Interview With Author Victor Acosta
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a Dominican-American author with a deep passion for storytelling, history, and mystery. My writing is heavily influenced by my family’s legacy, personal experiences, and a fascination with uncovering hidden truths. I believe that stories have the power to connect us to our past, challenge our perspectives, and shape our understanding of who we are.
Shadows Beneath the Shore is my debut novel, but I have been writing for years—crafting stories, exploring historical narratives, and developing characters that bring emotion and authenticity to the page. This book is just the beginning of a long journey in storytelling, and I’m excited for what’s to come.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Shadows Beneath the Shore, a historical mystery novel inspired by real-life events, family history, and the hidden struggles of generations before me.
The story came from a mix of my personal experiences, the political and economic history of the Dominican Republic, and a desire to explore the weight of family secrets. Growing up, I heard stories about the challenges my grandparents and parents faced, especially regarding land, identity, and power structures.
I wanted to bring these elements together into a gripping, emotional, and suspenseful novel that would make readers question the past, explore their own histories, and immerse themselves in a journey of discovery and truth.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t call them unusual, but I definitely have some rituals that help me get into the flow of writing:
I create a “soundtrack” – I carefully curate a playlist that matches the emotions and themes of the story. For instance in Shadows Beneath the Shore, I listened to a mix of classical suspense scores, Dominican music (Merengue, Bachata), and 80s jazz from New York.
I handwrite important scenes first – Sometimes, typing feels too mechanical, so I jot down key emotional moments in a notebook before transferring them into a digital draft.
I visualize scenes like a movie – Before I write a chapter, I close my eyes and play it out like a film in my head, thinking about camera angles, lighting, and even pacing. This helps me create immersive descriptions.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve been influenced by a mix of historical fiction, magical realism, and character-driven novels that explore deep themes of legacy, identity, and the weight of history. Some of the books and authors that have shaped my storytelling include:
Gabriel García Márquez (Cien años de soledad)
Miguel de Cervantes (Don Quijote de la Mancha)
Julia Álvarez (In the Time of the Butterflies)
Mario Vargas Llosa (The Feast of the Goat)
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on my next novel, which will continue with Tony Costa exploring themes of family legacy, historical intrigue, and buried secrets—but with a new setting and a fresh mystery.
I’m also expanding my reach as an author, working on articles for Substack, engaging with book clubs, and preparing for author events and podcasts to discuss Shadows Beneath the Shore and the historical themes behind it.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
For me, Goodreads and Instagram have been the most effective platforms. Here’s how I use them:
Goodreads: I interact with Young Adult historical fiction and mystery book clubs, run giveaways, and engage with readers who are passionate about uncovering hidden stories.
Instagram: I share behind-the-scenes content, host Q&A sessions, and post aesthetic visuals related to my book’s themes.
TikTok (BookTok): I connect with readers through short-form videos exploring the historical research behind my book, character inspirations, and storytelling techniques.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write the story only YOU can tell. Authenticity is what makes a book unforgettable.
Don’t wait for inspiration—build discipline. Writing is a craft that improves with consistency.
Engage with your readers. Readers want more than just a book; they want a connection to the author and the story behind it.
Be patient with the process. Publishing takes time. Believe in your work, and the right audience will find you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Write with honesty, edit with precision, and market with confidence.” I can’t remember who exactly but this advice reminds me that storytelling is about truth, but execution is about craft. It also reinforces that writing a book is only half the journey the real magic happens when readers connect with it.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m working on a new novel, expanding my reach with interviews, podcast appearances, and book clubs, and continuing to build a community of readers who love historical mysteries.
My goal is to keep writing stories that are thrilling, meaningful, and rooted in history, and to connect with readers who appreciate depth, suspense, and untold narratives.
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?
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez – A book that can be read a hundred times and still reveal something new.
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas – Because it’s the ultimate story of adventure, betrayal, and revenge.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho – A reminder that every journey has meaning.
A survival guide (because let’s be practical!) – If I’m stuck on an island, I might as well figure out how to make it back.
Author Websites and Profiles
Victor Acosta’s Social Media Links
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