Happy Monday! Um - why do you have pitch and feathers out? Hmmm...

Maybe if I told you that today we've got not only a great review, but an even better interview? K.C. has done of review of Author stephanie l. danielson's Ice Fairy AND interviewed her as well. I hope you enjoy this treat - I did!

Reviewed and Interviewed by K.C.
Word Count: 57,393
Status: Completed
Since I’ve been pressed for time, I’ve found myself waiting (impatiently at times) for stories that intrigue me to finish posting before starting them. I was immediately interested in Ice Fairy when Stephanie started posting and hearing the buzz around GA about this story. I couldn’t wait to start reading and when I did I was very impressed with Stephanie’s creation.

Sam and Brett are from two different universes, the only thing they have in common is ICE. Sam is a champion ice skater and Bret is a fiercely competitive hockey player. The ice in this small town isn’t big enough for both. One afternoon a major collision on the ice, sends both of their worlds spiraling.

Sam and Brett are the spotlight of this story but there’s a bigger issue at hand, bullying! I sat down and talked to Stephanie about her story and got to dig around in her brain to find out where the ideas for her story Ice Fairy came from and a little more about this amazing new Author on GA. Here is what she had to say:

Stephanie, how long have you been writing and what brought you to GA?
Hello, KC! Thank you for the interview! Let's get started. How long have I been writing? Since I could hold a pen, to be honest. It's been a lifelong love and hobby for me and I'm thrilled to finally be able to get somewhere with it and be able to bring my stories out for people's enjoyment. I started writing them to sell in 2006.

What brought me to GA? Actually, it was a couple of people. Nephylim and Sid. I work closely with both of them and they talked about it so much I just had to see what all the fuss was about. I'm thrilled I joined! I've never gotten so much positive feedback and kind remarks on my stories in my life and absolutely love it here.

Your story ‘Ice Fairy’ deals with a lot of bullying, have you ever been bullied in your life?
I usually thought of bullying as being someone who beat you up or threatened you. In that sense; no, I'd not been bullied. But as the definition evolved into teasing, name calling, harassing; then yes, I'd definitely been heavily bullied most of my school years. It's what drove me to be a complete introvert and very anti-social for many years. To this day I am still shy at times; but have learned at least to express my opinions openly and not be afraid of being teased anymore for what I write or what I look like.

Sam is a talented ice-skater, where did you come up with his character?
I'd always wanted to do a story about a figure skater. I've watched the sport for years and can remember quite a few Asian skaters that caught my eye (as well as most of them have). I love the sport and to write about it and have a lovable character embody my passion for the sport is a dream come true.

Do you ice-skate?
Yes, and I'm finally getting back into it after a nasty fall 18 months ago nearly ended it completely. But I can't let it stop me. I'm not getting any younger and my goal overall is to reach level 5 so I can become a coach (like Sam wants to do)

What would you tell a teen or young adult who finds themselves being bullied?
I would say that the best defense is to be comfortable in your own skin. Love yourself first and no one can stop you or put you down. If you're having trouble, talk to your parents, siblings, friends, but only those that are supportive and understand you or help you to make things better. Don't be with those who are into activities you disagree with just because they see themselves as 'cool'. Trust me, they are dragging you down with them. Don't let it happen. Love yourself, respect yourself and stand up for it.

I see that you have started posting part 2 to Ice Fairy, where do you see this story going? Is there a message you want readers to come away with?

Yes! I had such an overwhelming response that I had to start book #2 right away. So far I'm not sure where it's going;

Message to the readers? Stay tuned. I'm writing this without an outline and am using feedback to form the tale as I go.

Can you give us any clues to Sam and Brett’s future?
Right now everything's coming up roses; but there are thorns in the bush. I won't say that all will be smooth sailing; my tales never are happy all the time But I do see a happy ending and sharing an apartment for sure. Beyond that will be years away for them and 2-3 more books just to get there. Ideally it will end in the future with a wedding and HEA*. But you never know...

Thanks Stephanie! It was great getting to know her and getting an inside view on this story. Ice Fairy 2 is in progress with 13 chapters already posted. Go read, review, and enjoy. Winter will soon be coming and this is a heartwarming tale to keep you warm on a chilly night.

* Happily Ever After