Gia Mae asked Rebecca Ross:

Hi Rebecca! I’m a huge fan from Puerto Rico and trying to make it as an author, you have been my inspiration! I really would like to ask you, how do you come up with the names for… basically everything? Did you make them up or do you do some research to see which type of names suit your character/realm? And second, what tips would you give new writers wishing to publish their work? Hope all is well <33

Rebecca Ross Hi there! Ah, thank you! :) So honored to hear that.

When it comes to names...I use a few websites to help me gather ones that I think will compliment characters and my world building. A few that have been helpful to me are Nameberry and Behind the Name. I like these websites because they show the origin of a name as well as its meaning. Both of those things can play a vital role when it comes to naming a character and place in a fantasy novel. I also keep a journal full of names that I like or that I've come across or imagined on my own, so I always have a list handy.

Tips for a new writer aspiring to publish:

You can't revise what hasn't been written, and it's very important to finish a manuscript so you experience all the stages of storytelling. Protect your writing time, and find out what works best for you (writing in the morning, writing to music, writing at night, writing every day, writing every other day, etc). You'll be unique in this, but most of all, keep going and be as consistent as you can. Writing is like a muscle in that regard; it will only get stronger the more you do it. Don't give up or quit on your story, even on hard days when it feels like the words aren't flowing or your ideas aren't "good enough." I assure you they are, because no one else can write the story in your heart like you can. Don't be afraid to take storytelling risks or to think outside the box if you feel stuck in your plot.

Hope this is helpful, and wishing you all the best with your writing!

xx

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