Up In Smoke Reviews: Author Interview

Friday, August 16, 2013

Author Interview – Jessica Kristie

Did writing this book teach you anything and what was it? Absolutely. I learned what I could do and what I could do better. It was a wonderful experience that continues to challenge and inspire.

How did you come up with the title? Barbed-Wire Butterflies felt somewhat poetic but also has a literal meaning. I will save the literal meaning for my readers but metaphorically it represents the beauty in these young girls who are also in a tough and ugly place. Beauty and pain wrapped together in one package.

Tells us a bit about your publisher? Winter Goose Publishing is a traditional small press who have been supportive, caring, and let you feel a part of the entire process. They made my book beautiful. They have grown exponentially over the last year and I expect great things from them as they grow their catalog and authors.

Will you write others in this same genre? Yes, I intend to continue to write in the general fiction genre with some shift from literary to suspense.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? More of an education than a message. The issue of human trafficking is serious and a worldwide problem. I want this book to help begin the conversation in those that may have never thought to discuss it. This book is appropriate for all ages (with parental guidance) and a great way to encourage education and conversation.

Can you tell us about your main character? Elani Benjamin is a talented young lady who is forced into a difficult situation where she must decide to give up and give in, or keep going. Something we all can relate to.

How did you develop your plot and characters? I did a lot of research on human trafficking as well as read many survivor stories and connected with local non-profits. All of these aspects helped me shape and mold my characters and storyline.

How much of the book is realistic? Most of it if not all is realistic and based on basic human condition and response and survivor stories that I’ve read.

Have you included a lot of your life experiences, even friends, in the plot? The basic emotion and reaction is based on some personal experience, but the book is all fiction.

What do you do to unwind and relax? Quiet. All I need is quiet.