Chiara Cilli's Blog, page 27
September 21, 2012
Interview on Damned Soul
January 1, 2012
- Here we are today with Chiara Cilli, author of The Queen of the Underworld Series. First, would you like to tell us about your series? Is there anything you'd like to add to the official description?
It's the story of Morwen, the Heir to the throne of the Underworld, of her war with the Gods of Penthànweald, who want her dead because she is destined to become the absolute ruler, and of her intense and tragic love story with the Prince Galadir. It's an unusual fantasy, everything revolves around this evil and merciless creature and her way of seducing even with a glance. The protagonist is not the usual fearless and pure-hearted heroine, but is cruel and fights for herself, not to save the people of Penthànweald. Even when it may not seem like, she is acting only for herself and for Galadir, of course. So, one could say that the darkness of evil prevail in this series.
- How did the idea for the book? From what you've been inspired?
I've always been fascinated by the "dark side" of the characters in books and movies, and I thought: "Why do Evil must always die and Good must always triumph?" So was born Morwen, the embodiment of all the nuances of the evil that I always loved.
- Are there writers who inspired you? For style, modus operandi, settings etc...
The first fantasy novel I read was Eragon, and from there I went into the world of fantasy. Then I discovered Licia Troisi and I started to write in her style for the first three books, then I tacked on urban fantasy readings for adults at the last book of the series and I discovered the superb writing of Keri Arthur. I can not draw inspiration from anything, except to my muses, for the simple fact that no one does evil triumph. It's all there the fun!
- Going back to series, did you base your characters on someone you really know? If yes, in wich ways?
Yes, in every way. For my books I always choose various actors who are capable of arousing in me emotions that I need for the story. Those who have accompanied me for the entire series are two people who totally reflect every mottle of the characters they play in my mind.
- Very often characters reflect in part the author himself, how much of yourself is in your characters?
All ask me this question but the answer is always the same: nothing. I would not dream of contaminating the characters with something of me and making them weak and vulnerable - two words taboo for the Queen of the Underworld!
- Let us analyze in more detail the protagonists. We read that the protagonist, Morwen, owes her name to the Elvish language, and means Black Maiden. How did you get the idea for this name? Was it a natural process due to her location in the Underworld, or did you take a while to find a suitable name?
No, it did not take much time. Morwen is passionate, strong, ruthless and relentless, and her name had to sound scary and sexy at the same time, just like her. When I read the meaning of the name of Morwen I just said: "Perfect."
- The same elven derivation is also found in the name of the male protagonist, Galadir, whose name should mean master / man of light. In your imagination, was born before the name or the character?
Of course the character was born first. Galadir had to be the opposite of Morwen, bright and fun: he had to be different from what she had met, he had to be so blinding to blind her completely. And so it was ...
- Another character certainly very important is Hurrichein, the Black Winged Horse, Morwen's companion. Why the choice of the horse? Does he have any symbolic meaning?
I practiced riding for ten years and when I thought about the most majestic animal to accompany the divine Morwen, I had no doubt. The Black Winged Horse was created to give more power to what is Morwen: when they are together they exude absolute power and I wanted that everyone who meets them trembles as they pass. So Hurrichein is also a tremendous death machine like his partner.
- The series is certainly full of interesting characters. About the smaller ones, who would you have wanted to give more space?
I would have liked to talk about the background of Andrer's life after his separation with Morwen. But I can not tell you much, otherwise... spoiler!
- We read that while you made your characters, you had in mind who could represent them. Would you like to say it even to our readers?
Milla Jovovich is always been the woman who gave me inspiration for Morwen. Ryan Sypek was my Galadir since the beginning.
- Why these choices?
Milla perfectly embodies the seductive and deadly nature of the Heir even when she doesn't interpret an action movie (take Alice in Resident Evil, for example). Ryan is the Prince in all his aspects, even when he is not playing, just like Milla. Imagine them together is spectacular!
- So if someone would propose you a movie of the series, would you accept? At what cost? For example, if someone impose you substantial changes, would you meet the director, or would you say no?
Difficult question! Now a lot of television or film adaptations does not reflect the book story, but they have very successful anyway, so I can not really say that!
- Reading about the series, there is often the presence of Priests, Priestesses, Gods etc... Has the series therefore also a kind of religious trend? How is the Religion understood by your characters?
No, no, there's no train religious. Gods are there, yes, but they have a very marginal role: the Protégés do the dirty work, while their Gods observe without intervening directly.
