Up Close and Personal with Carol Ashitey
Introduction
This week I am introducing yet another wonderful author joining Charlotte L. Taylor and I for 'The Little Hedgehogs Book Fayre'. Let's give a big, warm welcome to Carol Ashitey! Like all the authors joining in with our interviews, Carol was sent a selection of questions, not necessarily to do with the books she writes but more to get ‘up close and personal’. So, without further ado, here are the questions Carol chose to complete:
Childhood
What’s your favourite childhood memory?
During my childhood, I spent a lot of time in the Welsh Valleys, where my love of the countryside and nature took root. My grandparents (on my mum's side) used to own a farm on the mountainside and walking the trails, enjoying picnics and playing in and out of the trees, ferns and foliage was an adventure that stayed with me.
Fantasy
If you were a mythical creature from folklore or fairytale, what would you be and why?
I would probably be a dragon, colourful, strong and protective. I love nature in all its forms, so having the ability to soar above the trees, nest in caves, walk across the heather-clad mountains and drink from flowing streams appeals to me. Having the ability to possess magick and fire in my belly is something I think I would embrace wholeheartedly and it certainly fits with my Celtic Pagan lifestyle and practice.
Work/Writing
Tell us about your writing environment. Is it indoors or in the great outdoors? What is on your desk, table, lap? Hot or cold drink, any snacks, views etc.?
My inspiration is drawn from several places. My vivid imagination fuelled by childhood memories and fantasy stories I enjoyed as a child. I love to walk in nature, particularly in densely wooded areas where bodies of water flow freely and find many ideas begin there. I will often make notes of ideas whilst walking either physically or voice notes on my phone.
My writing environment consists of a corner desk near the window of my bedroom. Its cosy, covered in magickal items, crystals, wolves (my favourite wild animal and spiritual creature), herbs, incense, crocheted miniature dragons I've made and candles alongside a computer, external drive and printer.
I always have a notebook to hand with a pencil for jottings and sketches. There will always be a mug of black coffee beside me resting on a coaster that befits the Pagan season (Imbolc, Ostara, Samhain etc). Snacks are usually savoury such as crackers and cheese. My constant companion, Saffie, my beautiful 9-year-old black cat is always somewhere nearby and I know it's time for a break when she begins trying to lie on my hands or the keyboard.
Relaxation
As a booklover are you able to give us an estimate of how many books are on your TBR (to be read) pile?
I have adored books since childhood and always have a lengthy To be Read (TBR) list. I read daily and this year have set myself a target of reading at least 100 books in a range of genres to broaden my scope. My go-to are horror, fantasy and crime but find myself quietly enjoying historical fiction and romance too, which is something I didn't expect. I am an avid ARC Reader, supporting fellow authors by reading and providing valuable feedback and reviews.
Personal
What is something you cannot live without?
I would be lost without my family and pets, my eyesight, my imagination and my surroundings that keep me grounded, feed my thoughts and support my mental health. Waking up surrounded by mountains and countryside is a blessing and inspires not just my writing but my Pagan journey and relationship with the elements, universe and nature.
Extras
Is there anything else you would like readers to know about you?
My mind is constantly whirring, so it takes a lot of effort to relax, which coupled with the chronic arthritis that affects every joint of my body including my neck and spine, makes planning events and social activities tricky.
I am a retired Primary School Special Needs Teacher who misses daily interaction with children and love arts and crafts including sketching, clay, painting, knitting, crochet and sewing. I relish reviews of my writing that are honest and provide insight into what my readers enjoy the most. My greatest delight is my beautiful granddaughter who keeps me on my toes!
The Magical Adventures of Poppy: The Edge of Darkness
In The Magical Adventures of Poppy The Edge of Darkness young Poppy, guardian of the Higher Lands embarks on a perilous journey to unite the mystical realms against the malevolent Enid and her army of trolls and automatons.
Alongside her loyal companions, dragons, unicorns, merfolk, and a host of magical beings Poppy must navigate treacherous landscapes forge alliances with enigmatic leaders and harness the power of ancient talismans to protect her world from impending doom.
As the battle for survival looms Poppy discovers hidden strengths, uncovers long buried secrets and learns the true meaning of courage and unity. With time running out and darkness closing in Poppy and her allies must stand together at the edge of the abyss where the fate of all magical lands hangs in the balance.
Will they triumph or will Enids shadow consume everything they hold dear. A tale of adventure friendship and the enduring power of hope.
Social Media Links
Facebook www.facebook.com/author c.a.ashitey
Instagram www.instagram.com/c_a_ashitey_author
Website www.cashiteyauthor.com
Books Page: www.cashiteybooks.wordpress.com
Amazon for Books https://amzn.eu/d/ePa6x0o
Thanks for joining us Carol, and for allowing us to get up close and personal.
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