Meet Montrez | Author & Editor

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

Hi Montrez, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
I saw a quote from Maya Angelou that resonated with me. She said, “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”

I don’t want to be the next anybody. I don’t want what other people have. Success is thriving in and enjoy what was made and meant for me.

I’m learning to love the skin I’m in and everything that comes with it (my looks, quirks, etc). I’m grateful and very blessed to be able to use my God-given talents in ways that can bring joy and inspire others. And I’m grateful that I get to do it on my own terms.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I am an author and developmental editor with a Masters in English. I’ve dabbled in all sorts of writing from journalism to academics and more, but fiction has always been my passion. I’ve been dreaming up stories since preschool, but my road to becoming a published author was definitely an adventure. I actually considered other career options before I grew confident enough to pursue my passion for storytelling. At first, I thought I wanted to become a college professor. But beyond a few seminars, speaking engagements, and occasional courses, that door never really opened. So, I worked a state government job and did part-time work as a freelance editor.

It wasn’t until 2020, in the thick of the pandemic, when I took the leap of faith and self-published my debut, a YA urban fantasy called Errant. At that time, I had learned enough about publishing and gained the confidence  to realize I didn’t need the validation and permission of an establishment to share my stories. I had all the necessary resources to produce the quality work I wanted to share with readers.

I published my books, not expecting much, but I was pleasantly surprised by the reception I received and how my fiction resonated with readers. I realized how powerful our words can be. One of the most important and beautiful things I’ve learned is that stories have the power to save and transform lives-both the stories we read/write and the ones we live out everyday. You never know who your story will impact or inspire. Whether it’s one person or many, our stories matter. Our stories can make a difference.

My fantasy stories are inspired by an eclectic mix of literature and nerdy speculative fiction fandoms. From classic fairytales, Romanticism, superheroes, anime and everything in between, as well as personal and universal human experiences. It’s my goal to inspire readers and give them a safe space to recharge for their own real- life adventures. So, if you need a good super-powered or whimsical pick-me-up, check out my bookish space.

I also want to note…Around the time you contacted me for our interview, I was actually in the middle of a new and exciting professional transition. As of December 2023, I’m blessed to work both as an author and also as Co-Editor-In-Chief for Konkret Comics, a 2X award-winning, Black-owned comic publisher. It’s been a dream come true to be able to not only create my stories, but to help others produce art that can inspire and empower others, as well. The comic book world is far more vast than Marvel and DC. I definitely encourage superhero fans to check us out.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

The Greater Columbus area in Ohio is a surprising haven for food, literature, and the arts. Our first stop would be Drunch Eatery for savory and fulfilling Brunch. I highly recommend the Bretzel (it’s a breakfast pretzel),  the wings, or the French toast.

After that, we’d stroll the Short North District for more shops and foodie spots. There’s a monthly gallery hop for art lovers to enjoy.

Then, of course we’d check out all the local indie bookstores. The Book Loft in German Village is a must. It has rooms upon rooms of books.

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?

I will never be one to claim I am self-made. Success is not a solitary or overnight phenomenon.

I want to thank my family for believing in me and encouraging my dreams. I know not everyone has that initial support, but my loved ones have been there since day one.

Thank you to Kevin Murphy with KDS Entertainment and Blerd Station, and to  Monique Mensah for their invaluable advice and insight.

To Derek “Lonzo Starr” Allen and the entire Konkret Comics, thank you for welcoming me into the creative family.

To my writing community of phenomenal creators and friends, thank you for reminding me that writing doesn’t need to be a lonely endeavor.

To everyone who has taken a chance on my work. Thank you.

To the greatest creator of all time…

“With God, all things are possible.”

Website: https://www.authormontrez.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authormontrez?igsh=MXQwbGRsbDMyYXVtZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Covers by Raw Designz Studios Character fan art by Peach Pod