a celebration of blackness and the fabulous women I’ve watched and emulated as I’ve grown. I feel it’s going to be relatable, fun, thought provoking and it may have moments where people feel uncomfortable.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write at work. I write a lot while taking my dog out to use the bathroom at night. I sort of go into this mental fantasy world where I set a scene and drift there; then I write it out in my phone notes. It’s so much more authentic than prompts especially when I’m experiencing a block in creativity.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I am very influenced by Alex Elle who is an amazing poet that I follow in Instagram. I love Toni Morrison and a lot of old school writers because they give me true childhood nostalgia. Two of my favorite fiction writers thy truly inspire me would N.K. Jemisin and V.E. Schwab who both send me on true adventures.
What are you working on now?
Of Glitter, Honey & Gold but I am also working on a fiction book that’s introducing more Black sci-fi into the world.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve typically used Instagram and other social media sites. Hashtags with poetry are your best friend. Also, due to the algorithm it’s a good idea to slide in the dms if you want people to see what you’re putting out. Also, pre-covid having an event to promote was a true blessing.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I would say try not to compare. Just because you don’t have an agent or big publishing that’s not to say that what you have to say isn’t as important. Stay the course and you’ll get what you deserve and more. You will touch so many with your words if you maintain true and allow yourself to grow.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Be adventurous and to let my experience as a Black woman drive me into advocacy. Advocacy doesn’t have one voice nor one tone. It’s advice I gave myself but I’m sure it’s derivative lies with my mother and sisters.
What are you reading now?
Reincarnation Blues by Michael Poore. It’s quite interesting and was a find from the Dollar Tree. Never sleep on the Dollar Tree books they are great reads.
What’s next for you as a writer?
What’s next? A lot of fiction books is next. An agent is next and I may get back into writing articles. That’s something I love doing but between work and my writing deadlines it gets hard but that’s my next step.
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?
I would take the series of
V.E. Schwab for sure without question.
Author Websites and Profiles
Erynne Byrd Website
Erynne Byrd Amazon Profile