Happy Launch Day to “The Marriage of Allyn-a-Dale”!
Yes indeed, the second book in the Outlaws of Avalon trilogy is officially out in the world, and available via CreateSpace (paperback), Barnes & Noble (e-book), and Amazon (both). Do both Reader You and Author Me a solid by nabbing a copy. ^o^
In honor of the day, I’ve put together a fun Q&A based on this “writing ask game” spotted on Tumblr. So, newcomers to the series and old fans alike, behold: A whole host of things you didn’t even know you wanted to know about “The Marriage of Allyn-a-Dale”!
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Describe the plot in 1 sentence.
If I may wax intellectual…
When budding eros comes up against problematic storge, with hyper philia running amok, it’s anyone’s guess which love will conquer all.
You: Not in Greek, please?
Me: Much love; such angst.
What’s the time period and location in which the novel takes place?
The early 21st century, in a magical island of ancient Britannia disguised as a Renaissance Faire in the American Midwest.
Pick one sight, smell, sound, feel, and taste to describe the aesthetic of your novel.
Sight: An arrow through the heart.
Smell: Assorted flowers.
Sound: An orchestral string section – with featured lute solos.
Feel: A sun-warmed breeze.
Taste: Popcorn, Chinese takeout, and mead.
How many times does the word ____ appear in the novel?
No word specified, hmm? In that case, the answer is four. An abbreviation of ‘chrysanthemums’ is spoken as an expletive four times.
Which 3+ songs would make up a playlist for the novel?
The book already includes 3 original songs: A cheery spring lovers’ ditty, a sultry jazz number, and a personal piece straight from the heart of Allyn-a-Dale.
What’s the first line of your novel?
May Ellen fought the growing urge to cry.
(For comparison, the first line of Outlaws of Avalon 1 was: “Loren fought the growing urge to panic.” Makes ya wonder who will be fighting which growing urge at Book 3’s beginning. ^^)
Which character is the best liar? Worst?
1) My kneejerk reaction is of course to say Will Scarlet, but while he’s the one most likely to have half the things out of his mouth be technically untrue, the by far better liars would be Little John and Morganne le Fey – the ones with the perfect poker faces.
2) Probably King Arthur. I don’t think the man has a properly dishonest bone in his body.
Which character swears the most? Least?
1) Will Scarlet, hands down.
2) Leila would never.
Which character is most like you? Least like you?
1) The earliest version of she who would become Loren McCaughley was a straight-up self-insert. And even now that she’s Loren for real, we share a number of traits in common – foremost, a mania for all things Robin Hood and a weakness for minstrels. I am likewise a good deal like her adorkable sister.
2) Temperament-wise, I don’t think Leila and I could be farther removed. She’s all sweet-spirited and kind and patient and incapable of seeing the worst in life. You lost me at “sweet”.
Which character would you most like to be?
I’d say Marion Hood is the most ideally situated. All of the best bits of being a Merry Man, less of the torture that comes with being a main character.
Do any characters have distinctive birthmarks/scars?
Allyn-a-Dale’s emotional scars are practically trademark.
What’s a line of dialogue you’re particularly proud of?
Arrgh, the first one that comes to mind hails from spoiler territory! A certain burn from Little John, near the end of Part Sixth. In lieu of that, have this bit from Allyn to Morganne le Fey:
“You are such a creeper.”
Which line from the novel most represents it as a whole?
Never did one so acutely yearn for discomfort as did Allyn-a-Dale.
That or,
“Even if Merlin has our manhood for this, wasn’t it bloody worth it?”
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Tra-la. And remember, if there’s anything else you guys want to know about “Marriage” that the novel’s text doesn’t answer for you – *points to the comments section* – you’re entirely welcome to ask. ;D
Ever On Word 