VERONICA ROTH: Amy!
How does it feel to you for your work to finally be out there for people to read?
Because I have definitely seen that happen since your book came out!
Talk about high praise, no?
AMY LUKAVICS:The Stephen King comparisons have been shocking, to say the least.
What is it about provoking and experiencing fear that you think we sometimes crave?
Or to you personally?
Well, thank you!
For example, the opposite of fear is (internal) peace.
Darkness in fiction is very appealing to me for that reason.
Have confused reactions like that come your way?
How do you explain why you write and read horror, as opposed to something else?
I did know what she meant, I just didnt like it.
Many of my most valuable reading (and writing) experiences have been in horror.
There are truths to be found in the darkness, and important ones at that.
I have, actually!
Specifically about violent content, or characters dying.
Its not an easy thing to figure out.
But my answer is, particularly in a dystopian world, youneedthose dark moments.
Which is basically what you said earlier, about needing both sides of the spectrum.
Do you think its important to strike that balance?
Thank you, V!
Most of my first drafts feature a weak voice and painfully one-dimensional characters thank goodness for revisions!
Im with you thank goodness for revisions, they are definitely my favorite part of the whole process.
Ive also consistently gotten the same reaction to my rough drafts, which is:this is relentlessly grim.
Do you have recommendations for the newbie approaching horror books?
What are some of your all-time favorites, whether theyre movies or books or whatever?
Do you have a favorite horror movie?
I am a big baby.
Its been so great talking to you!
Thanks for the lovely chat.
