The themes I write about all seem to have a common thread: New Jersey. While it may be foreign to some that this small of a state could pack such a magical punch, there’s a collective that consistently celebrates its folkloric, fun, and exciting nature that is NJ.
Author Celestine Martin is no exception. She writes light paranormal romances starring the people, places, and creatures close to her heart. Celestine loves folklore, mythology, and fairy tales from all over the world, which is reflected in her New Jersey-based elemental romance series.
She recently released her newest book, Deja Brew (audiobook), which complements Witchful Thinking (audiobook) and Kiss and Spell (audiobook). All three books take place in the mythical Jersey Shore town of Freya Grove. Full of magic, fun, and romance, these books are an excellent cozy read this spooky season (or any season!)
Check out Siren Books’ author interview with Celestine Martin!
What were your favorite books growing up?
I was a big fan of James Marshall and his George and Martha series. All I wanted was to grow up and hang out with my best friend in a bungalow house—wait, that sounds like The Golden Girls, but I loved that show, too. I loved books that had a slice-of-life feel and just showed kids having adventures.
Was there a particular author you loved or wanted to be?
I loved Virginia Hamilton and her stories about Black life and mythology. I wanted to write stories that had a sense of magic and effortless joy.
What is your biggest lesson as a reader writing a book?
Not every book is meant for you to love, but you will find a book you absolutely love if you read enough.
What’s your most asked question about being an author, and what do you think people should understand about being an author?
The most asked question is “How did you finish the book?” or “When did you find time to write?” You can have the desire to write, but you have to find the time and space to write. You steal pockets of time. I wrote during lunch breaks and my commute on the subway in the afternoon. If I didn’t write during the day, I read craft books in the morning. I wrote my first book on index cards and dollar store notebooks. Being an author is about finding a story that you love enough that you are willing to find the time and the space to write it.
Your stories are magical, loving, and fun, all at the Jersey Shore. As a Jersey Shore gal myself, I understand the magic of our towns. What went into creating the mythical Freya Grove?
Thank you so much! I started with a desire to write a unique setting and place that felt like home. I write down everything that I missed about my Jersey Shore hometown and my favorite things and memories from my childhood and young adulthood. I used the book The Jersey Shore by Dominick Mazzagetti to re-learn and discover the social, economic, and political history of the Jersey Shore so I could create the story of Freya Grove. I wanted to have enough on the pages to make it feel as if you could take the NJ Transit train to that location.
Building a mythical world takes a great leap of faith–what was a jumping-off point for you? Are there details you’re antsy to add into world building in later books you can share?
I think the jumping-off point was looking at old photographs and postcards of the Shore. I had a desire to create a town that was literally made of magic. I want to create a wider mythology that includes more local lore and history from the Northeast and from Black folklore and mythology. I want to get a chance to explore more magical stories and romances.
Joy and love are magic. Your characters navigate conflict but find happiness. Is there another genre you’re looking to inject your brand of love into?
I’m interested in getting into cosmic horror and injecting that genre with a punch of romance. It would be a dream to write a haunted house story where you have enemies and lovers, and there’s only one bed in this house with angry ghosts and spirits.
Rapid Fire!
What sparks your writing process?
When I go on Pinterest and see an image that sends my imagination off and running into a different world.
What’s your reading hot take?
It might not be the right mood for a book. You can come back to a book when you're in a better mood.
What’s your New Jersey hot take?
There is a Central Jersey. I don’t make the rules, but Central Jersey is real.
Siren’s Note: She’s right!
Favorite spooky monster?
I love a vampire; give me all the Draculas in the world!
What’s one book you recommend the most?
The Roommate by Rosie Danan is one of the best romances I’ve read as a published author.
Find the audiobook here.
Final thoughts?
Protect libraries and librarians.
Siren’s Note: Hell, yes! Whether purchasing books is in your budget or not, we urge all Siren Books readers to indulge and engage with their libraries! Download Libby, visit the library closest to you, and support your community!
You can find Celestine Martin here:
@celestinemartinauthor on Instagram
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