Winnifred or Winnie, as most know her by, is an artist, writer, and author of her debut novel: The Gods’ Scion: Child of Tempus. As a military child, Winnie has traveled extensively around the US East Coast and Germany, learning about the history, lore, and culture of each region. Winnie has spent the last two years writing and expanding the world of The Gods’ Scion trilogy series. Winnie has had a lifelong love of literature and art. As a new writer she wants to create beautiful fantasy world with compelling and intriguing characters. Winnie resides in South Carolina and is an undergraduate at the College of Charleston. She loves to spread positivity and joy to those around her, and look at the world through a glittery pink lens.

1) First, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this interview with me!  When did you know that writing is what you were called to do? What is it about being a writer that you love the most? What about being a writer frustrates you the most?

Thank you for having me! When I knew that writing was my calling, it was since I was young. I was always a storyteller, and around the age of 12, I started putting them on paper.  What I love the most is world building. I love creating magical landscapes and fantasy realms! Editing frustrates me to no end! Ugh, but it’s one of the most essential parts of the whole process. Thankfully as time goes on, I will get better and better at it (hopefully). 

2) Can you tell us a little about your book(s) and where our readers can find out more about them and you? 

My books are heavily chartered-oriented. And the plot just goes hand in hand with the character’s motives, decisions, and pain. They are a beautiful fantasy world set in modern times with real-world problems and issues. You can find more about my writing journey and my book on my site, Win’s Books.

Website/blog: Win’s Books

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/WinnieTatawAuthor/

Facebook Fan Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/winsbookclub

Twitter: http://twitter.com/winsbooks

Instagram: Winnie Tataw (@winsbooks)

3) Where do you draw your inspiration from for the stories that you manage to weave together and the characters that you create?

Well, mainly from my head! Most of my villains are based on dictators and corrupt rulers of the world. I almost pull inspiration from my daily life and the people around me. My writing reflects my world; I just have the freedom to twist the characters the way I want.

4) What has been your most significant achievement as a writer thus far? Where do you see yourself within your career in the next five years?

Hmm, probably having readers say that they love my characters and world building. I pride my writing on those that I am grateful that others love it as much as I do. 

5) How have you dealt with rejection within your writing career? What is your advice for other writers to better be able to cope or navigate their way through the publishing process, be it traditional or self-publishing?

I’ve just kept trying…then I went to self-publishing. I love everything about it except for the editing and marketing parts. But I’m learning as I go, which I’m thankful for. My advice is to DO YOUR RESEARCH! About everything! From publishing to marketing. Learn and ask questions. There are tons of groups and people out there who are willing to help you grow. 

6) Do you find it hard to juggle the creative side of being a writer against the business side of being a writer, in terms of marketing and promotion and things of that nature? How hard has it been (or easy) for you to build up your author platform?

I don’t find it hard to balance most of the time. I just think marketing and promotion have a learning curve, and the way you go about it is different for every writer. It has been easier to build my platform when I started becoming more serious about it. Which didn’t happen until last year.  

7) So many writers say that they hate reading their own work. Do you ever enjoy reading your own work back to yourself after it’s out there for the rest of the world?

Yes! I love to reread my books! I love my characters, so I love to see their journeys and development throughout the series. 

8) Do you believe that there is ever a point in life where it’s too late for an aspiring writer to become successful in this industry?  Do you feel a late start would hinder their chances?

No! Never! You can never be too early or too late. As long as you put your work out to the world, you’re doing something many haven’t. Be proud! 

9) I feel like writing is a remarkable tool to help people not only express themselves, but also to cope emotionally and mentally.  I know for me I write to be and feel more authentic. What unique quality is there about you, about your art, that you feel represents your authenticity?  How does writing help you to be more empowered in your purpose?

I write to connect and express the pain I and others have felt. I click and have me and the readers understand their struggles and triumphs through the characters’ eyes. Now I’m no therapist or counselor, but if my writing can confront and connect with the readers and me, then I’m doing my writer’s purpose.