Carol “Beth” Anderson is here to help us kickoff our new Contributor Interview series, a routine blog feature that introduces you to the wonderful writers whose work will be included in our upcoming anthology project.

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[E] Welcome to the anthology, Beth! We’d love to know: what genres/age ranges do you typically gravitate toward in your writing?

Ever since my dad read The Chronicles of Narnia to our family when I was seven years old, I’ve loved escaping into new worlds! Not surprisingly, my novels are primarily fantasy (though my current series has sci-fi elements too). 

My first series was YA, geared toward ages 12+. My current series is also YA, but 14+, and by the end, all the major characters are at least 18, so it’s more NA (New Adult). There’s always a romantic subplot. I’m considering writing my next series for adults but plan to stay in the fantasy genre.

However, I also write daily microfiction on Twitter, and I have a microfiction collection. For my microfiction, anything goes! There’s still more fantasy than anything else, but I love dabbling in romance, horror, literary fiction, poetry, paranormal, etc. Microfiction is a fantastic venue for experimenting with genres!

[E] You certainly have consistency across your style. In what ways is your submission to Cardigan Press similar and/or different from your usual writing?

I’d call my Cardigan submission feel-good realistic fiction. The story doesn’t have any fantasy elements, so it’s quite different from my novels. However, I love hitting readers in the heart, and that can be done in any genre. In that sense, it fits with the rest of my writing.

[E] Your submission definitely hit us in the heart. We’re positive it will grab readers as well once the anthology releases! How else can readers best support you at this time?

I’m thrilled to be writing my first nonfiction book! It’s a book for authors about how early readers (alpha, beta, and ARC readers) can help you write a better novel. I know a lot of authors struggle to get good follow-through and usable feedback from beta readers. Other authors don’t know how to get early reviews. And let’s be honest, many authors haven’t even heard of alpha readers! This book will be packed with step-by-step early-reader systems authors can implement immediately. I can’t wait to release it in early 2021! 

I’m also currently revising Book 3 of my YA/NA fantasy series, The Magic Eaters Trilogy. It releases April 1, 2021. I adore the characters, magic, and world of this series! The prequel is currently free. See below.

Plus, for those who like microfiction, I have a collection of miniature stories called The Curio Cabinet. In other words, there’s a little something for everyone. Here are all the links:

• Nonfiction for authors: Before long, I’ll be looking for beta readers and ARC readers for my book about working with early readers! Interested or just want to stay in the loop? Sign up for my Author Resources newsletter. 
• Free author resources: I love sharing systems and tips with authors! Check out the free Author Resources on my website.
• Fantasy: Purchase any of my books on Amazon or Audible. Or I’d love to gift you a free copy of one of my novels, The Seer’s Sister. It’s currently exclusive to my Email Insiders and is getting great reviews on Goodreads.
• Microfiction: The Curio Cabinet is on Amazon and other retailers.
• Social media: I’d love to connect on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook; and you can also check out my Goodreads and BookBub.

[E] Thank you, Beth, for inviting us to be part of your writer journey and for being such a wonderful inspiration in the writing community!

Everyone, please show your support by checking out Beth’s work and giving her a follow.

Do you know Beth? Comment below and let others know how Beth and her many works have impacted you. If this is your first time meeting Beth, say hello!