An Interview with our Author E. A. Field
In this exclusive interview, E.A. Field discusses her creative process as a writer and the inspiration behind IRL: a paranormal thriller in which a zombie outbreak blurs the lines between reality and the online world.
Where are you located?
Chicagoland area.
What age were you when you wrote your first story? Was it a short story? A novel? A fanfiction?
I was in fourth grade when I wrote my first short story and illustrated it! It was about a knight, his horse, and a kingdom he had to save from a dragon. I remember being so proud of it because it won a young author’s award too.
Is there any genre you would never write?
I am pretty open to all genres. I just don’t have the talent for comedic writing, so that’s something I probably would never even attempt haha.
What part of writing do you enjoy the most?
I love the drafting part when you get to make up anything and everything! I like when characters start to really speak, and plot twists come together. I also love the storyboarding part. It’s fun to talk with my critique partners about characters as if they’re real people and events that could happen to them.
Are you a pantser or a plotter?
I am both…I started out as a panster but realized I was losing valuable time writing myself into corners, so I do outline my books before I write. That outline, though, changes quite a bit and it’s not super detailed.
Who has encouraged you the most in your writing?
I’d have to say my husband and my critique partners. It’s so vital in such an isolated job to have people who support you and understand the process! Thank you to Greg, Grace, Joy, Mark and Kyle.
What three books would you cart around with you in an apocalypse?
Oh, that’s a hard one! I’d have to say in all probability the books might end up being either toilet paper or fire starter in an apocalypse =P. But if I were able to carry books, probably a copy of Phantom by Susan Kay, a plant/survival guide, and (not to be cliche) the Bible.
Where is your favourite place to travel?
Since I don’t live by the ocean, I would have to say someplace by the water, either tropical or cold ocean, doesn’t matter to me!
IRL stands apart from other stories through its unique premise. What inspired you to write the book?
The great “what if” question inspired me: what if my gamer friends and I were in an apocalyptic situation? Through gaming, whether you want to or not, you get to know each other. So, I wondered if we’d actually help each other out in a real-life crisis or if would it turn out we’re just faking our personalities online.
What drew you to zombie fiction?
I haven’t always liked the undead, I can credit my husband for getting me into that genre. I think the narrative about humanity and survival in an apocalyptic situation, and the thrill or dilemma of moral choices in that world are interesting concepts. Plus, who doesn’t like to imagine being able to take down a horde of undead?
How is “IRL” different from some of the other paranormal thrillers out there?
I feel like there are a lot of “virus” zombie stories out there, so mine is different in the fact that the undead are supernatural. They rise from a curse, not from a virus. They also require a unique weapon to kill them besides fire, not bullets or axes.
IRL releases on July 18, 2023! Follow Rising Action, and E.A. Field, on social media for updates!