Questions for the Author
When and why did you become a writer?
I decided to become a writer over 20 years ago midway through seventh grade after completing an English assignment. What was that assignment? To write a short sequel to Watership Down by Richard Adams. At the time, I considered it a long project--a total of 13.5 pages!--but found it exhilarating and identity-affirming. From there, I transitioned into the world of YA fiction and fell in love with Tamora Pierce and Philip Pullman. Through their writing I discovered the power of the narrative and how it could give a voice to anyone--an ancient and gnarled man, a warrior woman, or a societal outcast. I learned that stories could be vast and all-encompassing or set in a single room. The craft of creative writing allowed emotions and the complex psychology of characters to be expressed and analyzed. I fell in love with every aspect of it.
I decided to become a writer over 20 years ago midway through seventh grade after completing an English assignment. What was that assignment? To write a short sequel to Watership Down by Richard Adams. At the time, I considered it a long project--a total of 13.5 pages!--but found it exhilarating and identity-affirming. From there, I transitioned into the world of YA fiction and fell in love with Tamora Pierce and Philip Pullman. Through their writing I discovered the power of the narrative and how it could give a voice to anyone--an ancient and gnarled man, a warrior woman, or a societal outcast. I learned that stories could be vast and all-encompassing or set in a single room. The craft of creative writing allowed emotions and the complex psychology of characters to be expressed and analyzed. I fell in love with every aspect of it.
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From where do you get your ideas?
My ideas often stem from abstract concepts and are inspired by music. I studied music extensively throughout the first part of my life and even contemplated going into music theory and composition. So, musical expression really speaks to me. Soundtracks, music from indie artists, and compositions from foreign composers greatly influence my writing as music is another art form that can express emotion (an abstract concept) and convey it on an intimate level. If I hear a piece of music that showcases a fast tempo, pulsing rhythm and percussion, and a variety of melodies, I instantly see images in my mind, almost as though I'm watching a movie. The challenge is converting those "movie scenes" into writing! |
What's your process for writing a novel?
First, come up with a concept. Even the simplest idea can evolve into something grand. For instance, when brainstorming for Rhys of Earth, I knew I wanted to convey a sense of wonder and uncertainty. I wanted a protagonist who knew almost nothing to experience what it meant to be alive, to be human. The origins of this particular idea came very simply from teaching my advanced conversation ESL classes. If I, as an experienced teacher, was having a difficult time explaining complicated concepts to a group of ESL adults, what would it be like to teach what it meant to be human to someone who knew nothing of Earth?
After you have a concept, come up with a main character and ask this one question - "What does he/she want more than anything in the world?" This will dictate their actions, their dialogue, and their place in the plot. Ask this question of every single character.
First, come up with a concept. Even the simplest idea can evolve into something grand. For instance, when brainstorming for Rhys of Earth, I knew I wanted to convey a sense of wonder and uncertainty. I wanted a protagonist who knew almost nothing to experience what it meant to be alive, to be human. The origins of this particular idea came very simply from teaching my advanced conversation ESL classes. If I, as an experienced teacher, was having a difficult time explaining complicated concepts to a group of ESL adults, what would it be like to teach what it meant to be human to someone who knew nothing of Earth?
After you have a concept, come up with a main character and ask this one question - "What does he/she want more than anything in the world?" This will dictate their actions, their dialogue, and their place in the plot. Ask this question of every single character.
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Can you give me some writing tips?
Aside from the tips shared in the above question, I would offer this piece of advice - keep it real. No, I don't mean you can't write about some fictitious race conquering a fantastical world of elves. I mean, keep your characters real, keep their reactions real. Study the real-life people around you. How do they act in conflict? How do they move when they speak? Are they confident or weak-willed? Maybe they are introverted but become emboldened by friends. Study your friends and try to describe their personalities, their weaknesses and strengths. Keep it real. |
It's been said that writers reveal their own struggles, fears, dreams, etc. through their work. Which of your novels reveals the most about you?
Every novel represents a part of me; every protagonist - male or female - embodies some of my personal qualities. As I age as a writer, my books reflect the trials and struggles of that time in my life. I wrote in The Empress' Consul and The Regent's Daughter extensively about coming-of-age from the viewpoint of an adolescent girl. The Assassin's Apprentice and The Emperor's Raven showcased a character whose identity was under attack; additionally, the concept of betrayal was significantly explored. Rhys of Earth focused on the conflicts that arise through religious differences and intolerance while its sequel, Rhys of Quadrant Six, reflected the chaos of current events in the real world. Ronan of Space centered on the parent-child relationship and the development of individuality.
