Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I enjoy my time, doing things that make me happy, which is not always the best idea but it has made for some great stories. I just released my first book. It’s called Runaway and although it is a stand-alone book, it is actually the first glimpse into my fantasy world Kismet, which means destiny/fate.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book, which is my first, is called Runaway. My years in college inspired it. The prologue was first written in a creative writing course where my classmates peer-reviewed it. As my years went on, I enjoyed dabbling with where that first part would go and wrote the now first chapter for the same class. Over time, what really kept the writing going, is viewing this as my internal struggle with depression and how it made me feel like I had no control over myself, especially my mind. Each character became a new personality of how I would fight against the darkness and heaviness every day. Towards the end of the book, it occurred to me that Conn, the antagonist, could represent anything dark that a person goes through.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have to be standing, able to pace, and walk around. Something about moving helps keep my brainstorming flowing. I would also argue that my writing is better at night because I can look at the stars and the moon (most nights). The stars and moon have provided me the greatest conversations despite being unable to physically talk back. They give me a feeling of home and security and I’m normally alone when looking at the night sky. It has become a sacred ritual for me that I refuse to allow anyone to interfere with.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Well, the earliest I can remember is the Magic Tree House books by Mary Pope Osborne. Darkside books by Tom Becker. The Grimm Fairy Tales beat out Disney’s renditions (unless they are animals). In my young adult years, it was the Graceling realm books by Kristin Cashore. Then I read His Fair Assassin books by Robin LaFevers. There was always Steven King books, my top at the moment is Doctor Sleep. Angels and Demons by Dan Brown. Innocence by Dean Koontz. In college, I was exposed to Native American literature (the captive stories leave a mark), African American Literature (Toni Morrison my favorite), British Literature (mostly poetry, Percy Bysshe Shelley #1), and now I’m really into Irish ghost stories (Fitz James O’Brien). Personally, I read constantly and am influenced by each reading whether or not I enjoy it.
What are you working on now?
I am developing the world of Kismet, this time from an American Mortal woman who takes the opportunity to be converted into a witch. After her transformation, she is on a probation period where developed witches will teach her the ways of the elements as she lives in a vampire’s half-way home for converted mortals (vampires, werewolves, etc). At this moment (12.9.20), there is a plan for five books with the potential of more.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I don’t want to seem like I am only promoting. I want my writing to do the most. By recruiting readers and encouraging them to honestly review my books for other readers to make their own decision if the story is meant for them is my main concern. I do use Twitter and Instagram to be a part of the writer’s community, writers supporting writers, and understanding my audience comes most from these social media sites. KDP Select program on Amazon is great since I am a new author having to start at the beginning to gain fans/loyal readers. I do have a website, it is currently under construction. Right now I’m developing a page called Books, Book, Books which shows the covers of the books I have read and recommend for others. The best method, I think, is not to limit oneself to one source of promotion. There are sites, just like Awesome Gang, that allow for free promotions, paid promotions, advertising off Amazon, or onlinebookclub.org has a review for a review platform.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Follow the authors that you aspire to be and learn the ways that contribute to their success. Then go figure out what works best for you. Also, A Year Of Writing Dangerously by Barbara Abercrombie has been of great comfort and reassurance to me. I highly suggest you go find yourself a copy, to own or to borrow from your local library.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
If there is a book that you want to read but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it. Toni Morrison
What are you reading now?
Currently, I am reading the third book in the Harry Potter series, The Bloodaxe Book of 20th Century Poetry (edited by Edna Longley), and Irish Ghost Stories (Collectors Library, selection and introduction by David Stuart Davies). Up next is Tiger’s Curse by Colleen Houck and Intentions by Oscar Wilde.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Gaining followers, promoting Runaway, developing my website, making connections and friends in the writing community, and writing challenges (60,000 words in one month) for my upcoming books.
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 would take 4 blank 5 subject notebooks, each with a full and functioning pen stuck in the metal spiral binding. Hands down.
Author Websites and Profiles
Sammy Rose Sheffield Amazon Profile
Sammy Rose Sheffield’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account