Meet J.m. Wallace | Fantasy Romance Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with J.m. Wallace and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi J.M., what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always been a daydreamer. Since I was a kid, I would lose myself in stories and find my mind wandering throughout the day. As I grew up, I realized I had all of these amazing ideas, worlds, and characters just sitting in my head. And it wasn’t until I was an adult that I decided I wanted to do something with them.

My family had just been relocated for my husband’s job. It was the height of covid (so we were all very isolated, which was incredibly frustrating). That’s when I decided to channel my pent-up energy into writing. At first, it was just a creative outlet for me. A way to finally do something with these stories and ideas. But then, as I connected with the book community online (again, we were all really leaning into social media at the time with everything shut down); I realized other people were interested in losing themselves in my stories, too.

At the start, writing was mostly something that allowed me to enjoy art and keep busy, and from there, it blossomed into a creative career. I’m now a published author with nine books out in the world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
First and foremost, I am and always have been a reader. Because of that, I write stories I would want to read. I love magic and romance, so naturally I knew the fantasy romance genre was something I would never tire of writing. Creating worlds, characters, and magic systems never feels like work to me. It’s a passion and each new book takes me to new places and allows me to meet new and exciting people (even if they do only exist on paper).

One thing I will always strive for is to improve with each new book I put out. I pay close attention to what we as a reading community enjoy about fantasy (whether it be court politics, magic, world-building, or our favorite tropes). I take the time to create characters my readers will relate to and understand, so when they are on the page, you’ll root for their love story and cheer for their happy ending.

I have also found so much inspiration and learned from the authors who came before me. I was drawn to books because they’re a beautiful way to escape from the pressures of life. Had a bad day at work or school? Relax with a good book that night at home or stop by the local library to find something to read that inspires you. Books help people heal, they inspire them, or maybe they just bring a much needed smile to their faces.

I wanted to be a part of that. Writing fantasy romance might not change the world, but if I change just one person’s day by brightening it up, then I’ve made a difference, and I’ve done my job.

There’s a lot that goes into self publishing a book. You not only have to channel your creativity into something structured and readable, but you also have to wear the hats of publisher, advertiser, and so much more. I’ve overcome a lot of these challenges by leaning on my community. I’ve truly taken the time to learn from and listen to others in the business. I haven’t been afraid to ask questions and take chances. I have worked hard to cultivate meaningful relationships and to pass on the knowledge and lessons I’ve learned to others looking to dip their toes into indie publishing.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are so many wonderful things to do in the area, but I think a mini “bookstore hop” would be fun.

We could start in Jacksonville with stuffed croissants from Darel’s Bakery then head over to the Lazy Daisy Book Shop. After shopping there for locally made art and bookish gifts (and of course, books) we’d head to lunch. Maybe the Marina Cafe for the chicken nachos! Then up to Swansboro for some thrifting, and a stop at Bake Bottle and Brew for a drink and more gift and book shopping. And we’d probably end the day on the beach with some wine, cheese, and fruit so we can read our books with our toes in the sand.

It would also be great if she was visiting during one of the fun book events that The Lazy Daisy or our local Jacksonville Barnes and Noble was putting on (like a midnight release or one of the book club meets).

I also enjoy taking visitors down to Wilmington because there is so much to do there no matter what your interests are. There’s a little something for everyone!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Paranormal Romance Author, K Elle Morrison helped me through the process of my debut novel. At the time, she was running a podcast that helped writers through the indie publishing process.
Then there’s, Paranormal Cozy Mystery Author, Emily Fluke is someone I’ve often turned to when I’m hitting a wall (whether creative, advertising-related, or anything really).
And the booktok/bookstagram community as a whole. Without them, I never would have been brave enough to give this a go. I’ve made so many friends (readers and authors alike) and without them I absolutely would not be where I am today. I wish I could list everyone by name but we’d be here all day!

Website: https://linktr.ee/acourtof.coffeeandbooks

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j.m.wallaceauthor/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmwallaceauthor