An Interview with Rachel Croxton

Rachel has enjoyed writing all kinds of funny little stories since she was the young age of eleven. Also a nerd, she likes Star Wars and anything involving vampires. Some of her favorite TV shows are The Vampire Diaries, Brooklyn 99, and Supernatural. Her inspiration for The Dark Prince of Lazera comes from a lifelong interest in magic, folklore, and the paranormal.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved writing. As I grew up with books and reading, there were quite a few books that did not meet my expectations, or the endings were dissatisfying. And no matter how many books I read, I could never find a book that met all the criteria I wanted. So I decided to write my own.

What inspired you to start writing this book?

I heard the words “Dark Prince” in a movie. Then I instantly thought, “well what if someone was called that but they weren’t necessarily evil?” I wanted to get rid of the stigma around the phrase. Just because someone’s title sounds scary or evil doesn’t mean that they are, and just because someone has dark magic doesn’t mean they are bad. Someone can have dark magic and use it for good.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I attempted journalism at one point, but it didn’t work out.

What books did you read (for research or comfort) throughout your writing process?

Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine helped with the research aspect because the genre was the same, as was the time period and era.

What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?

Don’t ask other people for advice on writing. Don’t tell anyone that you are writing. They will just judge and criticize your ideas and discourage you.

What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?

At a moment’s notice, your life can change. Whether it’s something you want, expect, or not so much, accept it as much as you can, but don’t let that stop you from making your own future.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.