Doesn’t this book, Heart’s Claim, have a beautiful cover?
If you’re familiar with Issy on her Twitter, you’ll know that she also has a beautiful profile picture. I personally haven’t yet read any of her books, but combine beautiful covers with a beautiful profile picture, and how can her writing be anything other than… well, beautiful? (I’ve overused the word now, haven’t I?) I really enjoyed hearing about how Issy writes and her opinions on everything, and I know you will too!
Hey, Issy! Tell us a little more about yourself to start off with. Who are you and what do you do?
Hey, I'm a trans woman from NZ - I started writing as a hobby, first posting to webnovel sites, and have moved to self publishing. Writing is still only part-time, unfortunately - I still need to work to survive and support the family. I may also read far too much at the moment.
How did you become an author?
After reading a whole lot of web-fiction, I decided to try and write something that I'd actually want to read. It was certainly an experience, putting my first story together, and getting positive feedback about it when I started posting it made it worth the while.
Who’s your favourite character that you’ve ever written?
Esper, an energetic kitsune who is trying work out what is going on in her life.
Do you ever experience writer’s block? If so, how do you overcome it?
Yes. Taking a break, reading something, working on another project, talking to others about it all help.
What do you consider to be the hardest part of writing?
Editing/proofing is really draining; but trying to make sure that I'm awake enough when the opportunity rolls around to actually sit and write is probably the biggest challenge.
And how about the most rewarding?
Sharing my stories with the world! It's really nice to hear that people have read and enjoyed the story.
What is one piece of advice you wish you had listened to, either in life or with regards to being an author?
Being aware of the possibilities around you! Working things out late in life can make you feel like you've missed out on so many opportunities. But even then it's not too late.
You’re putting together a party. Which characters from the Sapphic Fiction genre would you invite?
Hmm. How many would we be looking at? A certain pair would be there, but I won't mention them so as not to spoil; of course Crystal, Rachael, Elara, Riley, Odette and Miyako would want to come along. Focus and Scatter from Scatter (Molly J Bragg), Rose and Kara from Creatures of Darkness (Britney Jackson), would be great to have along, and I think that Azalea and Kelcie (Wayward Fairy by Mackenzie Sutton) would add a lot of life to it. There would be plenty more, but that's a good start.
Is there anyone you’d like to highlight, while you’re here?
Mackenzie Sutton, who I co-authored Best Friends' Promise with - she's been a pleasure to work with, and just a great friend and help overall. While she only has one book published, she is still writing quite a lot.
How can people connect with you?
@IWaldrom on Twitter/X. This link for discord. issywaldromwrites@outlook.com for email.
Finally a light-hearted one. What ice cream flavours and toppings would you put together in your ultimate sundae?
Tiptop Jellytip ice cream, with some chocolate sauce and shaved chocolate, of course ^^
If you enjoyed this interview, then make sure you’re following my social media accounts (@kblakemanwriter on Twitter and @katherineblakemanwriter on Instagram) to get all the latest updates! And if you want to support my own Sapphic Fiction journey while you’re here, The Summer We’ve Had is available now, and Love You However is coming on March 22nd!
