First, can you tell me and the readers something about yourself and about your books?
I live in Ohio and have worked in the library field for more than twenty years. I’ve been writing since high school and am the author of four mystery novels featuring teacher and amateur sleuth, Kendra Clayton. The series is set in the fictional college town of Willow, Ohio. The best way I can describe my series is that they are mysteries with humor, heart and soul ; ).
When did you know you wanted to write professionally?
I’ve wanted to write professionally for as long as I can remember. But I didn’t set out to make it a reality until my late twenties when I started writing my first Kendra Clayton novel.
What inspired you to write the Kendra Clayton series and in particular, Schooled in Lies, your newest book? What influences and experiences did you bring into the book?
Well, I’m a lifelong mystery lover. I started out reading Nancy Drew and Trixie Beldon and progressed on from there. However, there aren’t a lot of mysteries featuring African-American characters. I decided to write the kind of book I’d enjoy reading about a character I’d yet to see in mystery fiction. As for Schooled In Lies, it’s the fourth book in the series and I thought it would be fun to delve into Kendra’s past, particularly her high school days. It was great getting to know her on a deeper level. I drew on a lot of my own high school experiences for the book.
What do you like most about writing mysteries?
I love the puzzle aspect of writing mysteries. I love creating clues for readers to follow and red herrings to confuse them.
If you could be a character from your books for one day, who would it be and why?
I’d be Kendra Clayton, of course ; ). She’s a lot braver than me and certainly has a lot more excitement in her life than I do. Plus, she dates more!
Which authors are inspiring you or have inspired you the most?
Wow. There are so many: Walter Mosley, Gloria Naylor, JK Rowling, Neil Gaiman. The list goes on and on. There are so many super talented authors whose work inspires me to keep plugging away so I can improve my writing with each book.
What's your favorite and least favorite part of being a writer?
My favorite part of being a writer is creating characters and giving them a history and back-story. My least favorite part of being a writer is the isolation. It gets very lonely sometimes. My family is supportive but not knowledgeable about the writing biz. But sometimes connecting with other writers can be hard.
Do you have a dream for the future of your writing, something you’d love to accomplish?Yes. I’d love to be published in a variety of genres and be able to write fulltime.
MANY THANKS,ANGELA!
For more about Angela Henry and her books, visit her official website here
Great interview! Can't wait to read Schooled In Lies. :-)
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