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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Lovesick Locket?

I've always had a heart for fantasy, but there's something about mystery/thriller that just pulls you in, you know? It's like stepping into a whole new world of shadows and secrets, and I just had to give it a try in my writing. Plus, I've got this soft spot for all things Victorian - the elegance, the intrigue, those stories that feel like they're shrouded in mist.

'Lovesick Locket' isn't set back then, but I wanted it to whisper hints of that era. It's kind of like those old books and video games that wrap you up in their world; they've been huge inspirations for me. So, I guess you could say the story behind the story is a mix of trying out a new genre I've always admired and weaving in a bit of that Victorian charm that I've always loved.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Lovesick Locket, what would they be?

The music for my characters... It's like a wild mixtape! For Heaven Heart, think haunting Victorian melodies meeting the zippy beats of Electroswing. It's like this quirky mash-up that somehow just fits her - and the whole ambiance of 'Lovesick Locket'.

Then there’s Zoe Campbell, she's all about those upbeat, can't-help-but-dance kind of tunes. Every character has their own beat. It’s like their personalities just jumping out of the speakers. It’s a fun, eclectic collection that really brings out the shades of each character in the book!

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Since I was a child, I have found myself immersed more in the world of writing and learning than in reading. It's like, every spare moment I get, I'm either spinning new stories or diving into something new to learn. It's a bit ironic, but I don't read as many books as you might expect. When I do get the chance to read, I gravitate towards the same genres I write - a bit of mystery/thriller, a dose of romance, and that Victorian vibe I love so much; this is of course without counting my love for fantasy. It's like those rare reading moments are spent reinforcing my love for the genres I enjoy writing about. It's all about staying true to what fascinates me, whether it's through writing my own stories or occasionally losing myself in the works of others in the same genre.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Honestly, my TBR pile is pretty modest right now, as most of my time is dedicated to crafting stories rather than reading them. But let me tell you about my 'TBW' pile – that's 'to be written,' and it's overflowing with ideas! I’ve got a treasure trove of stories brewing in my mind, each waiting for its turn to come to life on paper.

In fact, I'm super excited about my next project, which is already written and just needs some editing. It’s like my imagination is a well that keeps on giving, and I can't wait to share these new worlds and adventures with my readers.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Writing 'Lovesick Locket' was a journey I cherished every step of the way. It's a special project for me, being a remake of an older story I never published. But if I had to choose a favorite scene, it'd be Chapter 6: Metamorphosis. There's something about the structure, idea, and overall feel of that chapter that really resonated with me. It was a playground for my creativity.

I always aim to push boundaries and challenge conventions in my writing, and in crafting this chapter, I felt like I was doing just that. It was a moment where I took some risks, experimented with new ideas, and thankfully, my editors thought it paid off. It's chapters like these where I feel like I'm not just writing a story, but also evolving as a writer, and that's incredibly fulfilling.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Oh, absolutely! I've got this thing where I just can't write without the right ambiance sounds setting the scene around me. It's like I'm conducting an orchestra for each chapter! Writing a scene set in a forest? You bet there are forest sounds playing in the background - birds chirping, leaves rustling, the whole deal. A beach scene gets the full oceanic treatment with waves crashing and seagulls calling. And when it gets eerie, like in a dark, forgotten orphanage, I have those haunting, echoey sounds to really set the mood.

Sometimes, though, it's all about the music that embodies my characters – it's like they're right there with me, telling their story through the melody. It's a quirky process, but it breathes life into my writing, making every word I type feel a part of those worlds

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Definitely, it's 'Where there is a will, there's a way.' I keep it simple but it means a lot. Whether I'm tackling doubts or just getting through a rough day, this little line reminds me to keep pushing.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I really hope readers hold onto the ending of 'Lovesick Locket' and the message woven through Heaven Heart's story. There's this core idea, a kind of truth about life that I believe many deserve to hear and reflect on. It's kind of the heartbeat of the whole story. But I'll leave the unraveling of that message as a journey for the readers. It's something special, and discovering it is part of the magic of mystery books, don't you think?

Ayan Ray is the author of the new book Lovesick Locket

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