Interviewed by:  Tamar Mekredijian, Pacific Book Review  

May, 2012

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PBR:  This is your first novel. Why did you decide to write about genies rather than the current paranormal fiction norm of vampires and zombies? 

EF:  For this story, Genies are the perfect fit.  They represent the most human of supernatural creatures and are neither required to feed upon, nor strive to injure humans in any way.  They live among us peacefully (for the most part), which allows Cat’s story to feel more conceivable, and thus take us on a more exhilarating ride. 

PBR:  How much research did you have to do while writing this book? Did you read a lot of stories about genies? 

EF:  I researched the earliest form of Genie existence dating back to the Djinn, and built characters from the real life descriptions of these mythological creatures.  

PBR:  As a new writer, what is your writing schedule like? Do you have a set schedule? 

EF:  Since I consider writing my full time job, I treat it as such.  After an early morning workout, I dress professionally and head out to work (write).  I never write at home, trading coffee houses and other venues as my “office.”  I write at least a little bit every day.  This is what works for me.  

PBR:  Did you always know you would write young adult books? Tell us about your decision to write for the younger readers in our reading communities. 

EF:  No.  I’ve always been a storyteller, and told bedtime stories to my children long after it was cool to do so.  This began as a “written” bedtime story for my then adolescent children to always have and hopefully share with their children.  By the time I finished some years later, I had three very full books!  The process from first word to now has been just over five years.

PBR:  When can we expect to be able to purchase the next book in the Trilogy? Can you give us any hints about what is to come? 

EF:  Hopefully, the second book will be out by Christmas, but I’m holding out for a Publishing deal, so one never knows!

PBR:  Do you have any advice for aspiring young adult writers? 

EF:  Just begin writing.  Don’t worry about starting at “Once Upon A Time” and ending at “The End.”  Just start writing the scenes in your head.  The rest will come.