Intimate Interviews

Fun times with Denyefa4

Hello AfterDark Lovers,

Today, we are having a chat with Denyefa, a vibrant storyteller and 200-level English and Communication student. Starting with poetry, he now weaves captivating narratives that explore love, heartbreak, and the supernatural. Join us as we delve into Denyefa's creative journey and discover the inspirations behind his writing.

Welcome Denyefa!

We'd love to get to know you better. Can you tell us more about yourself?

Um, I'm Emmanuel but prefer going by Denyefa as I feel Emmanuel's are everywhere and Denyefa captures my identity as a Nigerian. I'm a 200lvl student of English and Communication with big dreams that I plan on accomplishing.

What made you take up the pen and start writing?

Well, at first, I only wrote poetry as it helped me express my emotions, but then I got ghosted and poetry was kind of my therapist. Soon I decided that poetry just wasn't enough, and I wanted to go into storytelling and so I did. 

What inspires you as an author?

Well, everything. My environment, the things I watch, my past experience, heartbreak, love life etc. 

What inspired you to write your first steamy scene? Could you tell us more about that experience? Was it a slow buildup to a not-so-innocent kiss, or did your characters jump right into the action?

Actually, my first steamy scene happened in my book titled "World's Fate" it was an enemies-to-lovers' book and after back and forth bantering for chapters, my character took a step further and made out. Given that it was a supernatural novel, it wasn't your random steam, it was steam steam as magic was involved, floating here and there. Haha 😂

Was writing "after dark" material something that occurred naturally to you, or was it a craft that you practiced till you perfected?

Actually, it came naturally to me, even though at that time I hadn't experienced even my first kiss. 🙃 

Do you have any challenges that you face during writing, especially spicy or mature topics? And how do you overcome them?

Actually, at a time, yes. I had my reservations about mature themes but then when I got into UNI, I understood that it was normal and not taboo. Will actually start a book soon that explores BDSM. 

What is one thing about writing that no one told you about, or what is one piece of advice you would like to share with other writers, especially when it comes to writing AfterDark material?

When it comes to writing, being emotionally attached to your characters can go a very long way as it helps you express them in a way people can connect with. From first time intercourse to other things. 

What's the most scandalous thing you've ever written? (could be posted or deleted material)

Well, I haven't actually posted anything that poses as a scandal, but if it's between characters then that's kind of my emo. Haha 

Do you have a favorite novel from the titles you've written and why is it your chosen one?

This is hard, that's like asking a mother to choose a favorite kid. So due to that, I can't choose a Favourite child as I'm a proud father of many which I equally love except my first ever written book which I'm ashamed of. I learnt from it though, so I love it as well. Even though I'll never publish it for public consumption. 

Are you a panster, or plotter, or both? How does that work for you?

I'm actually a pantser, I prefer the story to choose it's part instead of me dictating what should and should not be. 

Do you have a mentor or someone you look up to when it comes to writing?

Yes, actually I do. Mason Fitzgibbon. She has really helped me with my book Just Add Witches and with writing as a whole. 

Do you have any writing projects you're currently working on? Any future titles your readers should look forward to?

I'm currently updating "Just Add Witches."I will be continuing "Vindict" from next week, then will finish "How To Royalty" during NaNo before moving forward to Half A Man. 

If you were a character in your story, who would you be and why?

Well, I'd love to be Manuel from my book Half A Man as he gets to do all the things I haven't done yet. 🙃

If you had the opportunity to live anywhere in the world for a year to write a book that took place in that same setting, where would you choose and why?

In London, Half A Man is based in London and in a school for writers, which is like a heavenly experience for a writing geek like me. 

Do you have a favorite author? (On or off Wattpad)

Actually, I love all the authors whose books I've read. But I'm kind of obsessed with owliecat. 🥲

What is the most captivating novel you've read? Bonus points if it has spice.

Mistress of Flame and Mistress of Nature. They are filled with all the things I love about fantasy and have strong female leads. 

Do you have any hobbies?

Apart from writing? Does out of practice chess playing count? 

What's your favorite movie or TV series?

The entire series of Vampire Diaries, down to Originals, then Legacies. I plan on writing a book that is as good as that someday. 

What's your favorite food or cuisine?

That'll be Jollof rice. Maybe someday when I'm on a food tasting tour, I'll pick up something else but till then, let's go with Nigerian Jollof. 

What would be your version of a perfect vacation?

On an island with internet, a freshwater beach, a very nice and comfortable vacation house and most importantly, my girl and lots of food. 

If you could, what is one thing you would tell your younger self today?

Well, um, is the mic turned on? okay. So... "hey younger self, I just wanted you to know that, bruh you're going to get ghosted twice, dumped more than once, but then you'll find someone that make you want to be a better you. Someone that inspires the best in you and challenges the h🟪🟪🟪 out of you even though sometimes you enjoy being the dull one in the relationship. I love You, peace out." Okay now I'll hit my chest, make the peace symbol with my fingers then drop the mic. 

Before we wrap it up, do you have any message for your readers and possible future readers?

Well, all I have to say is... I love You all. All the support you've given me, they've helped me grow, so thank you and don't forget to vote, follow, comment and share. 😂