Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Interview with Sara Walsh, Author of The Dark Light and Giveaway

Hi, Nicole! Thanks for inviting me over.

You're more than welcome, Sara! Please, share with us your latest news.

At the moment, news is all about The Dark Light and the build-up for release. Lots of interviews and guest posts and talking with lovely people. I’m having a blast!

That's great! When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I’m still not sure I do consider myself a writer! I’ve always written stories, but I still think of myself as more of a reader than a writer. Maybe that will change. I’m not sure. I’d definitely have a book blog if I wasn’t writing!

Ah, I'm sure you'll consider yourself a writer soon. :) What inspired you to write The Dark Light?

I was on a road trip from Kansas City to Wyoming and was discussing a news events about a young boy who’d suddenly reappeared almost a decade after mysteriously vanishing. We were out on the plains, and the story got me thinking about all the ways a person could vanish in such wide open spaces. What might really be out there? That’s when I came up with the basic idea behind The Dark Light.

Oh, now that sounds intriguing! Do you have a specific writing style?

My style changes story to story.  Sometimes a story will pour out and I’m scrambling to get it down on the page. Other times, a story needs a little more care to ensure it stays on the right track. I do try to write every day, even if it’s just a little.

That sounds like me! How did you come up with the title? I love it!

The title The Dark Light evolved with the story. I was getting close to a finished draft when I started to think about what I could call it. There were lots of references in the story to dark and light, so I brainstormed a few combinations and decided on The Dark Light.

You mentioned your love of reading. What book are you reading now?

At the time of writing this, I was reading Unraveling by Elizabeth Norris, one of my fellow debut authors in the Apocalypsies. By the time you’re reading this, I’ll almost certainly have read several other books!

Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

So many. It’s such a privilege to be a part of a debut group like the Apocalypsies, because you’re exposed to so many fantastic new writers. I haven’t yet read a novel from one of the group that I haven’t thoroughly enjoyed. You should check them out. All of them!

What are your current projects?

I’m always writing, so I do have a couple of projects on the go. Can’t give away too many details, though. Sorry!

We understand. :) Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

It’s all a challenge, but in a really good way. Writing a novel is a long process and there are lots of times when doubts creep in and you wonder if a story is worth pursuing. Writing through that and coming out on the other side with a completed novel is an essential part of being a writer.

Great answer! Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

I’ve loved Stephen King ever since I was a teenager. His characters are always amazing and his writing appears so effortless, you can’t help but be carried away by his stories. What strikes me most about his work is how he’s been able to consistently write fantastic stories over such a long period of time. Awe inspiring.

He is definitely one of the greats. How long does it take you to write a book?

It depends. The Dark Light took about five months to complete a full draft. I then let it sit for a while before working on revisions, so six or seven months all in. I do have stories that I’ve been working on for years, but stubbornly refuse to give up on!

And some "fun" questions: What paranormal creature would you be and why?

I think I’d like to be a mermaid, because then I could hang out at the beach and read all day!

Wouldn't that be awesome? What did you want to be when you were 10 years old?

A Jedi warrior. It’s true.

Now that made me laugh! That's awesome. What makes you laugh?

General lighthearted silliness. I love goofing off with friends.

Friends are awesome. :) If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be?

Luna Lovegood!

Great choice! If you could be a superhero, what would you want your superpowers to be?

I’d want to be telepathic, because I’m really nosy.

LOL! If you had six months with no obligations or financial constraints, what would you do with the time?

I’d write, but on the QE2.

Nice. If you were a Star Wars character, which one would you be?

Chewbacca! Though at 5’2”, I’m more Ewok than Wookie!

At least you're taller than 5 foot. I'm 4'11 3/4.

Thanks for dropping by, Sara! What a fun interview!

The Dark Light Blurb

Mysterious lights have flickered above Crownsville for as long as Mia can remember. And as far as she's concerned, that's about the only interesting thing to happen in her small town.

That is, until Sol arrives. Mia's not one to fall for just any guy, but she can't get Sol--or the brilliant tattoo on his back--out of her mind.

Then Mia's brother goes missing, and Mia's convinced that Sol knows more than he's sharing. But getting closer to Sol means reevaluating everything Mia once believed to be true. Because Sol's not who Mia thought he was--and neither is she.

