Today, we’re talking with Anka B. Troitsky about her book, Object & Vist: Book 1 in the Vist series (Who is Vist).
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I came to the UK from Kazakhstan over 30 years ago. I am an old scholar, and although I left my profession to my past, I still look at the world and people as scientists. I am not a big fan of people, but I love animals and plants, video games, and beautiful things that good people can create.
Why do you write?
I started writing recently, but I have been a storyteller all my life. I love entertaining people by taking them on a journey to a different world, asking them questions within my narrative and hoping they will think of an answer. My characters are fictional, but their story is still about us. Who else?
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
My father. He was a man who took me on the reading journey and showed me the wonders of sci-fi and fantasy. His book collection now gives me the courage to write my books. As soon as I start, the manuscript seems to be writing itself, and I love being there with my characters, having an adventure.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I don't like how our world is going, so I created a new one in my fantasy and welcome you there. There is a whole universe full of possibilities and wonders to explore that my favourite genre allows.
How would you describe your writing process?
The hardest part is to get to my desk. Life always gets in the way. However, once I am here, I am gone from this world. I lock the door and turn my phone off; only my cats are allowed to stay with me. Sometimes, it feels like the story is controlling me rather than me creating it. I lose myself in the narrative, and time flies.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
I have a great respect for self-publishing authors. I have my reasons. Marketing has become our second most time-consuming job, so any honest means are good enough. Social media can help, but there are lots of things to avoid.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Write, write, write, as much as you can. Read a lot, and never skip professional editing. Find your readers and be one big family.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I am still learning to come up with a good title, and I try a few before I pick one. Sometimes I ask for help. But the cover is completely down to me.
What's your next step?
To finish book 4 in the series.
What book do you wish you had written?
I love all the books of Terry Pratchett, but there is a one I wish was mine: NATION
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
Every review is precious. I am grateful for everyone's opinion, even a critical one. I would love to be able to respond with my gratitude. I love all my readers because they are my guests, and I must become a gracious hostess.
