Featured Interview With A.J. Aalto
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I’m a horror writer from the Niagara region of Canada, living in the middle of the Ontario wine belt with my family, two cats, and a Yorkie who thinks she’s an attack dog. I’m the author of the Marnie Baranuik Files, a paranormal comedy series featuring a bumbling psychic detective.
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I was always a reader, but I didn’t start writing until I was 13; I was so enchanted by David Eddings’ the Belgariad that I tried to write myself into the series. My dad suggested I should try writing my own world. After years of failing at epic fantasy, I turned to something more ridiculous and found my voice, my comfort zone, and an audience.
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
I love reading True Crime, and Ann Rule is my favourite. I also read mysteries (both Kellermans, Kathy Reichs, Patricia Cornwell), horror (King and Koontz and all the others), non-fic (mostly forensic bio, history of witchcraft and demonology, body language, entomology), and fantasy. When I sit down to write, though, I’m more inspired by human beings; I spend a lot of time watching and listening.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
Wrath & Bones is the fourth book in the Marnie Baranuik Files, and has our heroine invited to the revenant seat of power, the vampire homeland, to face a shift in leadership and answer a challenge from a demon king. In typical Baranuik fashion, she slapchops her way from quest to quest, feeling the fear but sounding the war cry anyway. I won’t give you any spoilers, but there might be a yeti fight that ends in a pedicure. (Warning: recommended for mature audiences only. Swearing, steam, and mild gore within.)
Connect with the Author on their Websites and Social media profiles
I also love Ann Rule and have read all her books. I haven’t yet read yours but I will definitely look for them. I’ve been to your area of Canada many times. Spent my honeymoon at… would you believe…. prudhommes landing. We wanted privacy and it is that! Best of luck with your books.