What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Hierarchy of Blood?
I took a look at two of the best-selling books in my genre (young adult sci-fi romance) and wondered what would happen if I mixed them up. So, my book became The Selection meets The Hunger Games in space. Where instead of a beauty contest to be the prince’s bride, the girls–drawn by lottery–must fight for him… to the death. The one left standing wins the prince. But Marishel is just a seamstress who can’t fight, and now she has one month of training to find a way to survive.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I both read and write young adult fiction, mostly fantasy, sci-fi, and romance.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
The Gilded Cage and The Raven Boys.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
A chapter titled: Self-Inflated Space Dolls, or the one titled: Blood Match.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I don’t have many quirky habits. I have to have my hot coffee in a cute mug and some ice water with a straw, along with music for the genre I’m writing, my trusty notecards, and my heating pad. Maybe a scented candle–something that smells good inspires me to create.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
Your value doesn’t decrease based on someone’s thoughts about you, including your own. You were born valuable, and you will always remain that way. No matter who you are, what you do, or who wants you. You were created to make a valuable and positive impact on this earth; you just have to believe it!
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I want readers to think, “I didn’t expect that, but I loved it.”
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