Interview With Author Madison Taylor
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi there,
I’m a self-publishing author who has always written short stories. My lifelong dream is to be an author, but with my day (and night) job being a Ph.D. student, I haven’t had much time to dedicate to it. I’ve been able to write more recently and wrote my first novel, which is out now! I plan to write for as long as I breathe, knowing my ultimate happy place is in my office, typing away at whatever fictional story I cook up.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called The Thief of Stormwell. I was inspired by medieval and royalty stories, coming up with my own and adding a few different twists that make it unique. I wanted a main character that would empower readers, showing them that having flaws and making mistakes doesn’t make you the villain. She goes through her trials (a few of them unfair) and comes out the other side, although not unscathed, but better. I look up to my main character, knowing if I was ever thrown into an unknown world, I would want to act like her.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have ADHD, so in the first few months of writing my novel, I would hyper-fixate, then leave it alone for a few weeks. I’ve since been put on medication which has helped me greatly! I also use writing sprints, where you write as much as you can in a given time period (I go for 20 minutes) and you worry about the editing later. It helps get the content out, which is often hard to do.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Kerry Maniscalco has been one of my favorite authors for years. I’ve torn through each of her books and have used her as a role model in my writing!
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on the sequel to The Thief of Stormwell, but I also have a secret pet project that I’m working on when I can.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve found using email lists and promoting through others’ lists very helpful. It’s helpful to have other authors read and review your books, so growing a community is key.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
It’s a daunting challenge. Sometimes stories flow and sometimes they don’t. The best thing I ever did was let the story flow. It’s okay to write chapters that suck and you know are going to get cut later. Sometimes that’s what it takes to get where you need to go. Don’t force anyone to do anything. Characters do grow a sense of independence, so try to let them figure out where they’re going next.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
My favorite saying is “a first draft’s only purpose is to exist”. This has helped me immensely in overcoming my imposter syndrome. Just get it on the paper. You can rewrite, edit, tear it apart, or whatever you need you to do later.
What are you reading now?
I’m listening to Love at First Spite by Anna. E Collins.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m currently taking courses to help refine my writing skill. I’m always looking to learn so I see myself doing that forever.
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?
Tough one!
A Secret History by Donna Tartt, Survive the Night by Riley Sager, and The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren.
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