When did you realize that you wanted to become a writer?
I have always loved writing! Ever since I was a kid, writing silly short
stories! But I never thought I would
ever publish a book.
Is being an Author all you dreamed of, or did it just happen?
I love that my books are now
available to readers. However, I have
realized that being an author is hard work.
It takes a lot of time and determination. But it is definitely worth it to give
enjoyment to readers!
What was the very first thing you ever wrote?
I have written many short stories
since I was young, but the first full length book I ever finished writing was a
story based off of the 12 Dancing Princesses.
I love that fairytale and wanted to write my own version. Fairytales have always been a huge inspiration
for my desire to write, as well as my writing style. I love the idea of adventure, romance, and
happily ever after.
What was the inspiration for your book?
I had a dream one night and when I
woke up the dream stayed with me. I
thought about it all day and decided I just had to write it down. Eventually, that dream became The Treasure of Isian.
Who is your literary hero?
I absolutely love Jane Eyre. She is such a morally strong character. She won’t let anything sway her from what she
believes is right, even if it is at the expense of her own happiness. She is also caring and does not judge others. She is forgiving and believes that there is
hope for anyone to right their wrongs. I
also love her spunk! She is clever and
quietly confident. Though her life has
been one of sorrow and disappointment, she stays true to herself.
Describe your main character in six words.
Elani
is brave, kind, forgiving, hopeful, determined, and most especially she is
loyal.
Describe the world you’ve created in six words.
It is fantastical, magical,
adventurous, romantic, full of possibilities, and even a bit dangerous!
What scene was your favorite to write?
The last couple of chapters were my
favorite to write! They are full of
frustration and joy, hope and grief. I
love the adventure throughout the book, but my favorite parts are when
everything is coming to a conclusion and the characters have to make
life-determining decisions that pull at your emotions.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on the third
and concluding book in the Isian Series, The
Secret of Isian. It will be
available by the end of the year.
Are
there any authors or books you recommend?
For anyone who loves fairytales, I highly recommend
Gail Carson Levine. She has a fantastic
way of developing characters and creating a believable world of fantasy. Ella
Enchanted is one of my favorite books.
What's your favorite thing to do when you're not writing?
I can’t list just one favorite
thing. I have so many hobbies that I never
have enough time to do! Some of my
favorites are playing the piano, drawing and painting, and reading.
