BooksChatter: ℚ Rise: Order of the Krigers [1]

Today we have the pleasure of meeting up with author Jennifer Anne Davis to talk about Rise (17 May 2016, Month9Books, LLC, 300 pages), an Epic Young Adult Fantasy, book one of the Order of the Krigers series.

"The world is so richly developed and I feel such a connection to so many of the characters. If you're a fan of fantasy, this book is a must read!" --Zach's YA Reviews

"The story and the world building are phenomenal. I absolutely think the characters and their complexity and depth make this one wonderful; but seriously, I'm impressed and awed with how creative this story line is!" --Happy Tails and Tales

Author Q&A | Synopsis | Trailer | Teaser | About the Author | Giveaway & Tour Stops

A very warm welcome to Jennifer Anne Davis; thank you for joining us on BooksChatter!

What was the inspiration for Rise?

"I wanted to write a story that takes place in a medieval world, but I wanted it to have magic. From there, I started dreaming up my characters. I knew I wanted to deal with a main character who isn’t royalty (since my other series center around this idea). Once I had an idea of who Kaia was, I started playing around with different situations and all of a sudden, a clear vision for the story took root and I wrote the book straight through."

Why should we read Rise and what sets it apart from the rest? What makes your book unique?

"What sets this book apart from other books are the characters. With RISE, we are introduced to an evil king. However, as Kaia starts communicating with him via a dream state, she realizes there is more to him. We see he has been corrupted by dark magic. I love the idea of her being drawn to who he was before the dark magic consumed him. I also love how Morlet struggles with the path he’s on. The fact that nothing is easy or simple resonates with me. I don’t like reading books where characters are puppets—fulfilling roles for the sake of the plot. The characters in RISE are complicated, layered, and real."

Can you tell us something quirky about Rise, its story and characters?

"When I started writing this book, I decided to use words from another language instead of making up my own (for names, places, etc.) After doing some research, I decided to use Norwegian words. What sealed the deal was the word Kriger, which means warrior. I discovered my mother-in-law’s grandmother’s last name was Kriger! Once I discovered that, I knew I had to use it. Each character’s name I found on a list of common Norwegian names. Anytime you see an italicized word, that is Norwegian as well."

Who would you recommend Rise to and what should readers be aware of (any warnings or disclaimers)?

"I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy novels (ages 12+). As far as a disclaimer or warning, not so much in the first book. There is a subject matter that is hinted out, but isn’t developed until books 2 & 3. This book is actually pretty darn clean. "

What do you like to write and read about? Do you stick to a particular genre or do you like to explore different ones?

"I do stick to a particular genre—fantasy. Whether that be light fantasy where the story takes place in a fantastical kingdom, or high fantasy where magic and strange creatures are involved. I simply love the genre. It’s what I read, so it is what I write. "

What is in store next?

"RISE is book one in a three book series. The entire series is written, and I’m just revising it now. Book 2 is due out later this year and let me tell you, I am so excited for this one! Now that the characters, world, and the plot are all laid out, book 2 steps it up a notch and some really interesting events take place. Things become more complicated, nothing is as it seems, and difficult choices must be made. I am absolutely in love with this story!"

And as a final quirky thing, to get to know you a little bit better... do you have a pet or something that is special to you that you could share with us?

"I have a weimaraner who is with me every single word I write! He never leaves my side. His names is Miles (you know, because my last name is Davis—Miles Davis).

Anywho, I also have a huge tortoise. Like a 120 pound tortoise named Bruiser. My son has a gecko named Rango. For now, that’s all we have!

Here are some pictures:"