Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Flower.
Hi Amanda, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I decided that I wanted to be a writer at eleven years old and focused on that dream my whole life. I never wavered from it. To support myself until I was a successful writer, I was a full-time librarian for fifteen years, which was the perfect companion career.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Publishing always comes with ups and downs. It took nine years to sell and have my first novel published. I learned that perseverance was the number one thing a writer needs. I was rejected over forty times before I sold my first book, but I never gave up.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a mystery author known for humorous and cozy mystery novels with amateur sleuths. I also write historical mystery novels. I’m most proud of my Emily Dickinson Mystery Series. The first book, BECAUSE I COULD NOT STOP FOR DEATH, was nominated for the Edgar in the Mary Higgins Clark Category, and it won the Agatha for best historical mystery last year. This year, the sequel, I HEARD A FLY BUZZ WHEN I DIED, is also up for the Agatha for best historical mystery. I’m thrilled these books that I put so much into are getting this recognition. I will be writing more historical mysteries in the future, too. My first Katharine Wright Mystery, TO SLIP THE BONDS OF EARTH, will release March 26th. Katharine Wright was the real-life sister of Orville and Wilbur Wright and contributed to their success to fly.
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I’m not sure that much would surprise my readers. I’m very open with them on social media about my life. However, I think people who don’t follow me as closely would be surprised I own a farm and recording studio with my husband, who is a recording engineer. We built the recording studio ourselves, and because of that, I have many random skills like tiling, putting up drywall, and sealing windows. I also have my own Etsy Shop called Amanda Flower Designs, where I sell bookmarks and jewelry that I make. Many of the pieces are inspired by my novels and it’s been another fun creative outlet for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.amandaflower.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandaflowerauthor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoramandaflower/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/aflowerwriter
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AuthorAmandaFlower
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AmandaFlowerDesigns
Image Credits
David M. Seymour
