Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello. I go by Magda L. I am a young self published author. For as long as I can remember, writing has been the only thing that I’ve ever really shown consistent interest and passion for. It has never left my side and has always been a reliever for me, especially since I am a big dreamer, therefore I put my ideas into writing, as well as some aspects of my life. Communication also isn’t exactly my strongest suit (introvert over here haha) therefore writing has always been a lifesaver for me, helping me express myself. I’ve self published 4 books in total. One of them was with a company, iUniverse (wasn’t the best experience) and the other three were with Amazon (which I’ll continue using for future books.)
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I am always working on stories and have plenty of drafts at home, all over my desk and room (lots of short stories lately). The last book I published on Amazon is called, “The New Kid.” It’s a book for all ages. I wrote it when I was very young, and forgot about it for a while until one day (years later lol) it resurfaced while I was rummaging through the drawers in my room. After some heavy editing, I posted it on Wattpad (Account: Wannabe04) and then turned it into a book months later. It’s a mystery/thriller, about a girl who meets a new kid who her close ones are suspicious of.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think so. Or at least, not from what I’ve noticed. I can say though, that I am very big on adding lots of dialogue in my books. I like to make the characters talk the way we do in real life (lots of filler words, pauses, etc.) Just so that the readers can feel like they’re part of the story. Oh! And actually, I might have a weird habit that I’m thinking about it. I like to sometimes create my own words, or twist the spelling around according to how I like it or imagine the character saying it. Maybe that’s not unusual, but I do it in every single book I’ve written. So in other words, I create my own writing rules as I go. Maybe that’s something other authors do, I’m not sure haha.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Ooo there are so many. I am a big fan of Eric Jerome Dickey. Chasing Destiny, Thieves Paradise, so good! But honestly, I’ve been reading since forever, and I can’t count the amount of books my hands have touched. As a kid I was into R.L Stine’s Goosebumps series, Stephen King at some point, it all changes and it’s never a specific author. I always just loved the way certain books/series were written and the way they would make me feel. I’ve always wanted to give that feeling to people one day with my own work.
What are you working on now?
Right now, I am switching back and forth between different drafts, either editing completed ones or updating new ones. One of them is more of a romance, something I don’t really focus on in my work, but I like the way this one is going as I am purposely not turning it into anything corny or cheesy. Like all of my books, I am emphasizing on the dialogue and general natural flow of the story.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Promoting is all new to me. I don’t have a big following, and therefore it is difficult for me to promote, one of the reasons I am on this site. But I’ve created a YouTube channel (Her Stories) for book trailers, and an Instagram (@_her.storiess). I also try to be active on Wattpad as well and join different communities. It’s a challenge, but I’m trying.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I would encourage all new authors to do their research (know what writing entails), never get discouraged no matter how slow the process is of getting readers and sales. It’s important to use all the effort you put into writing for marketing and self promotion as well. And never be afraid to reach out, because that’s what you want as a writer, to put yourself out there.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Always trust yourself and your instincts. And keep all your copyrights. These are things I’ve read on online articles from countless research haha.
What are you reading now?
I last reread Chasing Destiny by Eric Jerome Dickey. Before that it was Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell. I’m not sure what will be next, but we’ll see.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Really, I’m just looking to grow as a writer and attract readers. My plan is to figure out this whole promotion thing and improve on my skills along the way. I am hoping and working towards the best.
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?
Chasing Destiny – Eric Jerome Dickey (I really like this book as you can see haha)
Basketball Jones – E. Lynn Harris (ugh so good)
The Education Of Margot Sanchez – Lilliam Rivera (really liked this)
Indecent – Corrine Sullivan (good writing style)
These are what I can think of right now, but it always changes in my head
Author Websites and Profiles
Magda L Amazon Profile