Interview With Author Hayley Mitchell
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I started writing children’s books back in 2012 when my first child was born. Three boys later and I know have almost a dozen picture books, a handful of poetry books, two verse novels and my first novel for adults under my belt (along with a lot of stress related chocolate consumption).
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Tragedy of Medusa is my latest book. I’ve always been fascinated by Greek mythology and the many variations of the myth of Medusa particularly intrigued me. I wanted to write something that explained how she could be both a mortal beauty attacked by Poseidon and yet have two gorgon sisters. I hope this book goes some way to drawing those two narratives together.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write in very shorts bursts when my three boys are distracted. There are no unusual habits per sey but I did write this entire novel on my Freewrite typewriter.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have a wide range of favourite genres and authors but I love the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, the lyrical retellings of Madeline Miller, the tear jerking ability of Nicholas Sparks and the story weaving of Stephen King! An odd combination but certainly inspiring!
What are you working on now?
I have just started work on my next Greek myth retelling, that will be a dual POV love story/tragedy.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am still very new to promotion and am learning each and every day. I’m still hoping to find the formula that works for me!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just write. I think you have to remember that you are writing a first draft, a first book etc. don’t expect every line to be a masterpiece or you’ll never finish.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write the book you want to see on the shelves.
What are you reading now?
The Stand by Stephen King
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d love to build my name in ,mythology retellings but first I need to learn how to promote and possible master TikTok! I also fancy writing something based on local history too…
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?
Romeo and Juliet
Jane Eyre
Green Mile
Fight Club
And of course Tragedy of Medusa
Author Websites and Profiles
Hayley Mitchell Amazon Profile
Hayley Mitchell’s Social Media Links