Interviewer: mikaelkrownmk
Our first fantasy author is no other than BookNrd. She's the author of The Wattys 2020 winning book Shadow Witch.
Featuring an enchanting manuscript and a whole new world of witchcraft, Cammie's Wattys winning story, Shadow witch is sure to cast a spell over readers worldwide. The Fantasy Profile got a scoop on a history Cammie is doing writing fiction, the current craze for witches, and where her heroes are headed next.
What's your full name and tell us a little about yourself?
My name is Cammie Conn, I'm a twin, and I've been telling stories as long as I can remember. I started studying the entertainment industry in college after a life-changing internship at Disney World, and I'm so thrilled to have recently won a Watty for my book "Shadow Witch"!
What or who inspires you to write?
I first started writing because of the incredible books I read as a kid - Harry Potter, Fablehaven, The Hunger Games, Divergent, etc. - which made a huge impact on me. I got through the hardest times in my life because of my favorite characters, so if I could do that for just one other person it would all be worth it!
What's your favorite quote?
"I'm haunted by humans."
What do you think makes a successful book?
I've always been an incredibly visual reader because I'm also a huge fan of Film and TV. The books I like to read usually have an early hook, lovable characters, plot-twists galore, and clear world-building.
Define Fantasy in your own words?
Fantasy has always been one of my favorite genres because there is so much possibility. All of the wild things we dream up can be a reality, but often there's a lot of humanity in these stories, which allows us to connect them to our own experiences.
Who's your favorite fantasy author?
At the moment, Sarah J. Maas.
Who is your OTP?
Oh Lord, it's so hard to choose! I'm really a huge fan of Kaz and Inej from the Six of Crows duology, as well as Cress and Thorne from the Cinder series. But if we're also bringing TV into it, I'd have to say Fleabag and Hot Priest.
How do you relax after a long day?
At the end of a rough day I love to play a record on my turntable, do some writing, then finish a chapter or two from whichever book I'm reading. Netflix is also a big thing, of course.
What TV shows are you obsessed with right now?
The Mandalorian owns my ENTIRE heart, but I've also been really into Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist, The Queen's Gambit, and The Crown.
Who's your role model?
Artistically, I'm very inspired by Freddie Mercury. His confidence, creativity, and strength under adversity is enviable.
What's your greatest fear?
Probably, failing to make a mark on the world before I die.
Winter or summer?
Summer
Christmas or Halloween?
Christmas
Kittens or puppies?
Kittens!
Thank you so much BookNrd for your time spent on this interview.