How long have you been a writer?
AS: Four years in May
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
AS: I’ve written over 50 books and have stopped counting at this point lol but my favorite is “Aryel and Quasi: Made for a Hood Love”. It’s raw, realistic, and it was the first time I stepped out of my comfort zone. I wasn’t in my head so much and wrote without fear of backlash.
Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.
AS: The first character that came to mind is Ginger. She was real and unapologetically herself. She lived in her truth and although she wasn’t perfect, Gin didn’t care lol. She gave men a run for their money, too.
Where do you get your inspiration?
AS: From my life—my surroundings and what I’ve seen or been through. Sometimes, from people that I think are dope like Shonda Rhimes, the character killer lol.
How do you handle writer’s block?
AS: I don’t. It’s just there until it’s not. I have an epiphany, a dream, or a random thought in the bathroom. Then, all is right in the world again.
What is the most difficult part about writing for you?
AS: Time management. Keeping the readers and my household (children) happy. Finding that balance between the world of writing and my reality because I sometimes get lost in my work. It’s time consuming, draining and downright stressful at times. Unfortunately, I love it sooo...
Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers?
AS: It’ll be released by the time this is out lol, but I’m working on a YA (young adult) urban romance that gives a glimpse at the world from two opposite ends of the spectrum. A girl with active parents, a decent lifestyle and dreams she can easily obtain. Cue the damaged hustler with more layers than an onion and a dysfunctional household. It’s probably typical and even cliché, but the way I tell it... it’ll be anything BUT.
What books or authors have most influenced your writing style?
AS: The Coldest Winter Ever, True to the Game, B-More Careful, Wifey, The Prada Plan and the Thug Series to name a few. I don’t think they’ve necessarily influenced my style, but they are the novels that made me want to write. They made reading enjoyable—a ride. Preferably a roller coaster. The feeling I got reading those novels is what I aspire to give to my readers.
How do you handle literary criticism?
AS: Man. The only way I can... I just take it. There really isn’t a point in crying about it because it’s not going to change my opinion nor theirs. I just try to ignore it. If it’s constructive, I keep it in mind for my next novel. I can’t beat myself up about it because everything isn’t for everyone. I’m NOT for everyone. I just have to be okay with that fact, regardless of the blow.
Where can readers find out more about you and your books?
AS: You can find me on Amazon, of course. My Facebook is Nett Williams (Author Antoinette Sherell). You can also visit my website: Trappedinmynett.com