Sparkle Riley Interview Published on: 07, Aug 2023
What is one lesser-known fact about your childhood?
I loved going to the library everyday after school.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to become an urban street storyteller and writer?I’m a self-published writer who’s always been inspired by bright city lights, street life and fascinating street stories from the heart of my city!
How do you define urban street storytelling, and what makes it unique compared to other genres?Urban street storytelling is defined as what we see everyday in Baltimore City. It’s unique and creative because it’s real things happening in the community that are relatable on some level.
It’s 2023, I think we all can agree that the dating pool has changed dramatically. Romance reality to me is what really happens on the dating scene from apps to blind dates and everything in between. I just added a little drama, mystery and a bouquet of flowers!
Your work combines romance and reality. How do you strike a balance between these two elements in your storytelling?My balance would be combining traditional romance character traits with today’s ever changing desires in dating.
What are some of the challenges you face when blending romance and reality in your writing? How do you overcome them?I still have my challenges! That’s why I research daily and find out what’s trending on the single scene. As it changes quite frequently might I add.
Urban street life often presents a complex and diverse range of characters. How do you develop and portray your characters to reflect the realities of urban life?I select my characters based on regular, everyday people. Flaws and all. It will remind my readers of someone they know or have encountered in their life. My characters go through what everyone has been through or heard of in the streets.
What are some of the themes you explored in your novel, "Ice-tea with Millie James!: Unlikely Besties"?I really love exploring my theme for “Ice-tea with Millie James” Beautiful Summer days in the south. The conversations, the mood and the charming atmosphere that is so rich in history and dialect!
Can you talk about the role of dialogue in your book, The Life I Took: Street Love 3? How do you use dialogue to capture the authenticity of urban street life?“The Life I Took: Street Love 3” was a unique idea based on my experiences in the medical field in actual urban settings. Although truly fictional, I thought it was a clever idea to bring a character like her into my stories. It’s how tea (gossip) is really spilled on subways, public transits and nail salons. Daeja is a good medical professional, no doubt. We know life happens and sometimes a person can accidentally mix up their personal life at their job. I’m sure it’s happening in and around my city for real somewhere. Heartache will do that to you every time.
Your book, "Stranger in my bed!" focuses on a toxic love story. What made you choose this theme, and what message do you hope readers will take away from it?” Stranger in Bed” questions how well you know your mate for real. It explores the reasons why people and relationships change and grow apart. I chose a Summer holiday theme because that’s when most hopefuls dream of finding a new love. My message to the readers was asking themselves is love ever enough and how much is ever worth fighting for?
Could you share with us the process behind creating A Princess Romance: Shabria's Fairytale Wedding (Baby Mama Reveal Party Book 5)? How did you come up with the idea for this particular story?“A Princess Romance” explores the consequences of investing too much time on your partner while not focusing on your own self-care. It’s happening behind closed doors. Whatever happens in the dark will eventually come to light when matters of the fragile heart is concerned.Basically, promises don’t always carry merit or weight in a toxic relationship. Sometimes what we want is not always wise or healthy for our own well-being.
As an urban street storyteller, how do you handle sensitive or controversial topics in your writing? Do you feel a responsibility to address these issues?I try to write a story that a reader can relate to themselves or to help them understand the thought process behind a loved one who may be going through the same thing.
Could you share some examples of how you bring urban settings to life in your stories? How important is the setting in your storytelling?I have worked or been in and around the city all of my life. There is sensitivity and sometimes controversial topics that are happening behind closed doors and I think a good book that addresses these concerns may actually brighten a person’s day in some way. There’s humor, jokes and even moments where my readers will cry and need a Kleenex at times!
Do you ever worry about how your work may be received by readers who might find the content too controversial or explicit?I do but I think it’s great that books these days offers readers a preview before they purchase. I always try to add a personal message in each book which allows the reader to contact me personally to address any concerns directly. As writers, we never know how the readers actually feel about our material.
What can readers look forward to from you in the future? Are there any upcoming projects or new books you're working on?I want my readers to have the best reading experiences by exceeding their expectations! Improved editing is in the making. I’m currently taking a break!
Soon my readers can expect more pleasurable and desirable stories in the near future!
What do you think of AllAuthor and would you recommend it to your other author friends?AllAuthor is truly essential and highly recommended for all authors, aspiring writers and is so imperative to your career on any level!
