Tell us about yourself.:
My name is Ricky Baxter and I am a writer from the UK. I adore all types of storytelling, whether through reading, movies, TV shows and gaming!
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?:
I was born and raised in East London. East London has always been a very diverse area with a sense of community for the most part. I think this helped to influence the celebration of differences within my writing early on. In East London especially, many of my friends and neighbours were from different backgrounds and this felt so normal to me. As such, I often gravitated to stories based on vast characters banding together!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn't say my habit is exactly usual – however I do prefer to write in the night instead of the daytime. There is something about writing under a peaceful night that inspires me.
I also must have no sound or any interference while writing. Even a song or phone call will through me off
What authors have influenced you?
I was born and raised in East London. East London has always been a very diverse area with a sense of community for the most part. I think this helped to influence the celebration of differences within my writing early on. In East London especially, many of my friends and neighbours were from different backgrounds and this felt so normal to me. As such, I often gravitated to stories based on vast characters banding together!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes. Once you have published your first novel, there is a tendency to stop and put your feet up. However, the real journey is only beginning! There are so many things you can do once you are an author, so many events, talks and spaces. Once your first book is published, remember to keep going!
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
The best advice I have always held to my heart is: No one-shoe-fits-all. This means, my path will be different to yours. What works for me may not necessarily work for you or somebody else. The trick is to find what works for you and run with it!
What are you reading now?
I am actually reading a self help book named: Daring Greatly, by Brene Brown
I often juggle between self help and fiction
What’s your biggest weakness?
I would like to think that I don't speak my mind enough. I often hold my silence and then kick myself for not expressing myself at that very moment. Because of this, I often challenge myself to say how I feel, even if others may not appreciate it.
What is your favorite book of all time?
My all time favourite would most definitely be: Psycho Busters!
It's a light novel series, centred on a group of teens who are being pursued by a shadowy group due to possessing physic powers. It is incredibly underrated, which is a shame but I love it!
When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
As a lifetime gamer, I would most likely play a video game. I recently downloaded the Oblivion remaster on the PS5 and it's epic!
I aim to hit the gym at least twice a week, and I enjoy meeting up with friends for a good chat and drinks. I now live by a seaside town, so I often spend time there too. It makes a change from being in the hustle and bustle of London!
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
I think it was Romeo and Juliet. I was quite surprised the story and elements of love and sorrow. Before then, I had never imagine that a book could evoke such emotion
What has inspired you and your writing style?
Interestingly enough, my original style of writing was in Play Format/Script style. This was because I always pictured my stories as films or animated shows within my head. This was inspired through my love for gaming ands Japanese animation. Over time, my style changed to a more traditional approach, albeit with a little twist. Again, Psycho Busters inspired me a lot with my writing, due to certain pages providing character biographies and some lovely art to break up the writing. As such, I tend to do the same, to give the reader what I would consider a full experience!
What are you working on now?
I am currently writing 2 books. The first is the sequel to my first novel: Blue Lunar & The Apex Grail. The second is a completely new story – however I am afraid I have to keep it a secret for now haha
What is your favorite method for promoting your work?
Over the years, I have tried so many different ways and methods. However, I can categorically say that in person speaking events work for me the most. Going to schools, leading workshops are a great way to connect with young readers
What’s next for you as a writer?
Other than continuing to write, I am looking into showing who I am more on various live platforms. As writers, we often tend to take a backseat and show only our books. This is fine of course. However, this doesn't always offer a chance for readers to know us. My next step is to be more bold with in person appearances!
How well do you work under pressure?
I would say not very well haha. When I am under pressure, I do get work done, however it is not a very enjoyable space to be in. Granted, a little bit of pressure is a helpful but not too much. Life is already stressful as it is at times!
How do you decide what tone to use with a particular piece of writing?
That's a good question. I think I would just go with the flow, and try my best to put myself into the minds of the characters. I will think about the type of story also. Is it dark and mature? Positive and fresh? These things will help determine my tone. Of course, it is worth remembering that even if I don't get it write, I can always amend with later drafts
If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
I want my fans to know that my work exists for you to feel adventure and positivity. There is so much in this world that is dark and negative. My stories are there to support you in any way possible. Although they are fiction and are of made up worlds and characters, the message is very much real
Ricky Baxter’s Author Websites and Profiles
Website
Amazon Profile
Goodreads Profile
Ricky Baxter’s Social Media Links
Instagram
