Bonus Episode with Avery Timmons

Hey friends! Welcome to another Indie Author Spotlight Bonus Episode! Hopefully you read the feature interview I did with Avery over on The Writer's Workout website, where I'm a volunteer. If not, please go! Quickly! Without haste! Because Avery shared some great things and you'll wanna read all about her work. Do it now, do it at the end of this bonus, but whatever you do... go and read that interview on the IAS page!

Avery, what does your writing ritual look like?

I wouldn’t say I really have a writing ritual, but when I’m really trying to finish a project, I aim to write 500 words a day until I have a completed draft. More often than not, by the time I reach 500, I’ve hit a stride and end up writing more. And on those days I barely reach 500 or even on the days I don’t, at least I’ve gotten some words on the page.

What’s the worst advice you’ve ever received as an Indie Author? 

I don’t have a specific piece of advice in mind, but I think trying to follow any advice too stringently can really hurt. So much of the writing process—whether that’s drafting, editing, or anything else—is about figuring out what works for you. Just because something works for someone else—like writing every day—doesn’t mean you have to do it to be successful.

What’s your go to book, movie or musical artist when you need some inspiration (or just a break from the keyboard)? Why?

I wouldn’t say I necessarily have a go-to, because I’m such a mood reader, listener, watcher… you name it! It really depends on how I’m feeling in the moment.

That being said, I tend to reread The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky every year. It’s such a quick read that really packs a punch, and I’m a sucker for an epistolary novel. And when it comes to music, I love something I can dance or sing along to—and I can’t go wrong with a little ABBA or Taylor Swift.

If you could snap your fingers and be “known” for one piece of your writing, what would it be? Is it something already published? Or is it something in your heart you’ve not yet written?

This is such a hard question! I think I’m always most proud of whatever I’ve most recently written, which, in terms of novels, is my YA contemporary romance Well Played that got me my agent. It’s kind of a homage to my years in high school band (I played clarinet!) and has lots of fun rivals-to-lovers banter. But I really do just love the story and the characters.

Any other tidbits you wanna share?

Don’t be afraid to reach out, whether that’s just to say hi or with a question! I’m no expert by any means, but I’m always willing to help or give insight when I can or just make new writing friends.

Do you have a newsletter you want people to sign-up for? Link it here: 

I don’t have a newsletter yet, but all of my major updates can be found on my website; I’m active on Instagram and Twitter/X; and you can find me on Goodreads.