Ask the Author: Erica Verrillo
Answered Questions (9)
Erica Verrillo
It's the year 2020. Trump has been re-elected.
Erica Verrillo
If I told you, it wouldn't be a mystery.
Erica Verrillo
Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester. As far as love stories go, these two are the height of romance. The thing that distinguishes this couple from so many others is that there is a reason for their love. It isn't just "chemistry." Austin spells it out very clearly: Jane, for Rochester, is the essence of sanity. She is a rock in the storm. And Rochester is the first person who truly sees "small, insignificant" Jane. All writers should keep in mind that there is more to love than sexual attraction.
Erica Verrillo
My most recent book is a prequel to my Phoenix Rising trilogy. So the idea came from Favian's story in books two and three. Why I set it on the eve of Persia's defeat by Alexander the Great, I can't tell you. It seemed like a good moment in history - and I have always wanted to throw a girl into a volcano.
Erica Verrillo
I have a story in my head. It wants to get out.
Erica Verrillo
I am currently working on a historical fantasy set on the eve of the battle of Gaugamela, the battle that marked the fall of the Persian Empire to Alexander the Great. I've taken some liberties with events, and have included Alexander's burning of the magnificent palace of Persepolis, which he supposedly did after a beautiful courtesan, or princess (history is a little vague), said "Burn it." I've built an entire book around that phrase.
Erica Verrillo
My advice to aspiring writers is to write. I know that sounds facetious, but in order to learn a skill, you must practice. Write anything - book reviews, letters to the editor, a journal - but make sure that everything you write is your best work. What you write must always be the full expression of what you have to say. Have you made the best word choice? If that the best way to phrase that sentence? (And no grammatical or spelling errors please - edit, edit, edit!) Once you have posted a review, let's say, go back a few days later and improve it. That will get you into the habit of revising.
Beyond practicing your skill, make sure that you read. When you read books that capture you, that draw you in, stop and ask yourself the question, "How did the author do that?" Analyze the author's technique, and try using it in your own work.
Beyond practicing your skill, make sure that you read. When you read books that capture you, that draw you in, stop and ask yourself the question, "How did the author do that?" Analyze the author's technique, and try using it in your own work.
Erica Verrillo
I don't have to get dressed in the morning. I can guarantee you most books are written by people wearing pajamas.
Erica Verrillo
I start another project. When I can't write about one, I can always write about the other.
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