- The books also have a very well defined setting . You have made even a hypothetical map of Penthànweald, the land where the story takes place. From this point of view, was you inspired by other authors such as Tolkien (The Lord of the Rings), or do you think that the presence of a map is required in a fantasy book?
No, I have never been inspired by Tolkien, but I think it is easier for readers to have handy a map with which they can better target during the movement of characters.
- Is there the map on the covers of books?
Yes, it's inside.
- Where does the name of Penthànweald?
It's a combination of the Old English words proposed by the editor: pentha means five, as the five lands that make up the Great Land, while ànweald means empire.
- How we can read the whole series consists of 1524 pages well. While you wrote, did you withhold yourself for fear of exceeding? Are there things you would have liked to deepen but, for reasons of space, you could not?
No, I never withheld. Again, I would have chosen to explore the history of Andrer, but I didn't and I can not say why! I could exceed in last book, where Morwen's past is revealed, but I already finished a novel spin-off, which tells about her the three years in the Kingdom of the Winged Horses.
-Any spoilers?
I can give you some spoilers of the book that follows The awakeing of the Fire by saying that the handsome Prince Galadir will have to survive between rivers of blood, gruesome torture and the crazy seduction that brings the irresistible aroma of Death.
- As far as we can read, you already have in process another series that goes pretty quickly, and many other ideas. Do you think to remain connected to the fantasy genre or you will space in other genres?
I will space from the paranormal and urban fantasy. The series sequel of The Queen of the Underworld has already been completed and has nearly 900 pages; two other paranormal novels and the spin-off of Morwen are ready and a cross-over about a character of the series sequel of The Queen of the Underworld is work in progress. I have also scheduled two other urban fantasy series.
- What did you think when you saw for the first time your book on the shelves of a bookstore?
I think it's an indescribable feeling to every writer, but I would sum it up with three letters: OMG!
- I see you make a strong use of social networks like Facebook or Twitter. How important do you think they are to advertise a book?
A lot of importance, I would say. Today the use of social networks is on the agenda, so they are an excellent showcase for launch.
- How much do you think accounts maintain a relationship with the fans through them?
I think that matters so much: it is important that the fans can share their opinions and impressions with the writer.
- How did you get the passion for fantasy? Are you a fan of books like that? What was the first book of fantastic character that you've read?
It's born with Christopher Paolini and his Eragon and since then it has never left me, pushing me towards Licia Troisi and then to the other fantasy books.
- We read that you are also fond of cartoons, in fact your first fan fiction related to Mew Mew and Vegeta. What are your favorite cartoons? Look at them today?
Yeah, it is true, I'm a big fan of cartoons and I still not lose even one episode of Naruto! I must admit that I get a lot of inspiration from them, and my favorites are Dragonball, Mew Mew, Rossana, Sailor Moon ... more you have, and so forth!
- Do you have other passions besides writing?
Graphic is always been my passion, besides reading of course!
- A word of advice to those who would like to pursue this career? Who to trust? From who stay away? How to get around?
My advice is never give up. Beware of those who ask you to publish with a monetary contribution - unless you are absolutely sure of the people to whom you're relying on - and be firm in your goals, but always retaining the humility that doesn't make you go through arrogant. Believe in it and you will realize your dream!
- Well, I would say that we can consider the interview ended. Have you something to add? Want to say hello to all the forums? =)
I hope you like the first book of my series and I hope you remain "burned" by the seductive and deadly Morwen!
A mega hug to the users of the forum Damned Soul!
Italian Version
- Here we are today with Chiara Cilli, author of The Queen of the Underworld Series. First, would you like to tell us about your series? Is there anything you'd like to add to the official description?
It's the story of Morwen, the Heir to the throne of the Underworld, of her war with the Gods of Penthànweald, who want her dead because she is destined to become the absolute ruler, and of her intense and tragic love story with the Prince Galadir. It's an unusual fantasy, everything revolves around this evil and merciless creature and her way of seducing even with a glance. The protagonist is not the usual fearless and pure-hearted heroine, but is cruel and fights for herself, not to save the people of Penthànweald. Even when it may not seem like, she is acting only for herself and for Galadir, of course. So, one could say that the darkness of evil prevail in this series.
- How did the idea for the book? From what you've been inspired?
I've always been fascinated by the "dark side" of the characters in books and movies, and I thought: "Why do Evil must always die and Good must always triumph?" So was born Morwen, the embodiment of all the nuances of the evil that I always loved.
- Are there writers who inspired you? For style, modus operandi, settings etc...
