I recently had the opportunity to write a short review for Abby Farnsworth’s EverGreen. It’s a charming YA paranormal romance, but although it’s a YA novel, anyone could find something in it to enjoy. Here are Farnsworth’s answers to my interview questions. Enjoy!
Where did you get the inspiration for this story?
I don’t have one specific thing that inspired me. There are several different aspects of how EverGreen came to be. For one, I’m a very visual person, so I generally see my characters in my mind before I write about them. I saw Lily and Rowan, and the story really progressed from there. After picturing them, the plot came together. I also use inspiration from my personal life and pour little bits of my experiences into my books.
Are there any similarities between you and Lily?
There are some similarities, yes. We’re both bookworms, clumsy, and introverted. Lily’s personality is definitely different from mine, though. She’s her own person. I never tried to model her after me. We’re both hopeless romantics, which plays a lot into how we act.
Did you have a favorite character to write?
I enjoy writing all of my characters. Lily, of course, is my favorite in EverGreen. Ginger and Giselle were extremely fun to introduce, too.
What did you do to prepare for writing this story?
I planned out the novel, then started writing. I knew the plot before I started, so after that it was just getting the words down.
Where did you get your inspiration to begin writing in general?
I love reading, but deep down I’ve always been a storyteller. After I started writing, I realized that it was like breathing. My characters come to me, and my stories follow them. Writing is part of who I am.
Is there anything you would like people to know before they read EverGreen?
I don’t want people to turn away from EverGreen because they’re unfamiliar with the genre. I have met and heard from such a variety of people who enjoyed the story that I think almost any demographic could read it. There are lots of aspects to the story that allow it to be viewed differently by people of different ages. Even if someone isn’t a YA fantasy or paranormal romance fan, I’d still encourage them to read EverGreen. They might really like it!
What are your favorite books / Who are your favorite authors?
I have lots of favorite books and favorite authors. In terms of classical novels, my two favorites are Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. I like Jane Austen, and lots of Shakespeare’s poetry. Most of my favorite books are in the YA genre. I love Twilight, The Hunger Games, The Mortal Instruments, and The House of Night. Cassandra Clare is a great author. I definitely recommend her work.
What do you usually do to keep away writer’s block?
I’ve never really had a problem with writer’s block. I can’t seem to find enough time to write. My more complicated–yet good–problem is not being able to decide which story to write next.
Do you have any tips for aspiring writers?
If it’s something you feel you’re meant to do, don’t give up. The ability to tell stories is something you’re born with. If you have it, then use it.
Thank you to Abby Farnsworth for generously answering my questions. I hope you’ll check out her book, EverGreen, and the rest of the trilogy. Moonlit Skies is out now, but Fallen Snow will be released soon. Follow Abby Farnsworth on Facebook for more info!
Click below to purchase a copy of the book!
Cheryl Peña 
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