Nya Jade is a singer-songwriter and author based in San Francisco. Her music videos have aired on the VH1, BET, and MTV networks. USA Today hailed Nya as a “young female troubadour worth keeping your eyes and ears on,” in an entertainment feature on up-and-coming singer-songwriters. “Her cool singing voice recalls Sade,” said the LA Times.
Between writing and performing new music, Nya took a musical sabbatical to focus on writing a novel—an endeavor she found quite daunting, until she began looking at each chapter as a verse in a very long song. Phoebe Pope and the Year of Four is her first novel.
In her free time, Nya enjoys hanging out with family and friends, searching for amazing gluten-free desserts, and bargain hunting for her next pair of funky shoes.
Nya holds a B.A. in Economics and an M.A. in Sociology, both from Stanford University.
How did you come up with the title of your book?
At first, I wanted a one-word title, but nothing really worked for me. Then, when I decided to include my main character's name, the rest fell into place.
What is your writing environment like?
I love to write anywhere with a beautiful view. I'm inspired by views! I recently moved and my new living room has a cozy alcove with a wonderful view of hills and valleys. I'm very excited to start writing there!
What is your favorite quote?
I'm always discovering and falling in love with quotes that are new to me. My current favorite is an Oscar Wilde quote. "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."
What inspires you to write?
Silence. When I experience silence, I think of the colorful people I've met and some of the entertaining stories they've shared with me - especially the fall-out-of-my-seat funny ones. It inspires me to make my characters and their situations as believable and as entertaining as possible.
What do you consider the most challenging part about writing a novel, or about writing in general?
Writing the middle section of a novel is challenging. I spend a lot of time trying to avoid sinking into a "soggy middle". A good middle section is key to maintaining a great pace and it's important not to lose readers midway through the story.
Did you learn anything while writing this book? If so, what was it?
I scrapped a few full drafts of the novel on the road to finishing it. This taught me to be flexible with my writing process. I also learned that just because I think I know how a story will end, doesn't mean my characters agree with me! Sometimes characters will show you what's best for them.
What have you done to promote this book?
I've done several things to promote this book. A few examples include my current PUYB book tour; cover reveals; giveaways; email list sponsorships and participating in book club meetings via phone.
What are some of the best tools available today for writers?
Where do I begin? I honestly can't keep up with all of the tools - especially social media - that are available to help writers connect with fans. At the moment, my favorite tool is Twitter. I love that I can communicate in short bursts.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Yes! I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to all readers for the amazing support. It's inspiring! Also, one of my main characters, Colten Chase, is a movie star with his own website. You can check it out at www.ColtenChase.com. Thank you very much for having me today. I appreciate this opportunity to connect with your online readers.
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