Karis
asked
Jennifer A. Nielsen:
I’m currently reading The Shadow Throne and I have recently FALLEN IN LOVE with the Ascendance books. I have a writing question. How do you pick the names of your characters? Are they based on real people you know, or do you just think of them yourself? Also, how do you come up with ones like Sage and Mott that are names I’ve never heard before? I’m really curious because I think you’ve done an amazing job.
Jennifer A. Nielsen
This answer contains spoilers…
(view spoiler)[Hi Karis, and thank you. For me, names come in one of three ways. Some names are symbolic. For example, Conner’s name is because he is a conman. Sage’s name came because the word sage also means “wise” and I figured Jaron would choose something like that to remind his dad that he is smarter than anyone thinks. Some names come from baby name books – I just look at names until I find ones that fit the character I have in mind – such as Tobias and Imogen. The third way is by making up the name by combining the sound of letters. This would be true for Amarinda or Mott. (hide spoiler)]
More Answered Questions
Heather
asked
Jennifer A. Nielsen:
Hi Jennifer, I truly love your Ascendance Books. Something all in my family can enjoy and I thank you for that! I live in Utah as well and was wondering if you were doing any Book signings in the near future? I also hope they make this trilogy into a movie! I can't wait to read more of your books.
Lunchbox
asked
Jennifer A. Nielsen:
Kim McGee
asked
Jennifer A. Nielsen:
I loved the "Ascendance Trilogy" and have been eagerly waiting to get my hands on an advance copy of "The Mark of a Thief" but Netgalley doesn't show that they have it and I am pre-approved. Do you know if it is offered on Edelweiss? p.s. if Paramount knows a good thing when they see it they will develop "The False Prince" quickly!
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