Everlark Self-Interview
The Writing Process
You know how NaNoWriMo is about getting words on paper and then editing later? I write slowly, delete everything, keep three words, and then never edit once I move past that point. I tend to have loose outlines that usually get reworked a few times before the final version gets posted. Writing every day has been my New Year’s resolution for the past three years, and I still end up doing 95% of my writing the day something gets posted. I don’t recommend this approach.
Quicksilver
Why did you choose this story?
Quicksilver is definitely my most popular story, so I was going to choose it anyway, but it’s also special to me because it’s been knocking around my head for probably ten years. The original concept is only loosely related to what’s made it to paper, but it’s gratifying to finally have something come from these ideas.
What was the original concept?
This story has been changed up and reworked so many times that I’m not even sure anymore. The starting point was Julia Quinn’s novel The Viscount Who Loved Me, which I strongly recommend. I think those who have read the book can see that Quicksilver’s starting point is essentially the same: a widowed mother from the poorer side of the upper class takes her two daughters to London for one season, and Kate/Katniss is certain that she’s going home single. There’s even a past relationship with an opera singer (whose name might have been lifted, I’m realizing as I type. I no longer own the book to check, but isn’t Anthony’s past lover named Carlotta too? I was thinking Phantom of the Opera with that name). The two stories definitely diverge from that point, though!
At this point, Quicksilver barely looks like the outline I had when I started writing three years ago. I at first intended it to be a long oneshot, about 10K words, with no spy subplot. It grew.
What makes Everlark work in this story?
To me, one of the most important elements of Peeta and Katniss’ relationship is their camaraderie and humor under pressure. That’s what I really wanted to focus on with this story. Those two are going to flirt and banter and gallows humor (verb form?) through everything.
Let’s talk about Gale.
I get quite a few comments about Gale – erm, “Hawthorne” - on this story. My goal for his character is that though he and Katniss would not work as a couple at all, they can make good teammates. Like anyone, his strengths are his weaknesses. Gale’s intellectual (boring), respectable (rigid), and feels protective and responsible for those around him (can be controlling). He’s also getting his own story once I finish this thing.
What are your favorite parts to write?
The diary entries! I know it’s kind of corny, but I love it when historical romances have journal entries, lists, newspaper columns, etc. at the beginning of every chapter. They’re often the last bit of a chapter I write, and though a few of the jokes don’t really land, I really like most of them. My two favorites:
Two events of note occurred today. First, I realized that Peeta Mellark, who just yesterday I considered an ally, and far more importantly, a close friend, is an irredeemable prat. Second, I became betrothed to him.
There’s a reason it’s the story summary. Also -
After much thought, I have determined that I have no legitimate complaints about Mr. Crane. Similarly, Sir Darius St. Andrews has no legitimate children, yet Mother's friends have theories about practically every redheaded, freckle-faced child in London. I find this encouraging.
Last thoughts?
I have loved historical romance for years, and I’m so happy to finally be writing one of my own. There are things I would absolutely change about this story if I were to rewrite it, but I’m pleased with where it is now. I find myself smiling when I read through it.
Thanks for reading. 💜