The first fantasy novel I read was Eragon, and from there I went into the world of fantasy. Then I discovered Licia Troisi and I started to write in her style for the first three books, then I tacked on urban fantasy readings for adults at the last book of the series and I discovered the superb writing of Keri Arthur. I can not draw inspiration from anything, except to my muses, for the simple fact that no one does evil triumph. It's all there the fun!
- Going back to series, did you base your characters on someone you really know? If yes, in wich ways?
Yes, in every way. For my books I always choose various actors who are capable of arousing in me emotions that I need for the story. Those who have accompanied me for the entire series are two people who totally reflect every mottle of the characters they play in my mind.
- Very often characters reflect in part the author himself, how much of yourself is in your characters?
All ask me this question but the answer is always the same: nothing. I would not dream of contaminating the characters with something of me and making them weak and vulnerable - two words taboo for the Queen of the Underworld!
- Let us analyze in more detail the protagonists. We read that the protagonist, Morwen, owes her name to the Elvish language, and means Black Maiden. How did you get the idea for this name? Was it a natural process due to her location in the Underworld, or did you take a while to find a suitable name?
No, it did not take much time. Morwen is passionate, strong, ruthless and relentless, and her name had to sound scary and sexy at the same time, just like her. When I read the meaning of the name of Morwen I just said: "Perfect."
- The same elven derivation is also found in the name of the male protagonist, Galadir, whose name should mean master / man of light. In your imagination, was born before the name or the character?
Of course the character was born first. Galadir had to be the opposite of Morwen, bright and fun: he had to be different from what she had met, he had to be so blinding to blind her completely. And so it was ...
- Another character certainly very important is Hurrichein, the Black Winged Horse, Morwen's companion. Why the choice of the horse? Does he have any symbolic meaning?
I practiced riding for ten years and when I thought about the most majestic animal to accompany the divine Morwen, I had no doubt. The Black Winged Horse was created to give more power to what is Morwen: when they are together they exude absolute power and I wanted that everyone who meets them trembles as they pass. So Hurrichein is also a tremendous death machine like his partner.
- The series is certainly full of interesting characters. About the smaller ones, who would you have wanted to give more space?
I would have liked to talk about the background of Andrer's life after his separation with Morwen. But I can not tell you much, otherwise... spoiler!
- We read that while you made your characters, you had in mind who could represent them. Would you like to say it even to our readers?
Milla Jovovich is always been the woman who gave me inspiration for Morwen. Ryan Sypek was my Galadir since the beginning.
- Why these choices?
Milla perfectly embodies the seductive and deadly nature of the Heir even when she doesn't interpret an action movie (take Alice in Resident Evil, for example). Ryan is the Prince in all his aspects, even when he is not playing, just like Milla. Imagine them together is spectacular!
- So if someone would propose you a movie of the series, would you accept? At what cost? For example, if someone impose you substantial changes, would you meet the director, or would you say no?
Difficult question! Now a lot of television or film adaptations does not reflect the book story, but they have very successful anyway, so I can not really say that!
- Reading about the series, there is often the presence of Priests, Priestesses, Gods etc... Has the series therefore also a kind of religious trend? How is the Religion understood by your characters?
No, no, there's no train religious. Gods are there, yes, but they have a very marginal role: the Protégés do the dirty work, while their Gods observe without intervening directly.
- The books also have a very well defined setting . You have made even a hypothetical map of Penthànweald, the land where the story takes place. From this point of view, was you inspired by other authors such as Tolkien (The Lord of the Rings), or do you think that the presence of a map is required in a fantasy book?
No, I have never been inspired by Tolkien, but I think it is easier for readers to have handy a map with which they can better target during the movement of characters.
- Is there the map on the covers of books?
Yes, it's inside.
- Where does the name of Penthànweald?
It's a combination of the Old English words proposed by the editor: pentha means five, as the five lands that make up the Great Land, while ànweald means empire.
- How we can read the whole series consists of 1524 pages well. While you wrote, did you withhold yourself for fear of exceeding? Are there things you would have liked to deepen but, for reasons of space, you could not?
No, I never withheld. Again, I would have chosen to explore the history of Andrer, but I didn't and I can not say why! I could exceed in last book, where Morwen's past is revealed, but I already finished a novel spin-off, which tells about her the three years in the Kingdom of the Winged Horses.
-Any spoilers?
I can give you some spoilers of the book that follows The awakeing of the Fire by saying that the handsome Prince Galadir will have to survive between rivers of blood, gruesome torture and the crazy seduction that brings the irresistible aroma of Death.
