Best-selling author Mikel Wilson took the world by storm with The Hybrid series. This science fiction/fantasy series is filled with everything one could possibly ask for: action, mystery, romance, werewolves, vampires, Greek gods, and so much more. Despite such success, Wilson has not let it get to his head. Mikel Wilson was born and raised in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Being the youngest of nine children–four boys and five girls–Mikel Wilson was never lonely. Growing up, religion had been a major influence, mainly because he was the son of a preacher. This influence is still with him today, as he is the minister of music at his church. Mikel Wilson is married to Danielle and they have four children together.

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?

Writing was something that was brought on by a dare after reading a horrible book that my friend at the time was reading. She said I bet you can’t write anything better and my answer was watch and see. 

When I wrote the story Shattered But Not Easily Broken I was so into it that I cried. The feedback I received from that book really help me decide it was my calling. 

Writing is my escape from the real world, a place where my imagination has no buffer and not to be cliché’ but for that hour or so I’m writing, I’m free. 

Sometimes I am frustrated with the marketing side, some things work and some things don’t but I am always willing to try something new to get new readers. 

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

Well I write in several genre’s my latest “Something For Susan is a murder mystery/thriller. Most of my books range from YA fantasy to Christian fiction. They are available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Books a Million. “Picking up the Shattered Pieces” is available at Walmart.com and I am also very active on social media I use Facebook a lot more than others.

3) What projects are you currently working on?

Currently I have a book set to release in October called “A Fallen kingdom” its a Ya fantasy and book 3 to my shattered series A Broken and Shattered Vessel set to release in 2022.

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?

So far USA today bestselling status was huge but then the tv interviews and newspaper front pages have just made this journey so exciting! In the next five years I see NYT and possibly Netflix so stay tuned! 

5) How have you dealt with rejection within your writing career?

Rejection was easy for me to deal with I’m used to it. Either you love me or hate me. It’s not a big deal. 

6) Do you have a schedule for when you write?  Do you outline your novels?  How long does it generally take you to finish a novel?

I usually write at night when my kids are sleep. Having 4 kiddos can be hectic at times but at night in silence is the best! I have learned that outlines really help me a lot with my stories. And it usually takes a couple months to get a book finished and shipped to my editor! 

7) 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?

Well honestly I’m a firm believer in as long as you have breath in your body you can do anything that you set your mind to. And a late start actually helps because it keeps you from being drawn into some of the childish drama in the Indie world. 

8) Are you an avid reader and have you always been? What’s the first book you ever read that really touched you emotionally and moved you?  Who is your favorite author? What book are you currently reading?

I love to read! Its an escape for me and its so very relaxing. My first books that really touched me emotionally was the cooper kids adventures by Frank E Peretti. 

My favorite authors list is huge! I love so many Indies and some well known signed authors. I am currently reading Awakened Magic by Jen Grey. 

9) The Pandemic was a challenging time for some writers and creative individuals but also for others it was time that they needed to focus on their creative passions. Which side of that spectrum do you fall on? Are there any lessons or nuggets of wisdom that you gained during the Pandemic that help you within your writing career? Did the quarantine stifle your creativity or did it make you even more driven to get things done?

Well my mother was weak during the pandemic after fighting several strokes. I helped her and was still able along with Some other Indie authors able to help create a world in the Rise of the Elites. Which did great! So I will say being under the pressure possibly help me create one of my best books in “Ascension Of the Blood Throne.” 

10) What are your thoughts about how the publishing industry as it is being represented today? Do you lean more towards traditional publishing or self-publishing as a preference? Does being a hybrid author interest you? 

I love being an Indie, I work hard for every book that I release, some do amazing others have not done well but I continue to push. If a big publishing company wants to sign me they can feel free to hit me up.

11) 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 directly from my heart if I don’t feel a story I cant write it. I laugh, I cry I have even become depressed by what I out my characters through. They are an extension of my very being. And I hope my readers can feel them like I do.