The Ultimate YA Reading Group

1. How did you come up with the idea for your novel, Solstice?

Well, I adore mythology. And I always wanted to write a myth retelling. And so that is what I set out to do. But I surprised myself with the final result, because SOLSTICE is not really a retelling at all, but more a what happens after the myth. Kind of like a sequel to Mythology 101.

2. When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I grew up reading and writing fantasy and science fiction. Not long after my second child, Lola, was born, I was deep in a Tolkien stage. I reread all the books and immersed myself into the world of Middle Earth. And then, one day, it occurred to me that rather than reading and learning so much about the worlds other people created, why not create my own world. I started writing that evening and never stopped.

3. Who was your favorite character to write about in Solstice?

Overall, I’ve determined writing evil characters is the most fun. The great thing about evil characters is the struggle they have within themselves. Take Tantalus, for example. He’s crazy because he can’t eat or drink, and this craziness drives all his actions. It’s so much fun to see what will come of that kind of mental state.

4. What was your first reaction to finding out that the Brazilian rights for Solstice had been sold?

Excitement that my words would actually be important enough to translate to another language. I think that’s just cool!

5. Which novels did you enjoy writing more: Solstice or The Forgotten Worlds
Trilogy? And Why?

As much as I loved writing Solstice, The Forgotten Worlds books were my first, and they hold a very special place in my heart. When I go back and read them, I find they have so many things I just adore tucked inside their pages. I love the characters, the interplay, the story, and the world.