- As far as we can read, you already have in process another series that goes pretty quickly, and many other ideas. Do you think to remain connected to the fantasy genre or you will space in other genres?
I will space from the paranormal and urban fantasy. The series sequel of The Queen of the Underworld has already been completed and has nearly 900 pages; two other paranormal novels and the spin-off of Morwen are ready and a cross-over about a character of the series sequel of The Queen of the Underworld is work in progress. I have also scheduled two other urban fantasy series.
- What did you think when you saw for the first time your book on the shelves of a bookstore?
I think it's an indescribable feeling to every writer, but I would sum it up with three letters: OMG!
- I see you make a strong use of social networks like Facebook or Twitter. How important do you think they are to advertise a book?
A lot of importance, I would say. Today the use of social networks is on the agenda, so they are an excellent showcase for launch.
- How much do you think accounts maintain a relationship with the fans through them?
I think that matters so much: it is important that the fans can share their opinions and impressions with the writer.
- How did you get the passion for fantasy? Are you a fan of books like that? What was the first book of fantastic character that you've read?
It's born with Christopher Paolini and his Eragon and since then it has never left me, pushing me towards Licia Troisi and then to the other fantasy books.
- We read that you are also fond of cartoons, in fact your first fan fiction related to Mew Mew and Vegeta. What are your favorite cartoons? Look at them today?
Yeah, it is true, I'm a big fan of cartoons and I still not lose even one episode of Naruto! I must admit that I get a lot of inspiration from them, and my favorites are Dragonball, Mew Mew, Rossana, Sailor Moon ... more you have, and so forth!
- Do you have other passions besides writing?
Graphic is always been my passion, besides reading of course!
- A word of advice to those who would like to pursue this career? Who to trust? From who stay away? How to get around?
My advice is never give up. Beware of those who ask you to publish with a monetary contribution - unless you are absolutely sure of the people to whom you're relying on - and be firm in your goals, but always retaining the humility that doesn't make you go through arrogant. Believe in it and you will realize your dream!
- Well, I would say that we can consider the interview ended. Have you something to add? Want to say hello to all the forums? =)
I hope you like the first book of my series and I hope you remain "burned" by the seductive and deadly Morwen!
A mega hug to the users of the forum Damned Soul!
Italian Version
Interview on Mercatino dei Libri Fantasy e Paranormale Romance
December 29, 2011
1) Hello, Chiara, and thank you to be part of my initiative. When will be the release date of your romance?
The official release date is January 6, 2012.
2) The idea is very original and particular. How did it born? What did inspired you?
I've always been attracted to the dark side of the characters in a book or a movie, and I always wondered why the good should always triumph over evil. Thus were born the merciless and irresistible Morwen and the cruel Penthànweald - the great land where the story takes place, - where the seductive evil reigns supreme.
3) Between all the characters designed by you, who is your favourite? Who was the most difficult to describe?
My absolute devotion goes to the female protagonist , Morwen, while my heart is slave of the male one, Prince Galadir. Without doubt the most difficult to describe was Morwen, because of her turbulent past, that will remain hidden until the last book of the series, and because of her sudden change of expression, especially in this first novel, where the presence of Prince puts to strain on her self-control.
4) Talk to me about the Maiden of the Flames.
Morwen is perfect in all respects. She's made to seduce and kill with the eyes. Every her gesture transmits lethal passion to everyone who see her. She does not leave anything to chance, and her slow and sinuous movements exude not only sensuality unparalleled, but also a certain death sentence. She's absurdly perfect, I never tire to say that!
5) Inside the romance, there will be a romantic/passionate love story?
It's a love story, actually. It's not like the classic fantasy centered on the war. I wanted to play all on the intense, passionate, fiery and almost destructive bond between the Heir of the throne of the Underworld and Prince Galadir.
6) Tell me about the Kingdom of Penthànweald. What are its particularity and those of its residents?
Penthànweald is the great land where the saga takes place, and it's formed from the Land of Men, where Prince Galadir lives; the Living Desert, where horrible creatures defend the parallel dimension, in which the capital is habited by jovial and almost brazen people; the Dark Land, where a perennial sky covered with black clouds and shocked by lightning accompanies the grim life of blonde haired and dark irises citizens; the Kingdom of the Winged Horses, where a rigid military town is located between white clouds and where silver haired and bordeaux eyed people live in the silence dictated by King Raich; the Currents of Fate, the Kingdom of the Goddess Vueno, where a dense network of streams and stone bridges hovers in the fog and where countless souls float aimlessly in the grey water.
