Blog Tour: Annabelle's Story by Leigh Michael [Interview+Giveaway]

Hey guys!

I'm so thrilled to be taking part in Leigh Michael's Blog Tour for Annabelle's Story!

Although I haven't read the two books yet (they still haven't arrived in the mail yet -.-), they seem great and I can't wait to get my hands on them. :)

Leigh and I have a fabulous interview and giveaway set up for y'all on the blog today which I really hope you guys enjoy. 

A huge thanks to Leigh for being so kind and patient with me! ;)

Leigh's Bio:

Well, just for starters, Leigh Michael is a wife, little sister, mom (of an adorable goldendoodle), friend, author, advertising copywriter, triathlete, marathoner, and mac n' cheese lover. 

She's worked within the advertising world for nearly a decade before sitting down to write her debut series, Annabelle's Story.

Find Leigh: Twitter•Blog•Goodreads•Email

Leigh's Books: Sprite (Annabelle's Story Part #1)• Kin (Annabelle's Story Part #2)

Hi Leigh! Thanks so much for joining us here at The Teen Book Guru! Could you tell us a little about Annabelle’s Story?

Riya, thanks so much for having me. I’m excited to be on The Teen Book Guru!

Annabelle’s Story is a two parter: Sprite and Kin. It’s a fast-paced tale with lots of twists and turns and a touch of romance. Much of the background is based on Greek mythology and folklore, but the story is set in present day.

How would you describe the MC, Annabelle?

Annabelle is our protagonist who quickly realizes that she’s more than just human. She also happens to be the only one who can fulfill a prophecy started long ago.

As you turn each page, you’ll get to know Annabelle better. When her story begins, she’s led somewhat of a sheltered existence. That all changes in a heart beat. She’s thrown into a new world where she must internalize all the ups and downs she faces. Then of course, there’s her love life. You’ll have to let me know, are you Team Adrian or Team Blake?

To get an inside look at how Annabelle’s character came to be, check out my post on The Character Connection. The Annabelle’s Story Book Tour stopped by on October 2^nd.

What made you want to write an underwater adventure based on mythology?

Well I enjoy reading adventure stories… the type of books that keep you on the edge of your seat while the story flies forward.

As far as the underwater world, my sister-in-law is a marine biologist. She inspired me to dive into this new world. At the time, I didn’t know mermaids would be a popular subject matter. Hopefully people will read books like Amanda Hocking’s Wake then look for more underwater tales.

To be honest, I chose to write about mythology and folkore because I didn’t know much about it. Writing gives me a great outlet to learn new things.

Where do you write?

All over the place. My brain rarely turns off. I’ll jot down notes wherever I am. I keep a notebook by my bed so I can scribble down a scene in the dark. When I’m driving, I’ll use the voice recorder on my phone to capture a stream of dialogue from my head. Whenever I sit down to write, I like to do so where there’s Wi-Fi. I do a lot of research before and during my writing sessions.

Did a lot of research go into Annabelle’s Story?

Yes. A ton. I enjoy this part of the writing process. I get somewhat of a high when the pieces start falling together. My husband thinks I’m crazy when I ramble about how part A works perfectly with part B and how part C fits in.

I put together a document that breaks down a lot of the folklore and mythology in Annabelle’s Story. Feel free to grab it here.

You’ve been an advertising copywriter for years, what made you decide to write a novel?

I’ll try to keep this short because there were lots of reasons. I’m an avid reader. This has introduced me to many writing styles and ideas. It’s also caused a desire to put my own spin on various stories. Even though I write all day long, a novel requires a different approach to writing. There’s a new voice, audience, and set of skills. It became an enticing challenge.

I’m also going to give you the answer you’re not supposed to admit. I’ll be very candid here. I’d been teetering with the idea of writing a novel when another author pushed me over the edge. His (or her) series left me disappointed. I kept reading, convinced it’d get better but it never did. I felt duped, and not gonna lie, irritated. But it also lit a fire inside of me that I could write a better story.

What can I say? I’m competitive. Inspiration can come in many forms. I hope to inspire others as well (even if it’s because they want to write a story that trumps my own). And no, I’m not going to reveal the series or author that acted as my final motivation :)

Entice us, what future projects are you considering?

I’m excited and also a little sad that I’ve wrapped up Annabelle’s Story. It’s my debut series and I’ve learned SO much from this experience. I’ll probably take a moment to reflect on this accomplishment then throw myself head first into my next WIP, a historical fiction.

I have a stack of history books that I plan to read to kick things off. I’d also love recommendations of your favorite historical YA novels. Feel free to sound off in the comments below.

Also, be sure to stop by Leigh Michael Books on October 31^st for a special Trick or Treat surprise.

And now a fun question....

If you could be any ice cream flavor, which one would you like to be and why?

Hmm, I’m going to give you two.

First, I’d be Ben & Jerry’s “Chubby Hubby.” If you’re not familiar with the flavor, it’s fudge-covered peanut butter filled pretzels in vanilla ice cream. It’s sweet, yet salty. Which can describe my personality at times when I’m either a) tired, b) hungry, or c) completely stressed out.

Second, I’d like to think at other times I’m more of a Coldstone “Birthday Cake Remix” kind of gal whose ready for some fun.

Thanks for stopping bye, Leigh!

Now... giveaway time!

I'm giving away two signed copies of Sprite and Kin by Leigh in an international giveaway. :)

Enter below for a chance to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

And make sure to check out the other blogs participating in this fabulous tour over here!