I am very pleased to be featuring an interview today with
author Kristy Berridge. Kristy has written an exciting new paranormal/vampire book called The Hunted.
To read more about Kristy, click this link to visit her website: Kristy Berridge. To read my review of Kristy’s book, click here: The Hunted.
1. Kristy, what makes your book The Hunted different from other Vampire books in the paranormal genre?
It’s unexpected. I didn’t want to write just another love story with a bit of supernatural flavour. I wanted all the characters to have their own voice and to develop as the story moves forward – some of them inherently good and others typically evil. But I think the true difference is remembering that most non-fictional characters are a mix of both, accepting their flaws and moving forward. That’s what’s different – acceptance and progression in the face of what would otherwise be predictable behaviour from certain stereotypical characters found in other novels.
2. Will this book be part of a series? Why or why not?
The Hunted is book one, part of a series of five. There are so many underlying developments, the interaction between the characters binding and impossible to limit to one novel.
3. Where does your inspiration come from for your main characters Elena Manory and William Granville?
Elena is based on the part of me without inhibition. Most of the time she says what I would say, thinks how I might think, and in others, she seemingly swallows liquid confidence and speaks her mind freely – acts without fear of consequence.
William, although a very major part in most of the stories, is not actually the lead role. As the novels progress we gain more insight into Lucas (Elena’s brother), as well as other fundamental characters to the story. William is simply the realisation of a lonely man, seeking out something more in an otherwise unending existence. But he is essential to Elena’s growth and emotional development.
4. Who are your favorite authors and/or favorite books/series to read?
I love Laurell.K.Hamilton and Richelle Mead, but really, there are so many very talented and imaginative writers out there that I read and enjoy.
5. What is the most challenging part of the writing process for you?
Chapter one. It needs to paint the picture of what is to come, but also describe events and characters that may have been instrumental through previous books. The trick is not to waffle on – sometimes a time consuming task to get the perfect blend of information and new ideas.
6. What or who inspired you to become a writer?
I’ve always liked to write, but never took myself too seriously. It wasn’t until I found myself with a bit of extra time on my hands that I actually sat down and produced The Hunted. After that, I couldn’t put my laptop away. Words flowed through my fingers, typing until three more books were written and a whole concept was laid out before me.
7. If there was one thing that you would like readers to take from “The Hunted”, what would it be?
I want total immersion – to become so wrapped up in the characters and the story that putting the book down feels impossible and not knowing what will happen next is a torture.
8. What is your next writing project and when will it be available?
The next three books in the series are already written, but The Hunted must gain ground before the story gets too ahead of itself.
9. Would you like to see your book turned into a movie or TV series someday? Why or why not?
I think as long as TV or film can portray the characters realistically and not stray too far from the main objective of the story, then seeing my words produced for motion picture would be the highest of compliments. To see the reach of the Twilight Saga and True Blood – it is definitely something to aim for.
10. What is one thing that you would like readers to know about you?
I’m a big reader too – always searching for the next big series to snuggle up under the covers with. Hopefully I don’t disappoint with The Hunted Series!
