Interview with Nicole Knapp

Author of Hook & Crown

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

I am originally from Palm Desert, California but I currently reside in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

When I was 16 my grandparents mlved from California to Oklahoma, and shortly after my mother decided to follow. I have lived here in Oklahoma ever since.

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

I have spent my life reading books by great authors that I admire, and I always enjoyed writing, though I had not taken it very seriously. But one day I just decided that I was ready to try writing a story of my own, and that is how my fkrst book came about.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

My first book, The Missing Piece, is best described as a Young Adult Romance. Hook & Crown, my most recent release, is a dark and twisted retelling of Peter Pan.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

While my writing is more for young adults and fans of the YA genre, anyone who enjoys romance, fantasy and retellings can find my books enjoyable.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

I learned just how difficult writing can really be, and even more so, how difficult and scary publishing your writing and letting others read it can be.

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

I would tell myself to start writing earlier in life. Or at least to take it mlre seriously.

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

Honestly, I never thought anyone would read my books, so if I am able to reach even a few people woth my books, then I am happy with that.

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

The biggest challenge has been writer’s block, specifically writing the sequel to Hook & Crown. I have been stuck for a while now and wroting through writer’s block is a major struggle for me.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

I feel like my biggest writing strength is my ability to create relatable characters. When it comes to publishing, my strength lies in my willingness to learn about the process and take constructive criticism. Marketing is something I struggle with as I don’t like to talk about myself much, but I do feel that my social media presence is my main strength.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

My biggest weakness for all three of these things is the fact that I have issues with talking about myself and my work, and the fact that I doubt myself constantly.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I am in the process of writing my next book,though it is uncertain when I will finish it as my writer’s block is an issue right now.

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

I self published my first book, The Missing Piece. But with Hook & Crown, a smaller, boutique publisher, The Parliament House, picked up and published the book.