NAACP award-winning author Aleema Omotoni is back with her sophomore release. I recently spoke with her about Winners & Liars.
Tell me about your latest book.
Winners & Liars is my second YA contemporary mystery novel. It’s described as Knives Out meets Dead Poets Society and explores themes of family, friendship, love, loss and the whitewashing of history.
It follows Derin, a member of the Kenfield Set, a group of gifted literature students who have to compete in a series of games to win their favorite professor’s stately home and multi-million pound fortune.
I really wanted to have fun with my second book, so I decided to write an exciting competition while incorporating the things I learnt from my history degrees.
How long did it take you to write it?
I wrote Winners & Liars in one month. It all just came pouring out of me. It’s the shortest amount of time I’ve spent writing a book, and to this day I still can’t believe it haha. I just loved (and still love) the story so much.
Which character could you relate to the most and why?
I think there are little things I relate to in each of the five Kenfield Set members. But I was also really drawn to Cornelia Darnley for reasons that will hopefully become clear when folks read the book.
Mostly though, I don’t really write characters that are like myself. They deal with situations that I’ve dealt with in different ways, and that allows me to explore all kinds of perspectives. Writing, for me, is as much about exploring and growing as a person as it is about telling a story.
How are you celebrating the book’s release?
I’m so excited to be having a launch ball for Winners & Liars. It’s going to be like the Kenfield House ball in the book with everyone getting dressed up in 1840s finery and black tie!
Who is your author best friend (either in your head or in real life)?
I’m blessed to have so many great writer friends, but today I’ll give a special shout out to thee iconic Black British Ladies group chat with me and a bunch of amazing Black women authors that live in the UK.
What is the most valuable piece of writing advice you’ve received?
In terms of craft, I outline all the books I write, and a huge help in doing that is the Save the Cat format. I’ve modified it to fit my needs and style, and that doc in my laptop is invaluable for me.
With regards to being a writer, “just go for a walk” is everything. Sometimes, close the laptop, you’ll be amazed by the clarity stepping away from the page brings.
What books have you read lately and loved?
Lately I haven’t been able to read for pleasure as much as I would like, but I spent the winter of 2024 into 2025 curled up in middle earth, and I loved every minute.
What books are you excited to read?
I’m looking forward to diving back into fantasy books. Fantasy was (and still is) my first love as a reader but recently—mostly because of work—I’ve been reading contemporary realistic books like coming-of age, thriller/mystery and the occasional romance (all of which I do enjoy), so I’m excited to get back to fantasy!
What’s next for you?
I’m currently working on my next books. I’m so excited about them, and I can’t wait to share more. As a teaser, well…I’ll give you one word for each: water and revenge.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
For anyone reading this who wants to be a published author one day, keep writing. Hone your craft, read as much as you can, and keep on writing.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Winners & Liars by Aleema Omotoni.
To learn more about NAACP award-winning author Aleema Omotoni, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
Website: aleemaomotoni.com
Social handles (Instagram, TikTok and Threads): @aleemawrites