What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Sea of Storms: A Norse Mythology Retelling?
I have a master's degree in history and culture, so this book is epic to me in so many ways. I have written historical adventures before, but I’ve had one on the back burner for years about a shipwreck. While Sea of Storms is different in many ways, I was FINALLY able to write my island adventure.
Not only that, this book has “all the things” I love writing. I was able to give it that historical Norse feel and weave in mythology, as well as incorporate the adventure and romance that my readers know me for. This story feels like the one I was always supposed to write.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Sea of Storms: A Norse Mythology Retelling, what would they be?
Two songs come to mind when I think of Brynn and Killian - Down by Trella ft SIMON, and Devil Side by Foxes. Both characters are amazing but very tortured—strong and lost at the same time. Writing their backstories in a world with fantastical theologies was like weaving my own intricate web of fate, and I relished every moment of it.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I love history and romance, so any genre that combines the two usually ranks high on my list. Books like Song of Achilles and Sky in the Deep rank very high on my MUST READ list.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Spells for Forgetting by Adrienne Young, Belladonna by Adalyn Grace, Curse of Shadows and Thorns by LJ Andrews (just to name a few)
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Probably Killian and Brynn's first meeting on the ship after she wakes, bloody and broken. Not only is Brynn uncertain how she got on the ship to begin with and has no idea who Killian is at first, she can’t swim. So, waking in the middle of the ocean on a ship was a fun bonus for me to play with.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I prefer writing in the morning and in a different room (other than my office) with my laptop, a blanket, and a lit candle – either Bergamot Waters or Fresh Balsam (depending on the time of year), specifically from Bath & Body Works. I usually have tea or coffee at my side that I forget to drink and it gets cold. Ha!
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
I can’t think of a motto, but I have learned one thing that I tell everyone who asks for a piece of advice – listen to your gut. Every time I don’t, I regret it. I know that’s universal knowledge, but I also know we all like to ignore our gut instinct when it’s telling us to do something inconvenient. I still continue to practice this.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I’m not sure my books will ever fit into one bucket or category. I write what makes me giddy and passionate, and I often blend genres in order to write what’s in my heart.
I want readers to remember how they feel while reading my fantastical histories and post-apocalyptic dystopias—all with love and adventure. I hope they feel like they can get something from my work that they can’t get anywhere else.
