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January 15, 2013

Michelle Miles: Why I Write Paranormal and Fantasy Romance

I have a confession to make. I didn’t become a voracious reader until I was in my early twenties.

Okay, that’s not exactly true either. I don’t think I was ever a voracious reader.

I chose books that grab me from the first page and don’t let go until the last. I prefer to read series because I like visiting with the same characters, even if the hero/heroine are different. I like being in that world. I’m a picky reader.

But one thing I can definitely say that has always—and will always—capture my imagination are fantasy worlds. I started reading fantasy in high school. I loved (and still do) the books by Patricia McKillip. She has this wonderful way of weaving fantastical stories that draw the reader in and keep the reader guessing. One of my favorites by her is Alphabet of Thorn. I’ve read it over and over.



I can’t say I’ve been writing since I was a kid, scratching out novels in crayon or pencil. I didn’t really get into it until I was well into my teen years and even then, I dabbled. I got away from it for a while in my early twenties and then came back to it again in my late twenties. I started reading again. The first novel I wrote was a fantasy that has yet to see the light of day. It’s still hiding in the dark recesses of my computer.

But my published first book wasn’t in fantasy or paranormal. Not right away. I started with contemporary. Probably because it was easier for me to craft a story in the real world. I hadn’t learned how to worldbuild yet. That would come later. But I did learn how to put together a story and how to write a novel. And, most importantly, how to finish a novel.

I have always loved the fantasy worlds. Creating places from the deepest part of imagination, weaving stories with magic and dragons and romance. Where I can be a fairy princess if I want and let the knight in shining armor rescue me from the clutches of the villain. Okay well not ME exactly. But my heroine. And really, she’s stronger than that. She doesn’t sit around and wait for the hero to save the day. She takes the bull by the horns—or rather the dragon by the wings—and goes after what she wants. She’s not afraid of adventure. She doesn’t shy away from facing death head on. She’s strong and strong-willed.

And that’s why I love writing it. I love being in that world and crafting those stories. It’s definitely by favorite genre to read and write.

Michelle Miles is published in contemporary, fantasy and paranormal romance. You can find her books in print and eBook at Amazon, B&N, and other online retailers. She is the author of the time travel series, The Adventures of Ransom and Fortune, and the fantasy series, Knights in Shining Armor.

13 comments:

Kathy Ivan said...

Good morning Michelle.

I love to read a good fantasy. I don't know if it would be considered fantasy but right now I'm reading Jim Butcher's latest Harry Dresden book. I am a voracious reader, though, and I'll devour just about any written words in front of me. LOL

I do have to say paranormal romance has to be one of my favorite genres, thought, especially if the author is good at building and continuing a world that takes me away from the mundane, everyday life I live (which you do so very well.)

Sylvia said...

I like paranormal romances, but I'm more the angels, ghosts, and fairies that kind of romance. I've never been a fantasy reader, though I've always read a lot of books. I think it's funny how everyone's tastes are different and isn't that a good thing. It's so much fun when you find an author who loves the worlds she builds and you can always tell. I bet you are a fantastic fantasy writer just because you love the genre so much.

Vicki Batman, sassy writer said...

Hi, Michelle, I'm not so much a fantasy person, but I do like your stuff. It's not harsh and terribly demonic. Congratulations on Only for a Knight!

Karilyn Bentley said...

Hi Michelle,
I also enjoy reading a good fantasy and writing them. It's fun to create your own world and then populate it with characters of your imagination. :)

Phyllis said...

Hi Michele,

Like you I am not a voracious reader, but I will go through audiobooks like mad.

The story, whether paranormal, fantasy, steam punk, suspense, etc., has to get my attention and hold it. So I can say I enjoy all genres, but admittedly not like any one particular story. I guess we are all that way in some measure.

Yes, totally agree about being totally inside those worlds! Such fun!

Michelle Miles said...

Kathy - the Dresden books are considered urban fantasy. That's one of my favorite subgenres too! :) Thanks for the very nice compliment. I hope I can give readers a sense of escapism :)

Michelle Miles said...

Sylvia - I am loving the angels and fairies stories right now. I've devoured Showalter's Lords of the Underworld series (which has angels) and I look for a good fairy story just about anywhere :)

Barb Han said...

I can totally relate to that first manuscript being deeply hidden somewhere never to see the light of day!! Much success on your new release!!

Jennifer August said...

I love fantasy myself. My favorite series of all time is David Eddings' Belgariad. I've read the five book series about a hundred times. I thoroughly enjoy your books! Your Knight series rocks!

Nancy said...

I'm not the biggest of fantasy fans, but you write amazing fantasy - and paranormals - that I love, Michelle! Keep 'em coming!

Light,
Nancy Haddock

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