Q: When you first began writing The Iron King, what were your hopes for the story? How do you feel about what The Iron Fey has become?

A: Honestly, I am utterly thrilled and delighted. When I first started writing The Iron King, I was one of those hopeful writers just looking to be published. I never dreamed it would grow the way it did, but I’m so grateful for the readers and fans who made this series what it is today.

Q: Did you plan out the whole Iron Fey series before you started writing it, or did it develop organically as you wrote each book?

A: I knew the basic plotlines for all the books, and with the original trilogy (King, Daughter and Queen), I knew how I wanted it to end. Within the individual books, I have “high points” that I know have to happen, but the story usually develops as I go along.

Q: You’ve written Iron Fey stories from Meghan’s, Ash’s and Puck’s points of view. How do you change perspective and get into a new character’s head?

A: I think the key is knowing your characters, and making sure each one is very different from the others. Voice, personality, motives, desires—they should all have their own unique look on life, and once you really know them, it’s fairly easy to switch to their voice.

Q: Grimalkin is another fan favorite. How do you channel Grim onto the page?

A: LOL, Grimalkin is based on every cat I’ve ever known, and his voice is actually pretty easy to write. (Don’t tell him that, though; I’d never hear the end of it.) [I heard that. And you won’t.] He is bored, blunt, proud, independent and says exactly what he means in any situation. He is not afraid to tell the others they are being foolish, and doesn’t have anything to hide. In his own words: he is a cat. ’Nuff said.

Q: You often create drawings of your Iron Fey characters. What is your background as an artist?

A: I’ve always enjoyed sketching, doodling and painting. (I often doodled in math class, when I wasn’t reading novels behind my textbooks. My teachers despaired.) I haven’t taken any formal art classes, though. I just enjoy painting and drawing. I suppose it’s like writing in a way; you have to practice to get better.

Q: You’re an avid gamer. How has gaming influenced your career as a writer?