Interview with L.J. Thomas, Author of Songs of Snow
03 Jul 2024
What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Songs of Snow?
I’m of Scandinavian heritage (Swedish and Norwegian) and have always been interested in mythology from those regions. Songs of Snow was inspired by stories and creatures from Icelandic mythology. I’ve also always found snowy, wintery fantasy books to be the most magical, so I decided to write one myself!
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Songs of Snow, what would they be?
I don’t have specific songs for each character, but much of the book was written to Of Monsters and Men’s “My Head is an Animal” album. The song “Hoppípolla” by Sigur Rós really evoked the story for me as well!
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I read and enjoy most genres—mysteries and thrillers, historical fiction, romance, gothic horror, science fiction, fantasy, classics—but anything speculative is always my favorite! That’s probably why those are my favorite stories to write as well.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
There are hundreds! But a few near the top include Dragonfruit by Makiia Lucier, The Last Tale of the Flower Bride by Roshani Chokshi, and The Fox Wife by Yangsze Choo.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
No spoilers, but there’s a scene between Kata and the prince toward the end of the novel where they clear up a lot of misunderstandings between the two of them. That was my favorite one to write!
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I choose a scented candle for each book I write and light it while drafting and editing. It helps so much to get back into the world of the story! The candle for Songs of Snow was Bath & Body Works’ “Frozen Lake.”
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
I don’t know about live by, but I definitely write by a quote from Ray Bradbury: “You only fail if you quit writing.”
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
Both Kata and Elín’s stories in Songs of Snow are about not clinging to your first assumptions and beliefs, but allowing yourself to reevaluate and change your mind as you learn more about the world. I hope readers will take that theme with them after reading.
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