Welcome to Indie Author Spotlight where I interview talented writers who have valuable insights to share on their writing process, publication, and what it means to be an indie author.
Ava is a lifelong nerd who loves reading, writing, video games, and watching TV and anime. She started writing when she realized it wasn't exactly normal to invent novel level, multi-character plot lines in her head just for fun. Might as well write it down.
Ava is a huge advocate for indie publishing and indie authors. She firmly believes some of the best books out there today are not traditionally published, and most of these would be passed on by the big publishers because they "won't sell." She is always happy to hear from fellow indies on their journey, and share in the mutual delulu that is self publishing.
Ava currently lives in the Southwest with her husband, two children, and two cats. She loves the monsoon rains, and can be found dancing in it regularly. She is a longtime advocate for sustainability and water harvesting, and will chat your ear off about that, too.
When did you start writing? What was the first thing you published?
I started writing my first novel on my birthday in 2023. I had been writing on and off for years at that point, but that's when I decided I wanted to write a book. I published my first book, a fantasy romance in November of the same year.
Who are some of your main influences? Favorite books?
I take inspiration from all over. I've always been a big video game player, and that definitely influences me (The Legend of Zelda is my favorite franchise) but I'm a big nerd who loves movies, shows, and books as well. I don't have a favorite book because that's too much pressure to choose just one, but I will say reading Carissa Broadbent's Serpent and the Wings of Night is what kickstarted me into writing my own book.
What do you like the most about writing romance?
To be a bit cheesy, I feel that love is the most powerful and beautiful force on earth. Humanity is at its best when we are fighting for those we love, and I've been blessed in my life with a wonderful husband and family friends who I love dearly. I like writing stories centered around these relationships because I think it's the greatest motivating factor we have. Also, I like it when the hot people kiss.
Have you had any adverse reactions from family who might have read your spicy novels?
My husband and my parents are some of my biggest supporters! My mom said, "Sex sells, so you better sell some books!" I know this is not the case for every writer of spicy books, but I think the love I have been shown by those who matter most to me allows me to say the less polite thing to others who are haters.
What is your writing process like? Do you have any creative rituals or favorite places to write?
I am definitely not one of those people who can write in a cafe, I get too distracted. I have my writing corner in my house. My messy desk, my computer, and at least three drinks at any given time. My process consists of goofing off on the internet until I can kick my butt in gear and open up the writing document, then I write until the words stop flowing. Some days I write more than others, but I do try and write a little bit everyday when I'm in the drafting phases.
What criticism have you received that you feel has made you a better writer?
Much of the good criticism was very technical, like over use of certain phrases and adverbs in my early drafts. I've learned a lot of about the craft from my editors and I'm very grateful to them.
Why did you self-publish rather than going the traditional route?
The polite answer? I wanted to have full creative control over my projects, from the story to the cover and art. That's not something you get in trad. DM me for the not polite answer.
As an indie author, how do you define success?
I attended an event last weekend where someone had read my book on KU and then came and spent their hard earned dollar buying additional copies of my book because they liked it so much. To me, that's success. Finding your readers and seeing them excited about your story is a feeling like no other.
What marketing strategies have been working for you?
Living on Instagram. I post a lot and engage with others a lot. I like the Instagram book community because it does feel like a real community, not just shouting into the void. I've found being genuine and a little unhinged has helped me there. I say find a social media site that you resonate with and where your ideal readers are gathered, and focus your energy there.
What are you working on now?
My dark romantic cyberpunk book is coming out June 12th! It's available for preorder now. So my entire life is consumed with getting the word out about this book and writing the next in the series.
Where can readers find you?
Come find me @avathorne_author on Instagram and Tiktok, I post lots of memes and about my books. Or join my newsletter for bonus content and every major announcement!
Neon Flux: a dark romantic cyberpunk novel
Eon is a cyberrunner just trying to survive crushing medical debt, when she gets called in for one last job. This forces her to cross paths with the masked, deadly corporate enforcer she has been obsessed with for six months. Ever since he almost killed her and the electromagnetic Flux power they share resonated like nothing she has ever felt before.
When the mysterious death of a high-ranking executive forces them into an uneasy alliance, they must navigate a city where nothing is what it seems. As they hunt the truth through warring gangs, encrypted data, and a fanatical cult promising salvation through destruction, the power that binds them ignites something even more dangerous. But in Neo Stellaris, genuine connection comes at a deadly price, and some data was never meant to be found.
Neon Flux is available June 12, 2025—Pre-order today!
This answer is so real! "My messy desk, my computer, and at least three drinks at any given time. My process consists of goofing off on the internet until I can kick my butt in gear and open up the writing document, then I write until the words stop flowing."