Interview with Tara Fairfield
Published 2014-09-10.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
Two books from my childhood stand out for me. All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot, which I read over and over, tapped into my love of animals and made me laugh. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis sparked my love of fantasy and showed me how fantasy can be used to impart a powerful message and life lesson. A great story gets under your skin and even now, decades after reading them, these stories elicit fond memories.
How do you approach cover design?
For both books in my Makai Series I used a cover designer to help capture my vision. I knew I wanted to show underwater scenes that depicted the mood of the story and could not be happier with the results. The cover should pull a reader in and ignite interest to learn more as well as be artistic and attractive.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
1. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis: Sparked my love of fantasy as a child.
2. All Things Great and Small by James Herriot: I love animal stories that make me laugh.
3. Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis: A classic.
4. Wuthering Heights: The first tragic love story I ever read.
5. The Bible: I know it might seem like a cliche' but the history and power of the bible is without equal. Everytime I read a passage it speaks to me in a new way.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in Huntington Beach, California and spent a great deal of time in or near the ocean. My love for the sea had a huge influence on choosing the setting for my Makai Series. I love snorkeling and scuba diving and creating an undersea fantasy world where the heroine could talk to animals was a blast! I want to live there!
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Hearing from readers who have enjoyed one of my books. There is no greater joy for me than a reader getting excited about my story.
What do your fans mean to you?
They are everything. I love connecting with readers and when a fan shares what one of my books meant to them its the best compliment I could receive.
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Books by This Author
Makai King
by Tara Fairfield
Deep Beneath the sea is a world she never imagined!
In Makai King, second book in the Makai Series, Tessa's faces the danger lurking in the ocean's depths. Will she survive?
