Today I’m happy to welcome Cindy Pon to my blog, to answer a few questions about her recently released debut novel Silver Phoenix.
But first, check out the beautiful cover! I try not to judge a book by its cover but this is definitely one of my favorites this year. Such beautiful colors! I love how it conveys the strength and determination of the main character, Ai Ling.
I have to admit that I am posting this entry a day late, and part of the reason for that is that I’m right in the middle of reading my copy of Silver Phoenix. I kept telling myself last night that I’d just read a little bit more, and then go do my posting. The Kingdom of Xia, in which the novel takes place, is a fascinating setting. One of my favorite aspects of the books is seeing just what sort of new creatures, spirits, gods, and challenges (not to mention delicious food!) I’m going to find on the next page. But I’ve finally torn myself away, so here’s Cindy to answer a few questions about her book!
Q: Tell us about a scene or character from your novel that was especially easy (or especially difficult) to write.
A: one of my favorite scene takes place in a bamboo forest and it’s key to the development of my hero and well as heroine. i found that scene esp easy to write. i had written the entire novel and realized i needed this extra scene–so by that time, i knew my characters pretty well.
Q: What is your favorite (or one of your favorite) myths or fairy-tales, and why? Or alternately, what fairy-tale or myth do you dislike, and why?
A: i really like the little mermaid. i’m not sure why, but mermaids just fascinated me. and the whole story about the sacrifice and pain she endured for love. and the very tragic ending. it really resonated for me as a child.
Q: What has been the most exciting part of selling your book(s) and getting published so far?
A: seeing my jacket for the first time was surreal and really moved me. i got tears in my eyes!
About Silver Phoenix
On the day of her first betrothal meeting–and rejection–ai ling discovers a power welling deep within her. She can reach into other people’s spirits, hear their thoughts, see their dreams…and that’s just the beginning.
ai ling has been marked by the immortals; her destiny lies in the emperor’s palace, where a terrible evil has lived, stealing souls, for centuries. She must conquer this enemy and rescue her captive father, while mythical demons track her every step. And then she meets chen yong, a young man with a quest of his own, whose fate is intertwined with hers. Here is a heart-stopping, breathtaking tale for fans of action, fantasy, and romance–of anything with the making of legend.
About Cindy Pon
Cindy Pon was born in Taipei, Taiwan, and her family immigrated to California in 1980, settling in the suburbs of Los Angeles. She began writing stories before she was officially declared English proficient. She received her bachelor’s from the University of California, San Diego, and also earned a master’s from New York University. The author is a student of Chinese brush painting, and her love for the art is reflected in her storytelling. Cindy Pon lives with her husband and two small children in San Diego, California.
Learn more about Cindy Pon at her website.
Silver Phoenix is available now! I encourage you to shop at your local independent bookstore!
Tags: debs blog tour