Bio

Sara Walsh is British, but happily lives in Annapolis, Maryland. She graduated college with a degree in psychology, but soon decided that telling stories was much more fun. When not writing, Sara is usually reading, drowning in tea, or frolicking around town with the world's cutest St. Bernard. The Dark Light is her first novel.

Links


Contest

Want to win a signed hardcopy (North America only) or an ebook of The Dark Light? Just leave a comment on this blog. For an extra entry, follow Sara on twitter, add The Dark Light to your Goodreads shelf, or like Sara's facebook page. Good luck!


64 comments:

Unknown said...

Cool interview.I like that writing spark that triggered the book!

All the best with the book, Sara, and thanks for sharing, Nicole :)

Shalet Jimmy said...

Hallooo....Nicole, I love your questions for it is not plain and detached...Loved your interview...I love your blog's background. It evokes a fantasy world....Would love to Sarah Walsh's The Dark Light. I loved her answers tooo....

About the give away....I am so sad that I could not get the hard copy of The dark light...But if I am lucky I can get an ebook....right....

All the best....

Carol Kilgore said...

This was a great interview. The book sounds fascinating. Thanks.

Gina Marie Long said...

Nicole-You have been doing super great interviews & I love the layout of your blog! I'm an author myself, and have been keeping an eye on several other writers...And BTW, drumroll...I am gifting you with a Blog Award on my site...
(direct link to post) http://www.ginamarielong.com/2012/07/a-liebster-blog-award.html
and recommending YOUR blog as a TOP PICK to my visitors! If you get a chance, go check it out. Thanks & take care! Keep up the great work!!!

Christine Rains said...

Fantastic interview! Stephen King is one of my greatest inspirations too.

Lili said...

This cover is one of my favorites and I absolutely adored the interview. Can't say I like the mention of Stephen King though because he scares me so much! lol thank you for the opportunity to win a hardcover copy of the book.

I also followed Sara on twitter (@LiliReflects) and have had the book added to my Goodreads shelf for forever because I've been wanting it for so long! lol

Anonymous said...

Best wishes to Sara and her book The Dark Light. I just stopped by her social networking sites to say hello too.

Christina Fiorelli said...

I love the Apocalypsies:) Love the interview because it's great to know more about authors and their process.

I follow Sara on Twitter @christinafiorio

The Dark Light is on my Goodreads Shelf Christina Kitroeff

I like Sara's Facebook page Christina Rita Condomaros

4 entries

Thanks so much:) It sounds awesome:)

ccfioriole at gmail dot com

Patty said...

What a fun interview! I like how you're more Ewok and Wookie. LOL!

Sara Walsh said...

Hi, guys! I hope Nicole doesn't mind me jumping in and saying hello! A huge thanks to everyone for stopping by and entering the contest. It was such a fun interview, and I love reading all your comments about The Dark Light. Keep the entries coming!

Thanks, Nicole!

Anonymous said...

How cool! Hahaha Ms. Walsh I'm taller than you be 1.5 inches... guess I'm more cut out for Chewbacca huh? lol what a thought. Thanks for the interview and giveaway!

- I'm commenting! :)

- I added TDL to my Goodreads shelf (Alyssa Susanna)

- I'm an "old liker" on Facebook (Alyssa Susanna)

Thank you, and good luck Ms. Walsh! I know TDL will be awesome :D

Alyssa Susanna

Anonymous said...

Just leaving my email..
NOT A DOUBLE ENTRY!

lilleetleet(at)verizon(dot)net

Thanks!
Alyssa Susanna

Anonymous said...

Followed with
FB Rose Hairston
twitter RoseMarie095

roseannh95(at)gmail(dot)com

lilypi said...

I like Sara's facebook page (Lily Sooklal). I follow her on twitter (LilyS__10). I would LOVE to win a copy of The Dark Light! :)

Tobi said...

FB Tobi (maiden name) Helton
twitter @tobi_helton
Goodreads Tobi

Thanks for the amazing giveaway! <3
Tobi
tobihelton at gmail dot com

Unknown said...

Ooh, what an amazing interview! <3 I love it that Sara picks mermaid! Being a mermaid would be awesome, although I'd love to be able to walk on lands with feet too! x) And Luna Lovegood! She's crazy - but in good way! :D

Thank you for the fabulous giveaway! <3

+1 follow Sara on twitter
+1 add The Dark Light to my Goodreads shelf
+1 like Sara's facebook page

Kathy said...

