What first inspired you to start writing?
I’ve always wanted to be a writer. I would make books in school, complete with illustrations. Then I read Emily of New Moon and got the idea to submit stories to magazines. That first acceptance was awesome. (The following rejections not so much.)
Your book One Thousand Winters chosen for our Fellowship Of Fantasy book club in February. What is it about?
It’s a love story between a dragon and fairy.
What inspired you to write this book?
I had this idea about Romeo and Juliet story where the couple isn’t truly enemies but their family/tribe is. I also wanted a happy ending, so while there is death in the story, I’ve given hope and a happy ever after.
I also enjoy Chinese xianxia stories. Typically, there are three reams, although I’ve seen as many as six. (Heaven/Sky, Mortal/earth, and Demon/Nether realm.) I went with Fairy, Mortal, and Dragon.
What is the main theme of your book? What message do you want the readers to get from it?
That love is the most beautiful magic. And to just really enjoy the story.
Are you more of a planner or a discovery writer? Do you write an outline before you start or do you like to see where the ideas lead you?
Both. I like having a general idea, but then let the ideas lead me. For this one, I had the first meeting planned out and I knew I wanted a happy ending.
Imagine your book is being made into a movie. Who would you choose for the main cast?
Oh this question is fun. Well, this is a xianxia romance, so I’m going with a Chinese cast.
Ideally, I would want Zhao Lusi to play Jingyi. For Longwei, my current favorite choices are between Wang You Shou, Deng Wei, or Zhang Bin Bin. I’m not too picky. In fact, whoever doesn’t win the part of Longwei can be up for Yifeng and Ronghua.
Who are your favorite authors? Who are you inspired by?
My favorite authors are numerous. But Elizabeth Lim and Sarah M. Eden will always get my interest.
What advice would you give aspiring authors?
Keep writing and don’t give up.
Article By Amelia Nichole
I write science fiction and fantasy with a mad dash of mythology and history thrown in for good measure. I'm a professional copywriter, a homeschool graduate, and published short story author. When I'm not writing or reading something, you can find me painting birds or gardening.