Today we are very excited to share an interview with author Wendy Martin (Castle Swimmer: Volume One)!
Read on to learn more about the author, the book, and a giveaway!
Meet the Author: Wendy Martin
Wendy Martin is a comics creator living in Seattle – Castle Swimmer is her first graphic novel. If you are interested in speaking with Wendy or receiving an advance review copy, please do not hesitate to reach out. Thank you for your time and consideration!
About the Book: Castle Swimmer: Volume One
From the moment Kappa tumbles into existence on the ocean floor, his life’s purpose as a merman is already decided for him: He is the Beacon, a light to all sea creatures, and destined to fulfill their many prophesies. Kappa ultimately finds himself drawn to the Shark kingdom, where the Sharks’ prophecy states that the curse maiming their people will only be lifted once their prince, Siren, kills the Beacon. But when Prince Siren decides to defy fate and help Kappa escape, Kappa realizes that there might be more to life than fulfilling endless prophesies, leading to a raucous adventure as big and unpredictable as the ocean itself—and a romance that nobody could have predicted.
~Author Chat~
YABC: What gave you the inspiration to write this book?
A: It was mainly inspired by the Little Mermaid section of the video game ‘Kingdom Hearts.’ However, there were a lot of other games and stories that influenced it as well. I was very inspired by Ghibli films.
YABC: Who is your favorite character in the book?
A: I don’t know if I have one favorite but I do have a soft spot for more silly characters like Queen Nee.
YABC: What scene in the book are you most proud of, and why?
A: I like all the romance scenes but my favorite is probably Siren and Kappa’s first meeting. I’m really happy with how it turned out!
YABC: What came first, the concept, landscape, characters, or something else?
A: First came the setting and concept, then the characters afterwards. Though I tend to have an idea for some cool main characters before I decide to create a world for them. So, it’s a bit of both.
YABC: If you could only write one genre for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
A: It would be hard to pick between fantasy and romance but I don’t think I could ever write a story without romance involved so romance it is!
YABC: How do you keep your ‘voice’ true to the age category you are writing within?
A: There’s a few rules I follow. There’s no curse words in this story and certain language is dialed back. However I never struggle when exploring darker themes. I think younger readers enjoy dark and complex ideas in their stories.
YABC: What can readers expect to find in your books?
A: Almost all of my stories will have a fun queer romance that takes place in a fantasy world!
YABC: What is your favorite snack when writing?
A: I’m big on drinks. I usually have three different drink options on my desk while I work and I prefer decaf coffee. Sometimes if I’m hungry I’ll grab a banana.
YABC: If you were able to meet them, would you be friends with your main character?
A: He seems like a magnet for trouble! Maybe a long-distance friendship.
YABC: What’s your least favorite word or expression and why?
A: My least favorite word is probably ‘deadlines.’
YABC: What do you do when you procrastinate?
A: Unfortunately, I usually just stare at the wall or play pokemon on my phone. If I’m lucky though, I’ll manage to get some chores done or be productive with a different project.
YABC: What fandom would you write for if you had time?
A: There’s a lot! If I had to pick just one, I’ve been very into Trigun lately.
YABC: What’s up next for you?
A: More queer fantasy comics! My next comic will be about bird boys in a post-apocalyptic world.
YABC: What is your favorite holiday or tradition and why?
A: I always love when both Halloween and Christmas come around because I get to make holiday themed artwork of my characters and It’s always super fun.
YABC: Is there anything that you would like to add?
A: Thanks so much for the interview and I hope readers enjoy the first volume of Castle Swimmer!
Title: Castle Swimmer: Volume One
Author: Wendy Martin
Illustrator: Same
Release Date: 10/22/24
Publisher: Ten Speed Graphic
ISBN-13: 9780593835814
Genre: Graphic Novel/Fiction
Age Range: Teen and up
~ Giveaway Details ~
Two (2) winners will receive a copy of Castle Swimmer: Volume One (Wendy Martin) ~US Only!
*Click the Rafflecopter link below to enter the giveaway*