Thank you for the thorough interview and the great giveaway!

alicia marie said...

Thanks for the great interview and giveaway!!

follow Sara on twitter @bamayankee
The Dark Light on goodreads shelf: alicia marie
like Sara's facebook page: alicia marie ezell

Lisseth Torres said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Lisseth Torres said...

AH!! This book just sounds SO AWESOME and UNIQUE! The interview was great!
+Follow on twitter (@ReadAholicZ)
+"like" facebook page (Lisseth Torres)
+add to goodreads (SINCE like a forever ago!)

I can NOT WAIT till it comes out!!! =D

lizzy9rule(at)gmail(dot)com

molly.frenzel said...

Great interview! I'm so excited to read this book! I can't wait till it comes out.

molly(dot)frenzel(at)gmail(dot)com
FB: Molly Nudo Frenzel
Twitter: @dg_molly
GR: Molly Frenzel

Sara @ Forever 17 Books said...

Luna Lovegood! LOL I love her too. Great interview!

I follow the author on twitter: @Forever17books

The Dark Light is on my goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/5391613?shelf=august

Thanks for the giveaway! :)

Jemi Fraser said...

Chewie is a great choice! I even had a stuffed Chewie when I was a kid :)

Unknown said...

Great interview and great giveaway! Thank you! Can't wait to read this!
saltsnmore at yahoo dot com

Unknown said...

I also follow Sara on twitter. @justpeachyphoto
saltsnmore at yahoo dot com

Paranormal Opinion said...

Thanks for the chance to win! I follow Sara on facebook and twitter. I also have The Dark Light on my "to-read" shelf on Goodreads :)

Cricket said...

Great interview.
lilcrickit at gmail dot com

deasuluna said...

The Dark Light sounds so good and the cover is gorgeous!
Twitter Follower: @deasuluna
Facebook Follower: Christina Torres-Sals
Goodreads TBR: http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/2127857-christina?utf8=%E2%9C%93&view=table&search[query]=the+dark+light

Aubrie said...

Good luck with your new release, Sarah! I followed you on Twitter!

Unknown said...

Can't wait to read it!
GR Redheaded Bookworm
Twitter @redhedbookworm
FB Heather Baker Schrock
hschrock24112 at yahoo dot com

Steph said...

Thanks for the awesome giveaway!
Twitter: @adreamindream
Goodreads: Stephanie Ward
Facebook: Stephanie Ward

stephward84(at)hotmail(dot)com

Ricki said...

Dark Light sounds wonderful.
GFC - rickimc
rickimc[at]aol[dot]com

Jackie said...

Great interview!
I would love to win this awesome giveaway, thanks for the opportunity!
jackieinmi67@gmail.com

Jackie said...

I've added The Dark Light to my Goodreads shelf. (Jackie Reini)
jackieinmi67@gmail.com

magic5905 said...

Book looks great, would love to win a print book. Thanks.
magic5905 at embarqmail dot com

magic5905 said...

I follow you on twitter, harvester5905, please follow back
magic5905 at embarqmail dot com

magic5905 said...

I added it to my TBR list on goodreads, Joy F
magic5905 at embarqmail dot com

magic5905 said...

I like you on facebook, Joy F
magic5905 at embarqmail dot com

books4me said...

Woo HOO! I live in the US so I'm in the runnning for a hardcover copy!

Twitter: books4me2
FB: wendy dee
GR: books4me (on my shelf)

books4me67 at ymail dot com

Danielle B! said...

Thanks for the great interview. This books sounds so good and I can't wait to read it.
I liked Sara on Facebook with the name Danielle Bateman.
I followed on Twitter @junecat14
I added The Dark Light to my Goodreads To Read shelf. http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3083350-danielle-b

Thanks for the AWESOME giveaway!

Lisa Richards/alterlisa said...

Thanks for partcipating in this hop!
I live in the US

follow Sara on twitter@alterlisa

added The Dark Light to my Goodreads shelf_Lisa Richards

liked Sara's facebook_Lisa Ann Richards

alterlisa AT yahoo DOT com

Unknown said...

