"Taurus Eyes" by Bonnie Hearn Hill
ARIES RISING, the first of Bonnie Hearn Hill’s Star Crossed series, was about a teen coming into her own power. Today I’m talking with Bonnie about TAURUS EYES, the second in the series.
Q: I just finished reading TAURUS EYES, and I find it a little more mature than ARIES RISING. What made you decide to write a ghost story?
A: It’s true that Logan is a little older in this book, and she has a better understanding of astrology. Although there is a ghost in this book, I think of it as a love story. It’s about falling in love, and in a larger sense, learning to let go of what we love.
Book signing is 2 p.m. May 8, Barnes & Noble (Fresno, CA). Reception, 4 p.m., Scene Gallery.
Q: That gives me chills. Did you know that was your message when you started?
A: No. I always start with character, and the character leads me to the story. I knew Logan would have to prove herself at the Monterey writing camp. I didn’t know she would have to do so by finding out the truth about a dead rock star who was supposed to be haunting Monterey. And, until I figured out who the antagonist was, I most certainly didn’t know she was going to fall in love.
Q: How do you choose the message or theme of a book?
A: I write from the character out, not from any predetermined message in. I read somewhere that Frost compared poems to stones that you cast into the water. The ripples are the meaning. You, the writer, don’t worry about the ripples. You just worry about crafting that stone.
Q: Do you believe in ghosts?
A: The short answer to that is yes.
Q: Have you ever seen one?
A: Experienced is probably a more accurate term, but yes again.
Q: You also write short fiction, and I know that you were just named a finalist in an international contest. Is writing short fiction easier or more difficult than writing novels?
A: For me, much more difficult, a completely different experience than writing a novel. My last story, “Black Moon Lilith,” won honorable mention in the Salem (NC) College International Literary Awards. I’ll be reading it on Valley Public Radio KVPR June 2, the day after my birthday. After that, it will be in the Valley Writers Read Archives at kvpr.org.
Q: What’s the story about?
A: It’s about a girl who’s part of a shoplifting family, and when they are in a Costco-type store, ready to leave town, she has an opportunity to change her life. It’s really about our need for family, regardless of what we feel is true and right.
Q: I’ve heard you speak on life themes. Does that play a part in your own story themes?
A: Although I hadn’t thought about it, I believe you’re right. When we are sure of who we are and what we believe in, those themes come through in our stories. We don’t have to tack them on.
Q: What is your own life theme?
A: The first one that comes to mind is this. Even at the bottom of Pandora’s box, there was hope. What’s yours?
Mine? I’d have to say courage. For me, courage is going forward even if terrified. Every little step, towards the intended goal, is another kick in fear’s ass and a win.
Thanks, Bonnie. See you at your book signing.
Bonnie’s blog tour will continue through the month. Enter the drawing for a free copy of TAURUS EYES by leaving a comment or question here. You can qualify for the drawing to win an iPod Touch by joining the Star Crossed Facebook page at
facebook.com/StarCrossedseries
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Thanks, Gen. Thrilled to kick off the tour with you–the best social media expert anywhere.
Thank you for the fab interview. So glad to be able to share about your newest book AND the honorable mention for “Black Moon Lilith.”
Thanks to both of you – can’t wait to read the book.
and Geneveive – you are single-handedly keeping me in touch with the central valley through your website. Wonderful job.
Love that we can connect and send you little bits of home while you’re so far away! *hug*