Interview with Ciara Blume, Author of The Mudpuddle Manual of Natural Magic (Natural Magic Book 1)

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Mudpuddle Manual of Natural Magic (Natural Magic Book 1)?

All of my favorite books, from childhood on, inspired me to write this book. If I had to pick a word it would be “delight.” You know that feeling when you just want to hug a book and slip it under your pillow so that maybe even after you fall asleep while reading it, you’ll continue to dream in that world? That’s the feeling I had and wanted to share with readers. The character’s names and a few other small details were inspired by the Maida book series by Inez Haynes Irwin. I adored that series as a child, and fully immersed myself in it! It’s not well known as she wrote the first story in 1905. I was a quirky kid and read a lot of old books!

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Mudpuddle Manual of Natural Magic (Natural Magic Book 1), what would they be?

It’s an eclectic mix! “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac, “Magic” by Coldplay and The Nutcracker Suite!

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I love cozy fantasy and women’s fiction.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Assistant to the Villian, The Invisible Hour, The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

It’s a toss up! I loved writing the scene where Maida discovers magic is real and is dragged into a new world, literally kicking and screaming. I also loved the encounter with absolute truth and every single exchange with the literary squirrels.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

When I’m stuck, I always go thrifting. My best ideas come from sorting through other peoples junk!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

A rising tide lifts all boats – I truly believe in the power of community.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

A feeling of delight!

Ciara Blume is the author of the new book The Mudpuddle Manual of Natural Magic (Natural Magic Book 1)

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