Blog Tour: Brenda Pandos Interview

1. In what ways do you relate to Julia? Did you put parts of yourself or people you know into her character?

I don’t think I couldn’t help but infuse my personality within Julia somehow, though I’m not shy or reclusive. I’m quite outgoing, but I was (cringes) a fast faller in high school and oh so boy crazy. The things she likes, I like and her best friend Sam is identical to my best friend. Unlike Julia though, my mother is alive and very much a part of my life. I couldn’t even begin to imagine life without her.

2. There are a lot of vampire novels out now, how is The Emerald Talisman different from the rest?

I haven’t read many vampire YA books, so I’m not sure other than I believe my story has a compelling storyline, lots of action/adventure and a sweet love story. Let me quote a recent reviewer for another opinion:

Jennifer said, “The Emerald Talisman was a fantastic vampire novel. I don't usually like a lot of vampire stories but this one was nowhere near as typical as some. I was entertained by it and the book kept me interested until the last page!”

3. What was your writing process like?

The experience was a rollercoaster, much like my storyline. My emotions were all over the place (I was post-partum too) most days. Bless my husband’s heart for putting up with me. But he wouldn’t let me quit with just writing a rough draft. He continually told me “You have to finish or you’ll kick yourself later.” I’m a great starter and not the best finisher, so for me to complete a novel was a feat in itself. But even in that, I tricked myself to finish.

4. If you could befriend Julia with any other YA character, who would it be and why?

I’m thinking maybe a 16-year-old Hermione would be a good friend because they both tend to take there time and think about what’s right and wrong, but willing to put themselves in dangerous situations to help others.

5. What is one place in the world you would love to travel to?

Only one place??? *pouts* Santorini Island, Greece comes to mind. Those gorgeous white buildings on the cliff edge with blue doom roofs. Actually, I’d love to be on a balcony with a glass of wine, and my hubby taking in the view right now (then later whipping out the laptop for some writing). *swoon*. Heaven.

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Thanks so much, Brenda!

Click here to visit her website!