Today we’d like to introduce you to Zachariah Jones.
Hi Zachariah , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have loved books my entire life. This love grew at a young age when my mom would read to my siblings and me. She was also a librarian at the local library, which is where I also got my first job when I was 14. I worked there shelving items and repairing books. Throughout my life I would dabble in creative writing, however it wasn’t until 2020 when COVID hit, that I had some more time on my hands and decided to turn some of my ideas that I had into an actual novel. This decision is when Chasing Shadows was born. What started as a plan for a single novel, turned quickly into writing a trilogy. After completing the manuscript for the first book, I decided to have it published through my own independent publishing business, Water Sign Books. The success of the Chasing Shadows trilogy has been amazing. It has been nominated for over ten book awards and has won two (Best Region Fiction – Midwest from IPPY and Runner Up for Best Horror from NIEA). This has led me to continue writing with several works in progress, while simultaneously expanding my publishing business where we published our first children’s book this year from author Lisa Eliason and illustrator Syl Thompson!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Nothing that takes work is ever smooth. When I had the first manuscript completed, I submitted it to many agents and directly to some publishers. I got mixed reactions from agents, as paranormal and horror are not for everyone. I got a few offers, but each of them came with concessions and losing my creative rights. So, I undertook a large task of forming my own publishing company to help bring my own work to life, but this is more to help bring other author’s work to life too! Plus, after I started publishing my books, I received rave reviews from Kirkus (listed Chasing Shadows as a must read) and currently hold 4.69 stars as an author on Goodreads! With both critics and readers enjoying my work, it confirms to me that I made the right choice in pushing through these first obstacles.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My current published work, Chasing Shadows, is a paranormal horror mystery. This joining of genres is not as common, and with the story taking place in the 1920s I knew I needed to do my research. I wanted these stories to be grounded in reality and actual historical context to bring realism. The extra work in researching the time and places has paid dividends to the readers as it brings a new level of spook to the story. However, my other stories I am working on are an even broader mix. I have one I am writing that includes a killer clown, another project is more of a thriller mystery, and a third project is entirely outside the realm of horror. I feel what sets me apart is the range in willing to write in. Many people feel boxed in, when in truth we can be creative in many ways.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Yes! I find my own sanity in enjoying other authors stories. One of my favorites is The Whisper Man by Alex North. This book gives me chills in such a great way! I also enjoy the less intense mystery that is part of A. C. Rosen’s Andy Mills series. But when I am feeling down or need motivation I turn to any book or presentation from Simon Sinek. My other resource to keep me going is fitness. I spend at least two hours a day on myself in either the gym or enjoying nature because it helps both my physical and mental health.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thezachariahjones.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_zachariah_jones
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thezachariahjones
