Justyna

Author Bio: I’m Justyna, a 30-year-old fiction writer and the author of The Guardian of Willowbrook. My writing is inspired by vivid dreams and music, and I love exploring themes of faith, sacrifice, love, and strong, unapologetically strong female characters.

Author/Writer Interview:

1. What inspires you most to write?

My biggest inspiration comes from my dreams. I have a very vivid imagination, which means I often experience extremely realistic dreams - sometimes they feel almost real, even while I’m awake. Many of my ideas start there.

2. What is your favorite genre?

Fiction in all its forms. I love dark fiction, fantasy, dramas, and thrillers. I enjoy moving through fictional worlds and events where imagination has no limits.

3. Who is one author you admire and why?

Jacek Piekara - a Polish author whose work deeply resonates with me. His language and themes, especially those involving the Inquisition and magic, are incredibly compelling. Internationally, I admire Peter V. Brett. I’ve read The Painted Man series several times - demons, runes, and saviors? Yes, please.

4. How do you overcome blank writing spells?

Usually, a break is enough - sometimes short, sometimes longer. I believe that when a story is ready to be written, it always finds its way back.

5. What legal publishing advice can you give?

Always make sure your rights stay with you. Unfortunately, it’s easy to be taken advantage of in this industry. Read contracts carefully and never rush into signing anything.

6. How many books have you written? Are any bestsellers yet?

I’ve written four books. One has been published by a traditional publisher in Poland and is also available in English on Amazon. The others are waiting for their moment. No bestseller yet - but I’m patient.

7. If you could rewrite one movie script, which would it be and why?

Probably The Hunger Games. I feel like many important details from the books were missed. But I would keep the cast!

8. What difficulties have you experienced, and how do you handle criticism?

Rejection. It always makes you question whether your book was “good enough.” Maybe it wasn’t - but I truly value every piece of feedback I receive, because it helps me grow as a writer.

Another difficulty is that there is no single, clear path in publishing. Everyone gives different advice, every journey looks different, and it can be overwhelming at times. Learning to trust my own process while staying open to critique has been key.

9. What has been your best experience as a writer so far?

I once sent my book to a woman on Instagram. After she read it, I received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback - I was even asked about a sequel.

10. Do you prefer silence or background sound while writing?

Music. It’s incredibly important to me. I love writing while listening to my favorite songs - they help set the mood.

11. What encouraging words would you give to another writer?

Try. Don’t give up. Even Harry Potter was rejected once.

12. How did you decide on pricing and promotion?

Pricing was based on similar books in the genre.

Promotion-wise, I’m very active on Instagram and TikTok - I believe social media matters. I’ve sent review copies to influencers for feedback and regularly reach out to my followers about promotions, including events like an Advent book calendar where my e-book was available for free for a week.

13. Why should someone read your book?

Because it’s good - and I’m proud of it. It’s a story about sacrifice, love, and faith. It’s easy to read, and the main character is my absolute pride: strong, sassy, and unforgettable.

14. Did you have a book coach?

No.

15. What was your favorite subject in school?

Surprisingly, math — which probably explains why I ended up working in finance. Literature came second. I love poetry, and my love for books started with Winnie-the-Pooh.

16. Are you self-published or traditionally published?

I am self-published in the UK on Amazon with The Guardian of Willowbrook. The same book is also under a traditional publishing contract in Poland and will be released on March 10, 2026.