Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a up and coming author who’s released my first book. I’ve written poetry since I was in middle school, but writing an actual book was something I had given up on until a year and a half ago. That was when I began taking story writing a lot more seriously. I’m currently working on a poetry book that I hope to release either the end of 2021 or beginning of 2022.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Khyrus: Deity of Virtue & Strength is my first and latest book. I was inspired to write it because of my husband and also I had an idea that I wanted to write something that was entertaining, appropriate for most age groups and also have a valuable lesson by the end f the story. I like stories that grab my attention but also allow me to gain knowledge in some form. This was my way of doing so myself.
The message is that, in order to protect yourself, your people and your home, you have to be brave enough to stand up to the foe. Not just brave, but be wise enough to come up with a plan and have the means to carry it out. Also, never harm someone who’s innocent. You’ll feel like you’re winning, but Karma hits twice as hard.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’ll begin writing multiple poems at once. Then I’ll complete them in the order I began writing or complete them in random order. I get multiple ideas at once and don’t want to lose any of them. Novels are a little different. For each novel, I’ll figure out what the title and storyline are going to be. Then I’ll begin coming up with character names, personalities and roles in the story. Afterwards, I’ll pick one story ad focus on that until complete and published. The I’ll slowly begin the next project.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Maya Angelou inspired me to write poetry. That inspiration to write poems soon turned into multiple notebooks full of them. Once I grew up, I felt that it would be an awesome idea if I attempted to compile some of them and publish. I just put that on the backburner to put majority of my focus on Photography.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a poetry book. It’s going to be the first in a trilogy. It’ll be titled Traumas Behind: Heartbreak. All of the poems included will be about some of the traumas I’ve faced during and after some horrible relationships: boyfriends, family, friends, etc. Until I met my husband and certain others in my group, I’ve never really talked about any of those things or shared these poems with anyone. As the last step in healing from this, I’ve chosen to stop holding onto to those negative thoughts/emotions and share my talent with those who love to read.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I promote them on all my social media platforms, on social media groups and in person. I also have a website that showcases everything I’ve written, links to where they can be purchased and more. I mostly promote in person, but social media helps out a huge deal because I can reach people who aren’t close enough for me to travel to regularly.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Never be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are how we acquire knowledge. No one is born knowing how to do everything. Therefore, never be afraid to attempt something new, ask questions, make mistakes or be a student. Just never be afraid and tell yourself you can’t do anything. That was ne of many mistakes I learned from along with the many questions I’ve had. A lot of trial, error, mistakes and fixes, but it’s all worth it when you’re finished and doing so much better than you lied to yourself about. Your story will never be heard or read if you keep it for yourself.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You’ll never accomplish anything if you let fear dictate your life. You’re brave, tough and intelligent, so be that and more. Because people will have opinions regardless.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently rereading a lot of my old poems. I’m also rereading one of my favorite books: The Secret Life of Bees.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My next step is to get a cover made for my next book, do some editing over the next few moths (at least) and have it out by this upcoming Winter or Spring.
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?
Survival/camping book, book on foods to eat/avoid in that area and a book on how to get back home. I’ll never allow myself to be stuck somewhere.
Author Websites and Profiles
Rachel Griffin Website
Rachel Griffin’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account