I’m thrilled to be sharing with you today an interview with Wise Wolf Books author, Lori Tchen.
Lori Tchen was born and raised in the Texas hill country where shaking out one’s shoes for scorpions was part of the daily norm. She writes fiction in the evenings, her highly prized downtime outside of work, while raising her two sons.
Lori’s career began in criminology, working deep nights in a detention facility, then investigating crimes as a Texas State Enforcement Agent. After observing the underbelly of society, her fantasy stories allow her and her readers to escape into imagined worlds and inspire bravery in children (and adults alike) to face some of life’s evil characters.
What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
I wrote this story for my sons, to illustrate a balance between fear and bravery. While Sterling’s adventures are exciting, there are real lessons about life, friendship, and family.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
Sterling’s theme song would be traditional Viking music blended with an instrumental Harry Potter film melody.
What books are on your to-be-read pile right now?
I am loving the Mysterious Scotland books by Tormod Cockburn. Book 2, The Ness Deception, is my next read! I am also excited to read Clanlands by Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish to learn more about Scottish history after my recent travels to the UK. Among others, Carl Sagan’s The Demon-Haunted World, is on my bookshelf, ready to be read soon.
What scene in Sterling Fierce and the Lost Dragons was your favorite to write?
I have too many to pick just one! I do adore the spark of adventure in the beginning chapters, and each time a new character was introduced or a new part of Everen was unveiled.
Do you have any quirky writing habits?
I prefer to write when it is dark, cloudy, or rainy outside. If it’s too sunny, I will close the blinds with a strong tilt and write in the glow of a lantern-style desk lamp.
Can you describe your writing process?
Every story, for me, begins with an image. I follow the image and describe everything I see until it makes sense to stop. Then, I write each chapter on paper in the form of an outline. My writing space gets filled with chapter notes taped to the walls. I go for long walks and imagine the possibilities of the character’s future. Like scenes from a film, the story unfolds in sequences of images. Of course, there is much re-writing, edits, and re-writing until the story feels right.
What’s next for you?
I’ve decided that Sterling Fierce has too many unresolved questions, challenges, and exploring to do, so I will continue to write his stories. I have other books in the works, and I am excited about writing one with a lead female protagonist. I plan to travel more in the UK in the future, take plenty of long walks, and get lost in many more stories.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
“Not all those who wander are lost” – J.R.R. Tolkein
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
If something matters, protect it.
Are there specific types of scenes you struggle with?
I struggle writing battle scenes—I find it hard to keep pace with each fighter’s every move simultaneously.
Where did you get your inspiration for your characters?
Oh, that’s easy. Sterling is based on my oldest son, Brenner. Green, the Story Dragon, is based on my youngest son, Bryce.
What drew you to this genre in the first place?
I have always been drawn to the magic and wonder in stories like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. I like to imagine the possibility of other worlds, alien planets, and endless new landscapes, creatures, and species of life. It fills me with hope.
An author or authors who inspire you and you look up to?
J.R.R. Tolkein is my absolute favorite author. I also am endlessly fascinated with the Sherlock Holmes stories by Conan Doyle. I’ve always looked up to Patricia Cornwell, Stephen King, and Stephen Hawking.
