Interview With Author Jess Chua
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello! I'm a content specialist and award-winning essayist/sketch artist. I write poetry and flash fiction in my free time.
My debut poetry chapbook, "let it rip," was recently published by Bottlecap Press.
I've been sitting on a dark fiction chapbook. It's a little messy and disjointed, so it may not see the light of day for some time.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
"let it rip" is the title of my latest book, a poetry chapbook.
It's a collection of micropoetry inspired by the low points of my past relationship experiences. Some took a lot of pensive reflection, while some were written very quickly and intensely in a matter of minutes.
Here's an excerpt from the official blurb:
"Jess Chua’s debut poetry chapbook takes a deep dive into the breakup experience, breaking down years of turmoil and turbulence with clean precision."
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like quiet surroundings most of the time, but I enjoy energetic music in the background when I need some motivation.
And I can be all over the place when it comes to idea generation, but I like to stay organized through spreadsheets.
Astrologically speaking, I'm a Virgo Sun and Pisces Moon (with a Libra Mercury), so there's always a strong sense of opposing energies within my personality.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My favorite authors include Edgar Allan Poe and J. G. Ballard.
I'm enjoying reading and learning from a bunch of contemporary chapbooks by poets like SJ Sindu and Stacy Gnall.
What are you working on now?
I'm working on a little bit of marketing/promotion for my chapbook.
I'm trying to be more intentional and focused with my writing projects. I had a half-completed horror short story collection which needs some editing. I'm planning on going through my notes to have a clearer plan of action.
There's also a writing conference that I'm looking forward to joining in November.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I've met lots of cool writers via Twitter/X.
I enjoy maintaining my author website, though I probably should have a slightly more regular blogging schedule.
I self-published several books long ago under a pen name. The social media scene has changed a lot since then. I try to be thoughtful with marketing and promotion in terms of budgeting, genre/category, and what my goals are.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep an open mind, be true to yourself, and know what your goals or priorities are.
Always strive to have good time management skills, especially when there are lots of distractions around us on a daily basis.
Be thoughtful before you spend money on something, whether it's related to writing or something else in life. I lacked basic personal finance skills when I was younger—that portion of my life was rather stressful and without much direction as a result.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Set clear goals and create healthy habits.
I learned that from a Brian Tracy book. He has a lot of great life and productivity tips.
What are you reading now?
"The King of Style: Dressing Michael Jackson" by Michael Bush.
I've been reading this book for months, a few pages at a time. It's a gorgeous art/photography book with so many details!
What’s next for you as a writer?
Getting organized with my goals.
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'd bring wilderness and survival skills books as I have woefully little outdoor living experience.
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