I can't wait to read this book! Thanks for the giveaway!
Twitter: @temarasheppard
Goodreads Shelf: Temara
Facebook: TemaraSheppard On Wattpad
Email: temarasheppard(at)yahoo(dot)com

Misha said...

Awesome interview and this book sounds amazing! I really want to read it now!

Following on Twitter: @Miyosha_K
Facebook: Misha Kudo
Email: MostlyMisha[at]gmail[dot]com

Markella said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
desitheblonde said...

usa and then i like the book andput it on list on goodread and would read it for you

desi the blonde at msn dot com

Unknown said...

Thanks for the amazing giveaway!
elizabeth @ bookattict . com
GFC: BookAttict
Facebook: Elizabeth Kotkiewicz Hyatt
Twitter: @BookAttict
Goodreads: Elizabeth Hyatt (Book_Attict)

iLuvReadingTooMuch said...

Great interview and thanks for the amazing giveaway!

I follow Sarah on Twitter: @iliveforreading
Added the Dark Light to my shelf: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3177566-rabiah
Liked on FB: Rabiah Rowther

thanks again!

iliveforreading AT hotmail DOT com

Merry said...

I follow via twitter @feymom
Added Dark Light to my Goodreads shelf: Lisa Hackney
Liked on FB as Lisa Francis Hackney

Great Interview! I can't wait to read the book!
yankssssrule08 at yahoo dot com

Unknown said...

i am a gfc follower and would just love to win this!! mdg891972@hotmail.com

Unknown said...

i liked your face book pagr micheal dale grim mdg891972@hotmail.com

Gale Nelson said...

added on goodreads Gale Nelson
Gale Nelson gfc
pgan427@yahoo.com

Jody said...

Wow this sounds like a great book. I am intrigued by the summary. I would love to win a signed copy.
FB liked
Twitter: autimom3
Added to GR Jody Duffy
Thanks for the giveaway!
iteachfl@aol.com

Lexie@BookBug said...

Thanks for the awesome interview and giveaway!
Twitter follower: @LexieBookBug
Facebook follower: Lexie May Hogan
lexie.bookbug at gmail dot com

Jolene and Family said...

I would love to win The Dark Light, thanks for the giveaway and chance to win

FB-Jolene Allcock
Twitter-@joleneallcock
added to goodreads-Jolene Allcock

june111(at)att(dot)net

Denise Z said...

I think Luna Lovegood would be an awesome friend ;) I think The Dark Light sounds awesome and would love to win an ebook. Thank you for taking the time to share with us today and for you awesome participation in this fun hop.
Follower GFC
Follow Sara on twitter @ZDz59001
Goodreads and FB Denise Zaky
dz59001[at]gmail[dot]com

Lona said...

Great interview and I love the cover.

GFC & FB Lona Stringer
blinkysthebest at aol dot com

Texas Book Lover said...

Thanks for the great interview and giveaway chance!

I already had Dark Light on my GR's TBR list.

Thanks so much!
mmafsmith AT gmail DOT com

GR: Maria pronounced Mariah

Christy Maurer said...

This sounds like a book I would love to read! Thanks for sharing!

ineedadietcoke@aol.com

I follow Sara on Twitter @Christy41970

Added to my Goodreads shelf as Christy Maurer

I like Sara's fb page

aLilLacey said...

Great interview and sounds like a great read! Thanks for the giveaway! Laceysvette at hotmail dot com

Kelly said...

Thank you for the giveaway..

Twitter- ronnkelly03
FB- Kelly C Reci
TBR shelf- Kelly Reci

ronnkelly3@aol.com

Natalia Belikov said...

OMG! thank you SO much for this delicious giveaway! I got here through Sara's blog =9!!

I also follow her on twitter, facebook and goodreads! =D

Happy reading ^______^

naty_noldor@hotmail.com

Margay Leah Justice said...

This sounds like a really interesting book!

latishajean said...

Thank you for the great giveaway!
GFC-latishajean
Facebook-latisha D
Twitter-latishajean
Goodreads-latisha D
tishajean@ charter.net

Theresa Milstein said...

If you write, you are a writer. Simple as that.

We're all short. I'm 5' 2 1/2". But I say 5' 3" on my driver's license. Round up, right?