Lori E. Tchen | Sterling Fierce and The Legend of the Red Wolf

We are honoured to work with as many authors as we do at Pegasus Publishers – each with their own stories to tell. Their worlds are singular, their characters are relatable, and their creativity truly knows no bounds.

This is Author Life, a feature on the Pegasus Blog, that opens the door to each of our author’s creative process and previous literary experience, offering you – the reader – an opportunity to learn a little about the mind behind the novel.

Meet Lori E. Tchen, author of the mystical fantasy tale, Sterling Fierce and The Legend of the Red Wolf.

Could you tell us three interesting facts about yourself?

Regarding my writing habits, I prefer to write when it is stormy, cold, or dark outside. If it is sunny, I will slant the window blinds and write by the light of a dim lamp or candle.

I often visualize a scene in my story before writing about it, particularly the origin of a chapter. It could be a dark cave or an image of a character fleeing through a forest littered with golden leaves. From there, I follow the images in my mind and write every detail as the story unravels.  

Despite being a native Texan, I’ve wished to live in the United Kingdom since I was a little girl. The majestic beauty, the folklore, and the castles all feel like home to me. I plan to visit the United Kingdom at every opportunity.

In your own life, what influences and inspires you to write?

My two sons inspired me to write fantasy tales. As a mother, I hope my books spur a sense of adventure and teach life lessons about bravery, friendship, and the freedom to choose one’s destiny.

Which book or author has had the biggest impact on you, and why?

Absolutely, without a doubt, The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien stirs our primal consciousness of the battle between good and evil. For me, Tolkien’s magical tale is a foundational novel for fantasy lovers, and his work encourages the mind to the imagination wander.

Can you tell me about the book?

This is Sterling Fierce’s origin story. It is a mix of emotions, action, and a quest to become who he is meant to be.

What were your first experiences with writing?

When I was a young girl, my family moved to a new town where I knew no one. It was no easy task for me to make new friends; I missed the ones I left behind far too much to adjust in a reasonable time. One day, I was gifted a thick, sparkly blue notebook. It was the perfect size to clutch in one hand. I scribbled onto its blank pages and filled them with words, ideas, and feelings. From then on, I never felt alone.

In your opinion, what are the key ingredients for a good story or novel?

What a fun question! The answer depends on the reader and their desired escape, journey, or information. For me, world-building and curious characters are always key ingredients. I adore reading about other times in history and slipping into a character’s experience from times lost in the past (or future).

How long should an author spend on their craft each day?

I believe writing frequency is unique to each writer and their specific goals. Writing, for me, is seasonal. There are times when I set a minimum word count each day/week/month. However, once I reach a goal, I find it healthy to balance my time doing other things, perhaps reading new books or traveling. The key is to continually return to writing, always.

What was the most challenging part of writing this book, and what did you learn from writing it?

This book taught me the value of rewriting. Writing a story to completion is gratifying, and it was challenging to return to remove, change, and rewrite parts of the story. After much time and seeing the results, I have learned that rewriting is a critical step in crafting the best version of a story.

What common pitfalls should aspiring writers avoid?

I would avoid a narrow reading list. I have realized how valuable it is to read new authors, different genres, and all varieties of books, from mainstream to the lone author in the corner of a bookstore selling their first published story.

What writing advice would you offer to your younger self?

Join book clubs and network with other authors—learn from them and, all the while, keep writing.

Sterling Fierce and The Legend of the Red Wolf is available now in paperback.