Josie Juniper interview

 AUTHOR INTERVIEW

When did your love of books begin?

I come from a family of readers and creatives, and have always loved books. We did a lot of reading aloud, and by the time I was 4, I was already “making books” — little stapled stories which I would write and illustrate. I was an only child, awkward and nerdy, and writing was a world in which I felt confident. I started out in journalism, but always preferred fiction. Then for 15 years I worked in mathematics! I thought my writing identity was a thing of the past. When the pandemic happened, I found great comfort in writing, and now have gone back to it full time and only tutor math a few hours a day. 

What would you say to those wanting to become an author?

To those who wish to become authors, this is a great time for it! There are so many resources, and self-publishing is fun. My advice would be: keep writing, observing, and listening! Engage with a good critique group and never take feedback defensively. Every reader has good insight for you, and can help you to communicate your stories more effectively!

Tell us about your book/books:

My first book is *Wylde Strangers*, an angsty small town/big city culture-clash romance. During this time of so much political and cultural divisiveness, I love to create stories where love and friendship triumph over our differences. Delilah and Griffin are a classic opposites-attract enemies-to-lovers pair, with sizzling chemistry. Throughout the book, they not only come to understand and respect each other, despite their very disparate contexts and histories, but they understand themselves better in the process.

What do you love about the writing/reading community?

The writing and reading community is lovely! It is magical how our craving for stories connects us. I love being supportive of new writers, and getting great advice from those more experienced.

If you could say anything to your readers what would it be?

I would love for readers to check out *Wylde Strangers* — which is the first of a series of 6 books all set in Wylde — and give me feedback (either through reviews or connecting via social media) to let me know how the characters and plot twists and story arc made them feel! I am always striving to do better and give my readers something that is not only fun, but truly emotionally resonant, with themes worth contemplating.

Where can people connect with you?

I can be reached though Twitter (@rl_josiejuniper), Instagram (@josiejuniperauthor) and my website (josiejuniperauthor.com) Thank you for your interest! Hope to see you in Wylde!