Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born and raised in the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans, Louisiana. There is where i fell in love with the history and culture that filled the Holy Cross neighborhood on Dauphine street. With my grandfather part of the Yellow Pocahontas, Mardi Gras Indian tribe. As their Wild Man, it add to the love and passion that i have for history and culture.
I have written one book so far, with another on the way at the end of this year. I really enjoy writing dark fantasy, though i started writing poetry when i was in the 7th grade.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Moonlight; Chronicles of the Four Arrows.
Learned about my family background, coming from Haiti after the revolution, and my Grandmother’s parents who were Louisiana natives from French Acadia. Taking both of my cultures and turning folktales into an epic high fantasy thrill ride.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write with pen and paper before typing it up on a Word document.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
James Patterson, Darren Shan, J. K. Rowling, and my dear friend L. D. Goodman
What are you working on now?
A Christmas story that takes place in New Orleans, and I’m using my Louisiana Creole traditions that I grew up with to show readers that there is more to the Big Easy other than Mardi Gras. This city has so much rich history and diverse culture that is overflowing with amazing stories.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook and Instagram ads, using their adverting to promote your page to pull more people to your website. Local book stores, and using websites that best work with the type of audience you are trying to build.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t second guess yourself, you become your own biggest enemy that way. Get out of your head!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
School is important, and important to do well.
What are you reading now?
Blue, By Lisa Glass
What’s next for you as a writer?
Use my passion for history and culture as a way to reach those who are eager to discover, and learn about new cultures. A voice for those who don’t yet have a voice of their own or are not heard. literature is the most powerful knowledge that everyone should have access to.
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?
The complete 4-book set of the Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard.
Author Websites and Profiles
Justin Marcell Russell Website
Justin Marcell Russell Amazon Profile
Justin Marcell Russell’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile