Interview with Tamara Grantham, Author of The Not-So-Chosen One

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Not-So-Chosen One?

It was originally inspired by a dream, and it’s a spoof of the hero’s journey. In the dream, there was a fantasy world that had evolved with magic, and had become dependent on magical factories. The Dark Lord escapes, and he’s gotten wiser. The first thing he does is pick out all the would-be Chosen Ones who would defeat him, and he destroys them. Gordy Simpleton decides to become the “pretend” Chosen One and trick the Dark Lord.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Not-So-Chosen One, what would they be?

Thunderstrike by AC/DC

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

I love fantasy! And yes—I love to write it also.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Mark of the Thief by Jennifer Nielsen, Enamored by Jody Hedlund, Fated Blades by Ilona Andrews

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I loved writing about the lazy dragons living in zoos. In the world I created, the dragons have all been tamed and live peacefully, so it was fun to write a dragon character who craves cheeseburgers.

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

No, I have five kids, and I’ve learned to write whenever and wherever I can—even if it happens to be in the hospital waiting room!

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

“Comparison is the thief of joy.” —Theodore Roosevelt. I find this especially applicable for writers, or artists of any kind, as comparison can be a pitfall and lessen the joys of our accomplishments.

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

Even ordinary people can become great.

Tamara Grantham is the author of the new book The Not-So-Chosen One

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