Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My creative writing journey started with poetry, right from when I was nine-years old! A poem I wrote in school, ‘Street Party’ won the 2011 Poetry Rivals’ competition. I won more poetry awards over the years, including ‘Ten of the Best.’ I quickly grew restless with poetry and wanted something more; I started on short stories, with two short stories winning runner-up’s in competitions. Since then, I have written a fictional book for my Extended Project Qualification at A-level in which I received an ‘A’ grade. I have now self-published my best piece of writing, ‘Red, Green & Gold,’ which is set in a world that directly mirrors our own, including covid-19 at the centre of its plot.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is ‘Red, Green & Gold.’ It was inspired very suddenly, so I’m afraid I can’t say what specifically urged me to write it! The moral debate at its core developed as I wrote- it’s all very controversial, which I like! Books readers can discuss are always the best types of book.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to write better when lying on my stomach or standing up, oddly enough!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Terry Hayes’ ‘I am Pilgrim’, ‘The Five People you meet in Heaven’ by Mitch Albom and Cassandra Clare have all influenced me incredibly! I also adore comedic authors such as Derek Landy and Louise Rennison, whose books I constantly re-read and totally recommend!
What are you working on now?
I am currently polishing up a research-driven story I wrote two years ago, on Jack the Ripper. I’m excited for everyone to fall in love with Edward Silverwood, my loveable new protagonist.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Promoting my books on social media and asking friends and family to add your promotion onto their own social media, so it spreads further.
My Instagram is @liviaau_456
Do you have any advice for new authors?
DON’T over-edit and doubt yourself! If you like what you’ve written, take the plunge and get it published!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“You don’t write the story; the story writes you.”
What are you reading now?
‘The Lucifer Effect’ by Philip Zimbardo. It is not a light read, though!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to keep writing! It’s something I’ve been doing almost my entire life. Perhaps I will release some short stories, but I don’t know yet!
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 am Pilgrim’ and any ‘Skulduggery Pleasant’ or ‘Georgia Nicholson’ books!
Author Websites and Profiles
Olivia Anthony-Uzoeto Amazon Profile