Get an exclusive behind the scenes look on her upcoming book!
From spine-tingling sci-fi adventures to enchanting fantasy realms and gripping dystopian landscapes, Angela R. Watts weaves tales that captivate readers of all ages and interests. In this exclusive interview, delve into the mind of an author whose imagination knows no bounds as we uncover the secrets behind her creative process, inspirations, and the magic that brings her stories to life on the page.
Introduce yourself. What genres do you write?
Hey there! I’m Angela R. Watts, bestselling and award-nominated author of over 40 books. I write in a variety of genres, including scifi, fantasy, dystopian, and more. I write for adult audiences, young adult audiences, and children.
What first inspired you to start writing?
I’ve been telling stories since I was old enough to talk. At five or six, I narrated a picture book and illustrated it -- that was my first official book. I never looked back! So, I think the answer to this question would simply be, God put it in my spirit to write, and that’s what I have to do.
What are the inspirations for your series; The Legacy Books?
I wanted to write a clean fantasy series for my middle school nieces! I wrote the three-book series in 2022 while living in a tiny home on wheels, raising a pup, gardening, and growing closer to nature and the wonders around me. I wanted The Legacy Books to portray hope, courage, and offer a fun, immersive setting for readers to enjoy.
Who is your favorite character you've written and why?
I can’t choose just one. I love my characters as if they’re my friends. Even when a book is over, they all still follow me around.
What is your favorite scene in Leon Gains and the End of the Realms?
I can’t quite say because of spoilers, but a hint would be, the scene on the cover!
What is the main theme of your series? What message do you want the readers to get from it?
Hope and courage! As a middle-grade kid, I struggled with a lot of difficult circumstances, and I consumed a lot of fictional media. I noticed a lot of books for my age range were pretty superficial, drama ridden, and boring. So, with The Legacy Books, I wanted to offer a fun, engaging story, a cool world, and themes that readers can relate to. I hope they find within the pages that they matter, they have a purpose, and they can choose bravery, even when they’re afraid!
Are you more of a planner or a discovery writer? Do you write an outline before you start or do you like to see where the ideas lead you?
I just listen to the voices and follow where it takes me. I might have an idea, but if God and the cast go, “No.” Then it’s a no. I used to try to follow outlines because “everyone did it” but after stopping that routine, I’ve been truly free to write as God intends me to. Each story needs a different approach, so I am careful to listen to each story. Some need a super rough outline just to jot down what I *think* might happen, and others don’t.
Who are your favorite authors? Who are you inspired by?
As a kid, I loved Ted Dekker, Francine Rivers, Frank Peretti, and Bill Wallace! Now, I still enjoy those authors, but have added plenty of new ones to the mix. I am often inspired by my fellow authors that I get to talk with and support!
What advice would you give aspiring authors?
Write what you want! Don’t let anyone tell you the “right or wrong” way to write, don’t let anyone discourage you from your ideas, and most importantly, have fun!
What is your favorite thing about writing books?
Genuinely, every part of writing books is fun to me, even editing! But it’s always surreal when the characters take over and do their thing, and I’m just writing what happens. Being “there” as an author is incredible.
What is your next book coming out? What is it about?
My next middle grade book is titled FREEDOM, and it is a contemporary story. Here is a never before seen peek at the (rough draft) blurb!
12-year-old Milo Remington wants to ignore the family farm and grieve the loss of his childhood mare… but nothing goes his way. The Remington farm adopts a Native American mustang foal, and Milo is expected to tame the foal. Struggling with grieving his horse, clashing heads with his teenage older brother, and questioning his place in the world, Milo has no choice but to tame the mustang. Milo learns the true meaning of freedom because of one little horse, but will he be able to save his new foal when everything falls apart?
This book is inspired by my family’s experience in raising Native American mustangs, and my own childhood struggles of feeling invisible. I don’t have a release date yet, but the book is written, edited, and almost ready to go.
Conclusion
Angela R. Watts is a prolific author with an impressive body of work spanning across multiple genres. Her creativity and versatility are evident in the diversity of her writing, from science fiction to fantasy and dystopian themes.
If you’re looking for a fun filled middle-grade adventure with deep, hopeful messages, check out The Legacy Books! In the last book of the series, Leon Gains and the End of the Realms, Leon Gains has to forces with a king and a dragon to stop the wizards’ evil plot to destroy everything he loves.
A big thank you to Angela for taking the time to give us an exclusive look into her writing process and a sneak peek of her next book! Don’t forget to follow her everywhere to get the latest updates in her writing process!
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