We recently connected with Shannon Thompson and have shared our conversation below.
Shannon, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you share a story with us from back when you were an intern or apprentice? Maybe it’s a story that illustrates an important lesson you learned or maybe it’s a just a story that makes you laugh (or cry)?
Since graduating college in 2013, I’ve worked various roles in the publishing industry: social media assistant, proofreader, editor, etc. You name it, I tried it! I spent a handful of years as a full-time freelance editor, and now I’m a book coach on Reedsy, where I help folks get on track with their publishing journey. I also work at Penguin Random House. Where I am now wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t applied myself to internship opportunities. The first time I applied for a publishing internship was back in 2018. I didn’t get my shot until 2023. Sometimes persistence pays off! I had the utmost joy of being part of The Writers House Intern Program, where I specialized in Global Licensing and Media Rights. It was such an enriching experience that broadened my view of the publishing landscape, and after that, I pivoted into publishing seamlessly.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m a young adult and adult fantasy and science fiction author, though I’ve also dabbled in middle grade contemporary stories. To be honest, I love all genres and age categories, so I try not to limit my creativity. Wherever I feel like going, I go! I currently have two series out in the world. If you love paranormal romance, Minutes Before Sunset, book 1 in the Timely Death trilogy, is for you. A small Kansas town is hiding a deadly magical society, and the new girl at school finds herself at the center of it. Perfect for fans of THE RAVEN BOYS and TWILIGHT. If you’re looking for a dystopian fantasy, you should check out my Bad Bloods series. It’s a dark romantic dystopian fantasy series perfect for fans of X-MEN and THE HUNGER GAMES. Both of my series are complete, so no waiting for the next book. (The first book is free, too!)
Regarding my book coaching services, you can find me on Reedsy. I specialize in young adult and adult fiction, particularly with mystery/thrillers, fantasy, and post-apocalyptic fiction. I prefer stories with a romantic subplot, but it isn’t necessary. I also love when the backdrop feels like a character. Many of my clients have gone on to win awards, and both of my mentees during Pitch Wars now have agents and book deals with the Big Five.
I also share my publishing journey, along with writing and publishing tips on my website www.ShannonAThompson.com
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Many people on the outside of publishing think you can just write a book and get it on the shelves of Barnes & Noble, but traditional publishing is a very long journey. I started writing at a very young age, as many authors do, but I didn’t start dabbling in publishing until I was about to graduate college. My first novel came out with an independent press in 2013. By the end of 2014, that publisher folded. I was so incredibly blessed that my fans advocated for me, and another publisher bought the Timely Death trilogy. Since the last book had yet to release, all three books came out in 2015. It was such an emotional whirlwind! That same publisher also published the Bad Bloods series. Granted, around 2017, I realized I wanted to pursue the Big Five, so I wrote another book and jumped headfirst into querying. (This is how you get a literary agent.) It’s very competitive and often disheartening. I signed with my first agent in 2019. She ended up leaving the industry a year or so later. That means I had to write more books and query again. I’m now with my third agent. This industry is constantly shifting. You have to stay on your toes, keep leveling up your skills, and network. If you dream of being an author at a Big Five house, perseverance is a must. I’m proud of all the books I’ve written, and I’m very excited to be where I am because I know the next step is right around the corner.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My mom died when I was 11 years old. She was 44. I was very young and losing her was very sudden, but it also gave me the perspective that life is not guaranteed. So many well-intentioned adults cautioned me against pursuing publishing young. A few suggested I shouldn’t get an English degree or wait until I’m retired to chase novel-writing dreams, but I didn’t listen. My dad in particular was very supportive of me. He always believed I could be a professional novelist. He didn’t bat an eye when I told him I was getting an English degree. He was excited that I was living my life the way I wanted to live it. Now, largely because of his support (which allowed me to cultivate my confidence), I work at Penguin Random House. I’m a book coach with very successful clients. I’ve had book signings at Barnes & Noble and been invited to speak to crowds at writing conventions. Before that, I had a wonderful career at the library, where I focused on storytelling programs for adults. I spend every day in the creative space, and I feel incredibly grateful to be able to do so. I spend my evenings pursuing my own creative passions. It’s a beautifully balanced life, and I wasn’t going to wait until I was retired to live it. I’m going to live the best I can – and pursue my dreams – every day, because tomorrow isn’t guarenteed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shannonathompson.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorsat/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorShannonAThompson
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-a-thompson-19a78a68/
- Twitter: https://x.com/AuthorSAT
- Other: https://linktr.ee/authorsat
https://reedsy.com/shannon-thompson-4f6
Image Credits
All photos owned by Shannon Thompson