Interview with Chelsea Swiggett

Chelsea Swiggett is the author of Rae, a memoir, which is a part of the Louder Than Words series. Rae is out this Monday, August 2nd. She also is a YA book blogger over at The Page Flipper

Was it any different writing your memoir versus writing your other fiction WIPs?
Definitely. While memories might be easier to write in the description department - I can remember exactly how I felt and thought and saw and smelled, so I don't have to worry about authenticity - it's also harder to plot. I came to several points in RAE where I was stuck on what to write next. When I'm writing fiction, I can create a new character or throw in a party or a new job or anything my mind thinks up. You can't do that in a memoir, for obvious reasons. So it's a lot different. I also have to worry about my characters coming across as authentic, because most of them are very different from myself.

What has been your favorite moment memoir-related since you found out your memoir was going to be published?
Getting feedback from professionals; hearing that someone likes my writing is one of the biggest compliments I've ever had. Also, seeing my cover was pretty freaking cool. This whole "author" thing didn't seem real until I saw it.

What is your favorite book to movie?
Pride and Prejudice! Oh, Mr. Darcy, you rascal.

Who doesn't like Pride and Prejudice, especially the BBC version. Now, I know you are a huge Buffy fan. If you had to pick a favorite character off that show, which would it be? Also, do you have a particular season that is your favorite?
AH, so hard. I'd have to say Spike. (HELLO, sarcastic British vampire.) So I'm going to say seasons 4+. But I love every single character - Giles and Willow and Buffy and Xander. They all have such heart. I want to steal them from the show and keep them in my closet or something. Pretend that isn't as creepy as it sounds.

I still have to watch Buffy. I should get on that if it's as awesome as you say. Since becoming a published author, do you find your blogging has changed at all?
Yeah, I've been more sporadic. I have less time to read. I still love reviewing books, though. I feel like I might read more critically in regards to writing.

Where's your favorite place to get coffee?
Seattle's Best Coffee. I can bookshop in Borders for hours while sipping a raspberry mocha kiss or orange bliss latte. It's heaven.

What's the best book you've read lately?
Probably Deception by Lee Nichols. It's a type of ghost story, and it reminded me of The Mediator series by Meg Cabot (which I adored.)


Thanks so much Chelsea for stopping by!