Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Alisha Horton, though I go by A. N. Horton as my pen name. When I’m not writing, I spend my time with my husband and toddler, my corgi, and the non-profit organization I co-founded. As a lifelong writer, I have won two Watty awards and have a series of four published mystery/historical fiction novels to my credit as well as the first book in a YA Fantasy series through the same publisher and a self published dark fantasy romance. I run a freelance writing and
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called All That Falls and it was inspired by my desire to craft a dark romance in a fantasy world. I wanted a flawed character to face moral dilemmas and an anti-hero that my readers could fall in love with. Hence, Seren and Lark.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Most people think it’s unusual that I have time to write at all given that I have a toddler. But while most people seem to need silence to focus while they write, I thrive in chaos and noise. Usually, I have plenty of that from my son playing with his toys or watching his cartoons but even when he’s not around I find myself playing music or putting on the news just so there is some sound in my writing environment.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Too many to count. I would credit Victoria Aveyard and her Red Queen series for getting me interested in the fantasy genre in the first place. Then I would credit Leigh Bardugo for showing me that flawed characters and morally gray plots sometimes hold more sway than light hearted heroism. Finally, I would credit Sarah J. Maas for teaching me that, even in those dark places, love can find a way and that story is even more beautiful because of it.
What are you working on now?
It is the curse of the overly prolific writer to always be balancing far too many projects at once. For now, I’m hard at work on book 2 of the Immortal Plane series, the one that will follow All That Falls. I am also busy working with my editor on the second book in my published YA Fantasy series, Broken But Unburnt, as well as querying a third book in the science fiction realm to agents in the industry.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use Instagram for promotions more than any other social media because I have the most interactive followers there. I do a lot of giveaways or Q&A sessions.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Always be open to constructive criticism. I see too many authors who never improve upon their writing or are able to properly advertise their work because they wouldn’t take anyone’s friendly advice. No matter how great you become, you can always grow from the perspectives of your peers.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
From a literary agent once, I heard “Wherever you think your book starts, you’re probably three chapters too early.” That helps me in my writing and as I prepare for publication because it reminds me not to start with too much exposition or world building. Jump right into the action and let it all be explained organically throughout the telling of the story.
What are you reading now?
Sarah J. Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses series.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Completing my fantasy series’ and putting pen to paper on all of the ideas in my head!
What is your favorite book of all time?
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
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