Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a novelist, songwriter, poet, and playwright who grew up in Bellingham, WA among the trees and mountains, only to find myself in ultra sunny Florida.
I’ve published two books in my sci-fi series, Shiva XIV, a spiritual fairy tale, The Rainbow Serpent, and a poetry collection called Sediments.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is the second in the Shiva XIV Series: The Veil of Truth. It carries on the epic story of Ayn, a boy with a prophesied destiny to save his galaxy from disease and war. In Veil of Truth, Ayn must fight to survive in a world he’s never known while a great enemy closes in, threatening all he loves.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not that I know of, unless I’m doing something odd without my knowledge. Usually, it’s just me pounding away at my laptop. I’m the fastest two finger typist in the West.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Almost all of Hermann Hesse’s books have greatly influenced me, but especially Siddhartha, Steppenwolf, and Narcissus and Goldmund. I also love Tolkien, Rowling, Pirsig, and Pullman.
What are you working on now?
I’m hard at work editing the third installment of Shiva XIV: The Riddle of the Gods. I’m hoping for a release this autumn, just before winter.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Goodreads is great for making connections, but my official website is www.lyrashanti.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up! Even if the work seems endless or the road is hard, don’t stop until that story is finished and you’ve shown it to the world!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just breathe.
What are you reading now?
I just finished a great space opera by Daniel M. Quilter entitled A Soul Divided. I’m now reading a few interesting books by fellow indie authors: The Gaiad by William Burcher, Miriamne the Magdala by J.B. Richards, and Dragons of Daegonlot by Shanlynn Walker.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I just finished writing the fourth book in my Shiva XIV series, and I’m beginning a new young adult fantasy series about a boy with a deep connection to dragons. Having written in a sci-fi world for so long now, I’m looking forward to diving into full on fantasy.
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 Lord of the Rings (my favorite being Return of the King,) Siddhartha, Harry Potter (can all 7 count as one?!), and The Subtle Knife (book 2 of His Dark Materials.)
Author Websites and Profiles
Lyra Shanti Website
Lyra Shanti Amazon Profile
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