SPILLING INK: An Interview With Krista Walsh

Spilling Ink: Revealing Spells of the Writer’s Craft is a new feature that I’m sharing this month! 

In it, I’ll talk with my fellow authors to get the inside scoop on the unique ways they cast a spell on their readers.

My first guest is Krista Walsh, fellow Canadian fantasy author.

Take it away, Krista!

 

Q: If your writing had a magic spell associated with it, what would the incantation be? What effect would it have on your readers?

A: Oh my gosh, an amazing question. Umm…. Magna potentia, and it would have them walking away with feelings of hope and empowerment–the belief that they have the ability to manifest anything they set their heart on. That’s always the vibe I try to hit every time my character reach rock bottom and have to fight their way back up.

Q: Authors are often said to weave magic with their words. What magical ingredients or techniques do you use to cast your spell on readers?

The most important element for me in my writing is authenticity, and based on what readers have commented on in their reviews and messages is that I succeed more often than not. When readers sit down with my books, I want them to feel like they’re spending time with friends, so I strive to keep my characters real with all their flaws and internal struggles. Result? The boundary between real and imaginary is blurred and the readers enjoy an immersive experience.

Q: Describe your writing process like a magic ritual or ceremony. What tools or talismans do you employ, what incantations or preparations do you make before conjuring up each new story?

A: Simplicity works for me. Years ago, my ritual was candles and a glass of milk, and some of my best-selling books were written that way, so I 100% believe it was effective. These days, my post-partum brain can’t be trusted with candles. I do put enough milk in my tea and coffee that that part has stayed more or less the same (Yes, yes, I see your pitchforks).

Thanks to the schedule my husband and I have created around childcare, I have a specific time of day that I write, so the ritual is as follows: I come out to my office, mood music goes on (thank you, Adrian von Ziegler), with my tea or coffee. First, I meditate to clear my mind of all the shenanigans that went on in the house in the morning, and then I can open Scrivener and get to work.

 

Q: Share your latest news or any upcoming releases you think readers might like!

Currently, I’m working on a new urban fantasy/urban fantasy romance series The Hour of Witches. The prequel, Witch Remade, comes out October 24 (Oct 17 if you pre-order direct or are subscribed to my newsletter), and book 1, Witch Accused, comes out early 2025. I’m so excited about this series!

You can follow Krista on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Twitch, and Patreon at @kristawalshauthor. And sign up for Krista’s newsletter to stay up-to-date on all her news!