Ask the Author: Samantha Sabian
Answered Questions (9)
Samantha Sabian
I'm a very visual person, and I spend a lot of time visualizing the scenes in my books, to the degree that at some point, I simply begin writing down what I see. I'll take notes on certain scenes, but I'm not one to sit down and outline. Major scenes anchor the story (i.e. "this is going to happen, and then this is going to happen, so how do I get from point A to point B?") I already know how the 2nd Chronicles ends, which makes it very fun to write because you can do a lot of foreshadowing.
Everyone writes differently, and if I had any advice for other writers, it's find out what works for you. I've never used outlining because it's not the way I think, but that doesn't mean it won't work for others. And most importantly...just...start...writing. Cheers!
Everyone writes differently, and if I had any advice for other writers, it's find out what works for you. I've never used outlining because it's not the way I think, but that doesn't mean it won't work for others. And most importantly...just...start...writing. Cheers!
Samantha Sabian
It is my goal to release a boxed set of paperbacks. However, I am currently having some of the book covers re-done, so I would like to wait until that project is further along. I have a beautiful remake of "The Sjöfn Academy," which I'm going to reveal before too long. I'd buy the whole set just for that cover...it's gorgeous. And again painted by the fabulous Julie Bell.
Samantha Sabian
Yep. On track to have one out this summer...
Samantha Sabian
Yes, yes, the 2nd Chronicles is coming. I know I keep saying this, but I'm close to finishing the first book in this second series. And I think everyone will be satisfied (both the denizens of Arianthem and their fans) if you catch my drift. Thank you everyone for being patient!
Samantha Sabian
I think The Sjöfn Academy is everyone's favorite book, judging by the feedback I get. It's also one of my favorites. The idea of a spin-off is intriguing, and I may think about that. In the meantime, I've begun writing the next series of books, ("2nd Chronicles" if you will) and the second book in the series is very much about the Ha'kan. So hold on just a little longer, and thanks for writing in!
Samantha Sabian
I think every author writing in this genre is mining the Poetic Edda--it all comes from Norse history and mythology. That's where a lot of the names come from, both for people and places. So this is my spin on that!
Samantha Sabian
Actually, I'm not certain I've ever experienced writer's block, but I have two ways of writing. One is free-flowing, intuitive, and almost effortless (I love those periods), and I can write an incredible amount in a very short time.
Then, there are those other times when maybe I'm not so inspired. That is when I go the "assembly line" route, i.e. I make myself write 1000 words a day regardless of whether I want to or not. That doesn't sound like much, and really, it's not. But if you think about it, if you write 1000 words a day, that's 365,000 words in a year, and THAT, is a lot.
Then, there are those other times when maybe I'm not so inspired. That is when I go the "assembly line" route, i.e. I make myself write 1000 words a day regardless of whether I want to or not. That doesn't sound like much, and really, it's not. But if you think about it, if you write 1000 words a day, that's 365,000 words in a year, and THAT, is a lot.
Samantha Sabian
Getting email or talking to fans. It is EXTREMELY motivating, especially on those days when I don't feel like writing.
The second best thing is getting to spend time doing something I love.
The second best thing is getting to spend time doing something I love.
Samantha Sabian
I am currently writing Book 7 in "The Chronicles of Arianthem" series.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more