Author Q&A: Isabella Ruiz

Today I have a Q&A for you with YA author Isabella Ruiz! Isabella's debut novel, The Darkest War, was just released on November 24th, and would make the perfect Christmas gift for the teen in your life who loves royalcore or romance!!

Me: Welcome, Isabella! Tell me about yourself and what you write!

Isabella: Well, my name is Isabella Ruiz. I'm a seventeen-year-old author from Southern Alabama. I write dystopian, romance, and royalcore stories that shine light and hope in dark times.

Me: Have you ever considered using a pen name? I know I certainly wanted to use one when I was younger.

Isabella: I actually had a few pen names when I was younger! I liked the mystery of it all, but as I got older, I really just embraced my own name and put an authentic name to the credibility.

Me: What part of The Darkest War did you have the hardest time writing?

Isabella: Honestly, I get this question a lot, and no matter how many times I try to come up with an answer, I just can't - writing The Darkest War was very easy for me.

Me: What do you think of NaNoWriMo (where people try to write a 50k novel in the month of November)? Is it worth it?

Isabella: Absolutely worth it! About 80% of The Darkest War was written in NaNoWriMo of 2022.

Me: What is the most valuable writing advice you've been given?

Isabella: Write the book you want to read.

Me: What books do you enjoy reading?

Isabella: The Selection series by Kiera Cass has to be my all-time favorite. I love YA. The 2010s Dystopian YA era is my favorite.

Me: Has writing and publishing a book changed the way you see yourself?

Isabella: Yes. I see myself as more disciplined, formidable, and confident in my work and dedication.

Thank you, Isabella!

Be sure to visit Lantern Bearers next week as I get into the Christmas season by sharing my top Christmas music recommendations!