[SPOTLIGHT] Midnight Ace of Midnight Ace Book Bar

 by Cyrus Webb

You might not know her name, but you know her work. The influencer we call Midnight Ace has built her platform online introducing us to books and the authors that write them.

·         Midnight Ace, it has been great following your journey. When did you first realize your love of books? 

I have been a reader as long as I can remember, starting back in elementary school.  My journey didn’t start off sneaking and reading romance books.  To be honest, I didn’t like romance back then. I was into my mysteries.

 

·         What has it been like for you to share your love of books and the authors who write them with the world?

Cyrus, if you had told me that I would be up close with some of the most revered authors I would not have believed it.  I mean even a burning bush moment might even have given me pause. (laughs)  It is an amazing experience!

 I wished it would’ve happened sooner, so that I could’ve shared some of these moments with my sister, who really introduced me to romance.  Beverly Jenkins was one of the first black authors she shared with me.

To that point, you have had the opportunity to work with authors over the years. How did that start? 

I can't recall the one thing, but it would have to be experiencing book events, meeting and talking with authors.  Now I am doing my own brand of reviewing and wine pairing.  I think that gets people’s attention.   Also, I tend to tell the authors what I think the characters should be doing next and that has given me opportunities to work behind the scenes with authors helping to craft scenes, proofreading, Alpha and Beta reading.

When Iris Bolling reached out to me some years ago and asked if I wanted to be a part of her team, I was hesitant because I didn’t think I had much to offer; but that has come with an overwhelming amount of knowledge about the business and business in general.

I have been introduced to many people, including you, Cyrus, and Shay Baby, to name a few.  I want to thank you for the invaluable knowledge that you are always willing to share.

 

I appreciate that, and it was great to meet you last year. I appreciate all that you do. Midnight Ace, it’s not easy to put yourself out there to the world. What has helped you to build your platform?

I am still very comfortable behind the scenes. Traveling and attending events kind of blows that wide open.  Having a circle of people who celebrate you and really want to hear what you have to say is humbling.  It still surprises me when one of my Book Buddies reaches out and asks for a book or wine recommendation.  Or an author tells me I made them feel welcome when I interview them.  My love for books and discussing them won’t let me hide.  The saying “Reading is Not my Hobby, It is My Lifestyle” applies to me.

We are looking forward to what is coming next for you. Thanks for spending some time with us, Midnight Ace. How can our readers stay connected with you?

Cyrus, the pleasure and honor are all mine, I appreciate you.

My website www.midnightacebookbar.com

                Email: midnightacebookbar@gmail.com

                YouTube: @midnightacebookbar1984

                Social Media platforms: @midnightacebookbar