Every novel represents a part of me; every protagonist - male or female - embodies some of my personal qualities. As I age as a writer, my books reflect the trials and struggles of that time in my life. I wrote in The Empress' Consul and The Regent's Daughter extensively about coming-of-age from the viewpoint of an adolescent girl. The Assassin's Apprentice and The Emperor's Raven showcased a character whose identity was under attack; additionally, the concept of betrayal was significantly explored. Rhys of Earth focused on the conflicts that arise through religious differences and intolerance while its sequel, Rhys of Quadrant Six, reflected the chaos of current events in the real world. Ronan of Space centered on the parent-child relationship and the development of individuality.
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Did you take any college creative writing courses?
I took some creative writing classes in high school but none in college or graduate school. To be honest, though I won't ever dissuade anyone from taking such courses as they do offer fundamentals and tips, I found the best teacher to be life itself. All writing matures with age and experience. As you are exposed to more joys, conflicts, painful experiences, and people, you gain perspective and objectivity. If you haven't taken some creative writing courses, then I encourage you to do so. But, don't forget to live and love. |
Who is your favorite character from all of your books?
You're asking me to pick a favorite? Absolutely not! I love all of my characters for different reasons. But here are my top five in no particular order:
Rhys Falkrow | Rhys of Earth, Rhys of Quadrant Six.
Ewen Brynstone | The Dragon's Son, Breach Effect.
Kellick Fisk | Unbound.
Ronan Falkrow | Ronan of Space.
Jia Hara | The Assassin's Apprentice, The Emperor's Raven.
You're asking me to pick a favorite? Absolutely not! I love all of my characters for different reasons. But here are my top five in no particular order:
Rhys Falkrow | Rhys of Earth, Rhys of Quadrant Six.
Ewen Brynstone | The Dragon's Son, Breach Effect.
Kellick Fisk | Unbound.
Ronan Falkrow | Ronan of Space.
Jia Hara | The Assassin's Apprentice, The Emperor's Raven.
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How long does it take to write a book?
It depends on the book, how expansive the world is, and what's going on in my life at the time! Usually, my books take about twelve to eighteen months to write. The manuscript then goes through several rounds of rereads and edits. Only those who are most trusted are allowed to view the book at this point as it is raw, carries mistakes and typos, and needs plot manipulation. Editing and formatting usually takes one to three months--again, depending on the length of the book and whether in-depth rewrites need to be completed. The book cover usually comes at the very end when we know for sure what the book is about and the feelings we want the cover to convey. |
Do you base your characters on people you know?
Yes! But I think many authors do that. Now, not ALL of my characters are based off of acquaintances, but some are.
The Assassin's Apprentice, The Emperor's Raven | The Rajan was based off one of my old bosses who, I discovered while working at the facility, had engaged (and was engaging at that moment) in illegal activity. Parts of his dialogue come from direct things my boss had the audacity to say to me.
Rhys of Earth | Michael the High Priest was named for one of my best friends. He was adamant that I make him into a villain. Now, his personality is nothing like the High Priest's, but that doesn't matter. He merely wanted his name to be used.
Unbound | Mordecai Othonos was based heavily on my husband. His personality, creativity, and intelligence all reflect my husband. His interactions with Kell and how he communicates with her are all indicative of my dear hubby.
The Dragon's Son | Suga Ueno was based on a good friend who is the nicest person to live but who is perhaps not the most well-kempt.
Yes! But I think many authors do that. Now, not ALL of my characters are based off of acquaintances, but some are.
The Assassin's Apprentice, The Emperor's Raven | The Rajan was based off one of my old bosses who, I discovered while working at the facility, had engaged (and was engaging at that moment) in illegal activity. Parts of his dialogue come from direct things my boss had the audacity to say to me.
Rhys of Earth | Michael the High Priest was named for one of my best friends. He was adamant that I make him into a villain. Now, his personality is nothing like the High Priest's, but that doesn't matter. He merely wanted his name to be used.
Unbound | Mordecai Othonos was based heavily on my husband. His personality, creativity, and intelligence all reflect my husband. His interactions with Kell and how he communicates with her are all indicative of my dear hubby.
The Dragon's Son | Suga Ueno was based on a good friend who is the nicest person to live but who is perhaps not the most well-kempt.