Exploring Magic, Danger, and Romance: An Exclusive Interview with Michelle M. Pillow on Merely Mortal
Hey there, fellow book lovers! Mandy M. Roth here, and I am beyond excited to share an exclusive interview with my bestie and fellow author, Michelle M. Pillow. As someone who has had the privilege of witnessing Michelle’s creative genius up close, I can tell you that her latest book, Merely Mortal, is an absolute must-read for fans of urban fantasy and paranormal romance. Michelle has poured her heart and soul into this story, and I can’t wait for you to dive into the magical world she’s created.
In this fun and engaging interview, Michelle opens up about the inspiration behind Merely Mortal, shares insights into her characters, and gives us a sneak peek into what’s coming next in the series. Trust me, you’re in for a treat! So grab your favorite reading spot, get comfy, and let’s dive into the world of Merely Mortal with the amazing Michelle M. Pillow. Enjoy!
1. What inspired you to write Merely Mortal?
The inspiration for Merely Mortal came from my fascination with the supernatural and a deep-seated desire to explore what it means to be human. I wanted to create a world where magic and danger coexist, and a relatable character like Tamara who navigates this setting. The concept of belonging and identity, especially in a powerful supernatural family where she feels like an outsider, really drove the story. Plus, I’ve always loved blending romance with fantasy, creating that perfect mix of adventure and emotional depth.
2. Can you tell us a little about Tamara, the main character?
Tamara is an incredible character who embodies resilience and strength. She’s a mortal trying to find her place in a world dominated by supernatural beings. Despite being underestimated by her powerful family, she has an inner strength that shines through as she faces various challenges. Tamara’s journey is one of self-discovery, learning to embrace her uniqueness, and finding love in unexpected places. She’s relatable, tenacious, and her growth throughout the story is something I’m particularly proud of.
3. What was the most fun part of writing this book?
Oh, there were so many fun parts! But if I had to choose, it would be building the supernatural world that Tamara lives in. Creating the intricate details of the magic, the creatures, and the dynamics within her powerful family was incredibly enjoyable. I also loved crafting the romantic elements, weaving the tension and chemistry between Tamara and her love interest, Paul. Seeing their relationship develop amid the chaos and magic was a delight.
4. How do you balance romance and fantasy in your stories?
Balancing romance and fantasy is all about ensuring that each element enhances the other. For me, the key is to integrate the romantic storyline seamlessly into the fantasy world. The magic and supernatural aspects should enrich the romance, providing unique challenges and opportunities for the characters to connect. It’s important that the romance feels organic and integral to the plot, not just an add-on. In Merely Mortal, the love story is deeply intertwined with Tamara’s journey, making both aspects equally compelling.
5. Are there any recurring themes in Merely Mortal that fans of urban fantasy and paranormal romance will love?
Absolutely! Merely Mortal is filled with themes that fans of urban fantasy and paranormal romance will adore. The struggle between good and evil, the search for belonging, and the transformative power of love are central to the story. There’s also a strong emphasis on personal growth and embracing one’s identity, which I think many readers will find resonant. And of course, the blend of magic, danger, and romance provides a thrilling and heartwarming experience that fans of the genre will enjoy.
6. What can readers expect from the next book in the series?
The next book in the series, Mostly Shattered, is going to take readers on an even more intense ride. Without giving too much away, expect deeper dives into the supernatural world, more intricate magic, and higher stakes for Tamara and her companions. There will be new characters, unexpected twists, and of course, plenty of romance and adventure. Tamara’s journey is far from over, and I can’t wait for readers to see where it takes her next!
Thank you for the fantastic questions! I hope you all enjoy Merely Mortal as much as I loved writing it. Happy reading! 🌟📚✨
About the Book
Merely Mortal by Michelle M. Pillow
Merely Mortal Series Book #1
A gripping new first-person POV urban fantasy romance series by NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Michelle M. Pillow.
All I want is a simple, normal life.
Unfortunately, normalcy is a luxury I can’t afford as a lowly human born into a powerful supernatural family embroiled in magic. They’ve always been quick to remind me that I have an expiration date. Imagine everyone’s surprise when it’s me standing above their graves, not the other way around.
The fire that took their lives wasn’t my fault, yet everyone is blaming me, especially the vampires. Now I have a target on my back and a bounty on my head. Without the protection of my family, I’m caught up in a tangled web of supernatural dynasties and arcane power struggles.
So when a handsome stranger and his young daughter take pity on me and offer me a ride, I don’t say no. It’s a mistake. One I hope doesn’t cost us all our lives.
Sometimes, being merely mortal really sucks.
Tropes:
- Strong Female Protagonist
- Slow Burn
- Mortal in a Supernatural World
- Forbidden Love
- Forced Proximity
- Mythical Creatures
Buy Now
- Amazon Kindle Edition
- Pillow, Michelle M. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 592 Pages - 06/25/2024 (Publication Date) - The Raven Books LLC (Publisher)