Hi there, everyone! It's Cari here with another author interview! Today, I'm interviewing our very own Erin Hylands. Erin and I were classmates in history last school year, and that's how we became friends. Now, we're in the same writers' community. I was a member of her street team for With Eyes of Blue, her debut novel.
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Q: When did you know you wanted to be a writer and why?
A: I never really knew I wanted to be an author. In third grade, I wrote on my school memories that I wanted to be an author. But over the years, I didn’t really believe that the stories writing themselves in my head could ever be anything more than that, stories in my head. But when I joined the Young Writers Workshop in January 2023, that’s when it changed.
Q: Who inspired you most on your writing journey?
A: It was you, Cari. You inspired me most. Oh, I could say YDubs, or my family, or whatever. But in truth, Cari, you were the one who inspired me to actually sit down and write my book. Thank you for inviting me to do Crazy Writing Week with you last January.
Q: What inspired With Eyes of Blue? What about Fairy Tales Made Modern?
A: With Eyes of Blue was inspired by a handwriting assignment I did! I had to copy facts about pyramids, and I remember wondering what would happen if someone was trapped in a pyramid. Fairy Tales Made Modern was inspired by me wondering what would happen if slight tweaks were made to the tales!
Q: How many books did you write before seeking publication?
A: I don’t know! So many. I wrote *counts in my head* at least five books, potentially more. That’s not including all the unfinished projects!
Q: Do you plan on traditionally publishing one day? Why or why not?
A: Yes! I want to one day be one of the authors that people are inspired by. I want my characters to be relatable. While self-publishing is a great way to get myself out there, it is not going to get me where I want to go.
Q: Do you have one piece of advice for fellow young writers?
Just do it! I know it’s hard. I know you want to quit. But if you just do it, you will succeed. And remember to do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
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Wasn't that amazing and inspiring?
You can check out Erin's author page and purchase her books here. You can also find her on Lulu.com and Barnes & Noble (online only). Be sure to read my review of With Eyes of Blue!
So now, my dear readers, do you enjoy historical fiction? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments. As always, if you have any interview suggestions, feel free to tell us below.
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