What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Hear, O Earth!?
A few years ago, I wrote a 15-book series titled Earthrise. So far in my career, I’ve written 85 books spread across multiple series and genres. Among my works, Earthrise is my longest individual series and bestselling one. After completing the 15th and final Earthrise novel, I spent a few years writing in other universes. I wrote the series Starship Freedom and Mintari and other works. But I always missed the Earthrise characters. I kept thinking about them and wondering what new adventures they might have.
So I returned to write a spinoff series: A Prayer for Earthrise. It stands alone pretty well. You can read it even if you haven’t read the original Earthrise series. It brings back three of the original characters – Marco, Addy, and Einav – for more adventures. It felt natural to write about them again. They’re probably my favorite characters to write about.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Hear, O Earth!, what would they be?
Great question! There are three main characters in A Prayer for Earthrise: Marco, Addy, and Einav. Marco’s theme song would be Lavender by Marillion. We know he listens to Marillion (he does so in the first Earthrise book), and it fits his pensive, reflective soul. As for Addy . . . she’s crazy and wild. The exact opposite of Marco. Her theme song would be “Freak Like Me” by Halestorm. Meanwhile, Einav’s theme song is “Che Gelida Manina” by Puccini. It’s mentioned in the novels as her favorite piece of music.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I enjoy reading in many genres, but fantasy and science fiction are my two favorites. Both to read and write.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Right now, on my reading table, are a few novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Dave Webber, and Brandon Sanderson. And also a book by Thomas Sowell. They'll probably keep me busy for the rest of the winter.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
I love writing any scene with banter between Marco and Addy. They’ve been living together for many years by now, and they have an “odd couple” dynamic. Marco is studious, serious, and thoughtful. Addy is wild, crazy, and unpredictable. They love each other a ton but clash too. Any scene with those two is lots of fun for me to write.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I collect coins and like having some coins as "desk toys" while I write. I also always have a cup of tea or coffee. Finally--music. I need music playing, ideally music that fits the mood of whatever I'm writing that day.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
As trite as it sounds... follow your passion. Do what you love. I feel grateful that I get to spend so much of my time with books. Collecting books, writing books, reading books. I don't know exactly why, but I've always enjoyed books, and any time I get to spend in the book world (whether reading or writing) feels like time well spent.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I hope they remember the characters. When I read a great book, the characters remain in my memory forever. I can forget plot details and worldbuilding details, but I remember great characters for life. If readers remember my characters, that's a huge honor.
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