Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Wendy L. Anderson. I’m a writer of passionately charged fantasy. I have 14 books self-published on Amazon. My first 5-book series is the Kingdom of Jior series and starts with my debut novel, Of Demon Kind. I went on to write a spinoff series, The Legends of Everclearing, which is currently a 4-book series.
I also have a passion for Viking Historical Fantasy. I’ve written 3 stand-alone books in that fantasy genre. My other fantasy books have themes of time-travel, fairytale rewrite and I always have a bit of romance included.
My fantasy has action, adventure, and suspense with just the right amount of romance and steam! Find out more at: www.wendylanderson.com
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My most recently published book was, Valkyrie’s Prey. I am often inspired by “what if” statements when I write. The one I had that inspired this book was, “What if a Valkyrie did not want to give up a worthy warrior to Odin and Valhalla and tried to keep him for herself?” From that came a heart wrenching Norse mythology inspired romance.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
As a pantser, I have a lot of unusual writing habits. One would be that sometimes I re-read my manuscript from the beginning before I can go on to write the next chapter. This reinforces my creative vision and helps me add to the plot. I also edit as I go, write scenes out of order, and highlight areas I want to flesh out more. I think the result is a well-thought-out, more interesting story that I can direct toward uncommon themes.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Robert E. Howard was my biggest influence growing up as I read every book and short story he wrote. Conan the Barbarian first inspired me to write fantasy and set my imagination on fire.
Morgan Llywelyn got me deeply interested in historical fiction and sparked my love for Irish folklore.
What are you working on now?
I love dragons and am working on a dragon fantasy! The Dragon Thief’s Heart is well underway. When eleven-year-old Kieran’s quest for warrior glory leads him to unwittingly steal a dragon egg, his life spirals into a breathtaking adventure. The egg hatches, revealing a dragon girl who be-comes his closest ally and ignites a forbidden love. As their bond deepens, they face a relentless pursuit by the dragon’s vengeful mother, determined to reclaim her stolen child and punish the thief. With the dragon girl shifting into a human and their love growing ever stronger, Kieran and his dragon companion must navigate a dangerous world filled with peril and intrigue. The question is: can their love survive the wrath of a heartbroken mother dragon and the threats of an unseen realm? You will be immersed in this epic tale of adventure, love, courage, and romance.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I struggle to remain relevant on social media, but try my hand at Instagram, Meta, and TikTok. I also have a newsletter I send out every other week from my website. I love engaging with my readers through both. My website has a newsletter sign-up and that is the best, most satisfying way I promote my books and talk about my writing.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just sit down and write! Too many authors get caught up in minutia and held back by so-called ‘writing rules’ that they second-guess everything to the point they can’t move forward. I’d advise getting the messy draft down and then going back to fix it, but you have to write it first before you can dive into the rest. Always do what works best for you and what you want to accomplish with your stories.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“You can’t edit a blank page!” It is so true! Just write!
What are you reading now?
I just finished Danethrall, by Gwendoline SK Terry. It is a Viking Historical trilogy. I’m looking forward to reading, Rise to Fall, the second book in the trilogy.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My next big step is to retire from my day job and become a full-time writer! I have three WIPs and so many ideas that I am inspired to finish. I’m looking forward to this next chapter in my life and in my writing career. It is a huge step, but I believe I’m up to the task!
What is your favorite book of all time?
By far, BEOWULF is my favorite. As the cornerstone of early English literature, it tells the story of a warrior who fights monstrous foes and becomes a mighty king. Beowulf possesses every characteristic I love: strength, loyalty, virtue, and courage.
I love everything about the history, the story, the culture, the warriors, and the monsters. I can’t get enough of the poetic nature of the writing and the exciting, heart-pounding adventure.
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