Author Tiffany L. Warren is tackling science fiction and is giving readers not one but two new releases. I recently spoke with her about her Kissed by the Sun series.
Tell me about your latest book.
The Kissed by the Sun series has two books, Book 1 is called Tower of Babel and Book 2 is called Changing of the Guard. In the beginning of the story, a solar event causes melanin-rich people to become telepathic and receive an intellect boost while melanin-deficient are forced underground, unable to survive outside during daylight hours. The events unfold while interracial couple Judah and Paige Cranston are at the office—they’re NASA doctors—and there are mass casualties. The worst part about the event for Judah and Paige is that their communication is impacted, because with the telepathy comes the inability to tolerate verbal speech. But, Judah can still communicate quite well with his “work wife” Zyan, who also receives the gift of telepathy.
How long did it take you to write it?
It took a couple of years to write it, because I had to be very detail oriented with the world-building. Also, the subject matter is sensitive, leaning toward controversial, so I did several rewrites to make sure the tone was correct.
Which character could you relate to the most and why?
Judah, for sure. He wants to be joyful about these new and wonderful experiences and special abilities. He’s even smarter than he was before, he’s telepathic! But the world is crazy now, and his wife is miserable. He wants all the new good things but wishes he could still have the joy he shared with his wife. And now there’s a different kind of apathy because most of the melanin-rich don’t seem to care one bit about what’s happening to the people who can’t come outside during the day. Some think it’s colonizer’s karma. Judah doesn’t feel this way, but he might be the only one looking for a cure.
How are you celebrating the books’ release?
I am celebrating in a big way because science fiction and afrofuturism are my favorite genres. This is a chance for me to flex my writing muscles in a different way, and it feels so good to stretch into this space. Whenever I finish a book, I have a glass of wine. I had one with this book as well.
Who is your author best friend (either in your head or in real life)?
I have several, in real life. Every day I talk to Victoria Christopher Murray, ReShonda Tate, and Renee Daniel Flagler. They are not just friends, they are sisters. I also have bent the ears of Leslie Elle Wright and Piper Huguley while writing my last book. I am blessed to have a strong author circle.
What is the most valuable piece of writing advice you’ve received?
The best stories are the ones that only I can tell. We have some authentic experiences that we own, and those are the most relatable to others.
What books have you read lately and loved?
Seven Days in June by Tia Williams. I know it came out a while ago, but I just read it, and it was amazing! Then, I truly enjoyed All the Sinners Bleed by S.A. Cosby. Outstanding.
What books are you excited to read?
American Daughters: A Novel by Piper Huguley is my next read. I cannot wait to dig into it.
What’s next for you?
My first historical fiction The Unexpected Diva: A Novel about Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield, the first Black prima donna, and her rise to fame during the antebellum, comes out January 2025. I’m so excited to share this story.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Even though Kissed by the Sun is sci-fi, it’s great fun and has everything my readers have come to expect from me. A little drama, a little spice, and ordinary people facing extraordinary crises of conscience. So, I dare you to check it out even if you don’t think you like sci-fi! If you liked Independence Day with Will Smith, you might just like Kissed by the Sun.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Kissed by the Sun Book 1: Tower of Babel and Kissed by the Sun Book 2: Changing of the Guard.
To learn more about Tiffany L. Warren, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
Facebook: facebook.com/authortiffanylwarren
Instagram: Instagram.com/tiffanylwarren
Website: www.tiffanylwarren.com
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