Today we interview Zzenna, winner of The Sunflower Awards 3.0 in Horror/Paranormal genre. Join us as we learn more about their writing style and inspiration.

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1. What inspired you to write 'Death's Dare'?

I was inspired by the idea of personalizing "Death". Many people see him as a horrific creature but I wanted to present him in a way that I imagined he would be.

2. What do you like about writing Horror/Paranormal genre?

It was my first time writing a Paranormal/Horror book. I liked it because of the goosebumps I got as I wrote the book. The excitement I felt when I left my readers with cliffhangers. Even I was on the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next. This genre really excites me. I hope to write more of it.

3. How did you feel when you found out you won in your genre for the Sunflower Awards?

I felt so happy that I had to blink twice a few times and see if it was true. It was not only an award for me but my readers as well.

4. What challenges did you face in writing this book and how did you overcome them?

Like many writers, I face writer's block from time to time. I got writer's block quite a lot while writing this book. I had to let myself relax and think for a few days before coming back and writing something mind blowing even for me.

I had very few readers at first but I had to remind myself to be patient. It was hard to keep myself motivated when I felt like no one was reading my book. But I appreciated my readers enough and I updated and posted my chapters on time. I edited and worked hard to deliver a book that they felt was worth reading. My readers really supported me after that and it kept me motivated to write more for them and myself.

5. Do you have any advice for other writers?

Writing is my way of living a thousand lives. When writing a book or poem, put your heart into it. Put the feeling into words. Make your readers feel as if they are right there with you and the characters. Write something you are passionate about and feel that people can relate to.

Appreciate your readers. Writing takes a lot of work. You have to develop a plot, characters, a setting and theme. You have to edit your work almost all the time. Sometimes it gets exhausting. But when it finally comes together, it will be worth all of that hard work. Your readers will also appreciate it if you deliver on time. Humble yourself. Listen to the comments. Understand the difference between haters and constructive criticism.

When going through writer's block, the only thing that will help you get through it is relaxing and taking your time to get back into the energy and thrill of writing a book. Take your time and remind yourself why you wrote this book. And enjoy yourself when writing.

6. Who is your favorite character in your story and why?

Iva is my favourite character because she portrays a young strong female. Though this is an irony because she is "the lamb" in the story, Iva is very strong and stubborn. Even after everything she has gone through, she still finds the strength to fight back when Death challenges her. She proves to be fearless and unpredictable to Death every time. Death loves a challenge he can win. And unfortunately... Iva never challenges him with the intention of losing.

7. What is your favorite book (on or off Wattpad) and why?

I don't have a favourite book. But I enjoy reading romance.

8. How long have you been writing and why did you start?

I have been writing ever since I was eight years old. I started writing because I love storytelling and creating my own worlds.

9. Where is your favorite place to write?

I enjoy being outside when writing. Sometimes I look around for ideas.

10. What does your writing process look like?

My writing process is not simple but it is easy enough for me. The minute I get an idea, I put it into words. Then I come back to it and begin my mind map. After that I rewrite my draft and edit it later on.

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Thanks again for chatting with us, Zzenna! We wish you the best.

Check out their books on their profile and give them some love. :)