Welcome to Jagged Edge!
Would you like to tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a Texas native, though there are pieces of my heart all over the globe; I love traveling. I’ve been writing since before I knew how to write. I scribbled out nonsensical stories—but they made perfect sense in my head! Besides writing books, I write songs, which are accompanied with my guitar. Also, I don’t like sleeping; to me, it takes up too much valuable time, so I do it as little as possible.
What inspired you to write?
It’s just in me. I’ve always been fascinated by stories—in whatever form they come—and I’ve always been interested in making up my own.
What authors influenced you as a writer?
I think every book I’ve ever read has influenced me in one way or another. All art has its merit. Therefore, something can always be learned. But the key influences are Gail Carson Levine, the Brontë sisters, Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Aldous Huxley, Ray Bradbury, J. K. Rowling, and Megan McCafferty.
What is your favorite Quote? Why is it your favorite?
“The majesty and grandeur of the English language is the greatest possession we have.” - G. B. Shaw. It’s my favorite because I think language is often taken for granted. Maybe it’s because I’m a writer and words are my tools of expression, but I believe a well-constructed sentence is a work of art.
If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world, which would it be?
My answer for this question is always the same, so it’s kind of boring, but definitely Harry Potter. I would make an excellent witch—specifically a Ravenclaw, though I’d probably be put in Hufflepuff. And I would love nothing better than to be a Weasley!
What is at least one thing that every writer needs to have or do?
I don’t think I can limit this answer to one thing, so how about four? Consume lots of art—no matter what kind. Whether it’s books, music, films, painting or sculpture, there’s always something to be learned from it. Travel. A lot. Take writing as seriously as you would any other job. And always keep an open mind about everything—even things you don’t think have anything to do with writing; just be an open-minded person in general. All of these things make for a more well-rounded, better written story.
Are your books different to your personal favorite books by other authors?
I certainly hope so! I always strive to put my own spin on things. There’s a lot of me in my work, so I think it all has a different sort of flavor than other authors’ books.
What lead you to writing in this genre?
I’d have to say the rise of the vampire trend inspired me to write in the paranormal genre. There are no vampires in the Lone March series, of course, but werewolves are equally as intriguing, in my opinion, so that’s what I decided to write.
What is your favorite part of the writing process?
The initial creation stage. When I’m first coming up with the story, the characters, the plot, that’s when it’s most magical for me. Don’t get me wrong—actually executing those things, putting my ideas on the page, is also very magical and rewarding. I just love the freedom of thought and expression that comes in that first encounter or discovery of an idea!
Least favorite part of the writing process?
Revision. I have no patience for it, but I know it’s a necessary evil. The second draft isn’t so bad, but those third, fourth, fifth drafts are grueling, and if it goes beyond those, it’s just brutal!
What are you currently working on?
As far as the Lone March series, I’m writing # 6 now. Moon-Burn, book # 3, will be out this spring, and # 4 in the coming fall. I’m also working on a Middle Grade series set in the Victorian era, and a funny confessional series about a high school girl.
Where can readers find you?
My Blog: http://erinirvinsblog.blogspot.com/
The Lone March Series Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Lone-March-Series/203359563026264
My Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=23932971
My Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/ErinIrvin
LAST QUESTION:
Was there a question you wish I would have asked but didn't?
I guess I would have enjoyed answering a question about my main character’s progression, because I put a lot of energy into making sure March is learning and maturing a little with each installment of the series. I purposely set out to make her very sheltered and immature in the beginning so that I could show her growth on a small scale through book # 1 and on a larger scale throughout the series. I hope that comes across and that people relate to March and enjoy her story!
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