Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been writing since I was old enough to type a picture book on the computer, print it out, and illustrate it myself. Horses and romance are a huge part of everything I write. I’ve written so many books. Some will never see the light of day. But two are published, and I hope to publish others, too.
Example of some that may never be published: I wrote a 30 book series based on My Little Ponies when I was really young. I remember my grandmother helping me contact Hasbro to ask if I could have permission to publish with their Pony names. Of course, they said no, and my young heart was crushed, but in the end I had much more fun making up my own names.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Ariel: The First Guardian is my latest, and it is by far my favorite. Ariel Harte is such a gutsy character but she’s also a softy. The story was inspired by two big events in my life. The first was a bad break-up. Ariel has to deal with something that her ex said to her years ago, and that’s also a quote I struggled to get over in my own life. Writing the story with Ariel helped me find healing and meaning. The second inspiration was a tragic incident when my first horse broke his leg. It’s not easy losing a big animal like that. They feel like family. (But I promise Ariel’s story does have a happy ending.)
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Maybe? It’s hard to tell because, at least as far as I know, no writer shares ALL of his or her writing secrets… Then you’d really think we’re crazy.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love Maggie Stiefvater’s The Scorpio Races. I want my voice to be that colorful and poetic while simultaneously carrying so much suspense. And for Ariel’s story specifically, her voice was modeled a lot after Max from James Patterson’s Maximum Ride series.
What are you working on now?
I am working on book 3 in the Guardians of Agalrae trilogy.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Twitter. There are so many opportunities for connections. I often give away ebooks in exchange for an honest review.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up! And realize that publishing will not validate you. Rather, see publishing as an opportunity to get your story to someone who needs it. You have the power to change someone’s life right at your fingertips. If you fight for your dream and don’t accept defeat, you’ll make it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Work like it depends on you and pray like it depends on God. ~Mark Batterson
What are you reading now?
A coworker handed me something that I normally wouldn’t read, but the story is so interesting I can’t help myself. It’s The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m working to get integrated into a writing community. Writing is so solitary. It’s important to get together with other writers and support each other.
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?
Oh, goodness. I would take Ariel’s story because it has such a special place in my heart. Then a copy of the Bible, The Scorpio Races, and whatever Shakespeare I can get my hands on.
Author Websites and Profiles
Sydney Scrogham Website
Sydney Scrogham Amazon Profile
Sydney Scrogham’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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