What can you tell us about your new release, Starlet’s End?
It places the reader inside the life of a Hollywood insider who struggles to redefine herself and assert her power. Young women in the entertainment industry compete for screen time with a focus on sexy beauty. The focus on appearance rather than on acting talent influences what the actor values in her personal life. Starlet’s End demonstrates how actresses can still win if they change the sexy paradigm that exists today.
If Starlet’s End is turned into a movie, who would you pick to play Liana Marie Michael?
Today, Rowan Blanchard would make a lovely Liana Marie Michael. Her grandfather was an immigrant from the Middle East and father’s side is
white, similar to Hailee Steinfeld whose father is Jewish and mother is of part Filipino descent. An actress with unique features could capture the beauty that comes from the union of distinct races. Lia is the daughter of a striking Native American man and a beautiful, white actress. Her features are ambiguous, just as they are with numerous Hollywood stars.
What’s rocking your world this month?
My son is dyslexic and has ADD so school is painfully challenging for him. We are so excited that the best school for challenged learners in our area accepted him for next year. We are thrilled that he has the opportunity to realize his potential. He’s a special, awesome kid.
Who is your favorite fictional character from literature?
A favorite character is impossible to decide. For children’s literature, I never tire from Winnie-the-Pooh’s simple and honest perspectives. For middle grade, Harry Potter captured my heart and imagination. For Young Adult, I adore Elizabeth Bennet of Pride and Prejudice. For Fantasy, no one can beat Bilbo Baggins. I wish I could have his courage.
Where did you write Starlet’s End?
In 2011, I wrote the first draft of the complete Starlet’s Series in my home office after I returned from visiting my sister who lives in Montana. I first titled the fourth book Starlet’s Totems. Since that first draft five years ago, I wrote six more versions of the Starlet’s End manuscript and chopped the fifth draft in half, resulting in the final, concise version. Since the mystery has an abrupt, but fitting, ending, I thought Starlet’s End was the perfect title.
What TV show have you binge watched?
I’ve been watching too much Teen Titans with my kids. For my pleasure, I binged on the wonderful Downton Abbey. I am lucky to be able to spend time with my kids so I focus my time on helping my son to read and write and supporting both kids with their various sports.
What scene in Starlet’s End was your favorite to write?
I like the ending. I wrote it first, during the first draft of the series back in 2011, when I was outlining the books. My writing method is to first develop character notebooks, then sketch out a story pitch, next create a detailed outline, then write a key scene for each book, and finally write a first draft. I wrote my favorite scenes for each book during that key scene stage of establishing the detailed outline.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
Trust. Forgive. Repeat. I ended Starlet’s Light with that motto because we need to take responsibility for the mistakes we and others make and then move on in order to live happy lives.
Carla J. Hanna is the author of the new book Starlet’s End.
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