Villainous Author Interview - Christine King

1) Tell us about your story 

The Tower was written specifically for the anthology. I set myself the challenge and I enjoyed writing it much more than I thought I would. I took inspiration from the film Tangled, as it is my favourite Disney movie, and the novel Flowers in the attic. I wanted my characters to have some depth and some flesh on their bones, and I wondered what it would feel like to be trapped in that tower if you had no natural talents, like painting or sewing. Nothing that would keep you busy. What would you do with your day? I think the social isolation we are all experiencing is reflected in the story. Loneliness can kill, it is terrible for your mental health, how do you cope when you are all alone and have no way out?

2) What inspired you to write it?

My love of Tangled the movie started me off, then I took the fantasy element and I went somewhere darker and found a path back to my favourite genre of Horror writing.

3) Do you prefer Villains to Heroes?

Oh, my what a question. A villain that you can love, that you can follow and see the reason behind the villainy is someone I can root for. Likewise, a hero that is honest and does not see themselves as a hero is also a great attraction. I think Captain Carrot in The Discworld stories is a fantastic hero as he is simple and honest and true but for no other reason than that is his nature, he wants no reward. Then again, a villain that is just evil, and wants to hurt and destroy is not my cup of tea.

4) Is your story a standalone?

I am not sure, could the story continue? Maybe. But I like where I left it. A sequel might be difficult to write.

5) What's next for you, writing wise? 

I am writing a story for an anthology being run by www.caabpublishing.co.uk called Born in a black cab. The story has to start in a London black cab. It is quite a fun idea and I am enjoying the challenge. The story has been quite raunchy so far, which is unlike me, but I can feel the dark pull once more and I know the characters are about to take a sinister turn. Personally, I can’t wait as I have always embraced the darkness. 

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