Introducing… Karen Millar

Today’s wonderful new author is Karen Millar.

Karen writes fantasy adventures with heart, her protagonists are everyday kids with everyday baggage. Only when adventure sneaks up do they discover the superpowers they had all along. As a feminist and advocate for liberty and democracy, Karen champions protagonists who fight for freedom in all its forms.

Karen has worked in the music industry for nearly 30 years as a teacher and performer, and loves seeing kids light up making music they adore. She has never ridden a badass battle-ready seahorse, but would jump at the chance. Karen lives beside glorious ancient woodlands in Wales, with lots of family and a very fluffy dog.

What is your writing routine?

I used to be a morning writer, but lately I’ve found a lot more creative sparkle in the evening. No chores or commitments, just nice empty space to fill. Now I’m a morning editor…

Who is your favorite author and how have they inspired you?

Kasuo Ishiguro and Sebastian Faulkes for searing heartfelt prose. Moira Buffini and Catherine Doyle for uncompromisingly delicious YA fantasy. Also Patrick Ness, for being both thought-provoking and seriously cool.

What was the inspiration for your manuscript?

Wild places, girls who want to be knights. I honestly don’t quite know where the badass seahorses came from. They must have been lurking in a quirky corner of my brain.

Who is your favourite character in your book?

Tricky one. I love Amara for her determination, Krillian for his journey, Gus for being Gus. Hard not to love FinZ the most though - flashiest prima donna of the seahorse world.

What inspires you first: character or plot?

Character, all the way.

Describe your perfect day.

Friends, family, no washing up.