Since FROSTFIRE is a spin-off from another series, it did take obvious inspiration from the original Trylle books. But in many ways, it’s a different story with different inspirations. Last year, shortly before I began writing FROSTFIRE, I took a trip to Alaska and Canada, and that definitely inspired the location and scenery. I was also inspired by the stories of Alexandre Dumas. When I was a kid, I used to be obsessed with tales of swashbucklers and castles and damsels that were too tough and independent to be in distress, and I think that all comes together in FROSFIRE.
What scene was really hard for you to write and why, and is that the one of which you are most proud? Or is there another scene you particularly love?
There is a scene, when Bryn is questioning a lot of things while walking around her hometown of Doldastam, and then the aurora borealis lights up the night. I don’t want to say too much and spoil it, but it’s probably one of my favorite scenes in the entire trilogy.
How long did you work on FROSTFIRE?
FROSTFIRE actually took me longer than most of my books to write. I was very excited about working on it, and I started it, and then my personal life took some very dramatic changes (some good, some bad). And for a few months in the middle of the book, I didn’t write at all. When I did finally go back to the book, I was able to look at it with fresh eyes and make a few changes, and I think ultimately, the book was better for the break, and I’m very pleased with how it turned out. Altogether, I think it took about six months to write.
What’s your writing ritual like? Do you listen to music? Work at home or at a coffee shop or the library, etc?
My writing ritual is fairly basic. I outline and create notes for a few weeks (sometimes longer) before I start writing. When I actually sit down to write, I get my notes spread out all around me. If I have any research that I think I need to do for a particular scene or chapter, I do that first and gather any information I think I need. Then I unplug the internet, turn on my music, drink some Red Bull Zero, and begin. I usually write for two 3-4 hours sessions during the day, breaking for lunch and to move around in the middle.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Frostfire
by Amanda Hocking
Hardcover
St. Martin’s Griffin; Hardcover Edition edition
Released 1/6/2015
Hidden deep in the heart of a snow-covered wilderness lies the secret kingdom of the Kanin—a magical realm as beautiful as it is treacherous…Bryn Aven has never fit into Kanin society. Her blond hair and blue eyes set her apart as an outsider—a half-blood unable to hold a respectable rank. But she’s determined to prove herself as a loyal protector of the kingdom she loves. Her dream is to become a member of the King’s elite guard, and she’s not going to let anything stand in her way…not even her growing feelings for her boss, Ridley Dresden. A relationship between them is strictly forbidden, but Bryn can’t fight her attraction to him. And she’s beginning to think he feels it too. Meanwhile, there’s an attack on the kingdom—one that will test Bryn’s strength like never before. Finally, she has the chance to confront Konstantin Black, the traitor who tried to kill her father years ago. It’s up to Bryn to put a stop to him before he strikes again. But is she willing to risk everything to protect a kingdom that doesn’t accept her for who she really is? And when her mission brings her closer to Ridley, will she be able to deny her heart?
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Amanda Hocking is a lifelong Minnesotan obsessed with Batman and Jim Henson. In between watching cooking shows and drinking too much Red Bull Zero, she writes young adult urban fantasy and paranormal romance. Her New York Times best-selling series the Trylle Trilogy has been optioned for films. She has published fifteen novels, including the Hollows and the Watersong series. Frostfire – the first book in her newest trilogy, the Kanin Chronicles – will be out on January 6, 2015.
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