Author's Interview with Mariclaire Norton.

First, before we move forward with our Author's Interview, I would like to start with an introduction. 

1. Could you please introduce yourself to us? 

I am a long time fantasy fan and researcher of pre-Christian Celt and Norse civilizations and myths. Much of Tara's Journey leans on those years of research to create a credible world. I also happen to be a certified Therapeutic Musician and I volunteer at a local hospital. I live with my husband and cat, Alani, in a 55+ retirement community in Utah, USA.

2. Congratulations on your book. So what inspired you to write this book?

Tara's Journey started out as a role play game I did with my husband many years ago. The story was originally conceived as a historical fiction, but circumstances and research led me to change it to a fantasy.

3. What is the book all about? 

Tara's Journey follows the adventures of Tara Prima of Eirlandia, which is a nation where magic is used by certain members of the group known as Drui for the betterment of the nation. Tara is a minor princess when she is suddenly kidnapped by a rival country for political reasons. In her journey to Vikland she discovers her mother's necklace is a powerful magic item that allows her to learn of her hidden heritage and mage powers. She also falls in love with her captor and learns of the existence of a powerful enemy of her people she thought long extinct. She writes of all the things that occur in a journal, which is subsequently lost for centuries and re-found in the present day by Maeve, a Fighdrui in the employ of the current queen.

4. Why did you choose this genre for your book?

 

I found out that the storyline of Tara and Alaric would not work as a historical novel. I also realized that making it a fantasy would allow me to introduce magical elements as well as mythical ones into the story.

5. How much time did it take to complete this book?

That's a hard one to be accurate about as the story went through several transformations before I finally settled on it's current form. I will only say it was many years from the first draft to the published novel.

6. What makes your Book Special? 

Most people have little to no knowledge of ancient Celtic culture. My book gives some information about that time in history while also bringing an engaging story with many different elements into existence.

7. When is your second book coming?

The second of the series is completed, and I'm hoping will be published early 2025. It is called "The Master Lifenstone" and takes place in modern day Eirlandia.

8. While writing did you get any writer's block? What is the Tip that you will give others who are facing writer's block?

I actually was very lucky in that I never experienced writer's block. There were times I didn't write, but mostly because I didn't feel the 'call' or 'need' to write. I tend to write when I feel I'm supposed to. I guess I would suggest taking a break from writing if you are having to force things and find another activity that allows a different part of your creativity to emerge. Then return to writing after you feel refreshed.

9. What are your other hobbies besides being a talented author?

I volunteer playing harp at a local hospital, I read, work in my yard, and enjoy traveling.

10. Last but not the least, How did you feel, while giving this interview? 

I'm something of an extravert and don't mind talking about myself in the least bit.

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