FALL IN LOVE WITH TEEN FICTION:
A MAJOR AUTHOR APPEARANCE!
On April 17, 2013 at 7 p.m., New Leaf Literary will be hosting FALL IN LOVE WITH TEEN FICTION, a seven-author appearance and book signing at Powell’s Books in Beaverton, Oregon. Similar to our previous event at Anderson’s Bookstore, the event aims to not only publicize some of our best YA titles but also encourage interaction between authors and readers. Featured authors include:
We over here at Fic Fare got lucky and had the opportunity to interview the lovely Ingrid Paulson, author of Valkyrie Rising! We loved this book and if you haven’t read it yet, go get it today!! Check out what she had to say below!!Â
The Interview
Your next book Valkyrie Symptoms is from Tuck’s point of view…how was your approach to writing this story different from Valkyrie Rising?
I had too much fun writing Valkyrie Symptoms. Tuck was the first character in Valkyrie Rising—I knew him before I knew Ellie. And I miss him. But it was tricky to write a short story that would be satisfying but wouldn’t have spoilers for the actual novel. I had a few false starts with Valkyrie Symptoms while trying to sort out how and where to start. While Valkyrie Rising just came pouring out.
Did you find it easy to write from the perspective of a teenage boy?
I don’t know what this says about me, but no, I didn’t! I think part of it is that of all the characters, his sense of humor is closest to mine.
When did you write your first book and what was the title? Did you always want to write?
I’ve always wanted to write but I never imagined it would be fiction. In my day job, I do a lot of science and medical writing and years ago, I imagined turning that into a science journalism career. But about five years ago, I started writing a novel. Even when I was halfway through with the first draft, I didn’t know exactly what I was planning to do with the project. It was a time travel story and I knocked out a 95k word draft in about two months. That is a lot of words! And from then on, I was totally hooked and 100% determined to publish a novel.
Do you have any interesting writing quirks or rituals?
Hmm, I don’t have any rituals, other than needing absolute quiet when I’m revising. I can write a first draft under any conditions since it’s the fun, creative part, but when revising, I’m using the same part of my brain I use for math problems. Revising involves logic and lists and making sure all the loose ends come together at the end.Â
Oh, and I like to chew gum when writing first drafts—for the creative stuff. I blow bubbles and everything. And come to think of it, that’s probably super annoying to everyone else at the coffee shop.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Determined, goofy, shy
Give me your three minute elevator pitch about the Valkyrie series.
On a summer trip to Norway, Ellie encounters homicidal mythical beings, falls in love, and saves the world.
How would you introduce Ellie to readers?
To all outward appearances, Ellie starts off as a shy girl hiding in her big brother’s shadow. But there’s hidden strength and fire in her that rises when she’s faced with unthinkable danger.Â
If you could introduce one of your characters to another character from any other book, who would it be and why?
I think Tuck would be friends with Alex from the Covenant series. They could trade barbs. I’m reading Apollyon right now.
What can we look forward to in the Valkyrie series?
Actually, there are no plans for a sequel to Valkyrie Rising. But I’m working on a fun, new project and if you liked Tucker, you’ll love the boy in this one. I know I do!
What is the one thing readers would be surprised to learn about you?
Until a few years ago, I thought I was a science person. I love math and biology and statistics. The stuff that comes out when I write surprises me.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received from another author?Â
Write every day, even if you’re not in the mood. Even if you’re forcing the words out. Like anything else, writing will improve with effort and discipline.
What authors do you fangirl over?
I met Melissa Marr at a conference and I’m pretty sure I couldn’t string together two coherent words. See above, I’m actually pretty shy! I would love to meet J.K.  Rowling or Suzanne Collins. And I’m a huge fan of Jennifer Armentrout. There are quite a few authors who turn me into a total dork.
Do you have any current or future projects you can tell us about?Â
Yes! Right now I’m working on what I call an ‘ecothriller’ set in the Galapagos Islands. It’s about some kids on a summer science expedition and get embroiled with some pretty scary guys and a deadly virus that would wipe out the ecosystem. Â
Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us Ingrid! Â We really appreciate it!!Â
The Giveaway
In addition to readings, book signings, and a Q&A session, New Leaf Literary is also giving away exclusive booklets of never-before-seen content for those who purchase two or more books. The booklets will be autographed by all the authors and include deleted scenes, alternate POVs, and annotated passages.
Sorry US/CAN entries only!
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