Wattpad is filled with talented writers. Here you will find interviews on some of our top Myth and Legend makers and what started them on their writing journey. Learn tips and tricks from some of the talent and then go check out their works.
In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are highlighting stories written by Asian and Pacific Islander authors. Today's interview is with AllyCwrites, whose story was a Wattys 2022 Shortlister.
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About the Author: AllyCWrites is a 30-something mommy who drafts legal documents by day and writes Asian fantasy while tucked in bed at night. Like many Southeast Asians, she grew up appreciating a wealth of different cultures and legends from the region, as well as kungfu action movies, Western movies, K-dramas, and anime. A self-professed 'banana' (yellow on the outside, white on the inside), she especially loves seeing more Asian representation in published works, and East meets West stories.
About 'Princess Snow and the Empress': Princess Snow and the Empress is a Snow White fairytale retelling that features a rebellious princess, mythical creatures, East Asian myths and ghost stories. Oh, not forgetting, a tall and handsome, bow-wielding prince with a glorious mane.
Snow has to save herself from a huntsman, bring herself back to life, and discover the magical powers she inherited from her mother, in order to be reunited with her love. All that, whilst avoiding the clutches of Empress Hu, who may not be quite human.
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself!
When I was a teen in the 90s' (oh no, I'm showing my age), I kept a folder of plot ideas and character sheets for stories I aspired to publish one day. It was a dream of mine to be a traditionally published author; I studied English literature in high school and loved the classics, but I never had the time to write a full-length novel, until I broke my foot in 2021, haha! That was how I started on Wattpad, where I met other Asian fantasy writers like @Moyun_ZJ and @TL_Nonoke, and my mentor @AM-Prabeswar through @Bootcampmentors.
I was really active on Wattpad last year while on a career break, but since going back to a full-time job, time is precious. Whenever I can, I try to read and support Asian works and new authors – fellow Southeast Asian @MizarCaph being the latest addition. If I'm not busy working, writing, or being a mommy, I enjoy dancing to Kpop in my kitchen and hitting the weights at the gym.
2. How do you identify within the Asian American and Pacific Islander community and how has your heritage shaped the person you are today?
I'm of East Asian descent, living in a multi-racial democracy, very similar to the USA. As much as I'd like to think I'm a modern woman with Western ideals, I realized that my heritage has made me conservative by nature, and shaped my views on life goals and family. For example, before I got married, I was all about my career and freedom but once I tied the knot, I became deferential to my spouse. It dawned on me that concepts like 'saving face' are deeply ingrained in me, and that on a subconscious level, I was trying to conform to the ideals of a good Asian wife, sometimes to my own detriment. On a happier note, my heritage has definitely influenced my taste buds. Give me congee and hot soy milk with deep-fried youtiao any day!
