This post contains affiliate links and clicking on them and making a purchase may result in us earning compensation without costing you anything. Money gained through affiliates helps keep this website up and running. All thoughts and reviews on these books are my own honest opinions. For more information about my affiliates and disclosures check out the Policies and Disclosures page.
Creative Spotlight on Author CK Miller
This article includes some questions not recorded in the live Creative Spotlight on Author CK Miller on The Chapter Goddess Chat. Catch the recap in the podcast link above or the video link below.
Tell our readers briefly about yourself.
Hello, hello! C.K. Miller here, with my cup of hot cocoa. I can't seem to go anywhere without it. I'm the author (and artist) of the epic YA fantasy series, The Roanfire Saga. My debut novel THE PHOENIX HOST is my book baby! I'm the quiet one, the shy one, the one who hides behind books, sketchpads, and my massive cup of hot cocoa. I guess you could call them my security blankets.
Can you tell us about your most recent release? Album? Song? Art piece? Etc.?
I just released book three of my Roanfire Saga in 2022, The Glacial Rogue. I thought it was the most difficult book I've ever written, but now that I'm writing book four, I realize that I was mistaken. Things just got really complicated.
What inspires you?
If I had to choose the things that inspire me the most, it would be music, hiking in nature, and old castles.
What is your creative work routine like? Do you balance it with another job?
My creativity strikes at 10pm after the kids are tucked into bed, my hubby is asleep, the world shuts down. I'll sit down at my computer, say a quick prayer for help and inspiration, turn on music and go. Because I am not only a full-time mother, but a part-time kickboxing instructor, finding time to be creative is a challenge. I could not do what I do without the support of my husband. Because I often write into the wee hours of the night, he will wake up with the kids, get them off to school, and let me catch up on sleep. I am very fortunate to have a support system like this.
Do you plan out your creations? What is your creative process like?
I am learning to plan. Haha. I used to write by the seat of my pants, which would often result in me writing myself into a corner. Now, I have "signposts" throughout the book that I write towards. Sometimes I'll deviate if I feel it would be a better direction. And sometimes my creations pop into my head at random moments. Like my most recent art of a woman in a gown standing in an arched doorway. It was sitting in my head nagging me until I could get it out on paper. (Or in this case, my computer.)
Do you have a self-care routine or want to have one? What do you do or wish that you did to take care of your mental health?
I do. I probably have a more vigorous self-care routine than most. See, I've struggled with stomach problems and migraines most of my life. Only recently was I introduced to a doctor who helped me take my life back. There is a LOT of self-care involved. Sleep! (Hence my hubby waking with the kids in the morning.) Eating clean, taking my supplements, and drinking a gallon of water a day! I go to the gym 4x a week and weightlift. I have martial arts training 3x a week, not including kickboxing. And I have prescribed exercises to keep my spine happy. I do spiral down with depression on occasion. Sometimes it is really hard to climb back out, but I find that moving my body is the best medicine for me.
What is your favorite creation thus far?
Oh, I don't think I can answer that. Each one comes with a feeling of accomplishment, as each one is a challenge. They all hold a unique place in my heart.
Do you have a character that is your favorite over others you've written into creation?
I have many favorites, but I do think my character, Ropert, takes the cake. (Literally.)
Are there any recurring themes in your work?
Yes. Perseverance, mostly. I was recently reminded by a fan about the struggle between my magic system in my series, how one is manifested by peace, and the other by spiraling thoughts of anger, fear, and doubt. I think it relates to all of us.
What does success look like to you considering your creative passion?
I am still trying to figure this one out. There are days when I am giddy with joy over a fan's review. Just knowing how much they loved it makes it all worthwhile. Then I go back into a slump when sales drop. It's a two-edged sword.
What advice would you share with new or aspiring authors/singers/artists/etc?
Learn everything you can about your trade. Know the rules - and then break them with grace.
Where do you get your ideas for world-building?
I lived in Europe for a good portion of my youth. Castles, cobblestone streets, ruins, crumbling walls! You name it. I saw it. In fact, there was a time when I lived the medieval life in a house with no indoor plumbing or heating for two years. Let me tell you, using an outhouse in the dead of winter wasn’t fun. My dad would always get up early and build a fire so we wouldn’t freeze when we got out of bed.
What genre do you prefer to read?
Young Adult all the way. I like the simplicity of the writing, the ease of following the story, and the feelings of self-doubt and self-discovery that come with the growing characters.
What hobbies do you have?
Can writing be a hobby? haha. Martial arts would be my other hobby. Sewing costumes for the Renaissance fair for me and my kids. And I've recently gotten into archery.
Where can our viewers/readers/listeners find you and your work?
You can find my books on Amazon.
You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok --though I do not post much. I keep my website up to date on book signings and appearances at https://ckmillerbooks.com/