Andrew Johnston is a fantasy author from southwestern Pennsylvania. He began writing at the age of twenty-five after reading the A Song of Ice and Fire series. Each novella or novel he writes has autistic representation. He studies history and hangs out with his nephew when not writing. His novella, The Discarded Knight, is his first indie story.
Could you tell us a little about your life? Why did you start writing?
I am an epic fantasy author from southwestern Pennsylvania. I have been writing for
eleven years. I began writing books because I wanted a purpose in life. My hope is to one day write full-time.
What inspired you to write this book?
I was inspired to write my newest book by a wish to invent an ancient world. The
book is called The Ignited Moon. It follows an ice princess on a mission to rescue her brother and create a new moon before the world burns.
How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
The book is realistic in the sense of it consequences. Lying and abandonment can lead to many people not trusting you. The protagonist in my book finds that out. None of the book is inspired by events or experiences in the real world.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I haven’t discovered a quirk in my writing. I’m pretty straightforward.
What do you think is the most important part of a good story?
The most important part of a story is character growth. Flat arcs are in my opinion
boring. They can serve the story, but lack the impact required.
Do you hide any secrets in your books that only a few people will find?
The only secrets are the personal reminders. The reader won’t learn them because
they exist in my past.
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
Your upbringing doesn’t define you. You have the ability to be more. To breach the
wall raised by the conditions of your childhood. This is the message readers should
take away from The Ignited Moon.
What words of advice do you have for people that want to be authors?
My advice to authors is block out the noise. Read, write, test your limits, and build
upon your skills.
Find out more about Andrew Johnston on his website or read his books on Amazon.
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