Local Author Uses Weakness as Strength

Mental Illness is a struggle around 20% of American adults deal with, but some have found a way to overcome their disease. Kalista Neith, a Tempe-local best selling author, explains how her popular series, Of Chaos and Darkness, is fueled by her using her weakness as a strength.

At a book signing at the Tempe Barnes & Nobel on Sunday, Neith talked about her book and what has helped her along the way.

When asked how she came up with the ideas for her dark fantasy novels, Neith said, “I weaponized my mental illness to help me make money.”

Neith has used the ideas in her head to connect to a group of fans that has gained a lot of traction in the romantic fantasy world.

Neith explains how much it means to her that her works are a favorite among students in Tempe saying, “It is really humbling that my imaginary friends have talked and connected with so many other people.”

Erin Duffey, an employee at Barnes & Nobel, talked about how Neith is always trying to capture people's attention.

“She has a big heart and you can see it in her writing as well.”

Duffey, who is a big romance reader, says she loves Neith's books.

“She tells a story in three books, but doesn’t leave any cliffhangers leaving the reader satisfied.”