Hi, Chris, thank you for this opportunity to introduce myself as a new author to you and your followers.

I am Silvia M Wynter. I use the initial ‘M’ in the middle of my name not to be pretentious, but to distinguish myself from an award-winning author and playwright who goes by the same name – my aunt in law. Despite my aunt’s stellar reputation, the initial ‘M’ has become surprisingly important to me as I begin my journey as an independent author. That said, here is a little about me.

I am a Black author with international roots; Jamaican, Spanish, British, and Canadian. Prey of Angels and In the Shadow are my two published novels. A third novel, Burdened Legacy, is slated for publication in July 2021. I write contemporary fiction – mystery thrillers and psychological fiction, and I am committed to depicting diversity as I experience it. My intention is to create Canadian and international stories involving BIPOC characters who are reflected in genuine and non-compromising ways – meaning inclusively, equally, and realistically.

Since childhood, David and Goliath odds and dynamics have always fascinated me – that fight between the strong and the weak – good and evil. Prey of Angels especially capitalizes on this condition and is how I craft most of my stories and characters. I love its richness and depth and how well it lends itself to what I write. Oh, and I love strong, female protagonists and matriarchs, women who do not realize their own strength and power until they are forced to find and exercise it. They are my starting point – grandmothers, daughters, soldiers, nuns, and social workers. All feature prominently in my stories.

As a social worker in my previous life, which I can say now because I retired early to write fulltime, my understanding of the family is what really inspires my writing. I know the beauty, courage, and character that is family. But I also know its uglier, more sinister sides, too. My stories are ultimately a tribute to the family, however one defines it, and their willingness to brave any storm on behalf of their own.

Having said all of this, I am still finding my way as an author. I like many genres and I want to write in them all, but I know I need to narrow it down – stay in one or two lanes preferably. Prey of Angels is a mystery/thriller whereas In the Shadow is more of a psychological/drama. Hence my dilemma and struggle. I know I will figure it out as my readership expands and they inform me, along with my valued mentors and fellow authors whose expertise and support have kept me emotionally buoyant and marketable.

On a more personal note, I live in Ontario with my husband and am the proud grandma of a two–year–old, named Prince, whom I unabashedly adore. I am a very determined person by nature,and the more someone tells me I cannot do something, the more I want to prove them wrong. I hate technology and I suck at marketing, which does not bode well for an indie author, but as with everything else right now, I am learning to be better.

I am currently working on my fourth novel, another mystery/thriller, but with a love twist. My goal is to publish one or two books a year, but we will see. I have a tendency to bite off more than I can chew, but this does not appear too unreasonable a goal at the moment.

I have always dreamed of being a writer but had no idea it would be such an arduous and emotional trek. Like many indie authors out there, I began this journey believing that I would write an amazing book someday and literary agents would be clamouring to represent me. Not so! What I have learned though is this. Looking for validation in this way can be very discouraging and leave you questioning your writing abilities and aspirations. It did me.Consequently, it took me some time to get here. But I’m here now. Like it or not! My only regretis that it took me so long to believe in myself, my voice, and my vision of someday becoming an author. So, my message to other upcoming authors out there is a familiar one. Just do it!  

Thank you again for welcoming me to your community of authors and for this opportunity to introduce myself.

My name is Silvia M Wynter. And it is a pleasure to meet you!

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