HLLC Hall of Fame

Interview with @SunshineBandito

This is the interview of the beautiful SunshineBandito who is the winner of the Mystery/ Thriller genre in the Candy Cane Awards! 

Joice: First and foremost, Congratulations! How do you feel about being a winner in Candy Cane awards?

Maxwell: I'm super excited. I'm glad that the judges took the time to read my story. I was a bit reluctant about sharing my stories, but I'm glad people like it.

Joice: Tell us something about your book.

Maxwell: It hasn't even begun. I have big plans for this book. The plot seemed a bit underdeveloped and so I went back to the drawing board. I'm headed in a new direction and I'm really excited for everyone to read it.

Joice: Cool! When and how did you start writing?

Maxwell: I started writing when I was four. My parents greatly inspired me. My mom is an amazing teacher and she always encouraged me to use my imagination. My dad could also come up with a story in a split second. So, I started writing because my imagination couldn't be contained. lolol

Joice: Aww... Family's support is the best! Do you want to be a professional author?

Maxwell: That would be amazing if I could live by my pen!

Joice: Agreed! So, you are writing under a penname?

Maxwell: Yes. It was actually my mom's idea to write under a pen name. Plus, I kind of like the mystery and intrigue surrounding a pseudonym. Someday I might reveal my name, but for now it's Maxwell P. Styles.

Joice: It does sound cool! Who are your favorite authors? That's both in and out of Wattpad.

Maxwell: In Wattpad? There are so many! is sooo talented. Her book: Between the Redwoods is so unique, I couldn't help but to love it! I've never read anything like it. would be my I definitely went through an emotional roller coaster when reading He Loves Me, Not but it was so worth it. It has easily become my favorite poetry book. and are next. I never cry and they both made me cry. Not only are their stories entertaining but the writing is superb! Super talented ladies! Outside of Wattpad, Mia Sheridan comes to mind. I remember reading her books and literally needing to meditate. I love books that change your entire perceptive of life and romance and her books did that. And I found remiss if I didn't mention a classic. I am literally obsessed with Jane Eyre. I love the idea of crazy plots before happy endings. It really sticks with you.

Joice: Did they inspire you? What are the other ways you get inspiration from?

Maxwell: Absolutely did they inspire me! I think they made me want to write a story that would really stick with people, even if it's just one person. With One Phone Call Away, I was feeling a bit depressed and upset. I usually get my inspiration from my emotions, as silly as that sounds. Lol! Music also inspires me. I have a playlist of each of my books. It helps to get my mindset into a particular mindset and mood.

Joice: Great! What do you think is the best thing about Wattpad? Did it help shape your writing or potential?

Maxwell: The best thing about Wattpad is definitely the people. Everyone I've met are so supportive and helpful. We're all writers here which I think is so cool! It has helped with my writing. There are so many here who have really good ideas and advice which has helped a lot with my writing. Wattpad also helps if you're trying to publish. You can see if your story is interesting enough and if not, you can see where you need improvement.

Joice: Don't we all love Wattpad? What is the one thing you look for when buying or about to read a book?

Maxwell: A good cover and plot! The cover reels me in and the plot makes me stay. It doesn't necessarily have to be unique, but it has to be interesting enough for me to read until the end. That included with good writing equals a good cuddle with a book!

Joice: Is there a particular genre you love to read or write?

Maxwell: Romance, of course! I also love mysteries and a bit of twist to the plot. I try to include both genres in my writing.

Joice: Tell us one thing that readers do that make you smile.

Maxwell: Comment. I don't care about the votes so much, but I love hearing people's thoughts. When the negative comments are great. I want people to love my characters as much as I love them and truly connect with them. Comments mean that they've connected and that makes me supremely happy!

Joice: Aww... What things do you like to do in your leisure time? (Besides writing, of course!)

Maxwell: Spending time with my family, dogs included. I have three little dogs that I love! I always love languages. I speak six and since the quarantine, I'm working on learning another one. It helps me stay busy!

Joice: Wow! This is seriously impressive! What is the one thing you love the most in life?

Maxwell: My family. My parents are seriously the best! They are so supportive and always there for me. I love my little sister and brother! I'm the oldest, but I learn so much from them. Apart from being my best friends, they inspire me to be a better person and they are super fun!

Joice: Such a loving family! Any message you want to give to other aspiring authors?

Maxwell: Fall in love with your own story! I know a lot of writers that get discouraged if they're story doesn't get a lot of reads or if they get a bad review. If you love the story, write it! Whatever you do, don't give up! The worst thing you can do is give up on your characters and yourself. Someone out there will love your story just as much as you. And even if that doesn't seem to be the case, you enjoyed yourself. I think that's that the best thing about writing. You have the freedom to create literally whatever in the world you want. Take advantage of that and write without boundaries!

Joice: Thank you so much for your time. Many many well wishes for all of your works.

Maxwell: Thank you for the opportunity! I had a lot of fun.

Joice: Welcome, Maxwell!

Also, head into the next chapter for the exclusive interview of Nutellaxgirlx, who is the winner of the Fantasy genre.