Tell us about yourself.:

Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?:
I grew up in the Lower 9th ward neighborhood of New Orleans in a area that's called Holy Cross. There was much culture that I was surrounded by that were heavily influenced by Louisiana Creole and Afro- Caribbean. A great deal of my stories take on that same environment, it's my safe space to share that with that world.

Louisiana, especially, New Orleans have so much unique history unlike anywhere in the United States.

In my first book, Chronicles of the Four Arrows. I made sure to put a lot of that culture into that story. There's so much to tell with the folklore, history, and people that it was exciting to turn something that I am so passionate about into an epic dark fantasy, and looking forward to sharing the second book in that series with everyone soon.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
For inspiration for a new story or just to get past a little writers block, I play video games. I know it's a little silly, but playing games like Elder Scrolls Online or Destiny 2. Their storytelling is so vast and compelling, it really helps me learn from other writers, their writing style that ties in so well with the world building.

What authors have influenced you?
I grew up in the Lower 9th ward neighborhood of New Orleans in a area that's called Holy Cross. There was much culture that I was surrounded by that were heavily influenced by Louisiana Creole and Afro- Caribbean. A great deal of my stories take on that same environment, it's my safe space to share that with that world.

Louisiana, especially, New Orleans have so much unique history unlike anywhere in the United States.

In my first book, Chronicles of the Four Arrows. I made sure to put a lot of that culture into that story. There's so much to tell with the folklore, history, and people that it was exciting to turn something that I am so passionate about into an epic dark fantasy, and looking forward to sharing the second book in that series with everyone soon.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
It is easy to get overwhelmed when it comes to social media, and you are trying to find you spot in this world not just as an author but as an individual as well.

The greatest things in this world takes time to become a success, I have to remind myself that everyday because being an author we are opening up a part of ourselves for the world to see.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?
"School is important, and important to do well."
-"wewe"Grandma

What’s your biggest weakness?
Cheesecake

What is your favorite book of all time?
The Immortal series by Alyson Noel

When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
Watching anime, travel, hanging out on the beach surfing. I'm a sucker for the TCM channel or HGTV if I'm not preoccupied with a video game.

Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. I never cracked opened a book until that morning in 3rd grade when I walked into class for the first time after switching school. I had a speech problem and was very shy about ready, especially in front of others. However, that day all of that changed the moment we started ready that book in class. I know a lot is being said about that author right now, but I am truly grateful for the world she shared with me, a world that help me become a better version of myself during a time my mother was struggling to help me better my education.

Justin Russell’s Author Websites and Profiles
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