I read and loved fantasy novels best, such as the ones by Tamora Pierce and Tanith Lee. I was also fond of vampires and werewolves, and anything with a speculative fiction emphasis, like Isobelle Carmody's Obernewtyn.
Would you say your reading as a teenager has had a distinct influence on how you write fiction now, and why?
Absolutely. There are some trends that were popular in my youth that seem to have waned--like creatures of the night being monstrous rather than kissable--that I miss and want to revive in my books. Also the idea of a flawed heroine seems to have fallen by the wayside. I read a great deal of series as well and that's what I feel most comfortable writing.
What did you do before you became a published teen/young adult novelist, and how did you come to write your first teen/young adult novel and get it published?
I'm still doing it---marketing. My debut Blood Song came out this month after writing it during a unit on Young Adult Novel Writing and I was very determined to get a good agent and publishing deal. I think I spent as much time on research into the industry as I did drafting the book.
How would you describe your style of teen/young adult fiction or your approach to writing teen/young adult fiction?
Fast paced, fun, and a little frivolous. You've gotta enjoy yourself whether you're read or writing!
Who is another author whose teen/young adult fiction you admire and why?
I'm really loving the Australian fantasy that's been coming out recently, like the novels by D.M. Cornish, and contemporary novels like Vicki Wakefield's All I Ever Wanted. I like contemporary fiction with a crime bent.
How would you summarise one of your teen/young adult novels in one paragraph?
It'll have to be my debut, Blood Song. A princess feels a strange, overwhelming desire to travel northwards at the peril of her sister and herself. When she reaches her destination there are more questions than answers, and an infuriating young man who seems to be standing deliberately in her way.
How would you describe the appeal of this novel to teen/young adult readers?
I think it appeals to teenagers due to it's strong adventure element and quick pacing. The humour and romance haven't seemed to hurt either.
How would you summarise a chapter from this novel in one paragraph?
There's a chapter in which the heroine, Zeraphina, and hero, Rodden, are involved in an archery tournament in direct competition with each other. The stakes are high, especially for Zeraphina, and this stretches her abilities to the limit.
How would you describe the contribution this chapter makes to the novel?
It builds mutual and grudging respect between the two characters and shows Zeraphina just what she's capable of. Also, I hope it heightens the sexual tension.
To what extent would you say fiction written primarily for young readers is different from fiction written primarily for adult readers?
YA novels are so hopeful and all look towards the future, to the person the characters will become for the rest of their lives. It's an exciting and vital time.
Author website: www.rhiannon-hart.blogspot.com
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