New to the literary scene, writer Renee Allen debuts her new title, The Kiss of Judas! Thank you for taking the time to answer a few questions for our project!

-SCBC, Inc.

Where are you from?

I am originally from Beaufort, South Carolina. I currently live in Kingwood (Houston), Texas.

When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing three years ago. I felt that God has placed a talent in me and I just wished to share it with the rest of the world. After putting my words down on paper and hearing people say to me, “You can really write,” I continued and it escalated from there.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I first considered myself a writer when I saw my words in print for an online magazine that I wrote for almost two years ago. It was crazy to see my name listed as a contributing, then staff writer. I was really honored.

Do you have a specific writing style?

I would have to say yes, although it does depend on the subject matter. If it’s something really gritty and straight-forward, I like to use first person and get down to their emotions. I want the readers to feel exactly what’s going on in my characters’ heads. And be able to understand their actions. Not necessarily agree with them, but definitely understand.

Do you see writing as a long- or short-term career?

I definitely see it as a long-term career. I not only want to continue writing fiction novels, but I want to write a few nonfiction books (in the future) and screenplays (way in the future).

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

There is indeed a message I want readers to grasp. I want my readers to know that God changes things. No matter what you’ve been through or what you’ve done against His name, He will always forgive you. All you have to do is ask. My message is not presented in the conventional way, but I felt that I had to get it across to America in a way that’s not only inspirational, but entertaining.

How do you feel overall about self-publishing?

I feel that self-publishing is a great opportunity for authors to have complete control over their work. It provides a sense of accomplishment that focuses the rewards on your own efforts.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of promotion for self-published authors?

The strengths are that you’re the voice that people hear. No one can represent your work or get across to the public what you’re trying to say like you can. The weaknesses are that the financial budget it requires can get rather expensive. Money is a big issue when you’re doing it all yourself.

Do you feel that the boom in African American writers is a fad or another renaissance?

I definitely feel that it is another renaissance. There are so many talented African American writers out there, it’s crazy. We all just have to find a way of getting our work to mainstream. And judging from the past ten years, we’re doing just fine.

Do you feel more African Americans are reading?

We’re reading more now than ever. I’m so happy to see the emerging numbers of book clubs. It’s a blessing to see that we all support each other.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

If I had to choose, I would say Eric Jerome Dickey. The way he conveys his character’s emotions are on point. He takes his time when he writes and doesn’t try to rush the story or crowd it with unnecessary jargon. His work is praised and I think he’s a great writer. 

What are your current projects?

I’m currently at work on another novel. I have completed one third of it so far and hope to have it completed by December 2002.

Visit: www.reneeonline.com