A: It started with a name. A name can give a story a lot of power and a special “oomph.” As a fan of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, and Artemis Fowl, I knew I wanted to title my stories similarly and began to think up names for the main character. Zaria Fierce as a character came to me before I knew her story.
Secret of Gloomwood Forest
Poll: How do you picture Filip Storstrand?
When you’re reading Zaria Fierce and the Secret of Gloomwood Forest how do you picture Filip Storstrand? Do you envision him like Charles Vandervaart (Murdoch Mysteries)? Or does he appear in your imagination as Parker Dane Conti (Playing for Keeps) when you read?
Poll: How do you picture Zaria Fierce?
When you’re reading Zaria Fierce and the Secret of Gloomwood Forest how do you picture the heroine? Do you think she looks more like Amandla Stenberg (Hunger Games) or like Bella Maltzman?
Poll: Where would you like to go in Zaria Fierce’s world?
Where would you visit if you could follow in Zaria’s footsteps? Would you visit the underground world of Trolgar, home to King Kaffirr and the stalagmite homes of the mountain-trolls? Or would you rather visit the silver glade of the Álfheim and view the elves finely spun glass homes?
Poll: Who is your favorite character in The Secret of Gloomwood Forest?
Zaria Fierce and the Secret of Gloomwood Forest introduced you to many great characters. Which one is your favorite? Is your favorite character the most popular character in the book? Or is it another character? Vote to find out!
Map of Gloomwood Forest and the Under Realm
I love to doodle when I’m thinking about a particular part in the book. It helps me to plot and it’s a great way to get over writer’s block. This first doodle is a drawing I completed in ink and highlighter. It showcases a map-like version of how the ellefolken, elves, and Queen Helena work together to overcome darkness. The blue Post-it is a doodle of Zaria wearing a crown.
