1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
Writing has been my passion since childhood. It has been my dream since then to be a writer as a long-term career.
Aside from writing I love cross stitching, photography and crafting. I’ve been writing for Fansided for years, more specifically Show Snob where I cover television show recaps and news for several shows including The Walking Dead and Bridgerton.
2) What inspired you to write your book?
I have had a deep love, passion and interest in Ancient Egypt since I’ve been about 12 years old.
I wanted to write a book that could transport readers to that time, with the focus being the story of a strong but vulnerable young woman. I wanted her story to appeal to readers, get them invested and want to follow her journey through several books.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
Firstly I hope readers will learn a lot about Ancient Egypt, with the possibility of loving the time period as much as I do. It is a very rich and plentiful time period that we constantly discover and learn more about.
Secondly, my hope is for readers to connect with Aoh, almost to the point where they believe she once existed. Although she is fictional, she’s inspirational in the sense she’s brave, loyal, and stays true to herself and her beliefs.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
Honestly, I wasn’t drawn to the genre. When I get inspiration for a story, I let the idea run wild. If the story winds up becoming scary, then it will fit into the horror genre. If it takes a more whimsical, magical and eerie route, like my other book Carousel, then it will fit into the fantasy genre. Admittedly, writing a historical fiction/young adult book has been a lot of fun as I got to apply my love for Ancient Egypt and turn into a tale that I hoped readers would find to be refreshing, new and compelling.
5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
It’s hard to choose just one but probably the Pharaoh’s mother Aneski. Admittedly she was not a planned character upon my first draft of Aoh but she’s become one of my favorite characters overall. She’s quick witted, honest but sassy as well. I’d probably ask her about all of the palace gossip, since she seems to know and observe a lot. She’d probably deny knowing anything though.
6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
That is a tough question as I believe social media is very tricky in general. It’s always changing and social media platforms seem to shift in relevance constantly. But I will say Facebook has been the most helpful. I created my Facebook page: Books and Poetry by Jennifer Renson some years ago and since then I’ve learned how to use it effectively.
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
If you want to write, do it. Go for it. Don’t be afraid to try. You don’t have to start with a full blown novel. You can start small and grow from there. Remember there is no apology for passion.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
I’m currently writing a new book that is separate from Carousel and Aoh. Don’t worry there is a Aoh sequel coming. Aoh’s story isn’t over yet.
I am in the process of planning several book talk and signing events for later this year.
My hope is that as I work hard in promoting my books and passion more opportunities will arise.
I’d love to be able to attend conventions and events where I can meet my readers, dive into Aoh’s story, and see my book on top selling charts.
About the Author
Jennifer Renson-Chiappetta’s passion for writing began in childhood. Her writing career spanned from articles in Lost Treasure Magazine to her self-published poetry books; Delightfully Dark: A Collection of Poems and Tales, Eo: Go, walk, ride, sail, pass, travel and Uncharted. She is the author of the modern-day fairy tale novel Carousel. Presently she is a mother and wife; she enjoys spending her time with her family and friends, writing, crafting, specifically cross stitching and reveling in Victorian Era ambiances while living in New Jersey.
Social media links:
Instagram @jenny.renson Jennifer Renson-Chiappetta (@jenny.renson) | Instagram
Facebook Book and Poetry by Jennifer Renson Facebook
Goodreads Aoh by Jennifer Renson | Goodreads
Purchase links:
Amazon.com: Aoh: Renson, Jennifer: 9798397459280: Amazon.com: Books
Barnes & Noble: Aoh by Jennifer Renson, Paperback | Barnes & Noble® (barnesandnoble.com)
