These are the voices of our mentors and mentees from past and present. They've provided their insight about the program, their processes, the Wattys, and have shared their favorite Wattpad stories. Grab a cuppa and sit down with us as we get to know...
The Bootcamp Mentors are proud to present a spotlight interview with author of The King's Gilded Warrior. Check out this writer's work and give them a shout out in the comments.
BCM: How did you discover the Bootcamp Mentors and what have you found most valuable about this Wattpad community program?
niahouston: I stumbled upon Bootcamp Mentors approximately two years ago and decided to join their Discord channel to stay updated with the latest happenings. This year, I came across their workshops and noticed the immense excitement among participants, which piqued my interest. Joining these workshops has been a fantastic experience as it has allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the same things I do. One aspect that I particularly appreciate about this program is the provision of detailed feedback to all workshop participants. Through this program, I have truly come to understand the value of growth as a writer and the significance of receiving genuine assistance along the way.
BCM: What prompted you to start writing on Wattpad and what do you like most about the platform as a writer?
niahouston: I have been a member of Wattpad since 2016, initially joining upon a friend's recommendation who spoke highly of the platform's captivating stories. Like many teenagers, I was quite passionate about the Twilight series and was naturally drawn to similar narratives on Wattpad. What truly appealed to me was the realization that the writers on Wattpad were ordinary individuals, much like myself, who simply desired to share their stories with others. Inspired by their dedication, I embarked on my own writing journey.
Since then, my journey as a writer has been an ongoing process, with a constant pursuit of honing my craft. I find immense satisfaction in continuously striving to improve my skills and create compelling narratives. However, what has truly made my experience on Wattpad special is the community of friends I have made along the way. The connections and friendships forged through this platform have been invaluable, providing support, encouragement, and camaraderie as we navigate our writing journeys together. Wattpad, to me, is not just a platform for sharing stories, but a place where I have found a sense of belonging among fellow writers and friends.
BCM: What motivated you to write the story you're submitting to the 2023 Wattys?
niahouston: I am thrilled to share with you my submission for this year's Wattys. It's titled The King's Gilded Warrior, and it serves as the first book in my 'The Royal Warrior' series. This story has been an incredible journey fueled by my passion and unwavering dedication. You see, most of my stories are born from the depths of my dreams, serving as the spark that ignites my creativity.
When I set out to write this book, I had a clear vision in mind. I wanted to create a narrative where a Black woman could embody strength and vulnerability simultaneously, showcasing the beautiful duality of being a woman of color. For many people of color, including myself, there is an unspoken expectation to hide our emotions, fearing that being perceived as weak or emotionally unstable would only perpetuate stereotypes. This pressure often leads to identity issues, resentment, and untreated mental health struggles. With The King's Gilded Warrior, I aimed to give voice to these experiences.
Through the character of Lyra, I've woven a story that reflects my own journey. Lyra embodies the complexities I have faced as a Black woman—struggling to reconcile strength with vulnerability, and the notion that it's okay to be both fierce and tender. I poured my heart and soul into her character, drawing inspiration from my own challenges and triumphs. Lyra is, in many ways, a reflection of myself, highlighting the difficulties of embracing vulnerability and allowing oneself to simply cry and feel without judgment.
But my motivations for writing this book extend beyond personal representation. I wanted to provide women who look and feel like me with an opportunity to experience the magic and wonder of fantasy. Historically, the genre has often overlooked diverse voices and perspectives. By creating a world where characters like Lyra can thrive, where they can harness their strength and wield incredible powers, I hope to inspire others and give them a chance to escape into a realm where they are celebrated and empowered.
As I prepare to submit The King's Gilded Warrior to the Wattys, I am filled with a mix of excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. I hope that my story reaches and resonates with a wide audience, particularly women who share similar experiences. It is my sincerest desire that readers find solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging within the pages of my book.
BCM:. If you had to describe your story in three words, what would they be?
niahouston: Magic, Resistance, Love.
BCM: Tell us one thing about your writing process that has helped you the most.
niahouston: When I write I like to make goals about what I want to get done for the week. So I work best by setting weekly word goals and adjusting based on my availability.
