NEXT CHAPTER AUTHOR

Karoline Ettinger

Karoline grew up in Southern Arkansas but currently resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, three daughters, and girl yorkie, where the forests have become her muse. Karoline is a writer, yogi, and speech-language pathologist, specializing in brain injury rehabilitation. Currently, she remains home with her children, homeschooling and broadening their imaginations with play and nature, while they in turn spark her creativity. She wrote this story for them in hopes that when they hit those difficult teenage years, they could lean on these kind friendships, rediscover the beauty in life and living, and believe in the power of their magical hearts. Karoline is passionate about providing our youth with stories of light, love, and hope, touching young hearts through the power of words.

IN THE AUTHOR’S WORDS

Author interview

Interview submitted 15 August 2024.

What inspired you to start writing?

My daughter. When my oldest turned fourteen months, I decided to begin writing, so our youth would have more stories of light and love as they grow through those difficult teenage years. We all need kind friendships to lean on and hope to guide us! I continued writing as my second daughter was born and am due for my third this autumn! I hope they enjoy these stories as much as I have. They definitely spark my imagination and creativity as they grow!

Who are some of your favorite authors and books?

Of course, I grew up with Harry Potter and still love these characters to this day!
I also love Lucinda Riley's storytelling, getting lost in her language.
I am a sucker for all beautiful settings, loveable characters, and a mysterious/adventurous hook!

What would you like to tell readers who have just discovered your books, but haven't read one yet?

I just love this world and these characters so much! Of course, there is good vs. evil and the darkness is intense, but the foundation of this story of light, love, and hope. The friendships are positive and kind; the love story innocent and pure. It is inclusive and diverse and explores themes of power, responsibility, loyalty, and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst the threat of mysterious darkness.

Who is the favorite character you created, and how did they come into being?

Oh, I have so many! They all shine in their own beauty. Of course, I love my main character, but I think my absolute favorite is Mateo. He doesn't come in until halfway through book one and unexpectedly steals the show! (Funny how characters can do that!) He is wise, calm, and just simply the coolest.

What are your future plans as a writer?

I will keep writing fantasy. I have plans for a new novel--maybe one for moms this time!