Unlocking the Magic of “Secrets in Avalon”: An Interview with M’Sharra Peters
Sometimes, the most extraordinary worlds are hidden just out of sight, waiting for the right person to unlock them. For author M’Sharra Peters, that world is Secrets in Avalon, a sprawling new fantasy series that blends the high-stakes mystery of The Secret Circle with the magical camaraderie of Winx Club.
Her debut novel, Secrets in Avalon: Into the Avalon Forest, introduces readers to Hannah Sumpter, a sixteen-year-old girl seeking a fresh start in Avalon, Missouri, after the heartbreaking disappearance of her sister. But Avalon is no ordinary suburb—it is a gateway to a realm of fairies, ancient magic, and dark forces.
We sat down with M’Sharra to discuss her debut, the power of sisterhood, and what it takes to build a 28-book fantasy epic.
Q: Your debut novel, Into the Avalon Forest, has such a compelling hook: a grieving girl moving to a town that hides an entire magical world. What sparked the idea for this specific blend of small-town mystery and high fantasy?
M’Sharra Peters: What sparked my idea for this specific blend of a small-town mystery and high fantasy comes not just from my wild imagination, but also my Missouri roots. I wanted Avalon, inspired by my hometown of Kansas City, to carry the same magical, chaotic energy from my early writing, but with a more refined story structure. At its heart, the story follows Hannah as she navigates grief after her sister Caroline’s disappearance and grows alongside Sydney, Zoey, Dominique, Amber, and Nia as members of the Mystic Pact, discovering both magic and each other’s strengths. Their bond grounds the fantasy, showing that even in a magical world, it’s our connections with others that make the adventure meaningful.
Q: At the heart of the story is the “Mystic Pact”—Hannah and her five new friends. Can you tell us about the dynamic between these girls?
M’Sharra Peters: The Mystic Pact is made up of six girls who are all strong, flawed, and full of heart, and their dynamic is what gives the story its energy. Hannah, the leader, is creative, protective, and level-headed, even though she can be stubborn and bossy. Sydney is her grounded second-in-command—an athlete who’s loyal and caring, but blunt and fiery when pushed. Zoey is the rebel of the group: impulsive, fierce, and tough, yet surprisingly cheerful and deeply loyal once she lets you in. Dominique is the brains—smart, outspoken, dramatic at times, but incredibly compassionate and always ready to defend her friends. Amber is the heart of the group, gentle and shy but surprisingly brave, the one who keeps the peace and reminds them to stay grounded. And Nia is the brawn, full of energy and confidence, a fun-loving dancer with a fierce protective streak and a big emotional heart. What makes their dynamic special is that they balance each other—bold personalities clashing with quiet ones, logic meeting emotion, fire meeting ice. They challenge one another, support one another, and grow together. Their friendship is messy, heartfelt, and powerful, and that bond becomes the true strength of the Mystic Pact.
Q: You’ve mentioned that this is the first in a planned 28-book series. That is a massive undertaking! What can readers expect from the scope of Secrets in Avalon?
M’Sharra Peters: I honestly didn’t plan on writing a 28-book saga—this story just kept growing in my heart. I fell in love with the world, the characters, and the possibilities, and before I knew it, the saga mapped itself across multiple arcs. With eighteen years of writing experience, I trusted myself to take it one book at a time. Readers can expect a rich, expanding world, evolving characters, magical challenges, and mysteries that deepen over time. To keep everything on track, I use detailed outlines, character notes, and pre-planned scenes, which help me balance each book’s story while keeping the bigger picture in mind.
Q: Your background is in English and Creative Writing. How has your academic journey influenced your approach to writing a fantasy series for young adults?
M’Sharra Peters: My studies in English and Creative Writing gave me a strong foundation in storytelling, character development, and world-building, which are essential for a series like Secrets in Avalon. Combined with eighteen years of writing experience, I’ve learned how to craft layered characters, weave complex plots, explore meaningful themes, and structure multi-book arcs with discipline and purpose.
Q: For readers ready to jump into the world of Avalon, where can they find you and the book?
M’Sharra Peters: Readers can find Secrets in Avalon wherever books are sold, including online retailers and local bookstore. They can also connect with me on social media—Instagram and Youtube—where I share updates, characters (new and old ones), behind-the-scenes, lines from each book, fashion, etc., check out my official book series account by following the Instagram and Youtube account
- https://www.youtube.com/@secretsinavalonseries
- https://www.instagram.com/_secretsinavalonseries_?igsh=eWNueXBrbmZwMGEx
Book Details:
- Title: Secrets in Avalon: Into the Avalon Forest
- Author: M’Sharra Peters
- Genre: YA Fantasy / Mystery
Link: www.SecretsinAvalon.com Amazon