Saving Eden by K.R.S. McEntire
Today we will learn more about the young adult fantasy, Saving Eden, by K.R.S. McEntire. Keshia, can you tell us a little about you?
My name is K. R. S. McEntire and for as long as I can remember I've had a pen in my hand and a story in my head. I’ve always enjoyed science fiction, fantasy, and dystopian books. I wrote the first draft of my debut novel, Saving Eden, as a teen. Years later, I found the story and edited it to publish. When I'm not writing I enjoy traveling, photography, spending time in nature, as well as hanging out with friends.
Kai: Tell us about your work.
My first book, Saving Eden, has been described as “post-apocalyptic Rapunzel” by a lot of reviewers. It’s an apocalyptic story but it also has a sweet fairy tale vibe. Angela grew up in a beautiful secluded garden with her father until a boy shows up and tells her about other survivors. When she runs away with him, she learns the real reason her father hid her away.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082Z61CC3?notRedirectToSDP=1&ref_=dbs_mng_calw_0&storeType=ebooks
My second book, Finding Eden, has been described as “X-men meets serpent and dove” because of the enemies - to - lovers subplot. My books can be read in any order but take place in the same world.
https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Eden-Dystopian-Post-Apocalyptic-Adventure-ebook/dp/B0883FPTFT
Kai: What inspired Saving Eden?
So, it's kind of random but it’s actually inspired by a music video. We were playing Dance Dance Revolution in high school and there is this song, Wine Red by The Hush Sound. In the video there is a girl living with her father in a magical, perfect garden… but there are clues that all is not well in the world. It gave me the idea for my book, Saving Eden.
Kai: That’s cool! I’ve written two books inspired by songs, but I love that yours was a music video.
Okay, let’s have a little fun. I love to help our readers know the author behind the books. In order for them to know you a bit better, please share your top three answers to the following:
Top 3 character traits you like to add to all or most of your characters
I really like throwing stereotypes and tropes out the window. Most dystopian characters are world weary and ready to take down the system with arrows, guns, or whatever they have at their disposal. Angela is the opposite. She’s innocent, sweet, and trusting... a stark contrast against the dangerous post-apocalyptic / dystopian world she finds herself in.
In my characters you’ll find:
- Sweet characters who learn to be strong
- Cynical characters who learn to love
- Characters who realize what they are working towards is wrong.
Top 3 moments in your writer life
Getting my first byline - I’ve worked as a journalist as well!
Publishing my first book, Saving Eden.
Having a story accepted into an anthology… it was the first time I signed a publishing contract and was paid up front for my story.
Top 3 books you recommend reading and why you recommend them
If you like YA dystopian books, I'd recommend…
Unwind by Neal Susterman: It’s been a long time since I got so invested in a story and fell in love with all of the characters. His writing style really pulled me into the world he created.
Delirium by Lauren Oliver: I love her poetic writing style.
The Good Luck Girls by Charlotte Nicole Davis: First of all, it's a dystopian / fantasy Western about girls who escape from a brothel and are on the run from supernatural creatures. I fell in love with the world she created and the theme of resilience that ran through the story.
Kai: I enjoyed Delirium too. I’ll have to read the other two. Finally, where can our readers find you online?
You can also download the first three chapters of Finding Eden for free. You’ll be signed up for my newsletter where I share giveaways and freebies. https://mailchi.mp/0b09a2079978/k-r-s-mcentire
Kai: Thanks for stopping in and sharing Saving Eden with us! Best of luck with your writing.