Today’s special guest is middle grade author Alyssa Alessi and we’re chatting about her new MG horror, Izzy Hoffman Is Not a Witch.
During her virtual book tour, Alyssa will be giving away a $10 Amazon or Barnes and Noble (winner’s choice) gift card to a lucky randomly drawn winner. To be entered for a chance to win, use the form below. To increase your chances of winning, feel free to visit her other tour stops and enter there, too.
Bio:
Alyssa Alessi is a writer of middle grade, young adult and short stories all inspired by the unsettling macabre aesthetic of New England. As a child she was on a constant hunt for ghosts, vampires, and her own powers as a witch. When she couldn’t find them, she settled for writing them into existence. You can find her hiking any trail in the Northeast said to be haunted, roaming old cemeteries with a camera in hand, or thrift shopping anywhere antiques are sold. She resides in Boston, MA with her husband, three children and their mini dachshund.
Welcome, Alyssa. Please tell us about your current release.
Izzy Hoffman Is Not a Witch, is a middle grade horror story with elements of mystery.
Twelve-year-old Izzy has been haunted by her ten-times-great grandmother for as long as she can remember. This is no ordinary ancestral ghost: This great granny was the first to be hung for witchcraft in Izzy’s small New England town. When a possessed town psychic and a mysterious man enter the picture, she must dig into both family and town history to figure out what they all want from her.
What inspired you to write this book?
The brutal truth of the Salem witch trials always had my interest. I often wondered who those victims were before the outlandish accusations and unfair punishments. The hysteria turned entertainment will forever have a hold on me, especially living so close to Salem, MA.
Excerpt from Izzy Hoffman Is Not a Witch:
“Miss Clara smiles a devious smile. “So, you took my advice. You went looking in your walls?” There is something about her gray eyes that make her look like she wants to suck my soul dry. I look away from her in case she can read my thoughts.
“I know Alice wants to tell me something, I just don’t know what. I know that someone is after something of mine, again I just don’t know what.”
Miss Clara shakes her head letting out a sigh “I hope you can be more specific with this spirit, or we’ll just be wasting our time. Be sure to ask her where the grim—item is.”
Nat and I exchange a look. I know she is thinking what I’m thinking. I look down at my phone and see that Nat texted me even though she is only two feet away.
Nat: Could she be any creepier? Let’s do this thing and get out of here!
I look up at Nat and nod my head yes.
“Ok, be specific. Got it. I’m ready.”
The three of us sit around Miss Clara’s round table. The lights are completely off […]”
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I first considered myself a writer upon opening my first rejection email. Even though it was heartbreaking to say the least, I felt a sense of pride for completing something and putting it out there for someone to read.
Do you write full-time? If so, what’s your workday like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
I am lucky enough to write full time! In the evening, I am a stay-at-home mom, so most writing gets done in the early portion of the day.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I am a mood writer for sure. I must have the right vibe for what I’m working on. If that means waiting for a rainy morning to write the perfect dreary scene, so be it. If I have to create a whole playlist and light a scented candle to capture the mood, I will not hesitate.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a famous actress as a child. As it turns out, I am an introvert and enjoy creating in my own space. I was always interested in expressing myself creatively!
Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
Regardless of trends, I think it is crucial to stay true to yourself and your interests. I’ve always been interested in magic, spooky, and cryptids. Even when it wasn’t considered “cool.” You will find your people if you stay true to who you are, no matter your age!
Links:
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Amazon
Thank you for an interesting interview and for featuring this book on your blog.
I enjoyed the post. Thanks for sharing.
The book sounds very interesting.
Here’s to an enjoyable weekend!