Please give a warm welcome to author Valerie Mars

Tell us a bit about yourself

Hello, world! I am 29 years old and hail from Alaska, where I graduated with a BA in Japanese before teaching in Japan for 3 years. Upon returning home, I became a barista on the Alaskan oil fields. Currently, I write while readying myself for motherhood this summer.

Have you always wanted to become an author?

This all feels like a prank that went too far. When COVID shut down my coffee shop in March, I was able to find work in the same facility cleaning toilets and vacuuming hallways. During those long, repetitive 12 hour days I discovered a story taking shape within my mind. I started listening to writing podcasts, taking notes, and in May began writing Ferrous. I figured it would flicker out by June, but for some reason I kept going. You have toilets to thank for this book.

What was your inspiration for your current book/series?

I think I was in a reading rut at the time, horribly craving something reverse harem with a rich fae world. I wasn’t finding what I was looking for, and decided to craft my own. A bit of a fever dream, maybe.

What are you working on now?

I ought to be working on Zealous, the next book in the Fae’s Folly world, but I’ve been reading Sarah J. Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses series instead! *guilty look* I discovered her books during my research phase last spring, but swore them off until I had developed my own world. They’re my reward for releasing Ferrous.

Do you have any quirks while working?

I have to eat Skittles, but they can only be the green ones. I’m currently searching for a PA to take up the task of sorting them for me. But, nah. In all seriousness, I’m pretty boring. My favorite place to write was in my room on the oil field, because it was dead quiet. And dinner was always prepared for me! When at home, I prefer Ghibli instrumental soundtracks or something related so that I don’t get distracted by the soundtracks of my neighborhood or family. There’s a Ghibli cello one with a HEADBANGING rendition of the Totoro theme song, I tell ya.

What are your hopes for the future?

To push out a healthy baby this summer and to see my husband discover his own fever dream. In the short term, I hope to discover my readers and create a great sequel for them. :3

Do you have any advice for new authors about the publishing world?

[The End] is only the start for indie authors. Unless blessed with full pockets and friends in convenient places, you will not only be a writer, but an editor and entrepreneur as well. The good news is, there are resources out there. It will be a journey of discovery you must take on your own, but you are 100% capable of taking it. And when you do, be proud of yourself. You earned it.

Do you have anything to say to your followers?

I am horrible at taking any sort of praise. 5 years into my marriage, I STILL struggle to accept the love of my in-laws. So while I may be stoic most times, know that your kind words and enthusiasm have brought many tears and giddy spurts of energy over the creation and release of Ferrous. I’ve said this too many times already, but I am so glad to hear Ferrous may have made you laugh or read past your bedtime. ❤ Thank you for telling me.