We recently connected with Alissa Zavalianos and have shared our conversation below.

Alissa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

As an author, I’ve had the chance to work on many meaningful projects; it’s hard to choose a favorite or one that sticks out the most. But I think I’d say working on my debut novel The Earth-Treader was the most meaningful since it’s the book that got my foot in the publishing door. The journey toward publication was a rocky one, seeing as I had no idea what I was doing, but through careful guidance and encouragement from those who had gone before me and a whole lot of grace and inspiration from the Lord, I was able to figure it out and produce something I’m incredibly proud of.

Alissa, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I started writing from an early age, but it wasn’t until January 0f 2020 where I began taking my writing career more seriously. Since then, I’ve written and published 5 stories with my 6th releasing March 7, 2024. I don’t believe I’ll ever stop writing, but I’m not so much worried about the timeline when that happens.

In addition to being an author, I’ve also started my own publishing consultant business called A to Z: A Writer’s Guide to Publishing, where I help like-minded creatives get their foot in the door, giving them a launching pad in navigating the murky waters of this elusive book world. It’s been so fun, and I love getting to encourage fellow authors on their roads to publication.

I am also a cover designer. I am self-taught, so there’s definitely room to grow, but I’ve so enjoyed all the projects I’ve had the opportunity to work on.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

As a Bible-believing Christian, my goal and mission is to see Christ magnified in everything I say and do. I may not always write explicitly Christian fiction, but all my stories hold a Biblical worldview whether in themes, characterization, politics, etc. Good always wins. Evil is vanquished. We can read and write about hope because God is our greatest hope. Similar to how Tolkien and Lewis write, I seek to emulate them.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect is finally seeing the finished product and being able to pass it on to a reader or client. Opinions are subjective and everyone is entitled to one, so that’s what makes it all the sweater when you receive positive feedback on your efforts, especially when it’s unexpected.

I would also say the journey itself is rewarding. It’s often the hardest part, but there are so many valuable growth opportunities to be experienced when you’re in the thick of it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://alissazav.wixsite.com/website
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authoralissajzavalianos/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralissajzavalianos/

Image Credits
Aliferous – designed by Alissa J. Zavalianos (me) From the Mountains to the Valley – designed by Alissa J. Zavalianos (me) The Earth-Treader – designed by Kirk DuPonce at DogEared Design Endlewood – designed by GermanCreative on Fiverr The Wishing Seed – designed by GermanCreative on Fiverr Unearth the Tides – designed by Miblart on Instagram