7) I read that you wrote well four novels. Congratulations! How did you feel when the publisher agreed to publish you?
I felt projecting myself in another galaxy! I think it's an indescribable feeling for a writer.
8) Who are your favourite authors?
My idol is Keri Arthur, who manages to convey feelings unimaginable even in a simple phrase. Then there's J.R. Ward, who can rip roaring laughter. And finally Maggie Stiefvater, I think she doesn't write novels but poetry.
9) Do you have plans or other ideas for the future?
I have already finished writing the sequel to the saga of Queen of the Underworld, two paranormal romance and a spin-off about Morwen's past. I am currently working on the cross-over about one of the main characters of the saga sequel, and I have in mind two other paranormal series.
Renewal you my congrats. You are a writer born! Go on with the last question.
10) Do you have any advice for who wants to start writing a novel?
Never give up! Always believe it, even when you seem to write nonsense. Buy a nice copybook and make a list of characters, draw up the plot up and begin to create the stages on the timeline: is critical to have an overview of your novel. When you are sure you understand everything, put the headphones, listen to your favorite songs and start to create your masterpiece!
Italian version
1) Hello, Chiara, and thank you to be part of my initiative. When will be the release date of your romance?
The official release date is January 6, 2012.
2) The idea is very original and particular. How did it born? What did inspired you?
I've always been attracted to the dark side of the characters in a book or a movie, and I always wondered why the good should always triumph over evil. Thus were born the merciless and irresistible Morwen and the cruel Penthànweald - the great land where the story takes place, - where the seductive evil reigns supreme.
3) Between all the characters designed by you, who is your favourite? Who was the most difficult to describe?
My absolute devotion goes to the female protagonist , Morwen, while my heart is slave of the male one, Prince Galadir. Without doubt the most difficult to describe was Morwen, because of her turbulent past, that will remain hidden until the last book of the series, and because of her sudden change of expression, especially in this first novel, where the presence of Prince puts to strain on her self-control.
4) Talk to me about the Maiden of the Flames.
Morwen is perfect in all respects. She's made to seduce and kill with the eyes. Every her gesture transmits lethal passion to everyone who see her. She does not leave anything to chance, and her slow and sinuous movements exude not only sensuality unparalleled, but also a certain death sentence. She's absurdly perfect, I never tire to say that!
5) Inside the romance, there will be a romantic/passionate love story?
It's a love story, actually. It's not like the classic fantasy centered on the war. I wanted to play all on the intense, passionate, fiery and almost destructive bond between the Heir of the throne of the Underworld and Prince Galadir.
6) Tell me about the Kingdom of Penthànweald. What are its particularity and those of its residents?
Penthànweald is the great land where the saga takes place, and it's formed from the Land of Men, where Prince Galadir lives; the Living Desert, where horrible creatures defend the parallel dimension, in which the capital is habited by jovial and almost brazen people; the Dark Land, where a perennial sky covered with black clouds and shocked by lightning accompanies the grim life of blonde haired and dark irises citizens; the Kingdom of the Winged Horses, where a rigid military town is located between white clouds and where silver haired and bordeaux eyed people live in the silence dictated by King Raich; the Currents of Fate, the Kingdom of the Goddess Vueno, where a dense network of streams and stone bridges hovers in the fog and where countless souls float aimlessly in the grey water.
7) I read that you wrote well four novels. Congratulations! How did you feel when the publisher agreed to publish you?
I felt projecting myself in another galaxy! I think it's an indescribable feeling for a writer.
8) Who are your favourite authors?
My idol is Keri Arthur, who manages to convey feelings unimaginable even in a simple phrase. Then there's J.R. Ward, who can rip roaring laughter. And finally Maggie Stiefvater, I think she doesn't write novels but poetry.
9) Do you have plans or other ideas for the future?
I have already finished writing the sequel to the saga of Queen of the Underworld, two paranormal romance and a spin-off about Morwen's past. I am currently working on the cross-over about one of the main characters of the saga sequel, and I have in mind two other paranormal series.
Renewal you my congrats. You are a writer born! Go on with the last question.
10) Do you have any advice for who wants to start writing a novel?
Never give up! Always believe it, even when you seem to write nonsense. Buy a nice copybook and make a list of characters, draw up the plot up and begin to create the stages on the timeline: is critical to have an overview of your novel. When you are sure you understand everything, put the headphones, listen to your favorite songs and start to create your masterpiece!
Italian version
