Q&A with Gio Peters – Author Interview

We’re thrilled to present an exclusive Q&A with the captivating Gio Peters, an author whose work pulses with raw emotion, vivid imagery, and unforgettable characters. Known for his unique narrative voice and fearless exploration of complex themes, Gio invites readers into worlds that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable. In this revealing interview, he opens up about his writing journey, creative influences, and the emotional heartbeat behind his storytelling.

From the spark of an idea to the final page, Gio Peters shares the highs and lows of the writing process with honesty and depth. He discusses the power of vulnerability in fiction, the importance of representation, and how he crafts stories that resonate long after the last word. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious new reader, this interview offers a rare and inspiring look into the mind of a writer who writes not just with skill, but with soul.

About The Author

Tell us more about you.

I’m from South Africa, a small town called George. A fun fact about me is that… I’m a trained fighter! I did kickboxing, muay thai, taekwondo, and capoeira training for several years.  

What are the three items you’d take on a deserted island?

This is a tough one. I’d take a water purifier, a tarp, and a copy of How to Survive on a Deserted Island, which I’m sure must exist somewhere.

Who is your biggest role model?

My biggest role model would definitely be Lady Gaga. Her drive and, above all else, her authenticity and creativity are to be admired.

What is your favourite book and who is your favourite author?

It’s a toss-up between Wuthering Heights and The Picture of Dorian Gray. Oscar Wilde has got to be my favourite author, because his wit and genius is genuinely something that comes about only once in a generation. 

Do you prefer e-books, physical books or audiobook?

I prefer physical books.

Is writing your full-time profession or a hobby?

Writing is my hobby. My full-time profession at the moment is and editing novels, while also studying (I’m getting an MA in creative writing). 

What social media platform do you like and use the most?

I use X/Twitter and Threads and can be found on Facebook under the page, though I’m most active on Threads. 

Your Writing Process

How do you go about starting a new novel?

Oof this is a tough one. Every book is its own beast but most of the time I have a faint outline and then jump right in. I pants things so hard, but I’m also not afraid of deleting things that aren’t working. I’ve come 40,000 words into manuscripts and simply deleted them because they weren’t good enough, and began again.

Where do you like to write?

I like writing at my desk or in my bed. I can’t write with any movement or noise around me at all.

What do you like most about writing?

What I like most about writing is that I get to be someone else for a few hours.

What do you find stops you from writing more?

Writer’s block. It’s the age-old nemesis and so clichéd, but that’s what keeps me from writing more.

What genres do you like to write and why?

I really like writing historical, especially Victorian time period, because of the prose. The writing style of that time was mellifluous and fluid, and languidly graceful, and I aim to imitate that but find I can only get away with it when writing for that time period. I also love writing fantasy because it is an opportunity for escape but also holds a mirror up to the real world.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring writers?

Write, write, and write some more. Write the story of your heart but let your brain hold the reins. While writing might be a passion, it’s also a science, so study up (YouTube is invaluable) and read a lot as well.

Showcase Your Book!

How many books have you written and if more than one, what’s your favourite?

I have written eight books: seven in my eight-book-long historical fantasy series, The Kingdom of Ura (working on book eight right now) and one in my historical romance duology, The Tides That Bind (working on book two right now). I honestly cannot say which book is my favourite because they’ve all got their merits. They’re all their own beasts, and their own beauties, and I just can’t pick one. 

How long did Call It Fête take you to write?

This book was remarkably quick to write. Took me three months to complete because it was coming right from my soul. But funnily enough, I read it, hated it, deleted it, and months later, restored it because I realised I was an idiot for doing away with such good writing and then finished the last two chapters.

Lastly, what is your favourite thing about being an author?

I think giving people companions and a world to get lost in is my favourite thing about being an author, and also being able to escape into worlds I can craft myself is amazing and liberating. 

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